Province Announces Plans To Re-Open Economy, Immediately Relaxing Certain Measures

The provincial government is introducing their plan to re-open the economy.

Premier Jason Kenney announced on Thursday a three-stage approach which will allow businesses to open and recreational activities to continue.

Openings in Stage 1 include retail services, salons and barbershops, daycares, restaurants at 50 per cent occupancy, museums and art galleries, additional recreational activities, and additional health services.

This could happen as early as May 14.

In Stage 2, openings include personal services such as massage, artificial tanning, manicures, and pedicures, summer camps, and movie theatres with restrictions.

Post-secondary schools would be allowed to have students in schools under certain restrictions, while K-12 schools could potentially re-open.

As for Stage 3, openings include gyms, swimming pools, nightclubs with restrictions, industry conferences, festivals with restrictions, and major sporting events.

“I’m confident Albertans will approach relaunch with the same adaptability and resilience they have shown throughout the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Premier Jason Kenney, in a release.

“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.”

He adds certain regions may be able to advance through the stages faster than others.

The number of cases week over week, hospitalizations, and visits to the ICU will determine when to move between stages.

Meanwhile, the GoA is relaxing certain measures ahead of Stage 1 being initiated.

This includes allowing more non-emergency surgeries to happen, opening up dental and health offices on May 4, and restarting online campground reservations on May 14.

Golf courses will also be allowed to open on Monday, however, clubhouses and pro-shops will have to remain closed for the time being.

More information can be found on the GoA’s website.

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