With the COVID-19 vaccine certificate system now in effect across Ontario, myFM wanted to check in with local businesses to see how the first couple of days have gone.
Andy Lerikos, owner at Legends Tavern in St. Thomas says similar to other restrictions put in place, it all comes down to how the general public chooses to behave.
Lerikos says that most customers who came through their doors on Wednesday, were ready with their vaccine receipts, while others claimed they’ve never heard of such a measure.
Regardless of whose fault it is that people are uninformed, Lerikos says people need to understand that they are not the ones governing this mandate.
As the owner of Legends, Lerikos says he had to do a lot of his own research into the vaccine certificate system, so that he was prepared enough to lead his team.
He says that unfortunately, they’ve already had to turn away customers who chose not to provide proof of vaccination. He adds in some cases, it didn’t come down to the fact that the patron wasn’t “vaccinated”, they just refused to provide proof.
He adds they hate to be losing customers, but this is the way they have to operate at this point in time.
Lerikos stressed that he understands how frustrating the measurers are, but it doesn’t only negatively affect those who are unvaccinated.
He says that businesses are now having to pay another employee to look after the verification process.
He adds that at the end of the day, it is up to each individual person, to make sure they’re educated on the public health measures currently in effect.
At this time, restaurant patrons must show proof of full vaccination to dine indoors.
Unvaccinated individuals can enter restaurants to pay for takeout, to access the patio or washroom but must wear a mask while doing so.
