Levels of normalcy not seen since pre-pandemic times are on the horizon, so long as provincial epidemiology stays on track. Yesterday, the province announced a phased approach to easing restrictions, culminating with the removal of some of the longest-standing public health measures.
The first restrictions will begin to be eased this coming Monday, February 21.
On that day the following will change:
- Informal gatherings, and wakes held outside a funeral home or place of worship, will be limited to 25 people.
- Public visitations will be limited to 50 per cent of room capacity.
- Faith based and cultural ceremonies with a VaxPass requirement will be limited to 75 per cent capacity while those without it will be limited to 50 per cent.
- Gyms, fitness facilities, dance studios, and restaurants will be limited to 75 per cent capacity.
- Out of region sport and recreation competitions can take place, and teams will be allowed to compete in more than one game per day but can only compete against one team.
- There will be no restrictions on retail stores
The next phase happens on February 28. Then, all border controls and restrictions will be removed, and the rapid testing program will become voluntary.
Then by March 14, two years to the day since the province’s first COVID case was reported, all capacity, distancing, masking, and VaxPass requirements will be lifted. However, Public Health will still strongly encourage the wearing of masks.