Mineral and petroleum (MPR) workers in the NWT can now enjoy the same relaxed measures of Phase 2 as the rest of the community.
Dr. Kami Kandola, chief public health officer, has revoked the changes made to the Public Health Order – COVID-19 Directed at Mineral and Petroleum Industry to ensure northern workers are afforded the same relaxed measures during Phase Two of the Emerging Wisely Plan.
The original order did not allow MPR workers to get haircuts or eat out, activities now allowed under Phase 2.
“This amendment ensures all residents are able to enjoy the ease in restrictions that our territory is awarded as a result of the immediate actions put in place,” says Diane Thom, minister of Health and Social Services.
According to a press release, the new changes made to the order, outline specific social distancing protocols and behaviors that all MPR workers must follow.
Most of the changes apply to MPR workers once they return to their communities from the job site. Including physical distancing and limited social gatherings, both indoor and outdoor.
Any changes are subject to the office of the chief public health officer, all employers and workers need to comply with these orders moving forward.
This public order remains in effect for the duration of the Public Health Emergency.
CKLB radio has reached out to Giant Mine, Gahcho Mine, Fortune Minerals, Norzinc Mines, Diavik Mines, NWT, and Yukon Chamber of Mines and Menzie McEachern Ph.D., director of mineral and petroleum resources GNWT for a comment on the recent changes.
