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COVID-19 Chamber Update – March 3

Mar 3, 2021 | Chamber News

Dear Members and Stakeholders,

As of midnight tonight, the lockdown is over.

Thank you to all of our businesses for following CPHO protocols during what has been a challenging week for all.

With today’s announcement ending the Modified Red Level Alert at midnight, we can safely get back to business within the constraints of the two-week circuit breaker which is in place until March 14th at 8:00 AM. We look forward to the further easing of restrictions.

Pairing this news with yesterday’s announcement that all Islanders over the age of 16 will receive their first dose of vaccine by the end of June, we can finally start to see some light at the end of the tunnel.

The Chamber will continue to provide periodic email updates as needed and we remain committed to advocating on your behalf.

COVID Communications

  • Read our statement in response to the Government of PEI ending the Modified Red Level Alert here.
  • To view all restrictions being imposed for the remainder of the circuit breaker ending on March 14th, click here.
  • To view yesterday’s Chamber COVID-19 update, click here.
  • To view Monday’s Chamber COVID-19 update, click here.

Provincial Public Health Updates

Earlier today, Dr. Morrison announced that the province will be ending the 72-hour lockdown tonight at midnight and continuing the circuit breaker that started on February 28th until March 14th at 8:00 AM.

The following restrictions are in place during the circuit breaker:

  • Personal gatherings are limited to households plus 6 consistent individuals.
  • Organized gatherings are limited to a maximum of 50 people with a COVID-19 operational plan and no additional cohorts.
  • Retailers and markets can operate at up to 50% capacity with supervised entrances and exits.
  • In-room dining at restaurants and pubs may operate up to a maximum of 50 people, with a maximum table size of 6 people and closing hours of 10 PM.
  • Personal services may operate by appointment only, and everyone must wear a mask at all times.
  • Supervised gyms and fitness facilities may operate at up to 50% capacity.
  • Museums and libraries may also operate at up to 50% capacity.

During her press conference, Dr. Morrison also noted that approximately 7% of the Island’s population has been tested in the past four days.

  • Over 11,000 tested have been completed since Saturday as of the end of the day on Teusday. 800 test results are still pending.
  • She announced one new case of COVID-19 and one recovered case, meaning our active case total stays at 22.
  • This 3-day lockdown allowed the CPHO time to determine the spread of recent cases and conduct a targeted testing strategy.
  • When discussing PEI’s aggressive vaccination targets and the end of COVID-19 being on the horizon, Dr. Morrison said: “I can hardly wait.”
    • We can hardly wait either, Dr. M!!!

Reminder of Business Supports Available

As mentioned in yesterday’s Chamber COVID-19 update, there are new and relaunched supports for both employers and employees being offered by the provincial government for the lockdown period and the remainder of the circuit breaker.

  • PEI Emergency Payment for Workers – a $500 payment for workers of self-employed Islanders who have completely lost their income or had their hours reduced by 12 or more per week from February 28 to March 14.
    • Application to be completed by employees.
    • Apply here.
  • Employee Gift Card Program – $100 grocery gift cards for workers who have been laid off between February 28 to March 14.
    • Application to be completed by employers.
    • Apply for the Employee Gift Card Program here.
  • Additionally, the Government of PEI will launch a $1 million dollar fund in the coming days to help Islanders who are off sick, do not have access to paid sick leave or are not eligible for federal government benefits.

Additionally, a comprehensive list of supports for business offered by the federal government can be found here.

If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please contact myself or our Policy and Communications Manager Sam MacPhail at smacphail@charlottetownchamber.com.

That’s all for now. We look forward to getting back to business and the further easing of restrictions.

Sincerely,

Penny Walsh-McGuire, CEO
Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce
pwmcguire@charlottetownchamber.com