Revelstoke RCMP say they issued a pair of fines to the owner-operator of a local fitness centre on April 8, alleging the centre continued to host a group fitness class in contravention of a COVID-19 Public Health Order prohibiting indoor group classes.
In a statement, police said they were “called to attend” the local business which was alleged to still be holding in-person classes despite new Public Health Order rules issued on Mar. 29 banning indoor group fitness classes.
RCMP said they are not disclosing the name of the owner or business.
In the statement, Revelstoke RCMP Detachment Commander Sgt. Chris Dodds said officers conducted an independent investigation on April 8 and, “determined that a number of patrons were on site, prepared to participate in a group fitness class.”
He said police spoke with a business representative, explained the current COVID-19-related closure and the consequences for not abiding by the Public Health Order.
“Despite those discussions, the owner operator proceeded with the class. Police ultimately issued a pair of violation tickets under the Emergency Program Act for allegedly organizing or hosting a non-compliant event, which carries a fine amount of $2,300 and for failing to comply with direction $230,” the Revelstoke RCMP statement read. Both fines were issued to one individual.
The RCMP said they didn’t issue tickets to others in attendance, but reminded residents they can issue a $575 for attending a non-compliant event.
“We all have an important role to play during this health emergency. Overall, most members of the public are respecting the prevention orders issued by public health authorities and they understand it is not optional. Public safety is a priority for the RCMP and we urge citizens to adhere to the orders being implemented to keep everyone safe and reduce the risk of virus transmission,” said Sgt. Dodds. “While we certainly can, and will enforce the provisions available to us under the Emergency Program Act, we continue to encourage everyone to voluntarily comply with the provincial health orders, so enforcement actions are not required.”
In a follow up interview with the Mountaineer, Dodds said the RCMP understand the hardships small businesses are facing due to pandemic restrictions. “Everyone for the most part is following the rules,” Sgt. Dodds told the Mountaineer. “This whole thing is hard on everyone. I get it, but people have to follow the rules.”
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