Photo: Liam Verster

By Shane Clausing

restriction exemption program

Restriction Exemption Program key for keeping Grande Prairie recreation facilities open, safe

Sep 18, 2021 | 12:35 PM

City of Grande Prairie administration says the implementation of the Government of Alberta’s Restriction Exemption Program at certain recreational facilities in Grande Prairie is the best way to move forward at this time.

The city announced that starting on Monday, it would be implementing the new program at some recreation facilities, including the Eastlink Centre, Coca-Cola Centre, Bonnetts Energy Centre and Dave Barr Community Centre.

That means the facilities will require everyone 12 and older to show proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test, or a medical exemption in order to enter the facilities.

Youth user groups are not subject to the new rule.

After listening to the province’s latest update on COVID-19 Wednesday, Clayton says council and administration feel the implementation of the program is the best way to move forward.

“Administration worked diligently to come together with a solution, and through that process communicated with council, but it’s truly an operational exercise,” she said.

“Council continues to follow the advice from public health officials and public health is a provincial responsibility, so we are following the newly announced measures as the best course of action.”

Details on how the new rules will be enforced are still being rolled out by each facility.

Clayton does acknowledge, however, that these new rules will take some time for everyone to get used to.

“Council recognizes this is going to be challenging, especially in the next few days as people get used to this change, but we also want to keep those facilities open,” she explained.

“We know how important these facilities are to our community members and how important it is to keep your mental health in check. Following this program is the best way for us to ensure the health and safety of our patrons while keeping our facilities open.”

All recreation participants are encouraged to create an online registration account in advance of Monday if they do not currently have one. This includes participants who are engaging in drop-in classes.