Earls launches "extensive investigation" into video showing COVID-19 violations

It’s been just two days since restaurants in Alberta have been allowed to offer some indoor dining services again, and a well-known Canadian chain is already coming under fire due to a video showing COVID-19 violations in one of its locations in the province.

A video circulating on Twitter shows a large group of maskless people enjoying drinks and celebrating at an Earls restaurant in Edmonton, Alberta.

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The footage was taken on February 9 at Earls Crossroads, and features over a dozen people gathered around a table.

Got this video in my DMs last night. @jkenney and @CMOH_Alberta – you’ve made a big mistake.

Where: @earlsrestaurant Crossroads, Edmonton

When: Feb 9, 2021

Mask compliance: Non-existent

Social distancing: ……

(Apologies for video quality) #ableg #abpoli pic.twitter.com/Ikx4J6L09c

— Stacey (@Blurg5) February 10, 2021

While dining restrictions in Alberta were eased on February 8, residents in the province are still limited to dining out with members of their household or two close contacts if they live alone.

Patrons also must abide by specific rules including mask-wearing and physical distancing where required.

In a statement sent to Daily Hive, Earls’ Chief Restaurant Officer Mark Hladik said the company was “deeply concerned” by this video.

Hladik went on to state that the guests in this footage gathered at one table for “a brief period” before being asked to disperse by a server, after which “the guests complied with this request.”

Hladik also said the company has opened an “extensive investigation” into this incident and that they would be taking steps with staff involved.

“We have strict COVID-19 safety measures in place at all locations and will continue to work closely with Alberta Health Services to ensure the safety of everyone who dines with us. We will also be re-communicating to all locations our strict adherence to public health guidelines,” read the statement.