By Shane Clausing

chamber of commerce

Chamber of Commerce encourages residents to support local businesses ahead of new restrictions

Dec 23, 2021 | 6:00 AM

With more COVID-19 restrictions set to be implemented on December 24, the Chair for the Grande Prairie District Chamber of Commerce says he is both disappointed and understanding of the latest COVID-19 measures taken by the Alberta government.

Starting December 24, venues over 1,000 people will be limited to 50 per cent capacity with concession sales ceased. Restaurants will be limited to 10 people at one table and have to stop selling liquor at 11:00 p.m.

Albertans are also being asked to limit their contacts by 50 per cent over the holidays to help slow the spread of the Omicron COVID-19 variant.

“This is something nobody wanted and a situation we don’t want to be in given we have the upcoming holidays,” said Tertius Genis, the Chair for the Grande Prairie and District Chamber of Commerce.

“I think there is a bit of unknown of Omicron (COVID=19 variant) and the government just wants to curb (the spread) so we don’t get another big outbreak and especially try to offset these ‘super spreader’ events. We kind of (seen restrictions) coming, but at least businesses can still function, albeit, at limited capacity.”

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While the restrictions are a blow to businesses, especially the restaurant industry, Genis says we should all try to support our local restaurants and businesses throughout the holidays.

“It is definitely people we have to have close to our hearts and keep on supporting,” he explained. “They are really feeling the punches with these new restrictions. I think as a community we should definitely support our restaurants.”

“Behind the scenes, the chamber is definitely talking to elected officials to see if support can be extended for our restaurants and it’s a big part of our policy to show we are behind our local restaurants going forward.”

Genis adds he is disappointed the province is back in this situation but adds we have to work together to get out of this.

“It is discouraging, but we have to stand together as a community and be in support of our very tired health workers. We need to support our local businesses, take care of each other and be there for support.”

Genis mentioned the best way for Albertans to get out of this is by doing the right thing and getting vaccinated and helping keep the numbers down.

“I think if we just do our bit and still continue to get vaccinated, social distance and do proper hand sanitization, I think we will definitely be in the position where these restrictions can be lifted soon.”