Manitoba updates restaurant pandemic restrictions menu

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 14/08/2020 (1900 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Licensed Manitoban restaurants were given something fresh to chew on in this week’s updated public health order.

While previous health orders issued since reopening began amid the COVID-19 pandemic included stipulations for table and seating spacing, as well as capacity requirements in dining rooms and patios, the newest directive puts the onus on the restaurant to ensure guests don’t pick up and move tables or seating and they stay seated when visiting.

Per the updated document, in order to open, operators of premises subject to a liquor service licence must ensure “members of the public are required to be seated at their table unless they are… playing pool, darts, video games or other similar games offered… using (VLTs)… travelling to or from washrooms… briefly interacting with staff… or entering and leaving the licensed premises.”

Whereas members of the public were previously prohibited from using a dance floor at a licensed establishment, the Thursday update takes it a step further, stating operators must ensure “no dancing takes place” anywhere on the premises.

It’s new language compared to previous orders (including the initial Phase 3 reopening requirements) and builds on existing restrictions, including prohibition of buffet-style service, the use of hookahs or water pipes, and improperly spaced tables and seating.

Prior orders stated members of the public are “required to generally stay in the areas of the premises that have tables and seating or that are otherwise open to the public.”

A government spokesperson said the new phrasing “further clarifies the requirements relating to restaurants and licensed premises” and the orders “reflect the public health measures outlined in the Phase 3 plan.”

Since the first COVID-19-related public health order was issued in March, there have been relatively few fines issued to Manitoban restaurants.

The most recently updated report shows 14 food service establishments in Winnipeg have been fined for failing to comply with the various public health orders over the last five months, with three establishments outside the city facing fines.

While most restaurants on the list have been fined once, a pair of Winnipeg establishments have faced multiple fines. Chaise Corydon restaurant and bar has been fined twice; Siraj Café, also on Corydon Avenue, has been fined five times since July 20.

On Thursday, Siraj Café was issued four separate fines of $2,542 for allowing hookah use on four occasions, the provincial spokesperson said. A hookah is a water pipe used to smoke flavoured inhalants, particularly popular throughout the Middle East and in many parts of Europe.

Outside of Winnipeg, T.R. McKoys in Wasagaming, Lee’s Buffet in Brandon, and the Westwood Inn in Swan River are the only restaurants to face fines for COVID-19-related infractions.

In total, businesses have been ordered to pay $46,728 in fines. Public health inspectors and liquor inspectors are tasked with conducting inspections for COVID-19 compliance and addressing public complaints, the provincial spokesperson said.

In May, an amendment was made to the Public Health Act to authorize those designated as inspectors under the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Act, the Workplace Safety and Health Act, the Provincial Parks Act, and health officers as defined by the Public Health Act to enforce public health orders.

ben.waldman@freepress.mb.ca