The BC Government has brought in new enforcement measures as part of a crackdown on those who refuse to follow COVID-19 restrictions – one day after the Premier said the province will be doing so.
Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth says he has asked gaming investigators, conservation officers, community safety unit inspectors as well as liquor and cannabis inspectors to support police and increase COVID-19 enforcement.
“Our police departments have been working hard to educate the public and issue violation tickets when necessary,” said Farnworth, in a statement.
“Provincial enforcement officers can already issue violation tickets, but we want to increase the use of the tools available to them. This will put more boots on the ground to actively enforce Emergency Program Act orders and better ensure we can penalize those who insist on putting their own selfishness above public health.”
Farnworth says ICBC – which collects ticket fines on behalf of government – will also send unpaid fines to collections after the initial 30-day payment or dispute period ends. As it stands, payment reminders may be sent for up to a year before the overdue account is sent to collections.
The province is also asking WorkSafeBC to increase the number of in-person inspections it performs at workplaces and reduce the reliance on virtual checks, especially in sectors where COVID-19 transmission is occurring.
“From the start of the pandemic, WorkSafeBC officers have been doing an admirable job conducting inspections and enforcing compliance with the requirement to have a COVID-19 safety plan,” said Harry Bains, Minister of Labour, in a statement.
“Increasing in-person inspections in sectors of particular concern will help prevent future outbreaks and aligns with our coordinated approach to COVID-19 enforcement. Our government is firmly committed to keeping people safe at work.”
Farnworth says the moves will ensure the province can penalize people who put their own ‘selfishness’ above public health.
Thousands of Dollars in fines issued since August
The province says between Aug. 21 and Dec. 14, there were 45 $2,300 tickets given to owners or organizers of gatherings and events; 21 $2,300 tickets for violations to the Food and Liquor Serving Premises Order; and 224 $230 tickets given to people who refused to comply with direction from law enforcement.
All of those fines total up to $203,320, but its unclear how many of the fines have been paid.
There have also been 72 tickets to people who were in violation of the Federal Quarantine Act, totalling $78,500.
The province says if tickets do not act as a deterrent, or in cases of particularly egregious violations or for repeat offenders, police can recommend charges, which can lead to further penalties or jail time, as decided by the courts.
