The province is introducing new restrictions today in an effort to reduce the staggering daily increase of COVID-19 cases in Alberta.

The Premier has declared a state of public health emergency. 

Jason Kenney called the changes “bold and targeted”. He stated he’s received thousands of heartbreaking letters from Albertans impacted by the COVID-19 crisis. From those who have lost loved ones, to those on the brink of losing or closing their small businesses. Those experiencing anxiety and those who have lost family or friends to suicide.

Alberta has consistently set new records for COVID-19 infections and there have been 16 new deaths reported today. 1,115 new cases of COVID have been reported Tuesday, which is slightly lower than in the past few days. There are now 13,349 active cases of COVID-19 in the province. 

Social gatherings are the biggest problem according to the province, so additional restrictions are being put in place. No indoor social gatherings are permitted in any setting, including workplaces.

Outdoor social gatherings are limited to a maximum of 10 people. Funeral services and wedding ceremonies must follow all public health guidance and are limited to a maximum of 10 in-person attendees. Receptions are not permitted. Weddings cannot have more than 10 people and wedding receptions are not allowed. 

The rules will be enforced through fines. Not following mandatory restrictions could result in fines of $1,000 per ticketed offence and up to $100,000 through the courts.

There are some additional restrictions for businesses in Alberta. Retail outlets will be limited to 25 per cent capacity. Other changes impacting businesses can be found by clicking HERE.

Masks are now mandatory for all indoor work places in Calgary, Edmonton, and surrounding communities including Airdrie and Rocky View County. This includes any location where employees are present, and applies to visitors, including delivery personnel, and employees or contractors. This measure will be in place until further notice.

Places of worship are limited to a maximum of one-third normal attendance per service. Physical distancing between households and masking are required. Faith-based leaders are encouraged to move services online.

On November 30, all students in grades 7-12 will transition to online learning for the remainder of the year. The winter break will start December 18. Diploma exams will also be optional for the remainder of the year.

An emergency alert will be sent out later this week to ensure the new restrictions are delivered to as many Albertans as possible.

A full breakdown of the new restrictions can be found here: https://www.alberta.ca/enhanced-public-health-measures.aspx

The city of Airdrie intends to release more details on how it will impact the City, tomorrow.

 

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