Jim Southam is still trying to discover why his cannabis stores were included this week in the group of businesses that must demand customers provide proof of vaccination.
Southam said staff at the three stores he owns were scrambling on Friday to ensure they are complying with the order after only finding out about the change on Tuesday afternoon from the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming and Authority.
Liquor and cannabis retailers were included in the services that were deemed essential during the start of the pandemic in March 2020; the vaccine proof requirement mainly applies to non-essential activities, with retailers mostly exempt, Southam said.
The new health order includes exemptions for off-sale liquor outlets and liquor stores inside other retail locations, such as those in smaller communities.
“With no official announcement by the province, you know, we kind of feel like this was dumped on our lap and we’re now responsible for informing the public about the provincial policies,” Southam said in an interview on Friday.
Southam, who also serves as vice-president of the Saskatchewan Independent Cannabis Retailers Network, said he was told by SLGA officials that the change came from Health Minister Paul Merriman.
Southam said he’s asked for a meeting with Merriman to try to understand why cannabis and liquor stores are no longer deemed essential.
SLGA spokesman David Morris said in an email on Friday that liquor and cannabis stores were included to encourage more people to get vaccinated. Morris did not explain why the decision was made so late, or why the government did not make an official announcement.“COVID-19 measures continue to evolve and SLGA will share new information with stakeholders as it becomes available,” the email said.
The province’s business response team acknowledged in an email Friday that the late notice for liquor and cannabis stores created a “bit of a challenge.”
Southam issued a news release on Thursday to warn about the decision. It mentioned his concern for the safety of employees who may need to inform customers about the requirement.
Southam, who owns two Prairie Cannabis stores in Saskatoon and one in Prince Albert, said staff were being trained on the policy and the proper documentation required.