Prince George nightclub ordered to close for a 2nd time, even as B.C.'s pandemic restrictions are lifted

For the second time, Northern Health has ordered Prince George's Lambda Cabaret to closefor defying public health mandates, even as nightclubs across the province reopen with new relaxed rules.

"It is a new order, effective [February] 19th," said Northern Health spokesperson Eryn Collins.

"Our environmental health officers and staff attended over the weekend at the establishment and documented ongoing non-compliance with health orders that continued which is, of course, proof of vaccination and the wearing of masks."

Lambda Cabaret has openly defied public health authorities for almost a month, fully reopening early February despite provincewide pandemic orders closing clubs and bars that do not serve food.

Videos shared on the club's social media accounts celebratedmaskless clubgoersas they dancedon the packed dance floor. Signs at the club doors stated staff werenot checking mandated vaccine passports.

Northern Heath initially ordered the club to close Feb.9because of the violations. The club continued to operate.The B.C.Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) subsequently suspended the club's liquor licence.

Last week, the B.C. government relaxedpublic health orders to allowclubs and bars to reopen.The orders closing Lambda Cabaret and its liquor licence suspensionwere rescinded.

Northern Health says the cabaret could face new fines and punishment for violatingthis new order,past orders, or continuing to operate in defiance of public healthauthorities.

"[Inspectors] can issue violations, tickets. There areprosecution and other legal actions that can be taken to enforce warning letters and closure orders if that non-compliance continues," Collins said.

CBC News has asked Lambda Cabaret for a responsebut did not receive a reply as of the time of publication.