B.C. restaurant ordered to close for not checking vaccination status of customers
A restaurant in B.C. has been forced to close its doors for defying a key pandemic health order, but it appeared to be business as usual Friday.
On Thursday afternoon, Rolly’s in Hope was given a closure order. But the next day, the doors were open with dozens of people who oppose pandemic safety measures there in support during the lunch hour.
The restaurant was ordered to shut down because its owners have chosen not to check people’s vaccine certificates since that rule came into effect last month.
“It’s ridiculous, what they're asking us to do,” said Muriel Young, co-owner of the restaurant.
Young said they have followed all other health orders, but will refuse to check their customer’s vaccination certificates -- even though experts say the measure will help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
“It’s not legal for me to ask you for your private health,” she said, even though the measure is legal, according to the province.
Marlene Abling, another owner, said she doesn’t trust the government, and indicated she doesn't believe medical experts.
“This isn't about health anyway, it's about control,” Abling said.
The mother-daughter team repeated conspiracy theories, which some of their supporters echoed.
The mayor of Hope said the topic of vaccines has been a divisive issue for the community, and the decision to rescind the licences was not taken lightly, but necessary for public health.
“It was very difficult. It’s a small community and we all know each other; our neighbours are working there and I’ve known the owners for a long time,” said Mayor Peter Robb. “They're taking a stance. I don't agree with the stance they're taking, but hopefully we can get through this.”
He said he isn’t aware of any other businesses defying the public health orders.
He said the owners can receive their licences back as early as the next council meeting as long as they can explain how they plan to follow the health orders, including checking vaccine certificates.
Until then, the owners are being fined $100 per day for staying open.
Fraser Health said it is working with compliance and enforcement partners to determine the next steps and would not comment on whether that includes a court injunction.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
NEW Keeping these exotic pets is 'cruel' and 'dangerous,' Canadian animal advocates say
Canadian pet owners are finding companionship beyond dogs and cats. Tigers, alligators, scorpions and tarantulas are among some of the exotic pets they are keeping in private homes, which pose risks to public safety and animal welfare, advocates say.
NEW Life got in the way of one woman's reunion with her father, but a DNA test gained her a family
Anne Marie Cavner was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father, but then life dealt her a blow. From an unexpected loss to a host of new relationships, a DNA test changed her life, and she doesn't regret a thing.
Doctors ask Liberal government to reconsider capital gains tax change
The Canadian Medical Association is asking the federal government to reconsider its proposed changes to capital gains taxation, arguing it will affect doctors' retirement savings.
How quietly promised law changes in the 2024 federal budget could impact your day-to-day life
The 2024 federal budget released last week includes numerous big spending promises that have garnered headlines. But, tucked into the 416-page document are also series of smaller items, such as promising to amend the law regarding infant formula and to force banks to label government rebates, that you may have missed.
Quebec farmers have been protesting since December. Is anyone listening?
Upset about high interest rates, growing paperwork and heavy regulatory burdens, protesting farmers have become a familiar sight across Quebec since December.
'Catch-and-kill' strategy to be a focus as testimony resumes in Trump hush money case
A veteran tabloid publisher was expected to return to the witness stand Tuesday in Donald Trump's historic hush money trial.
Quebec Health Department reports 28 cases of eye damage linked to solar eclipse
Quebec's Health Department says it has received 28 reports of eye damage related to the April 8 total solar eclipse that passed over southern parts of the province.
Psychologist becomes first person in Peru to die by euthanasia after fighting in court for years
A Peruvian psychologist who suffered from an incurable disease that weakened her muscles and had her confined to her bed for several years, died by euthanasia, her lawyer said Monday, becoming the first person in the country to obtain the right to die with medical assistance.
Diver pinned under water by an alligator figured he had choice. Lose his arm or lose his life
An alligator attacked a diver on April 15 as he surfaced from his dive, nearly out of air. His tank emptied with the gator's jaws crushing the arm he put up in defence.