As vaccination numbers continue to rise throughout Canada and restrictions loosen, British Columbia plans to enter step three of its four-part restart plan this week that will see casinos open their doors to patrons once again.
Casinos will still abide by some Covid restrictions in order to ensure customers remain safe while attending.
Slot machines will be spread out to comply with social distancing and cash cages and card tables will be fitted with Plexiglas barriers.
Mask regulations are yet to be announced.
Around 3,200 casino employees whose jobs have been impacted by the pandemic will return to work as these restrictions are lifted.
The choice to enter state three of the restart plan comes as vaccinations continue to rise above 65% of the population and hospitalisations continue to fall.
Casino groups have welcomed the choice to reopen, with Tony Santo, CEO at Gateway Casinos saying: “We are excited to be able to re-open a portion of our gaming operations and begin to welcome back some of our team members and customers. The health and well-being of our employees and guests is our top priority, we look forward to fully re-opening and welcoming more of our guests back in the future as the rest of our gaming amenities are permitted to re-open.”
He continued: “Gateway has worked collaboratively with all levels of government, local health officials, community leaders and BCLC to build robust health and safety plans that put in place the best protocols to ensure public health is protected for employees and customers.”
The earliest date that British Columbia could enter the final stage of their restart plan is slated for September 4.
