New COVID-19 protocols ‘crushing’: Kelowna mayor
Global News
New COVID-19 restrictions will come into effect on Monday, Dec. 20, 2021.
‘Crushing’ is how Kelowna’s mayor describes the feeling of learning the city’s much anticipated New Year’s Eve event will have to be cancelled.
“The fact that we had been making advancements, and now we have to step backwards, is disappointing on a number of levels,” said Kelowna Mayor Colin Basran.
“But I completely understand why these moves need to take place,” said Basran
He acknowledges the sudden rise in COVID-19 cases across the province and in the Interior Health region is worrisome.
“I’m extremely concerned about this latest variant and the impacts that it could have on our healthcare system,” Basran told Global News.
“That’s the biggest thing. KGH and the ICU are full and continue to be full, particularly with those who are unvaccinated. I encourage all to get vaccinated.”
The new restrictions: cancelling organized events, reducing venue capacity and limiting private gatherings, come into effect on Monday — affecting almost everyone in the province.
“Some of my family members won’t be able to come now for Christmas,” said Patricia Howor, a Kelowna resident.
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