Liquor stores adjust hours in B.C. but remain open to deal with COVID-19
The provincial government says hours are changing at BC Liquor Stores so that staff can do additional cleaning
VANCOUVER — Liquor stores in British Columbia are adjusting their hours but will remain open as Vancouver ordered restaurants to stop offering dine-in services at midnight.
The provincial government says hours are changing at BC Liquor Stores so that staff can do additional cleaning to minimize the risk to employees and customers from COVID-19.
When necessary, the number of customers allowed in stores will also be limited to maintain self-distancing.
The government says there are no shortages of beer, wine or spirits but the stores have not been able to keep shelves stocked because of an increase in sales.
In Vancouver, Mayor Kennedy Stewart says the order for restaurants to stop offering dine-in service will be enforced and those that do not comply will get a notice that could escalate to prosecution for non-compliance.
The provincial government ordered all bars and nightclubs to close earlier this week.
Playgrounds across the city are also being closed.
Sandra Singh, the city’s manager of arts, culture and community services, says there is also a plan in place for the potential use of Vancouver’s community centres as shelters for homeless people.
British Columbia has recorded 271 cases of the novel coronavirus including eight deaths.
