Businesses push back against national COVID-19 lockdown

OTTAWA (NEWS 1130) — The business industry is pushing back as a group of Canadian doctors and other medical experts suggest the country should go into a full lockdown to stop the spread of COVID-19.

#COVIDzero had been trending in social media, backed by the suggestion from a group of medical professionals that Canada enacts further restrictions.

However, Dan Kelly, president of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, said Monday a full national lockdown could crush many shop owners.

“I don’t think any business owner would object if there is compelling evidence that business activity is causing the spread of COVID-19, but that’s not what evidence that has been shared seems to be suggesting,” he said

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Kelly added most businesses seem to be hanging on while cases of COVID-19 cases surge across Canada and the world, with nearly half losing money every day.

Many would not reopen if there is another lockdown, he said.

If businesses are ordered to close again, they need full support from upper levels of government, which Kelly insists is not happening now.

New #BC PHO Order is out – @Fraserhealth @VCHhealthcare document says people can still go to restaurants so long as max group doesn’t exceed 6 ppl. To clarify, does that mean individuals can meet with members outside of their household at restaurants? https://t.co/LfHDdp3Ykr

— CFIB BC (@cfibBC) November 12, 2020

“This is killing businesses left, right, and centre. We have seen the tip of the iceberg of the impact of this,” he added.

“Again, if we’re going to shut down a business, we have to be ready with 100 per cent support — 100 per cent support — to help those businesses get across the COVID finish line, and despite what prime minister said the other day.”

Just over a week ago, new restrictions regarding gatherings were announced for people living in the Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health regions.

Meanwhile, Ontario recently changed the provincial colour-coded system around COVID-19 restrictions, making it easier for businesses to stay open.

Manitoba has also entered a partial lockdown meant to stem a surge in COVID-19 cases in that province.