New Brunswick’s COVID-19 information line was flooded with questions and concerns over the weekend.
Premier Blaine Higgs says there’s confusion around the recently loosened restrictions and that a number of violations were reported.
“Law enforcement is following up on any reports we receive about potential violations of the rules. Peace officers are still focusing on educating the public whenever possible, but tickets are being issued when necessary,” Higgs says.
Higgs says issuing tickets is a last resort but they’ll continue to do so as long as people break the rules.
He says a total of 77 tickets have been issued since the state of emergency was declared, 22 just in the past week.
Higgs also provided some clarifications around the new “two-household bubble” rule.
“Now, under our phased recovery plan, you’re allowed to spend time with one other New Brunswick household. This doesn’t mean every member of your family, this means one other household. Both households must mutually agree to only get together with one another,” he says.
Both Higgs and the province’s chief medical officer of health were disappointed to hear of mass gatherings over the weekend.
The premier says if residents don’t comply, they’ll be forced to tighten restrictions
Higgs added that wearing a non-medical mask may become mandatory. He says they are holding back on the decision at this point to give residents the opportunity to acquire one.
“In the next two to four weeks, it could become mandatory. We are recommending that people wear non-medical face masks, also referred to as community face masks. These types of masks are available in stores and online. You can also wear a homemade mask, as long as it fits tightly to your face,” Higgs says.
Higgs says a face covering would be required when a physical distance of two metres can’t be maintained.
