Tale of Two Teahouses: Different Approaches to Alberta’s High River Vaccine Passport | The Canadian News

Two teahouses in a southern Alberta community have become an example of the uncertainty caused by the government that allows companies to make their own decisions about what is essentially a vaccine passport.

Restaurants, bars and pubs have been debating whether they will require a vaccination record before customers can enter or whether to limit it to patios and takeout.

Last week, Prime Minister Jason Kenney introduced a restriction waiver program that allows homeowners to operate with almost no COVID-19 rules as long as they request proof of vaccination.

Those who choose not to do so must adhere to the highest public health standards.

The United Conservative government has been criticized for downloading the decision. Critics say it causes confusion and forces compliant companies to face the ire of customers who oppose vaccination.

In High River, a city of about 14,500 people south of Calgary, it takes us to the story of two tea houses.

Tracey Worsley and her daughter, Rebecca, opened The British Tea House just eight weeks ago. They have decided to close their doors to the indoor dining room.

“We believe that everyone has a choice and it is not right for companies to make that decision,” Worsley said in a telephone interview.

“The government should make the decision as it did last time.”

The noble teahouse It has been open a year after an extensive redecoration of the 113 year old house.

Operations manager Joelene Smart said it was a difficult decision to apply for the passport, but there were few options.

“It just pulled my heart a little. I’m fine with the decision we made, but it’s just not very inclusive. “

Smart said she had a lot of discussions with clients last week and most supported her, but agrees with Worsley that companies shouldn’t have had to make the decision.

“Something has to happen. I don’t really know what it is, but it’s sad. It is causing unrest among families, friends and companies. I hope it doesn’t last long ”.

The Calgary City Council took matters into its own hands this week by passing a statute that makes vaccine testing mandatory for all non-essential businesses, with fines for violators. That new rule started Thursday.

“This statute will create a level playing field for business in Calgary and provide clear guidance on how to apply the requirement for proof of vaccination or negative COVID test,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi.

Worsley said she will watch customer traffic for the next two weeks, but if business is not doing well, she could be forced to participate in the program.

She said it is a difficult decision either way.

“No matter which path you choose, you are going to annoy people and you will not please everyone.

“But… because of the way I was raised, everyone in life has a choice. Unfortunately, right now, options are being taken away. “

It remains to be seen if Edmonton will follow Calgary’s move.

“Obviously, we saw what happened in Calgary. We are looking into that decision right now, ”said city spokesman Geoffrey Driscoll.