TORONTO — With signs that the country is flattening the curve in the battle against COVID-19, the first phase of reopening some Canadian provinces has begun.
Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan are among those set to take a step out of lockdown by allowing the resumption of some economic and social activities starting in May.
It’s the beginning of a “new normal” in Canada. But the changes won’t be uniform as the pandemic’s impact varies across the country. In a meeting late last month, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and premiers laid out what is required of each province before reopening begins, stressing the ability of the health system to contain the virus.” CTVNews.ca has compiled a guide on where each province and territory stands in reopening their economies, what will be open and which restrictions will remain in place.
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Current state: Before officials start easing restrictions, B.C.’s provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said April 22 that she wants to see “at least a couple of days” without any new COVID-19 cases. That has yet to happen. Henry said when that happens, one of the first steps — which could come within weeks — will be to allow elective surgeries to resume. Henry has also asked the restaurant industry to come up with ideas on how to partially reopen in coming weeks, provided they can ensure some level of physical distancing among guests.
B.C. Premier John Horgan announced April 29 that he has extended the provincial state of emergency for another two weeks and that plans for reopening the province with a “phased-in approach” will be announced the first week of May.
What’s open: Many businesses were never ordered to close during the pandemic, although some chose to of their own volition. Officials did not recommend the closure of outdoor recreation facilities including golf courses, city parks or playgrounds but those that voluntarily closed are now allowed to open back up. B.C.’s essential services are listed here.
Can I travel?: No, B.C. residents are being urged to avoid all non-essential travel outside of the province. People entering from another country must self-isolate for 14 days. Public transit services have been reduced.
Remaining restrictions: B.C.’s state of emergency public health orders remain in effect. Provincial parks remain closed. Horgan said that school “as we know it” likely won’t return until the fall.
Source: ctvnews.ca
