A Red Deer diner that was fined for defying public health restrictions earlier this week expects to be open this weekend.
In a video posted to the Mom’s Diner Facebook page, owner Wesley Langlois said the establishment is closed on Friday, but will open again Saturday.
“We are getting very burnt out. The overwhelming support has been just that – overwhelming,” Langlois said in the video posted Friday.
“We will not be open (Friday). We need a day to rest up folks, we really do. Our team is only so big and for us to (continue) giving you the quality of the food we create, as well as the atmosphere and the service, we’ve got to shut down (for the day).”
READ MORE: Red Deer diner owner who defied health restrictions fined $1,200
On Thursday, the diner owner was given a closure notice and fined $1,200 by the RCMP after serving seated customers, in defiance of public health restrictions.
Langlois, who runs the business in West Park Shopping Centre with his wife Leslie Clothier, joined a number of business owners who are fighting the province’s restrictions against dine-in customers gathered at Hockey Central Sports Lounge in Sylvan Lake on Wednesday evening.
On Friday, the government announced restrictions on sit-down dining will be eased Feb. 8, as long as hospitalizations are below 600 and are declining.
Premier Jason Kenney said during a Friday press conference that business owners who have not followed the public health measures are “thumbing their nose” at the law.
“This is not a joke. This is very serious. Look, I understand people being frustrated and angry with restrictions. People have every right to be deeply frustrated. I especially understand business owners who have been going through incredible stress,” he said.
“But that stress is not going to get any better if we see widespread violation of the public health measures in this province.”
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