Saskatchewan’s Premier announces proof of vaccination, negative test requirements ending Monday, mask mandates end Feb 28.
QUICK FACTS:
- As of 12:01 am Monday, Saskatchewan will no longer require proof of vaccination or negative tests in businesses, workplaces, and other public venues, Premier Scott Moe announced today.
- “Proof of vaccination has been an effective policy, but its effectiveness has run its course,” Premier Scott Moe said in a media release Tuesday, The Calgary Herald reports.
- Moe had recently cited an Angus Reid Institute poll in which 62% of 128 Saskatchewan respondents agreed it was time to “end restrictions and let people self-isolate if they’re at risk”— the highest rate of support among surveyed provinces, The Herald notes.
WHAT ELSE PREMIER MOE SAID:
“The benefits no longer outweigh the costs. It’s time to heal the divisions over vaccination in our families, in our communities and in our province. It’s time for proof of vaccination requirements to end,” Moe stated.
BACKGROUND:
- At an earlier point, Premier Moe had said that COVID mandates would create “two classes” of citizens, nevertheless implementing the restrictions.
- Saskatchewan’s remaining public health orders requiring masking in indoor public spaces will remain in effect until the end of February, but will likely not be renewed.
- Since October, Saskatchewan residents have been required to show proof of receiving two shots to enter bars, restaurants, theatres, and other businesses, or show a negative COVID-19 test, The Herald notes.
