August 23, 2021 (Vancouver, B.C.) - The Business Council has released the following statement on behalf of President and CEO Greg D’Avignon, in response to the government’s announcement of a planned proof-of-vaccination program for non-essential businesses:

“Successful vaccination campaigns and the current roll-out of the Safe Screen B.C. program in the workplace will play a key role in helping to keep businesses open. However, as we face this fourth wave and variants, businesses need as many tools as possible to return certainty and predictability for employees and the business environment. For that reason, we have requested along with major business organizations, and support the government’s efforts to introduce a 'proof of vaccination' program to help mitigate transmission and outbreaks, rebuild consumer confidence, and drive recovery.

“While employers look forward to providing input into this initiative as it becomes effective in September, we have learned through the pandemic that to be effective, fair and avoid confusion, the program must be led by government. It must clearly define the scope and specific rules and situations it will be used through a Public Health Order and it must leverage technology that is simple to use, interoperable with other provinces and for visitors, and results in no cost to the user or consumer at these businesses, events and venues where people choose to enter.”

About the Business Council of British Columbia

Now in its 55th year as the premier business organization in British Columbia, the Business Council of B.C. is a non-partisan organization made up of 250 leading companies, post-secondary institutions and industry associations from across B.C.'s diverse economy. The Council produces exceptional public policy research and advocacy in support of creating a competitive economy for the benefit of all British Columbians.

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Media Contacts:
Colin Wong
604-764-8605
colin.wong@bcbc.com