BC Transit will no longer be offering free transit service in Greater Victoria on New Year’s Eve in light of the recently released COVID-19 restrictions, which include the closure of bars and nightclubs.
BC Transit was set to offer free service after 6 p.m. as they have in the past. The bus schedule will remain the same.
During a live press conference Tuesday, BC Health officials announced new public health orders ahead of the holiday season.
“Due to the recent Provincial Health Officer restrictions, we are cancelling New Year’s Eve service for the Victoria Regional Transit System. We are no longer offering free service after 6 p.m.,” said BC Transit in a statement.
The new measures were put in place with intention of curbing the spread of the fast-moving COVID-19 variant Omicron.
These new public health orders went into effect today and will remain in place throughout the new year until at least January 18th, 2022.
These new orders outline changes to indoor gatherings, fitness centres, sports tournaments and more.
Those hoping to wrap up 2021 at their favourite bar or nightclub will need to rethink their plans.
Restaurants will remain open, however, they will operate under new restrictions – similar to those from earlier in the pandemic.
A maximum of six people will be permitted per table and no mingling between tables will be permitted.
Other orders coming into effect also include the cancellation of all organized indoor events of any size such as weddings, receptions, and celebratory events.
In addition to the closures, all permitted seated events, no matter the size of the venue must operate at 50% capacity, this includes concerts, sports games such as hockey for example, theatres, and movie theatres etc.
All organized events are required to scan the BC vaccine card and everyone must wear a mask during the event.
The province is also urging BC residents to limit indoor gatherings to those who are fully vaccinated, to ensure proper ventilation indoors, to avoid all travel if not fully vaccinated.
