MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release, March 10, 2022
SUMMERLAND CHAMBER JOINS CALL TO PROVINCE FOR END OF MANDATES
Summerland, B.C.: Summerland Chamber has joined forces with five other chambers in the Okanagan to call on the province to recognize the immense impact to the business community and put an end to current mandates. The joint Chamber letter sent to Premier Horgan, Minister Dix and Dr. Henry on March 8, 2022, called for the province to provide better transparency on the decision making, and bring clear explanations for why the mandates remain in place.
The letter further speaks to the impacts that mandates have had on businesses in the Okanagan and identifies further impacts that could continue should the lifting of restrictions not take place in a more timely manner.
“The Summerland Chamber is gravely concerned for our business community and their ability to compete with other provinces as we enter into the busier “tourist” season. While other provinces are “open” for business, we remain under mandates that create even further uncertainty to tourists and employers alike. Continual mandates will lead to a decrease in travelers who feel safe in booking holidays in our community, and our ability to attract seasonal labour will be effected as many will chose provinces with better certainty on providing consistent employment.” Says Chamber Vice President Erin Hayman.
“We need to do better for our business community, they deserve to be heard and we hope this call to the Province can serve as one way to share their concerns and call for action.” Adds Hayman.
The Summerland Chamber will be sending the letter to the local MLA Dan Ashton and Chamber members to encourage the business community to share the concerns and have their voices heard.
For more information on this initiative and the advocacy efforts of the Summerland Chamber please contact the Chamber at info@summerlandchamber.com
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About Summerland Chamber of Commerce
Established in 1908, the Summerland Chamber of Commerce operates as a not for profit corporation representing the over 700 businesses in the community. The Chamber works collaboratively with stakeholder businesses, organizations and all three levels of government to fulfill its mandate.
For more information contact:
Erin Hayman, Chamber Vice President
Summerland Chamber of Commerce
erinhayman@gmail.com
