Immediate clarity on restrictions and exemption program required; vaccine certification option positive step

The following statement is attributable to Deborah Yedlin, President and CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce:

Calgary, September 16, 2021 – “While many businesses have led the way with their own vaccination requirements, others have been waiting for definitive action from the province. The Government of Alberta’s Restriction Exemption Program, which gives businesses a choice to require proof of vaccination in lieu of more stringent restrictions, is a critical step in our fight against COVID-19. This will alleviate some of the concerns businesses and consumers have about safety and restrictive public health measures.

“Yesterday’s announcement prompted more questions than answers for our business community. As the impacts of yesterday’s announcement are being felt today, answers and clarity are needed urgently. Most immediately, businesses need clarity on key elements of the Restriction Exemption Program. It will also be critical to accelerate the implementation of a QR code system and create simple processes along with continued support for businesses as they move forward with the program.

“Implementation of new measures will not be without pain points, but overall, organizations participating in the Rapid Exemption Program are facing a competitive advantage. They will operate with fewer restrictions, attract fully vaccinated people back to their businesses and are now on a more even playing field with other jurisdictions, which supports their ability to attract investment and business from outside the province and minimizes challenges related to cross-border labour.

“We are working closely with the provincial government and Calgary businesses to seek the clarity needed that will support rapid and widespread implementation of vaccine certification. We remain committed to working together to stop the spread of COVID-19 to keep our loved ones safe and get our economy back on track.”

About the Calgary Chamber

The Calgary Chamber is an independent, non-profit, non-partisan business organization. For 130 years, the Chamber has worked to build a business community that nourishes, powers, and inspires the world.

For media inquires, please contact media@calgarychamber.com or at 403-750-0414.