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By Jaryn Vecchio

Vaccine Policy

Restaurants expecting more customers, less hate against staff as vaccine policy lifted

Feb 14, 2022 | 4:58 PM

At least one Prince Albert restaurant is happy to see vaccine restrictions lifted, though not for the reason some may think.

Starting on Monday, people no longer need to prove they’re fully vaxxed to dine in, grab a drink, or socialize with others in different businesses.

Davinder Singh, general manager of P.A.’s Mr. Mikes Steakhouse, told paNOW the move should help improve his staff’s mental health.

“We had our fair share of people yelling at us…they’re happy in regard they won’t have to listen to people talking to them in a bad term.”

Singh added he’s personally received numerous threats since the vaccine passport came into effect, including racial slurs and people wanting him to end his life.

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Despite not experiencing it himself, Selwyn Halcro, manager of Princess Café, noted it’s very easy to believe many businesses had to deal with this kind of hate.

“I would imagine most of the bars, people who like to go out and drink… I would imagine they get a little upset when they have to show proof of vaccination.”

Good For Business

For Singh, he’s hoping to see a “boom” when it comes to customers.

“We’ve all been struggling because of restrictions and COVID, so obviously we’re happy we’re going to see a little bit of an increase in sales.”

The Princess Café has been fortunate throughout the pandemic as many of its customers are regulars, though Halcro is looking forward to potentially more people stopping by to grab a bite to eat.

paNOW reached out to other businesses with Spice Trail and Venice House both stating they were simply too busy to chat.

Still Concerned

Despite many businesses looking at increases when it comes to customers and profit, there seems to be some anxiety around the timing.

Singh said he has mixed feelings as he’s concerned for his staff.

To ensure they’re as protected as possible from the virus, employees will continue to wear masks and their temperature will be checked every time they start their shift. Workers are also encouraged to take the day off if they feel unwell, no matter how light the symptoms are.

At Princess Café, employees are planning to wear masks.

“We just want to be safe,” added Halcro.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow