UPDATE: Gyms are permitted to reopen on January 20, 2022, but we still want to see the data! The BC Government has not been transparent in its actions by not sharing key data and clear reasoning. We have submitted FOI requests but due to the lengthy timeline of this process, we don't expect to get a response until early February. Please continue to ask your MLA for answers. We also feel that any business closed due to public health orders during the pandemic should be compensated so we are working on getting meetings with our MLA and Minister of Jobs, Economic Recovery and Innovation - wish us luck!
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On December 21, BC Government Press Conference announced that "Adult gyms, fitness centres and dance studios are closed." as of December 22 at 11:59 pm until January 18, 2022.
This petition requests reconsideration of this order. Physical exercise in times of stress is an important outlet for many people, and not all gyms are the same. Gyms have significantly modified operations to keep their clients as safe as possible and the vast majority have not experienced any cases of transmission or significant outbreaks over the past two years. Our clients have worked with us to help keep our gyms safe and open - they stay home if they don't feel well, they abide by the rules, and help keep the gym clean. Small, independent gyms do not currently have a voice at the table when restrictions are implemented and we would like to change that.
From our perspective, there appears to be a disconnect between different sectors. Gyms are closed down while religious gatherings can continue without restriction if vaccinated, or at 50% capacity if unvaccinated. For some of us, physical activity at a gym is just as important for mental health as religion is for others. We request the same opportunity to provide our services.
We request a meeting with the Minister of Health and the Provincial Health Officer so that they can understand the operating context of all gyms (small and large alike) and the role they play in helping British Columbians remain healthy and happy. We ask that data on the place of transmission be openly shared and decisions are made with transparency.
Additionally, if gyms must remain closed we request financial assistance be made available immediately. Many small gyms barely scraped by during the first mandated closure (Fraser Health, Interior Health and Island Health regions) in April 2020, and will need support to continue to support our communities health and wellbeing.
