'Smooth so far': Ottawa businesses, customers adjust to new COVID-19 vaccine passport
On the first weekend since the implementation of vaccine passports in Ontario, businesses and patrons CTV News Ottawa spoke with, for the most part, are happy with the rollout.
It is the new reality across the province -- proof of full COVID-19 vaccination is now required to enter most non-essential businesses.
"They just asked for our vaccine cards and I have it on my phone and just showed it to the lady," said Maya Yemm, who was visiting a restaurant Saturday for the first time since the new rules came into effect.
At Zak's Diner in the ByWard Market, staff remained optimistic Saturday during the first weekend under the new rules.
"It's gone really smooth so far, we've found that a lot people are ready and eager, they have their passports ready at the door. There's the occasional bad apple that's just against it for whatever reason," said Roger McKee, General Manager of Zak's Diner.
At Zak's proof of vaccination and government-issued identification is checked at the door along with information for contact tracing.
"It slows down the door a tiny bit, but it's nothing noticeable. It's not like we're seeing an empty table and a full lineup outside," said McKee.
"I downloaded, with the grass roots app on my phone, the vaccination, so I pulled it up, showed them that and my ID and we were done in about 20 seconds," said Jennifer Mabley who was dining indoors with her family.
For many, the new rules also bring a new sense of security and safety.
"I really don't care what it takes for us to be able to get out and dine and enjoy ourselves," said Georgie Williamson, who was eating at Zak's.
Also starting Saturday, capacity restrictions have been eased for larger venues like sporting events and concerts. Indoors 50 per cent capacity is now allowed, up to 10,000 people, and outdoors 75 per cent capacity with a limit of 30,000 people seated.
"We have to be careful. It's only September, we've got a long fall and winter ahead of us. I think a plan like this is okay with the caveat that if it isn't working out and we see cases rise we pivot quickly," said Dr. Isaac Bogoch, infectious diseases specialist.
Meanwhile, many businesses continue to push to help improve vaccination coverage.
CTV News Ottawa has learned pharmacy chain Rexall is one of the latest employers to make vaccines mandatory for most of its workers.
In the capital, 82 per cent of the eligible population has been fully immunized, but experts have said 90 per cent coverage is needed to minimize the impacts of a fourth wave this fall and winter.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Grandparents killed in wrong-way crash on Hwy. 401 identified
A 60-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman killed in a wrong-way crash on Highway 401 earlier this week have been identified by the Consulate General of India in Toronto.
Police arrest 3 Indian nationals in killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Three people have been arrested and charged in the killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar – as authorities continue investigating potential connections to the Indian government.
Suter scores late goal, clinches series for Canucks
Pius Suter scored with 1:39 left and the Vancouver Canucks advanced to the second round of the NHL playoffs with a 1-0 victory over the Nashville Predators on Friday night in Game 6.
TD worst-case scenario more likely after drug money laundering allegations: analyst
TD Bank Group could be hit with more severe penalties than previously expected, says a banking analyst after a report that the investigation it faces in the U.S. is tied to laundering illicit fentanyl profits.
Quebec man who threatened Trudeau, Legault online sentenced to 20 months in jail
A Quebec man who pleaded guilty to threatening Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premier François Legault has been sentenced to 20 months in jail.
Human remains found in rural Sask. possibly a decade old, RCMP say
RCMP say human remains found in a rural area in central Saskatchewan may have been there for a decade or more.
Britney Spears 'home and safe' after paramedics responded to an incident at the Chateau Marmont, source tells CNN
A source close to singer Britney Spears tells CNN that the pop star is 'home and safe' after she had a 'major fight' with her boyfriend on Wednesday night at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood.
Canadian doctor concerned new weight-loss drug Wegovy may be used inappropriately
As Wegovy becomes available to Canadians starting Monday, a medical expert is cautioning patients wanting to use the drug to lose weight that no medication is a ''magic bullet,' and the new medication is meant particularly for people who meet certain criteria related to obesity and weight.
Drew Carey is never quitting 'The Price Is Right'
Drew Carey took over as host of 'The Price Is Right' and hopes he’s there for life. 'I'm not going anywhere,' he told 'Entertainment Tonight' of the job he took over from longtime host Bob Barker in 2007.