Premier François Legault announced in a press release Tuesday that the province has plans to re-open in phases. So far, Legault has shared 2 re-opening phases of which there are bound to be more as the situation unfolds.
Phase 1:
As of Monday, January 31st, just one month after the latest curfew was put into effect, people will be allowed to gather in groups of four or by combining 2 family bubbles.
The same will apply to restaurants. They will be able to open to the public at a reduced capacity of 50% with a maximum of 4 diners or 2 bubbles per table. Vaccination passports are mandatory.
Ski chalets and cafeterias will also re-open at 50% capacity.
Senior citizens residing in CHSLD's will be allowed 2 visitors as opposed to 1, although one at a time. Those in RPA residences will be allowed 4 visitors daily.
Further, extracurricular activities and team sports for children under the age of 18 will recommence on the 31st. At this time, competitions and games against other teams are still prohibited.
The Biodome, the Botanical Gardens, and the planetarium will reopen at 50% capacity.
Phase 2:
On February 7th, the province will head into its second phase of deconfinement. Concert halls, showrooms, and stadiums will be able to re-open at 50% capacity, with a maximum of 500 spectators.
On this same day, churches and other places of worship will also be able to re-open at 50% capacity. A vaccination passport will be required.
Legault emphasized the importance to remain diligent and to "go easy" with the gradual loosening of safety measures.
According to the Premier, Quebec's healthcare system is in need of a "major overhaul" but this will not happen overnight. Bursaries and scholarships have been created, in the hopes to incentivise young students to pursue nursing as a career.
The Premier had a message for young and mature students alike:
"If you are looking for a rewarding career and are passionate about people, consider a career in nursing. As our population gets older, it will need you. There won't be a shortage of jobs."
Although hospitalizations have gone down since last week (3400 to 3278), they are going down slowly, and the situation is still precarious.
The Premier closed by urging Quebecers to get vaccinated.
"If you want to help our health care workers, the best thing you can do is book your 1st, 2nd or 3rd dose."
SOURCE: Government of Quebec
