BC closes all bars and clubs, restaurants require physical distancing to avoid COVID-19

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WatchIt's tough news for bars, clubs and restaurants in B.C., but in the province's fight against COVID-19 many will be forced to close temporarily. Julian Kolsut has the details.

B.C.’s top doctor has announced that all bars and clubs are to be closed, in an effort to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Provincial health officer  Dr. Bonnie Henry says many of the businesses are not able to maintain physical distancing.

She says some restaurants and cafes may be able to follow the recommended measures measures. If they are not able to, they will need to transition to a take out and delivery system.

“Bars and clubs in my opinion are not able to meet our test for social distancing, and therefore must close,” Henry said Tuesday during a press conference.

Restaurants and cafes in some cases can meet this criteria for physical distancing. But those who cannot maintain the physical distancing will need to close or move to take out and delivery services. So we are recommending that.”

Some businesses across greater Victoria have already decided to temporarily. All four of the Victoria Pub Company’s location are one buisness who made the call Tuesday.

Some are trying to adhere to provincial measures, but businesses are struggling to adjust.

“It’s sad, it’s tough for the local people, and for the servers and the bartenders. And there is a lot of young people that are defiantly going to be put out. I’ts tough to carry,” said Tracey Smith, from Cordova Bay’s Beach House Restaurant.

“We are hoping people can just pull together, and Victoria is a great community and hopefully we can bounce back from this. We are happy to listen to what the government says, we understand that we have a social responsibility.”

The announcement was made on Tuesday, St. Patrick’s day. Business was supposed to be booming, but instead officials are asking everyone instead to stay home for their celebrations.

Julian KolsutJulian Kolsut

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