July 23, 2020 – Following public health advice and feedback from Manitobans, the province has adjusted its plans for Phase 4 of the Restoring Safe Services roadmap.

“While Manitoba’s response to COVID-19 has been led by scientific evidence and the advice of our public health professionals, we need to keep listening to what Manitobans are ready to accept and support at each phase of our recovery efforts,” said Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen.

The initial draft plan proposed a number of changes to be implemented as early as July 25. Now, Phase 4 will proceed, but with some items deferred to a later date or moved forward with more limited implementation.

The proposed changes to visits in personal care homes and long-term care settings will proceed as outlined in the draft document. The minister noted facility operators will continue to review visitation policies and processes to ensure appropriate visitation, along with the health and safety of residents and families.

Items moving forward with more limited implementation on July 25 include:

• Maintaining current site capacity at 30% for faith-based services, pow wows, but eliminating the need for sub-groups (cohorts).

• Allowing stage performances and opening movie theatres to a maximum capacity of 30% of the site, up to a maximum of 500 people.

• Allowing casinos to open at a maximum of 30% per cent of the site’s capacity.

• Allowing retail businesses and indoor recreation sites to use non-permeable barriers when distances of 2 m cannot be maintained.

The following proposed changes have been deferred at this time:

• Indoor and outdoor gathering sizes.

• Relaxing of self-isolation requirements for those travelling from eastern and southern Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada.

• Walk-up counter service in bars, beverage rooms, brew pubs, microbreweries and distilleries.

CLICK HERE to view the updated Phase 4 plan and to review public health guidance for businesses.