Together, we take careful steps into a new normal
To enjoy easing of restrictions, stay with guidelines
COVID-19 continues to test us in ways we never could have imagined. I know many people are feeling anxious, alone and afraid. Many people are dealing with job loss and financial stress. Others are grieving the loss of a loved one.
The pandemic has also shown us just how strong we are when we come together for one common purpose. Because of our collective effort and sacrifice — and the tireless dedication of our front line workers — we have flattened the curve of infection in B.C. We did this through a unified determination to keep ourselves and others safe, not through a drastic lockdown.
Last week, we announced our plan to slowly and steadily restart B.C. after this long weekend. This won’t be a flicking of the switch, but a careful step toward a real recovery for all of us.
We are starting by bringing back non-urgent elective surgeries and other health services such as physiotherapy, dentistry and chiropractic. Retail businesses, personal services, restaurants, cafes, pubs, museums, art galleries and libraries will all be able to reopen and will be required to follow the Public Health and Safety Guidelines.
People will be able to meet in small groups at a safe distance. And if you’re comfortable, you can choose to open your social “bubble” to family members or close friends outside of your household.
I encourage you to take some time and think about who you would like to open your bubble to, while keeping yourself and others safe. Give some thought to who in your life is at a higher risk of serious consequences from infection, or is in contact with people who are, such as front line workers. These are decisions that only you and the people in your life can make.
My wife and I are choosing to open our bubble to our son and daughter-in-law. Soon after this long weekend, I am looking forward to going for a walk with them at the Sooke Potholes here on Vancouver Island, enjoying a meal on the patio of our favourite local restaurant, and finally giving them a hug. Even though I remain challenged in this area, I am also looking forward to getting a haircut. These are small freedoms that will feel like huge rewards for doing our part over the last two months.
But we are not quite there yet. During this long weekend, we need to stay the course. This means staying home as much as possible, limiting social gatherings to only with those who live in our homes, and practising physical distancing when we go out. It also means enjoying the beauty of B.C. in our own communities and avoiding non-essential travel.
I am very proud of British Columbians. We live in a truly remarkable place, not just because of its natural beauty, but because when times get tough, we look after each other. Through this unprecedented and challenging time, you have all done your part to stop the spread of COVID-19. It is because of your hard work that we have arrived here, and we can’t stop now.
By continuing to follow the guidance of Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry, we will be able to move into phase two after the long weekend and enjoy fewer restrictions.
As we move through this pandemic, our government will make sure that people, families and businesses can access the help they need.
The recovery won’t happen overnight, but by continuing to work together and following the golden rules of physical distancing, washing your hands frequently and staying home when you’re sick, we will get through this.