Another round of reopenings is slated to take place in Manitoba next week - and the province has revealed what changes may be on the way.
Following the province's recent policies, health officials announced a series of possible reopening policies Feb. 25, asking for public feedback on the suggestions to see what will and won't be done March 5 and - later - March 26.
Among the suggested changes - which will go into effect across the province, including for northern communities - are allowing households to have two designated visitors at their home or have a second household to meet up with and increasing limits for public outdoor gatherings to 10 people.
Also mentioned is possibly expanding the capacity limits for retail stores, malls and similar services to 50 per cent capacity or 250 people - whichever is smaller - and expanding capacity limits for churches and places of worship up to either 25 per cent or 100 people - once again, whichever is lower, with social distancing requirements and mask use in effect.
All businesses, including non-essential businesses, may be allowed to operate soon, with the exception of indoor theatres, concert halls, casinos and bingo halls. Businesses with video lottery terminals (VLTs) may soon be able to resume operating them, with distancing and barriers in place between users or machines.
Restaurants and licensed places like bars and pubs could also be able to open up to 50 per cent capacity, with the caveat that only people from the same household can be together at a table. Professional theatre groups, operas, symphonies, dance companies and similar arts groups could soon be able to rehearse, with rehearsals not open to the public.
Indoor recreation facilities, including sports facilities, gyms, rinks, courts and other areas, could soon reopen for group and individual use, but only for instruction and practices. Measures will be in place to open these areas up for spectators, as well as common areas and locker rooms up to a maximum of 25 per cent capacity.聽
Gym users and people going to pools or fitness centres may also be able to work out without needing to wear a mask, but will need to wear a mask in other areas of a facility.聽
As in the recent past, what will and won't take place may depend on feedback from residents. The Manitoba government has opened up another online survey at engagemb.ca to help determine restriction changes.
