UNITY - In a stern video recording posted on social media Sept. 16, Premier Scott Moe, declared the province has been too patient. He declares that the unvaccinated population is driving the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic and things had to change.
As of Sept. 17, masks are mandatory at all indoor public spaces and the directive is in effect into October. Within minutes and hours of this announcement, businesses and school divisions posted their notices that masks would now be mandatory.
A mixed reaction ensued, with the divided sides once again airing on their views on this repeat pandemic protocol.
Gayleen Mann of Wilkie says, “Ecstatic about it and that everyone get vaccinated as soon as possible. Working together we can get through this.”
Kyle Clark, coach of UCHS Warrior football team says the restrictions will not affect play on the field.
"Since we are outside, we are not required to wear masks on the sidelines," Clark says.
"We are wearing them in the clubhouse and must wear them while we travel to and from games, as well as when we are inside visiting schools. Fans do not have to wear masks when outside watching the games but should be trying to socially distance as much as possible.”
As well, proof of vaccination or negative test policy will be in effect as of Oct. 1 that will apply to most non-essential services, citing public events, sports games, concerts and other venues. Moe reviewed the options for proof of vaccination including the incoming QR code providing vaccine proof.
The premier also stated all government employees in both crowns and ministries would be covered by a mandatory vaccine policy.
With the province wide open since July 11, and cases numbers in Saskatchewan continuing in record highs, the province’s measures are aimed at curbing the spread.
Kathy Heilman of Wilkie said, “I was so pleased to hear about the announcements regarding COVID ... For those that have not got vaccinated, remember how hard everyone worked to keep our seniors safe. This time we are doing it for our kids, our most precious resource and our future. Stick it to COVID today.”
Bobbi Hebron, director of Parks and Recreation for Kerrobert, said, “From the beginning we vowed to follow all instructions given to us from the Sask. government and the Sask. Health Authority. This has continued to serve our community well. I'm sure we share the same sentiment as many in that we wish masks were not needed, but we are more than willing to do what is mandated to ensure the safety of our community.”
The Saskatchewan Health Authority issued a media release Sept. 17 outlining their activation of a second phase of surge plans that will include a temporary provincial slowdown of elective procedures in order to meet the demands from the dramatic spike of COVID-19 cases in the province.
