QUEBEC — Quebec has returned to a tiered alert system for its pandemic response, effective February 8. As a result, the majority of the province’s regions have returned to red-zone status.
“Unfortunately, we don’t know what the future holds,” says François Legault, Premier of Quebec. “What we do know, however, is that our battle against the virus is not over. We must all continue our efforts, stand together to save as many lives as possible, to relieve our hospitals and to treat all those who have cancer or who need an operation. Yes, we are heading in the right direction, but we must remain very cautious and relax the measures gradually.”
For a minimum of two weeks, from February 8 to 21, many of the province’s lockdown measures will remain in effect.
The adjusted red-zone restrictions include:
• a curfew in effect from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.
• public and private gatherings are prohibited (with the exception of funerals)
• bars are closed
• the re-opening of non-priority businesses, including personal care and beauty shops
• the re-opening of museums, libraries and shopping centres
Orange-zone restrictions include:
• a curfew in effect from 9:30 p.m. to 5 a.m.
• restaurants are permitted to re-open with a limit of two adults per table and reservations required, except for at fast-food outlets (more below)
• cinemas and theatres can re-open with assigned seats and guests required to wear masks (effective February 26)
• gyms can re-open with restricted capacity, but group activities are prohibited
• re-opening of dining rooms in retirement homes
The orange-zone requirements for restaurants allow for adults to be accompanied by their minor children. Restaurants will be required to keep a register of their customers and guests will have to show proof they reside in the region where they are dining.
Orange-zone regions include Gaspésie and Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Bas-Saint-Laurent, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Northern Quebec and the North Coast.
Legault indicated that no further easing of restrictions will take place before February 22.
