Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Deena Hinshaw. (Government of Alberta)

By David Opinko

Gradual re-opening

With Stage 1 of relaunch in effect, Dr. Hinshaw urges caution & patience

May 14, 2020 | 4:42 PM

Parts of Alberta’s economy opened up once again Thursday, but the province’s Chief Medical Officer of Health says we are not simply back to the status quo.

Stage 1 of the Economic Relaunch Strategy saw retail businesses, museums and galleries, and daycares resume operations across Alberta. For all areas except for Brooks and Calgary, this also includes hair stylists, restaurants at 50 per cent capacity, day camps, and places of worship with limited capacity.

Dr. Deena Hinshaw says, while these businesses have opened up again, we have to continue to adjust to the “new normal.”

“This relaunch will require patience from all of us and continued practice of public health measures so we can continue with our relaunch plans as quickly as possible.”

She adds that, although retail stores can reopen, as one example, business owners should not feel compelled to do so if they or their employees are not comfortable.

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There will be a requirement that companies show that they have plans in place to keep people safe.

“We are requiring anyone who is reopening to identify what they are doing at their site to reduce the risk of transmission. Within seven days of opening, businesses must fill out a short template that can be found online at the Biz Connect site and post it at their place or business or online.”

The 15-person gathering rule continues to apply, but exceptions can be made for instances where there is a person or organization that is accountable for ensuring public health measures are implemented and followed.

Premier Jason Kenney commented Wednesday that Stage 2 will not happen before June 19, although that largely depends on how well Stage 1 goes. If people or businesses are not following guidelines, that date can be pushed back.