Statement responding to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions
For Immediate Release
February 15, 2022
VANCOUVER, B.C. — Bridgitte Anderson, President and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, made the following statement responding to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
“Lifting COVID-19-related business restrictions this week is great news for British Columbia businesses and our continued economic recovery. As we transition to the next stage of pandemic management, we are hopeful that today’s announcement will allow businesses to fully re-open and stay open.
We support the decision to continue the indoor mask mandate and the B.C. vaccine card, for now. A cautious approach on these two issues will ensure that people can go to work, eat in restaurants and attend events with confidence, while supporting the vaccination effort and ensuring a sustained re-opening.
The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic crisis have made for an incredibly challenging business environment. All businesses are dealing with significant issues such as labour shortages, inflation, supply chain disruptions and increased debt taken on due to the pandemic. The economic effects of the pandemic will remain with us for some time and need a concerted effort by the government to support businesses and chart a path to higher long-term growth and economic prosperity.
In addition, there was an announcement easing some border restrictions from the federal government today. Those changes are a step in the right direction, however, in requiring pre-departure rapid antigen tests, the federal government missed an opportunity to align with other international jurisdictions that removed pre-departure test requirements for fully vaccinated travellers. Our travel and tourism sectors will continue to be lag behind our international competitors and our economy will be held back as a result.”
About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:
Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Pacific Canada’s leading business association, engaging members to positively impact public policy at all levels of government and to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one third of B.C.’s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through four unique Signature Programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events businesses in the country, providing a platform for national and international business and thought leaders to further enlighten B.C.’s business leaders.
Media contacts:
Victor Young
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com