Premier Jason Kenney laid out the province’s plan to gradually reopen closed businesses and provincial services, with some changes coming as early as this weekend.
At a news conference, he laid out a three-phase relaunch, with the first phase coming as early as May 14, which would allow some retail, hair stylists and restaurants to begin operation once health measures are achieved to the satisfaction of the government based on the advice of the chief medical officer of health.
“I’m confident Albertans will approach relaunch with the same adaptability and resilience they have shown throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Premier Kenney. “We will move forward together with care and common sense, knowing tough times are still ahead. We will support and protect vulnerable Albertans and keep them safe as we build our province back up one stage at a time.”
According to a press release, AHS will resume some scheduled non-urgent surgeries as early as May 4. Dental and other health practitioners will be allowed to resume services starting May 4, as long as they are following approved guidelines set by their professional colleges.
They are also opening, using a phased approach to some access to provincial parks and public lands including vehicle access to parking lots and staging areas in parks on May 1. Golf Courses can open on May 4, provided that clubhouses and pro shops remain closed.
The Alberta Parks online reservations system will be available March 14 to book site visits beginning June 1, for provincial residents to book. Group and comfort camping will not be offered. Campground facility access restrictions to areas such as showers, picnic, and cooking shelters will also be posted to www.albertaparks.ca.
“There are signs that our collective efforts of physical distancing, good hygiene practices, and staying home when advised are helping to slow the spread,” Deena Hinshaw, chief medical officer of health. “However, we must guard against complacency and be patient to ensure the sacrifices we have already made to contain the virus are not wasted by carelessness as we gradually reopen businesses and services.”
The three-phase approach is anticipated to begin as soon as May 14. These are available at https://www.alberta.ca/coronavirus-info-for-albertans.aspx
