Alberta Premier Jason Kenney has declared a public health emergency to help combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
The decision to put the province under a state of public emergency is part of Alberta’s effort in a bid to slow the rising number of coronavirus infections. 3:02
Alberta Premier Jason Kenney has declared a state of public health emergency as the province works to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This declaration is meant to empower authorities under the Public Health Act to effectively manage the COVID response,” Kenney said.
“Decisive action is needed and we are taking that action.”
Kenney made the announcement Tuesday at the Alberta legislature.
Alberta’s Provincial Operations Centre has been elevated from a level 3 to a level 4, the highest level, Kenney said.
Bars, nightclubs and casinos will close immediately.
Seating in restaurants and coffee shops will be limited to a maximum of 50 people or 50-per-cent capacity, whichever is lower, he said.
Take-out, delivery and drive-through service is permitted.
Licensed facilities will also be permitted to deliver liquor, in part to help them sell off inventory.
“We apologize to operators of these establishments for the suddenness of this, although I think they’ve seen it coming,” Kenney said.
Mass gatherings are now limited to no more than 50 attendees. This includes worship gatherings and family events such as weddings, the province said in a news release.
Kenney said funerals with more than 50 people should also be cancelled.
Grocery stores, shopping centres, health-care facilities, airports, the legislature and other essential services are