View From the Legislature

As Manitobans were enjoying wonderful summer weather this past week there was another reason to be encouraged as our province entered Phase 2 of the reopening plan related to the coronavirus pandemic. Phase 2 means that the vast majority of businesses are again able to open, making Manitoba a leader in North America in reopening the economy.

And while Manitoba has been fortunate to have among the least restrictions and the lowest coronavirus cases in Canada, even as Phase 2 proceeds challenges remain. Restaurants are welcoming their customers back to indoor seating, but they are adjusting to change. That is true as well for gyms and other services. And while there are different opinions at to whether reopening is happening too fast or too slow, there should be no dispute that the owners and employees of these businesses need our support and patience.

They need our support as customers, and they need our understanding as fellow citizens as they are making the transition. There is a reason that the Manitoba licence plate says, “Friendly Manitoba.” It is because we are. And while that slogan often refers to how we welcome others to our province, it is equally important that this attitude is demonstrated to each other during this time. Overwhelmingly Manitobans are doing amazing and extraordinary things to support each other. We have much to be grateful for in our province and high on that list are those who own and are working in our local businesses. They deserve our thanks and gratitude.

In addition, as part of Phase 2 schools were able to reopen for limited use. School divisions were asked to ensure that every student was offered the opportunity to return to class once during June to be able to meet with their teacher, have some assessment done and prepare for the transition back into class in the next school year.

Some school divisions have chosen to offer more robust small group opportunities in their schools with their teachers. Many schools have already been running day camps over the past several days which gave them the opportunity to move more seamlessly into having some activity back in the schools. There have of course been different experiences during the at home learning over the past two months. Some students, parents and teachers have done very well in this time while for others it has been a struggle. The ability to reconnect in the school environment, if even briefly, will be beneficial for many students and I know that teachers, who have greatly missed their students, are welcoming the opportunity as well.

As Phase 2 progresses, Manitoba Health will be watching closely the coronavirus numbers and healthcare system as we move forward with other phases of reopening. I look forward to providing you updates as they are available.