The Government of the Northwest Territories has officially moved to Relaxing Phase Two of the Emerging Wisley Plan.
The territorial plan moving forward includes relaxing COVID-19 public health restrictions, self-isolation protocols, and new travel regulations.
Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Kami Kandola said in a press release, “the reason we are able to move into phase 2 is that standard testing remains strong, contact tracing capabilities remain strong, and community spread is non-existent.”
In Phase Two, certain public events may take place, additional businesses and organizations may open and offices will be able to have a maximum of 25 people per floor, as long as they follow WSCC risk assessment guidelines.
“As we enjoy the loosened restrictions though, we are accepting more risk and more responsibility. Chances are we will get more cases in the future, so playing our part and following the rules and recommendations are more critical than ever to keep the ones we love safe,” said Diane Thom, minister of Health and Social Services, in a press release.
A two- territory travel bubble has been authorized by the GNWT and Nunavut — once Nunavut changes its public health orders — which would allow for travel between the neighboring territories.
Once the conditions are in place, NWT residents will be able to visit Nunavut, and vice-versa, without the need for isolation upon entry and return. The exception would be travelers going into Fort Smith, Hay River, Yellowknife, and Inuvik who are still expected to continue self-isolation practice for the time being.
As of today, the territory has no active cases and has not reported a new case in over 70 days.
CKLB radio has reached out to the Premier of Nunavut, Joe Savikataaq, asking when the Government of Nunavut will make the appropriate amendments to their public health orders.
