MONTREAL — Quebec says it is limiting the operating hours and capacity of bars and nightclubs across the province in order to prevent COVID-19 outbreaks as the number of new infections begins to climb.
Health Minister Christian Dube did not give any examples of delinquent venues but told reporters today the surge in infections across the United States linked to bars made him nervous.
He also cited the fact the province reported 137 cases of COVID-19 today — the highest number since June 19 — but said his decision to restrict access to bars was not linked to the new numbers.
Starting tomorrow, bars and nightclubs can no longer sell alcohol after midnight and are limited to 50 per cent of their legal customer capacity.
Dube adds that police will be out in higher numbers, and inspectors will be deployed to make sure bars and nightclubs follow the new rules.
There have now been 5,609 deaths related to the novel coronavirus in Quebec and 56,216 COVID-19 cases, of which 25,616 are considered recovered.
An organization representing owners of Quebec bars has issued a statement predicting the new measures “are going to drive hundreds of bar owners into bankruptcy.”
The Corporation des proprietaires de bars, brasseries et tavernes du Quebec said the province has not provided the aid needed to help owners weather the financial impact of the pandemic.
Dube said he had recent discussions with the representatives of bar owners, “and I know they are not happy. But this is a compromise. We said from the beginning that health is the priority.”
This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 9, 2020.
The Canadian Press
