MONTREAL – The co-owner of downtown Montreal bar Furco admits her bouncer made a mistake over the weekend when a group of Grenadier Guards in uniform was turned away from the bar.
Though, unlike some claims on social media, co-owner Alejandra Ponce insists it wasn’t because of what they were wearing – but rather because the bar was close to capacity.
“For us, the saddest part is people saying that we were discriminating,” Ponce told Global News.
“We’re known to be a place where everybody’s welcome from our staff to our clients.”
The incident happened about an hour before closing on Sunday.
“I think there’s a misconception that nobody was let in but that’s no the case.” said Ponce.
“There were 12 military men inside the bar and they were welcome to stay until closing time.”
The problem apparently arose when a second group from the First Regiment tried to join their friends inside.
“It’s not very clear what happened – what they said, what we said – but the clear message is that it’s not because they were in uniform,” said Ponce.
Before heading to the bar, the reservists were at a downtown hotel celebrating their annual regiment ball.
Despite being very vocal on social media, none of the members of the military were willing to give an interview about the incident.
In a written statement, the Grenadier Guards said “as far as we are concerned, this issue has been resolved. We have been in contact with management from Furco bar personally and they have apologized privately as well as publicly regarding the incident.”
In less than 24 hours, the story had gone viral, taking on a life of its own.
What upset many online is that the bouncer allegedly told the group their uniforms would intimidate male customers.
“I think it’s absolutely outrageous,” one Montrealer told Global news.
“These people put their lives on the line for us and to deny them entry to a bar it’s unbelievable.”
Furco issued a public apology on their Facebook page, stating “the decision to deny a group access to our premises was taken for operational reasons and not as a means of discrimination against members of the military. We at Furco have nothing but the greatest respect for all members of the Canadian Armed Forces.”
The bar’s management is hoping their apology will put the story to rest.
“We’re sorry it was a regretful evening,” said Ponce.
“I’m not completely surprised because I know that this is how the world works now, I am a little frightened how people can be so hateful.”
The bar’s owners are planning to meet with staff members this week to find out exactly what was said.
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