We’re now in Phase 2 of the B.C. Restart Plan and I’m feeling mighty uncomfortable because it puts a lot of responsibility in the hands of people who will frequent various businesses.
Sure, things have generally gone well, so far, but there have been many instances of people not being capable of following basic rules, such as an inability to stand on stickers on the floors of grocery stores and an unwillingness to crowd beaches and parks.
Now add alcohol to the mix.
Yep, we’re seeing pubs being allowed to reopen and I am feeling mighty skeptical of how people who are intoxicated will follow physical distancing rules.
I will admit I am not much of a drinker and have a pessimistic view of people who drink booze. I have more than 50 years of experience watching people act like jackasses to back me up.
I’ve spent too many hours in bars and pubs watching people getting all handsy after a few pops. Just ask any woman who has ever worked as a server about just how gross some men get as the alcohol takes effect.
I mean, we can’t trust people to not drink and drive – even after decades of messaging – so I have no faith people can act responsibly with COVID-19.
I’m not saying these places shouldn’t be reopened, but I’m really hoping bar managers investing in some COVID-19 bouncers, while adding a zero-tolerance policy for transgressions.
The second phase of the Restart Plan that is starting now includes: allowing small gatherings of family and friends of about two to six people with appropriate distancing measures; resuming elective surgeries, outpatient clinics and diagnostic tests, and other health services like dentistry, physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy and in-person counselling; reopening hair salons and barbershops and restaurants and pubs.
Other sectors included in phase two are: retail businesses; museums, art galleries and libraries; provincial parks (day use); beaches, sports fields and other outdoor spaces; public transit; offices; and voluntary resumption of in-class instruction for K-12, more use of online learning and schools reopening in September.
The third phase will roll out between June and September, but only if COVID-19 transmission rates continue to decline or remain low.
It will include: hotels and resorts (June); provincial parks and overnight camping (June); movie theatres and symphonies (July); and film and TV production (July).
- With files from Business in Vancouver.
Follow Chris Campbell on Twitter @shinebox44.
