On Feb. 2, The Chamber co-signed an op-ed that ran in the National Post that called on Canada to embrace rapid testing along with contact tracing.

“This strategy involves:

• using tests that deliver results in minutes to find positive cases and isolate them quickly;
• testing high-risk and asymptomatic individuals;
• implementing effective contact tracing to quickly identify those who may have been exposed to COVID-19, so they, too, can be rapidly tested; and
• supporting a layered approach, which includes maintaining physical distancing and protective measures like masks, hand-washing and new safety protocols in stores and workplaces.

Frequent testing with antigen tests can be scaled up quickly, in order to detect contagiousness and help cut the chains of infection. Indeed, some countries have tested their entire populations in days using this approach, while others are launching campaigns to test millions daily. In contrast, Canada currently administers barely 70,000 daily PCR tests, which deliver results in days, rather than minutes.”

Chamber CEO Bruce Williams spoke with Global News after the announcement to voice concern for vulnerable businesses.

The Chamber continues to work with the Vancouver Island South Film and Media Commission as well as Malahat Film Studios, Camosun College, the District of Saanich and all of our partners working on bringing production facilities to Greater Victoria.

Working with First Nations is vital for the long-term resilience of Greater Victoria’s economy. Indigenous communities can help regional employers fill job vacancies without having to hope for migration from other parts of Canada. Local populations are also key to innovations that will allow businesses to provide solutions to climate change.

The province will hold the property during negotiations with Esquimalt Nation, which are expected to take up to five years.

“While we are at the beginning of our discussions with Esquimalt Nation and the broader community about the land, we see its significant potential for supporting Esquimalt Nation to thrive and prosper, which benefits everyone who lives in the region,” BC’s Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation Murray Rankin said in a news release.

The deal will also support treaty discussions with the Songhees Nation, as well as providing new opportunities for View Royal.

“We are looking forward to working with Esquimalt Nation and the Province in a collaborative way that considers all of our interests as the future plans for Thetis Cove are developed,” said View Royal Mayor David Screech. “As neighbours, Esquimalt Nation and View Royal have much to gain from working together.”