Some public health measures lifted today; County ends state of emergency

COVID-19 public health measures are further eased today in the province as indoor public capacity limits and vaccine requirements are lifted.

Businesses and organizations may continue to choose to require proof of vaccination upon entry. Other protective measures, such as mask/face covering requirements and passive screening of patrons remain in place. Businesses and organizations must continue to have safety plans in place.

The province is expected to lift mask requirements in the coming weeks.

Prince Edward County is ending it COVID-19 state of emergency declaration made in March 2020. Neighbouring municipalities of Hastings County, the Quinte West, Napanee and Tyendinaga have advised they intend on terminating their declarations simultaneously as partners in the provision of critical services across the region.

“The emergency declaration is no longer warranted as we continue to re-open and move into the recovery phase of this global pandemic,” said Mayor Steve Ferguson says. “The virus is still out there, but thanks to vaccines, we can protect ourselves from the worst of COVID-19. I encourage residents to get their doses of the COVID-19 vaccine if they have not done so already and continue to follow the masking requirements.”

The County’s vaccination policy remains in place for council members, municipal staff and volunteer fire fighters. As well, the municipality is continuing enhanced cleaning of dressing rooms at the arenas in Wellington and Picton.

The County is enforcing mask requirements in County-operated facilities, including arenas and town halls. Those with medical or religious exemptions must provide written proof of the exemption. The municipality’s temporary mask bylaw remains in effect as well.

In-person attendance at Council, Committee of the Whole, and Planning Committee meetings will resume in April. Meetings will take place at the Highline Hall at the Wellington and District Community Centre beginning with the council meeting on Tuesday, April 5.

“Over the past two years, Prince Edward County residents have sacrificed in order to safeguard their family and friends and to ensure the health-care resources in our community were not overwhelmed,” Mayor Ferguson says. “I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has followed the public health guidelines.”