Chamber update on government COVID-19 Level 3 restrictions
Dear Chamber Members,
The Province of New Brunswick announced this afternoon that we will move to Level 3 public health restrictions effective midnight Friday, Jan. 14. The move to Level 3 will remain in place for at least two weeks.
This step was taken due to the surge in Omicron variant COVID-19 cases and the need to protect our health care system and other critical infrastructure. This decision has several impacts on your ability to conduct business. Among the most significant measures are the following:
- Single household bubbles
- No public gatherings
- Restaurants are limited to drive-thru and take-out only; no indoor dining
- Businesses such as retail can continue to operate under Level 2 restrictions, which includes 50 per cent occupancy. The province is encouraging as many workers to work from home as possible.
- Gyms, spas and hair salons are closed
- Entertainment venues are closed
- Organized sports and recreational activities are suspended
Premier Blaine Higgs also announced the enhancement and extension of the Small Business Grant Program that will provide up to $10,000 in non-repayable money to small businesses. The new program will also cover a wider variety of businesses. In response to feedback from the Chamber, the premier also said funds will be expedited in the program so applications can be processed within three or four days.
To access the full government announcement, click here.
The Chamber of Commerce for Greater Moncton will continue to communicate changes in protocol to you as they become available.
Please note our rapid test distribution program is active again, although the criteria has changed to supply test kits to test symptomatic individuals in the workplace. To learn more about this program, visit our website: www.ccgm.ca and click on the rapid test icon.
Stay safe and we will be in touch again soon.
John Wishart
Chief Executive Officer
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