B.C. expanding COVID-19 enforcement measures

New enforcement measures are coming into effect as part of British Columbia's crackdown on those who refuse to follow COVID-19 restrictions.

Mike Farnworth, minister of public safety and solicitor general, says in a statement that he has asked gaming investigators, conservation officers, community safety unit inspectors as well as liquor and cannabis inspectors to support police and increase COVID-19 enforcement.

Farnworth has also directed the Insurance Corp. of B.C. to send unpaid fines to collections after the initial 30-day payment or dispute period ends.

The province is also asking WorkSafeBC to increase the number of inspections it performs at workplaces.

Farnworth says the move will ensure the province can penalize those who put their own "selfishness" above public health.

The announcement follows Premier John Horgan's criticism on Tuesday of people who ignore or try to find loopholes in the province's COVID-19 restrictions.

The vast majority of British Columbians are doing their best to follow the rules. For those who aren't, there are fines for $230 to $2,300 for violating provincial health orders. We're increasing enforcement of public health orders. Learn more: https://t.co/aB270btkeX #CovidBC pic.twitter.com/eWy5VjVR2W

— BC Government News (@BCGovNews) December 16, 2020