For the month of April, I provided some updates regarding the news around COVID-19. You can review my last few posts if you care to review. Over the last few weeks, there are some changes regarding the governmental announcements with announcements including opening up some sectors. I did not write any updates during that time as I had to focus on some more urgent matters. This post is a general overview of some of the more prominent announcements which is not comprehensive in nature and you should consult a specific ministry or government for more information. The @indigibot continues to tweet out case law and legislation referring to COVID-19 or coronavirus but it is also organized here and updated every 1-2 weeks.
Canada
There appears to be more concern or highlighting of the conditions in federal prisons and the treatment of prisoners. Canada releases a news release on the conditions of same. There is one reported/known COVID-19 related death.
Canada announced that the Canadian Forces Snowbirds a cross-country inspirational show. There was some criticism and sadly, the initiative ended in tragedy.
Canada announced an MOU signed regarding Wet’suwet’en rights and title. You can read more here and see the draft here.
COVID-19 related initiatives for students. You can read my guide I prepared here.
SCC and DOJ announced a committee to review court operations in response to COVID-19.
Ontario
Ontario extends the declaration of emergency to June 2 with some businesses gradually re-opening.
All emergency orders currently in force remain in effect until May 29 with some outdoors spaces allowed to re-open (outdoor fields or benches, among others).
Ontario announces an Independent Commission into long-term care following COVID-19 outbreaks. Listen to Nora Loreta on this radio show talk about some of the data she has been monitoring since COVID-19 outbreaks began.
Some businesses that are allowed to re-open announced late last week which include some construction and some medical/health services.
Ontario announced last week further supports for victims of gender-based violence and human trafficking during COVID-19. Oddly, I reached out to a national centre offering support for human trafficking victims but did not or could not provide me with any names of organizations helping human trafficking victims in my region, despite the allegations that the numbers of victims are prevalent. They were also quick to shut down despite only offering phone support or connections to other services (not sure why a full scale shut down is needed if you are not offering tangible services).
Ontario courts provide notice about proceedings and further adjournments.
Alberta
Alberta court announces some expansion of desk applications.
Alberta allows more than 50 people to gather in outdoor gatherings.
Alberta requires businesses to post what they are doing to follow health orders.
Alberta announced an online hub to help seniors during COVID-19 and beyond. Not sure how this may help seniors who have accessibility issues.
The following public health orders in Alberta remain in effect: Public Health Orders.