One day after announcing that people can be fined if they travel outside of their health authority for non-essential reasons, the B.C. government has clarified how it plans to enforce the measures.
In a statement, Public Safety Minister Mike Farnworth says government is looking at using “periodic roadblocks” to limit travel, in a bid to slow the spread of COVID-19. These roadblocks would be set up at places like ferry terminals or along major highways leading out of Metro Vancouver, as an example.
Farnworth says the goal is to discourage recreational travel but there will be no random, individual stops.
“Most British Columbians know they have a part to play in helping to curb the spread of COVID-19 and I am sure they will adhere to the new rules and stay in their region,” Farnworth said.
“Our intention is to discourage recreational and leisure travel – not punish people – and we are not interested in disrupting commuters and people going about their lives.”
The restrictions are expected to be in place until at least May 25. More information will be coming on Friday, though Farnworth says his ministry is also working to ensure the new rules don’t unfairly impact racialized communities.
Yesterday, Premier John Horgan said unenforceable restrictions would not be considered. That’s despite Horgan saying that there would be “random” roadside stops through the May long weekend to prevent people from leaving their health authority for non-essential reasons.
“This will be conducted through random audits, not unlike roadside stops for counter attack during the Christmas season,” Horgan said. “They will be susceptible to all travellers, not just a few travellers, and again they will be random, and there will be a fine if you are travelling outside of your area without a legitimate reason.”
Farnworth’s ministry says police will wait for an order under the Emergency Program Act and any other associated guidelines before proceeding.
“It is unfortunate that we must enforce a travel ban, but it is necessary for the health and safety of everyone.” Farnworth said. “Most British Columbians know they have a part to play in helping to curb the spread of COVID-19 and I am sure they will adhere to the new rules and stay in their region.”
Also extended to May 25 is a ban indoor dining and group fitness classes that was first brought in on March 29.
Yesterday, the B.C. government reported 2,960 new cases of COVID-19 over this past weekend, 211 of which were in Interior Health.
– With files from The Canadian Press