The Kamloops Chamber of Commerce is applauding the move from B.C. health officials after they mandated mask-wearing in indoor public and retail spaces yesterday.

The [Chamber] is hoping these added measures will limit exposures in the Interior and all of B.C.,” said President Tyson Andrykew. “The announcement is timely as the business community in Kamloops was recently voicing its support for these added measures.”

“[We] recognize that mask-wearing alone is not going to make COVID-19 disappear, but it will certainly help.”

A survey of Chamber members earlier this month found 86 per cent of respondents were in favour of mandatory masks in the city of Kamloops. The city of Kamloops began requiring masks inside city facilities at the end of October.

“We’re following the lead of many businesses in Kamloops that have already taken this step. Its a simple requirement that help us keep you and our staff healthier,” Mayor Ken Christian said at the time.

Chamber Executive Director Acacia Pangilinan says the Kamloops business community has suffered real financial hardships because of this pandemic, and the threat of another lockdown could be devastating to so many.

“The support for mask-wearing has been heard loud and clear from our membership,” she added. “We are hopeful that the announcement for mandating mask-wearing in indoor public and retail spaces will help keep our city safe and ultimately open for business.”

The Chamber is also asking its member to review COVID-19 safety plans and make changes as needed.