The provincial government has clarified the travel restrictions set to be introduced in BC.
According to Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth, motorists will not be subject to random individual roadside checks as previously suggested.
Instead, periodic roadblocks will be set up at places like BC Ferries terminals or on Highway 1 outside of the Lower Mainland to make sure people are not travelling recreationally outside of their health authority's region.
“Our intention is to discourage recreational and leisure travel – not punish people – and we are not interested in disrupting commuters and people going about their lives,” said Farnworth in a statement.
We’ll also be focused on making sure these new orders do not unfairly impact racialized communities, and we’ll be taking steps to make sure we get this right.”
All current guidelines and orders will remain in place for the next five weeks, through May long weekend. Stay in your...
Posted by Government of British Columbia on Tuesday, April 20, 2021
Upon being enacted on Friday, April 23, the new travel restrictions will remain in place for the next five weeks.
“It is unfortunate that we must enforce a travel ban, but it is necessary for the health and safety of everyone,” added Farnworth.
“Most British Columbians know they have a part to play in helping to curb the spread of COVID-19 and I am sure they will adhere to the new rules and stay in their region.”
Also extended to May 25 is a ban indoor dining and group fitness classes that was first brought in on March 29.
On Monday, Dr. Bonnie Henry reported 2,960 new cases of COVID-19 over the weekend.
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