B.C.'s vaccine card program is now in effect in hopes COVID-19 transmission can be reduced, especially those connected with the Delta variant.
As of Monday (Sept. 13), eligible residents must present the downloadable QR code from the province's Health Gateway website — along with a piece of government-issued ID — to get into "discretionary" events and businesses.
This includes restaurants with liquor and/or table service, ticketed sports games and indoor adult group and team sports for people 22 years old or older among others.
In place until at least Jan. 31, the card is a tool to help protect as many people as possible from COVID-19 "so we can get as much open as possible and get back to doing the things that we need and love," Henry told a news conference on Monday.
B.C. remains in Step 3 of its restart plan, which only allows a maximum capacity in certain events, including 50 people or 50 per cent (whichever is greater) for indoor organized gatherings and 5,000 people or 50 per cent (whichever is greater) at outdoor organized gatherings.
A two-week grace period is also in effect until Sept. 26 when residents can show the immunization card they received when getting their first and/or second doses as some may likely be waiting for their vaccine-card paper copy to arrive in the mail.
When that date comes and goes, the vaccine card will be needed and will only require one dose of a vaccine against COVID-19.
By Oct. 24, the vaccine card will require double vaccination.
For the Tri-Cities, recreation activities and programs are ramping up with the autumn's return and each major city is now requiring proof of vaccination, while still following safety guidelines.
However, it'll only be needed under certain conditions:
COQUITLAM
City facilities in Coquitlam will require a BC Vaccine Card at the following:
- Events, including recreational programs, with more than 50 people
- City arenas when being used for adult sport (22 years and older)
- Adult (22 years and older) sports, exercise, fitness or dance activities of any size
- Indoor ticketed sporting events
Here's where proof of vaccine is NOT required for accessing Coquitlam recreation:
- Recreational activities and programs with less than 50 participants other than those which are considered adult sport, exercise, fitness or dance activities
- Swimming pools
- Poirier Sports and Leisure Complex
- City Centre Aquatic Complex
- Eagle Ridge and Spani outdoor pools
- Arenas when not being used for an event or adult sport (22 years and older)
- Poirier Sports and Leisure Complex
- Poirier Forum
- Child and youth sport and recreational programs for those under the age of 22 years
- Before and after school programs
- Teachers/instructors providing education activities with their students in city facilities
- Rehab or exercise therapy programs
- For parents, attendants and support people acting in a service capacity
As well, the City of Coquitlam says proof of vaccination will not be required for entry to city hall, Town Centre fire hall, the RCMP detachment and public areas at the Coquitlam Animal Shelter and the Austin Works Yard.
PORT COQUITLAM
Port Coquitlam says it'll ask for proof of vaccination for recreation activities hosted at its new community centre (PCCC) and the Hyde Creek Recreation Centre.
This includes:
- Fitness classes
- Weight rooms
- Sport activities
- Adult arena sports
- Any event or activity with 50 people or more attending
PoCo says a vaccine card will not be required at its swimming pools or the Terry Fox Public Library.
Residents 21 years and younger also won't need to show a card for fitness or sport classes.
You can visit the City of Port Coquitlam's website for more information.
PORT MOODY
In Port Moody, people aged 22 and older who wish to participate in indoor adult fitness and sport programs or activities will be asked to show proof of vaccination and a piece of valid government photo ID
This includes use of the Port Moody Recreation Complex's weight room and walking track.
Proof of vaccination will not be required for preschool, children, and youth programs.
"Arena user groups will be responsible for verifying proof of vaccination for participants and spectators for indoor adult group and team sports as per the PHO order," city spokesperson Natasha Vander Wal explains in a statement.
"If you plan to participate in one of our indoor adult fitness or sport programs, please arrive early to allow time for the check-in process. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding as we all adjust to this new requirement."
A release further states use of rentals like the Inlet Theatre will require the organizer of an event to be responsible for verifying proof of vaccination.
Residents are NOT required to show a vaccine card at city hall service counters or the Port Moody Public Library.
For more information, you're encouraged to visit the city's website.
