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In a random check of 14 Kelowna Restaurants, we found six of them still with open dining rooms. While Ontario restaurants have been asked to close, in BC it's been left up to the proprietors. Public opinion on the question is split.
Bars and nightclubs in BC have been ordered to close, but eateries are making their own decisions.
KelownaNow has assembled a list of restaurants offering takeout and delivery.
"Restaurants and Cafes can, in some cases, maintain the distance requirements," said Provincial Health Officer Bonnie Henry. "But those that cannot maintain social distancing will need to close or move to take-out and delivery services."
There are huge public health risks at stake, but that's not all. An estimated 180 thousand British Columbians depend on restaurants for their livelihoods, and there are fears that if they close, some will never be in a position to re-open again.
"I think it's up to them," said one visitor from Ontario when KelownaNow took the question to the street, "but I don't think many people are going to come."
"If you have less than 20 people, to me that would be okay," said another man. "They should close, but for how long?" added another. "I think it's wise," agreed yet another. "At least in the short term."
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