The federal government is imposing tougher quarantine measures on travellers returning to Canada from abroad, similar to a plan already in place in B.C..
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says as of midnight tonight anyone returning to Canada who does not have COVID-19 symptoms has to have a ‘credible quarantine plan’ or they will be forced to spend 14 days in isolation in a quarantine location.
“The order that goes into effect tonight is a strengthening of the Quarantine Act orders,” Trudeau said a briefing outside his home in Ottawa. “If it is inadequate, they will be required to quarantine at a hotel.”
As an example, Trudeau said a plan would be considered ‘inadequate’ if a traveler planned to stay with elderly family members or if they don’t have a set destination in mind, or if they had been living outside Canada for years with no permanent home to return to in the country.
“Excellent news and important for B.C. as well that Premier John Horgan’s strategy is now Canada’s strategy,” said B.C. Health Minister Adrian Dix, in a tweet.
No Immediate End in Sight for Current Restrictions
“We will have to do it in phases,” Trudeau said. “We are having ongoing discussions with the provinces as this point. We recognize that different regions of the country are in different places along the evolution of their COVID-19 curve.”
“We’re going to make sure that we try to stay coordinated as best as possible. But those discussions are ongoing about how we’re going to reopen the economy. It’s just that it’s going to be a while still.”
More Aid Announced
Speaking on Tuesday, Trudeau also announced nearly $130 million to help the country’s northern communities with food supply and medical facilities during this pandemic.
Just over $76 million has been earmarked for health-care systems in the three territories, while other funding is going to working with airlines to bring essential goods to the north.
The federal government is also committing an additional $20 million in funding to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to strengthen food inspections and keep the country’s food supply safe.
“No matter where you live, in a small community or a big city, we’re here for you,” Trudeau added.
Excellent news and important for B.C. as well that Premier @jjhorgan ’s strategy is now Canada’s strategy. Thanks for all your work on this issue @KahlonRav . https://t.co/1zTQc3OxMu
— Adrian Dix (@adriandix) April 14, 2020
