More COVID-19 restrictions will come if B.C. doesn’t ‘get with the program’: Horgan

VICTORIA (NEWS 1130) — B.C. could ramp up COVID-19-related restrictions if cases continue to grow exponentially, warns Premier John Horgan.

Speaking Monday for the first time since election results were finalized, Horgan says what happens next depends on British Columbians — particularly those in Metro Vancouver where new restrictions were announced this weekend — following the rules.

“In the last two weeks, we’ve seen a dangerous increase in COVID-19 cases, particularly in the Lower Mainland,” he says.

“We need to make sure that we keep essential services functioning, surgeries, schools, and others, operating as safely as possible. All of this is at jeopardy if we don’t continue working together, taking our responsibility to bring the case numbers down.”

Over next two weeks must reduce social contacts, stay local, reduce movement outside of community if not essential.
Objective is to keep economy going – while keeping people safe. – Premier @jjhorgan #bcpoli #covid19 @NEWS1130

— LizaYuzda (@LizaYuzda) November 9, 2020

The focus of new restrictions in the Fraser and Vancouver Coastal Health regions, and of the premier’s remarks, is the critical importance of reducing social contacts, eliminating non-essential travel, and pausing indoor physical activities.

“If we want to avoid the more onerous restrictions that are being imposed in other jurisdictions we need to take advantage of the opportunities to find safe ways to operate. It’s gonna require people to get with the program, and there’s a whole bunch of people who are not abiding by the minimalist rules we had in place.”

Q-where is BC’s balance btwn covid & economy?@jjhorgan we’ve approached diff than other prov from start.
Focused on following the science. Objective to reduce lockdown & society be able to function as best as possible safely.#bcpoli #covid19 @NEWS1130

— LizaYuzda (@LizaYuzda) November 9, 2020

While stepping up restrictions for individuals on the Lower Mainland, Horgan says the province is also increasing workplace inspections — asking WorkSafe BC, public health, and bylaw officers to work together to make sure staff and customers at businesses are safe.

Last week, B.C. reported 589 new COVID-19 cases on Friday, up from 425 on Thursday and 335 on Wednesday.

“If we want to get back to our envied position at the start of this pandemic we need to make sure we’re all working on this together. The challenges are grave, and they’re significant.”