Government urges vigilance over the long weekend

The government is cautioning Albertans to remain vigilant about COVID-19 as they head outdoors to enjoy the long weekend.

In a Friday news release, the government encouraged residents to take extra steps to protect their health as they head out to parks, cottages and public land. While provincial parks are open, facilities such as bathrooms and showers remain closed. The province recommends carrying water, snacks, toilet paper and hand sanitizer while visiting parks.

Environment Minister Jason Nixon said people must continue to respect public health guidelines.

“If we continue to be vigilant in the face of the pandemic, it will be easier for us to relaunch more of the services and experiences that Albertans enjoy,” Nixon said in the release.

Camping at provincial parks does not open until June 1, but is permitted on public land. Both are under a fire ban to allow emergency officials to remain focused on the pandemic.

At her daily update, Dr. Deena Hinshaw increased the limit on outdoor gatherings from 15 to 50 people.

However, she said travellers should continue to avoid non-essential trips outside the province, and try to limit stops for food and gas while travelling in the province in an effort to protect remote communities from COVID-19. Hinshaw also reminded people to keep following physical distancing, handwashing, frequent sanitizing and avoiding sharing food or drinks.

To ensure the safety of all Albertans, sheriffs and RCMP will be out on roads and public land to promote good behaviour.

Justice Minister Doug Schweitzer said the objective is to make sure Albertans are looking out for each other while they enjoy the weekend.

“Wherever possible, our enforcement staff will use education and awareness to ensure compliance with land use rules and regulations, and pandemic health guidelines,” he said in the release.

COAL POLICY GETS UPDATE

Meanwhile on Friday, the government announced that coal development rules in place since 1976 will be repealed June 1 to provide the industry additional flexibility and certainty.

Repealing the policy will eliminate the use of coal categories, the government said in a Friday statement. The old policy divided the province into four categories, which dictated where and how coal leasing, exploration and development could occur. Now, regulatory, land-use planning and leasing systems are able to meet environmental protection goals.

The industry will now be subject to the same land-use policies as other commodities. Former Coal Category 1 lands, such as those in the eastern slopes, will continue to be protected on public lands.