Federal government announces border measures

Canadians outside of the country told to get back home ASAP

Last Friday the federal government said it was advising against all non-essential travel outside of Canada, part of new measures aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19 in Canada.

On Saturday it was telling Canadians travelling outside of the country to come home as soon as they can because there’s no guarantee of commercial flights later on to bring them back.

On Monday the prime minister announced Canada will be shutting down the border to non-Canadian citizens. Those still being allowed in included permanent Canadian residents, the immediate family members of Canadian citizens, diplomats, air crews and U.S. citizens. Beyond this, people won’t be gained entry. Justin Trudeau said on Monday “aggressive steps” need to be taken to protect the health of Canadians.

Federal ministers and health officials have been addressing the media and public on advice to help combat what Health Minister Patty Hajdu referred to in a briefing last week as a serious publichealth crisis.

“We know these measures are going to cause disruptions in your lives, but we know that these are also incredibly necessary measures to protect the health and well-being of all Canadians,” she said.

Travellers returning to Canada after travelling outside of the country must continue to self-monitor for symptoms upon their arrival.

Those coming from Wuhan, China, Italy or Iran were also being directed to self-quarantine for 14 days regardless of their symptoms.

Others who have been outside of Canada are being told to self-isolate as an additional precaution, whether they are sick or not.

“While making the choice to stay at home and not travel outside of Canada, you are protecting yourself and your family, and doing your part to help us slow the spread of coronavirus and protect the most vulnerable in our communities,” said Dr. Theresa Tam, the country’s chief public health officer.

TRAVEL BY SEA

Transport Minister Marc Garneau announced last Friday that, in addition to previous advice for Canadians to avoid cruise ship travel, Canada would ban cruise ships that carry more than 500 people, including passengers and crew, from stopping in Canada until July 1.

He said the government will re-examine the situation at that time with some reports that there could also be a series of additional health measures placed on smaller ships, including ferries.

Garneau also announced the decision to redirect overseas international flights coming into Canada to a small number of airports. These measures will help officials better screen and monitor passengers coming into Canada, he said.

FINANCIAL HELP

Addressing media Friday from self-isolation at Rideau Cottage, where he would remain for 14 days, Trudeau said his wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, was doing well and experiencing only mild symptoms after being diagnosed with coronavirus.

Gregoire Trudeau began developing symptoms after a trip to the U.K. and tested positive for the virus.

“We are thinking about all the families across the country who have received the same diagnosis,” he said.

Trudeau promised that, in addition to the $1-billion COVID-19 response fund and associated EI measures introduced, the Government of Canada would announce a “significant” stimulus package aimed at helping Canadians navigate financial uncertainty surrounding reduced hours, child care and the recent major hit to the global economy.

“No one should have to worry about paying rent, buying groceries or additional child care because of COVID19. We will help Canadians financially,” he said. “We are in the enviable position of having significant fiscal firepower to be able to support you.”

All political parties agreed last Friday on a motion adjourning the House of Commons until at least April 20. Leader of the Government in the House of Commons Pablo Rodriguez said there are mechanisms in place that will allow the government to continue doing its job and spending money as needed to address COVID-19.

The federal budget, which was scheduled for March 30, is postponed to a later date.