New enforcement rules are now in place to target the "small minority" of people flouting public health orders in B.C. (The Canadian Press)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

enforcement

Police now allowed to issue $2,000 violation tickets to those ignoring health orders about COVID-19

Aug 21, 2020 | 10:24 AM

NANAIMO — The province is taking a more hardline approach in enforcing physical distancing and safe interactions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Solicitor general Mike Farnworth announced Friday morning law enforcement officers can immediately start issuing violation tickets to “bad actors” and “selfish people” who disregard public safety recommendations.

“From this point forward we’re going to ensure those making selfish decisions are risking more than their reputations. I’m disappointed stricter enforcement has become necessary, British Columbians have enough to deal with right now.”

Starting Friday, $2,000 violation tickets can be handed to property owners or event organizers who contravene health orders on gatherings and events over 50 people, who don’t keep a list of everyone who attended or who host more than five people in a vacation accommodation like an Airbnb.

Farnworth specifically mentioned house parties and events, such as a recent gathering on Third Beach in Vancouver which encouraged not wearing a mask, as being high targets for this enforcement.

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$200 tickets can also be served to those who refuse to follow policies put in place, such as restaurants, or those who encourage unsafe events.

“There is a small minority of selfish individuals across the province who are disregarding the public health measures in place. There is no excuse to disregard the responsibility we share to keep each other safe in this pandemic.”

Farnworth said special constables, including conservation officers and community safety officers, can issue violation tickets.

“Local communities and bylaw offices often have a very good idea on where problem properties are and who the repeat offenders are. They have the ability to go, give a ticket to the owner of the residents, venue or establishment. They may decide given the nature of it, it’s not about dispersing but giving $200 tickets for a particularly egregious offence.”

He stressed these measures are designed to target the “small minority” of people who are disregarding public health orders.

“A vast majority of British Columbians have done an extraordinary job of keeping COVID-19 out of their lives. We’ve made great sacrifices and collectively, our actions have helped curb the spread of COVID-19.”

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