PANDEMIC HANDLING: ALBERTA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, MANITOBA, NEW BRUNSWICK PROVINCES ACTS FOR COVID-19

Provinces & Territories

ALBERTA

On the 17th of March, the Govt. of Alberta declared a state of public health emergency within the province due to the pandemic. Hence, also imposing a ban and a fine on the mass gathering of more than fifteen people.

A huge step for the social distancing measures in Alberta province reducing people to fifteen only. All kinds of businesses that are not essential including physiotherapy, and dental clinics. In addition to this, as well as facilities including gym, arenas, museums, galleries, libraries, and casinos. All the facilities to limit the effects of COVID-19 were ordered to be closed.

Govt. of Alberta extended the state of the public health emergency until 15th June.

BRITISH COLUMBIA

In the province BC, just after the declaration of Public Health Emergency the Govt. declared a state of emergency. Something that happened after 3 years, as it happened in 2017 due to wildfires. This emergency gives the Govt. powers to restrict travel. Also, access land and assets and price controlling of food, fuel, and clothing. Disrespect to social distancing laws will result in the closure of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Hence, the rules are a mandatory application in British Columbia.

Hence, British Columbia Govt. has extended the state of emergency to 29th April.

MANITOBA

Premier Brian Pallister announced the declaration of State of emergency on 20th March. He said further that this shall help the Govt. of Manitoba react considerably fast to fight the pandemic. This is for imposing supportive measures due to COVID-19. The premier also ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses. Violation of the law shall result in fines of up to $50K. Hence the addition of 6 months jail depending on the contempt. A $500,000 for the businesses violating the guidelines imposed by provincial Govt. The laws of isolation from travel are the same for domestic and international travel country-wide.

NEW BRUNSWICK

In New Brunswick, the 19th March was the day when the State of emergency was declared officially. Hence, the first orders issued were for Retail services to close except essential services only. The provincial authorities imposed travel restrictions on domestic and international flights. The public gatherings were restricted to ten people as part of the new obligations.

Strict penalties on the violation of laws of social distancing. The Govt. of New Brunswick announced the extended date of the state of emergency as April 30th. The self-isolation post-travel period is the same i.e. fourteen days as in other provinces.

Courtesy: MBE Blog