British Columbia hopes to open casinos by Canada Day

Health officials in British Columbia expect casinos to be able to open by July 1 as Covid-19-related restrictions in the Canadian province are eased.

Canada.- Casinos in British Columbia have been closed for 15 months due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but expect to reopen in the next few weeks.

According to health officials, July 1, which also marks the celebration of Canada Day, is a tentative target for gaming to resume.

Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry says the objective is possible but depends on new Covid-19 cases falling as the date nears. However, operators fear cases may rise rather than fall.

Chances Kelowna operator Stan Walt said. “We’re going to be re-opening our doors in a cautious, methodical way, following whatever guidance we’re given by WorkSafeBC and the public health officers.”

There are 19 casinos and 20 bingo and gaming halls in British Columbia, which contribute to annual revenues of around CA$1.25bn for the government.