New Brunswick’s premier is once again encouraging everyone to follow measures put into place by the province to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Blaine Higgs says he has heard reports of people calling 911 to report those who are not following orders.
“We are working on implementing a phone line and email that people can contact for advice on their concerns of how to make family members and neighbours comply with the state of emergency orders. The number and email will be shared on the government of New Brunswick website and social media channels.”
There are six new presumptive cases in New Brunswick on Saturday, bringing the total to 17 confirmed or presumptive. Higgs acknowledged that the increase in cases is not surprising.
“Based on what we have seen in other jurisdictions, we know that the numbers will continue to rise,” said Higgs. “We have put measures in place here in New Brunswick to try to slow down the rising number of cases. With our province under a state of emergency, I am imploring people to continue to take this situation seriously.”
Among the steps being taken to address the pandemic is closing off non-essential travel between Canada and the United States, effective Saturday.
“I want New Brunswickers to know government is doing its part to make sure returning travellers know what is expected of them. We will be discussing this week, further methods for cross Canada travel,” said Higgs.
The premier added that travellers with symptoms are not being allowed to board airplanes.
Everyone who arrives, by air or by land, is being screened at the border. If they have symptoms, they will be separated from others and Public Health will conduct isolation and testing. If they do not have symptoms, they will receive detailed information on what is expected of them.
As well, all travellers must isolate themselves for 14 days after returning home. Anyone transporting these travellers from the airport, or those who mingle with them in other ways, must also self-isolate.
Prince Edward Island recently announced that anyone coming onto the island will undergo a screening process, to identify any symptoms they may have.
Higgs says he will have a conversation with P.E.I. Premier Dennis King to help sync up procedures..
“In the coming weeks, I will have more data and will be able to make decisions about whether select facilities can start to reopen. For that to happen, New Brunswickers have to start to do their part now. Staying home now will reduce the duration of the emergency measures currently in effect.”
