Government of Alberta Introduces Relaunch Strategy

Government of Alberta Introduces Relaunch Strategy

Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk MLA Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville

Dear friends and neighbours,

In these difficult times, I am inspired every day by the resilience and strength of our communities. After so many changes in our daily lives, there are encouraging signs that the efforts to prevent the spread have brought our province closer to easing some restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Thursday, April 30 Premier Kenney announced our province’s new relaunch strategy. The relaunch will take place thoughtfully and gradually in three stages, and will put the safety of Albertans first as we gradually reopen businesses while following health guidelines on physical distancing and hygiene standards. The timing of each stage will be guided by key factors, such as COVID- 19 hospitalizations and ICU admissions. Based on advice from our expert public health officials and the hard work of Albertans, we are able to begin this new stage of the pandemic.

In the coming weeks, businesses in our province will begin to reopen if current trends continue. Golf courses can open as of May 2, with restrictions including keeping clubhouses and pro shops closed with plans to open them in Stage 1. Non-urgent surgeries, dental services, and other health practices are eligible to reopen as soon as May 4. Other businesses, including clothing stores, restaurants, and hair salons, may open as early as May 14. For relaunch to be possible, our province will continue comprehensive testing, expand contact tracing, and maintain strong protections for the most vulnerable in our province.

I am also happy to share that government will be easing restrictions on parks and public land access in time for the warmer weather. Beginning May 1, vehicle access to parking lots and staging areas will reopen. No washrooms or garbage pickup will be available within provincial parks at this time. These services will be available as soon as Alberta Environment and Parks bring staff back. Our Government is working to hire enough staff to safely open campgrounds for June 1. Private and municipal campgrounds and parks can already be open with physical distancing restrictions, subject to their own local authority guidelines. Getting outdoors is an essential part of physical and mental well-being, and Albertans will be able to safely enjoy our parks in the coming weeks.

As always, updated information on COVID-19 and detailed information on our relaunch strategy is available at Alberta.ca/covid19.

As we look towards the relaunch phase in our province, it is critical that we continue to take precautions, like social distancing and frequent handwashing, to prevent the spread of COVID-19. I want to give a heartfelt thank you to all my constituents in Fort Saskatchewan- Vegreville for all of your hard work and sacrifices during this difficult time.