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David Raymond Amos @DavidRayAmos
Replying to @DavidRayAmos @alllibertynews and 49 others
Content disabled
Methinks
its too bad so sad that the "Powers That Be" within Higgy's Police
State won't permit all the comments to be read N'esy Pas?
https://davidraymondamos3.blogspot.com/2020/04/nb-covid-19-roundup-police-have-power.html
#nbpoli #cdnpoli
The 'measure of last resort': What is the Emergencies Act and what does it do?
Premiers divided on the need for an act that gives Ottawa sweeping crisis powers: sources
Trudeau briefed them on the current state of federal efforts to combat a pandemic that has infected some 2,500 Canadians and shuttered many businesses — leaving more than a million people temporarily unemployed.
Some premiers were eager for a co-ordinated, national response while others were concerned about what invoking the act would mean for local decision making, multiple provincial sources told CBC News after the call.
There was no unanimity among the premiers over whether Ottawa should proceed with the act given the sweeping powers it would grant to the federal government at the expense of the provinces on the frontlines of this pandemic. Provincial and territorial leaders stressed the need for more essential supplies like face masks and coronavirus testing devices.
Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said earlier Monday the Emergencies Act is a "measure of last resort," but it might be required if Canada is to implement some extraordinary measures — beyond existing provincial actions.
Every province has declared a state of emergency already to restrict public movement and close most businesses, along with other restrictions, in an effort to limit the spread of the deadly virus.
"I can tell you that we haven't taken anything off the table — from the Emergencies Act to new measures — or existing measures under the Quarantine Act. They are tools that are at our disposal," Trudeau said.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3M_ozYf6bdg&ab_channel=GlobalNews
"One of the key elements of the Emergencies Act is that it is an override over the provinces. It takes powers that normally are only in the hands of the provinces, or even municipalities, and puts them in the federal level," he said.
Trudeau promised to work closely with the provinces and territories if he takes that step — something the Emergencies Act already demands of Ottawa.
Asked Monday if he thought invoking the act is necessary, Ontario Premier Doug Ford said it's a decision for Trudeau to make.
"Every single province is different, so we want to make sure that we still have the authority to make the decisions that we require for ... the health and the economy in each province," Ford told reporters ahead of the call with Trudeau and other first ministers.
Unprecedented powers
The Emergencies Act, a sweeping piece of legislation passed in 1988 as a replacement for the controversial War Measures Act, has never been used.
The act gives powers to the prime minister to respond to four different types of emergency scenarios: public welfare (natural disasters, disease), public order (civil unrest), international emergencies and war emergencies.
The act grants cabinet the ability to "take special temporary measures that may not be appropriate in normal times" to cope with an emergency and the resulting fallout during an "urgent and critical situation."
It gives cabinet unprecedented powers to assume jurisdiction from the provinces in areas like health and commerce.
Invoking the act might help the federal government close some interprovincial borders to stop the spread of COVID-19 — a measure that would have been almost unimaginable only days ago.
But some provinces, such as Nova Scotia and P.E.I., are already policing land crossings as they order anyone returning from a trip — even a domestic one — to self-isolate for 14 days upon entry.
Officials stop a vehicle at the Nova Scotia-New Brunswick border on Monday, March 23, 2020 to notify of self-isolation orders that now apply under Nova Scotia's state of emergency. (Brett Ruskin/CBC)
The Emergencies Act could allow for the creation of travel passes to curtail movement, for example.
The act also grants cabinet powers to evacuate people and remove "personal property from any specific area," acquire property, direct any person or any class of person to "render essential services," regulate "distribution and availability of essential goods, services and resources," authorize "emergency payments," establish shelters and hospitals and impose criminal sanctions.
The act allows the federal government to essentially nationalize parts of the economy wherever it thinks it's necessary as cabinet can assume "control, the restoration and maintenance of public utilities and services" to ensure the well-being of Canadians.
Jack Lindsay is a professor in the department of applied disaster and emergency studies at Brandon University in Manitoba and an expert in the country's emergency measures legislation.
Lindsay said he doesn't see the point of invoking federal legislation at a time when the provinces already have their own measures in place to essentially shut down social and economic life in this country.
None of the provinces are looking for an authoritarian central government right now.
- Jack Lindsay, Brandon University
In our federal system of government, with its devolved powers, provinces already have the ability to act, he said.
"The act doesn't really give the federal government a lot of extra new powers that aren't already being exercised by the provinces. All of the provinces already have the ability to commandeer essential resources and supplies," he told CBC News. "None of the provinces are looking for an authoritarian central government right now.
"If I was Justin Trudeau I'd be saying, 'I want to help the provinces coordinate. I don't want to impose a national set of powers on them.' I'm curious to see what they'll do. I just don't see the advantage of that right now."
Lindsay said the act and its powers might be useful later as the pandemic spreads — if some provinces start hoarding medical supplies, for example.
Under the act, Ottawa could redirect masks, ventilators or COVID-19 testing devices from one area of the country to particular "hot spots" in dire need of equipment or supplies. Lindsay also said different "classes of people," like nurses, might be also conscripted to work in other regions.
Enforcement measures for returning travellers
Health Minister Patty Hajdu said Monday the government is considering much more stringent enforcement measures to ensure returning travellers strictly self-isolate at home for at least 14 days to reduce community spread.
Some Canadians have been flouting that rule; police could be called upon to force people to stay home, if necessary. Hajdu also suggested a "hotline" might be established to allow concerned Canadians to report cases of noncompliance.
But local and province police services can only be nationalized in wartime. Such enforcement measures would be left to local peace officers to maintain, Lindsay said.
The federal Quarantine Act, which was updated in 2005 after the deadly SARS outbreak, does give the federal health minister an arsenal of tools to force people to stay home.
Michael Bryant is the executive director of the Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA). He said there is a lot of misinformation floating around about the Emergencies Act.
"I understand they want to hear from the leader of their country but, constitutionally, the federal powers that need to be enacted are being enacted now," he told CBC News, citing the provisions of the Quarantine Act.
"There are no powers under the federal Emergencies Act that need to be invoked right now because they are already being invoked by the provinces and the municipalities."
Unlike the case of the now-defunct War Measures Act — which former prime minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau invoked during the Front de liberation du Quebec (FLQ) crisis — government can't simply trigger the Emergencies Act without the participation of Parliament.
If an emergency declaration is made, Parliament must be summoned to "sit within seven days after the declaration is issued," a measure added to the act to avoid abuse by the government of the day.
"There's a constitution in place that's going to limit how much provincial, federal or municipal government does to control people and limit civil liberties," Bryant said.
Reported COVID-19 cases by province
As of June 26 at 12:30 p.m. ET
With files from the CBC's Hannah Thibedeau, Catharine Tunney
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/covid-19-pandemic-coronavirus-roundup-1.5530695
N. B. COVID-19 roundup: Province announces changes to testing protocols
2 new cases of COVID-19 were announced in New Brunswick on Monday
· CBC News · Posted: Apr 13, 2020 11:34 AM AT
Dr. Jennifer Russell said testing protocols for COVID-19 would be
expanded to include those suffering from a number of symptoms including
fever, sore throat and a cough. (Submitted by the Government of New Brunswick)
The province's Department of Health has announced changes to testing protocols for COVID-19 in New Brunswick.
Dr.
Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health, announced Monday
that testing would be recommended for people exhibiting at least two of
the following five symptoms:
- Fever above 38 C
- A new cough or worsening chronic cough
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Headache
But throughout, community transmission has not been as high as seen in other provinces.
"Our indicators around the percentage of the population that would be affected most severely, we would see those people pop up in the hospital setting and we only have a small number of people hospitalized and in ICU right now.
So we know in other jurisdictions that severely affected percentage usually is a reflection of the total number of cases in the population."
Russell said expanded testing will ensure no one is being missed but added it would be hard to say if more cases of community transmission will be found.
"We're trying to be cautiously optimistic but we don't want to rest on our laurels. We're being prudent with the information we know today and the resources that we have that this is the right direction to go in according to the evolution of the risk."
She confirmed all sentinel testing done to date in hospitals and emergency rooms has resulted in negative test results.
2 new cases
The province has announced two new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of cases in New Brunswick up to 116.Dr. Jennifer Russell said one of the new cases is in Zone 3, in the Fredericton area, between the ages of 40 and 49. The second is a person between the ages of 50 and 59 in Zone 5, which is the Campbellton area.
There are 116 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in New Brunswick. (CBC)
Of the 116 cases, 66 are travel-related, 36 are close contacts of confirmed cases, seven are the result of community transmission and seven remain under investigation.
During the pandemic, 12 people have been hospitalized and seven have since been discharged. Three of the five patients remaining in hospital are in an intensive care unit.
26 tickets issued
This is the first COVID-19 news conference since Russell and Premier Blaine Higgs urged residents to stay home and avoid family gatherings over the Easter weekend.Premier Blaine Higgs said a total of 17 tickets were issued over the past seven days to people not complying with the emergency order. (Submitted by the Government of New Brunswick)
"A small number of people are still violating the rules," Higgs said.
But the premier said he was still more interested in educating people before giving them a ticket.
"That's not the goal to fine people more. The goal is to have people adhere to the rules now in place."
Higgs also confirmed the province's state of emergency, set to last another week, will continue and will be done in two week increments.
"It'll be a decision that's made collectively by my co-committee colleagues, the leaders of the other parties and my cabinet. But it will be done in two week intervals upon any extension."
Restrictions eased?
Asked what it would take to begin easing restrictions, Higgs said restrictions could be eased or made stronger depending on the level of adherence to government measures and the results of expanded testing for COVID-19."Am I looking for a positive change? Am I hoping for a positive change? Absolutely."
Higgs said if the numbers stay the way they are and the caseloads stay down, he's hopeful it can happen.
"Getting our economy back up and running, it's all about a balance and that's what we're in right now. I'll remain optimistic."
Here is a roundup of other developments.
Nursing home protection
Higgs said caring for seniors remains a priority for the government. Early on, the government closed nursing homes to all visitors. Staff now have to follow a screening process prior to entering work including taking their temperature and answering screening questions.Staff are receiving ongoing training on the proper use of personal protective equipment.
Nursing home residents with health issues are treated at the nursing home when possible to avoid any unnecessary transfers to hospitals.
Higgs said they are in constant communication with the N.B. Nursing Home Association
"We are continuing to monitor the situation in our nursing homes, and we will take additional measures if needed as the pandemic continues," said Higgs.
Nature Conservancy of Canada properties closed
The Nature Conservancy of Canada has closed all its properties to public access and is urging people to stay home.In New Brunswick, some of those properties include the Johnson's Mills Shorebird Interpretive Centre near Sackville, the Musquash Estuary Nature Reserve near Saint John and the Grand Manan Migratory Bird Sanctuary
In a release, NCC said while "nature is important in our lives and good for our health and well-being, especially in stressful times", they are asking people to enjoy nature from home.
"Please stay home, and enjoy nature virtually. Watch our website for updates."
More people seeking mental health support
Since the COVID-19 outbreak first started, counsellors are seeing a jump in new clients looking for emotional support.While some counsellors have decided to close their offices, others are finding creative ways to work with their clients. This could include everything from online Zoom conferences, creating YouTube channels or simply picking up the phone and having a conversation.
"We're trying to do as much as we can," said Joan Wright, senior psychologist and owner of the Joan Wright & Associates and MindShift clinic in the Fredericton area.
The Canadian Psychological Association is also offering mental health support to front-line health service providers. A number of psychologists from each province have volunteered to provide psychological services to those individuals.
Meanwhile, the Canadian Mental Health Association of New Brunswick is providing a number of free services for people struggling to maintain their mental health during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Those include live webinars about topics such as self-compassion, coping with anxiety, having a healthy work-life balance and talking to children about COVID-19.
Theatre company asks for letters from self-isolation
Theatre New Brunswick wants people to share how they're coping with self-isolation during the COVID 19 pandemic.The project is called, Dear Rona - Letters from Lockdown.
9:43 PM - Apr 7, 2020
"Personally I'm getting to sewing projects I always wanted to do … I think a lot of us are doing stuff like that, which is nice," said Natasha MacLellan, Theatre New Brunswick's artistic director.
"Rediscovering your own house. All the books on your bookshelf you thought you would read someday."
The theatre group has plans to use those stories in a future performance project.
People can send their letters to Theatre New Brunswick's address or email dearrona@tnb.nb.ca
What to do if you have symptoms?
People concerned they might have COVID-19 can take a self-assessment on the government website. Symptoms of coronavirus include fever, a new or worsening cough, and breathlessness, as well as sore throat, headache and runny nose. People with symptoms are asked to:- Stay at home.
- Immediately call Tele-Care 811.
- Describe symptoms and travel history.
- Follow instructions carefully.
168 Comments
Commenting is now closed for this story.
David Amos
Content disabled
Methinks its too bad so sad that the "Powers That Be" within Higgy's Police State won't permit all the comments to be read N'esy Pas?
David Amos
Methinks somebody should remind Higgy that he has not reversed the "Stay' on my Medicare Card nor has he offered to reimburse me for emergency room bills and doctor fees N'esy Pas?
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: Yeah someone should totally remind him on your behalf. That would mean someone actually cared about your situation.
David Amos
Ray Oliver
Andrew St.John
What EXACTLY does the test look for?
How many people with other symptoms are deemed to have CV19?
What other ailments did those who died suffer from - or all were labelled CV19?
Did anyone here elect B.Gates to the throne of world health leader?
Is the common cold and seasonal flu now eradicated or just everything is CV19?
Would it be more effective to quarantine and protect the vulnerable only and not the entire population ?
This whole situation reeks of deception and it’s impossible to believe so many people are buying it. Time to get back to work and stop the hysteria over the new boogeyman virus.
Lou Bell
Danny Devo
Is Higgs even conscious during these media events?
He's in that "happy place" where he can feel like king Higgs.
I was thinking that I have an old dog that hangs around here, she's probably just as smart, and does what she is told. A couple of months at the U of Irving and she will do what they tell her.
i liked his thinking on the
franc-o-fun games fiasco
Danny Devo
You have a great idea tax business to the eye balls, so they do one of two things, massive layoffs or relocate/shutdown. Either throws thousands out of work. Which then reduces the money the government has further.
Lou Bell
Hopefully people did what they should have been doing , isolating and social distancing. There'll always be a few ignorant naysayers , yet they appear to be few and far between t, thank goodness ! We probably won't see how mant fools broke the mandate for another week or so.
June Arnott
Cry Me a River
https://twitter.com/DavidRayAmos/with_replies
David Raymond Amos @DavidRayAmos
Replying to @DavidRayAmos @alllibertynews and 49 others
Methinks Trudeau the Younger is way behind the eight ball in this wicked game. Higgy et al already have their own little Police States N'esy Pas?
https://davidraymondamos3.blogspot.com/2020/04/nb-covid-19-roundup-police-have-power.html
https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/emergencies-act-premiers-consensus-1.5529119
Emergencies Act talks rejected by premiers, deemed a distraction
'Nobody wants to see this,' said one source
·
CBC News · Posted: Apr 10, 2020 11:19 AM ET
Sources say B.C. Premier John Horgan was forcefully against the Emergencies Act on a call with other premiers, calling it a distraction. (Mike McArthur/CBC)
The Council of the Federation can be divided on partisan and regional lines, but yesterday Canada's 13 premiers came to a quick consensus on a key message to the federal government: don't push the Emergencies Act on us.
On Thursday, the federal government sent a letter to provincial and territorial governments consulting on the never-before-used act, a necessary step if Ottawa wanted to pull the trigger on declaring a public welfare emergency amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
"This whole idea of the letter was pretty quickly shut down," said one source close to the talks, speaking on the condition they not be named.
The premiers talked among themselves after the letter was sent out and ahead of their call with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Thursday evening. Opinions ranged from deep frustration to indifference, according to provincial officials.
B.C Premier John Horgan — whose province has shown progress in flattening the curve of its coronavirus outbreak — was so angry he used an expletive and called the ordeal a waste of time, said sources.
Trudeau repeatedly told the premiers he doesn't want to invoke the act and was looking at it as a contingency measure, not because the federal government sees a need for it, said sources.
"Nobody wants to see this," said one source.
Act gives federal government sweeping powers
The Emergencies Act — which replaced the War Measures Act in 1988 — gives the federal government sweeping powers to regulate or prohibit travel, requisition and use property, order qualified people to provide essential services, regulate the distribution of goods, resources and services, and establish emergency shelters and hospitals.
In recent days there has been talk of using it to ensure supplies and equipment are deployed to where they're most needed across the country. One of the federal government's concerns has been about allocating supplies for Indigenous communities.
Under the act, Ottawa could redirect medical supplies — masks, ventilators and COVID-19 testing devices — to regions in dire need.
The premiers pushed back on that notion on the call and said supply chains have been secured as more Canadian companies gear up to make personal protective equipment (PPE) and ventilators domestically.
Economy, support for essential workers raised
The provinces and territories have already taken extraordinary steps in calling states of emergency to restrict movements and close businesses in the bid to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.
No one can think of anything the federal government would use the Emergencies Act for that would do more good than harm, said one source.
WATCH |Trudeau lays groundwork for never-used Emergencies Act:
According to the Prime Minister's Office, Trudeau talked about the importance of having discussions regarding the Emergencies Act.
"He encouraged premiers to share their views on how the act could be used, if required. However, he noted that current measures and the great collaboration between governments are helping Canada fight the pandemic," says the readout of the call.
The two-hour phone call between the premiers and the prime minister then shifted to concerns about the economy and what happens when the health pandemic ends, especially in the oil-dependent provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Sources said there was also talk of sending money to the provinces to support benefits for essential workers, but the details still have to be hammered out.
6010 Comments
I refreshed the page and the tally has shrunk to 5041 Comments
It climbed
5098 Comments
Now its
4964 Comments
Commenting is now closed for this story.
David Amos
Another 24 hours has past and as i refresh the page I see that even more opinions have gone "Poof"
David Amos
Mr Brown a fellow Maritimer just posted this in another forum I quote him as follows:
"So i cannot go fishing by my self while the so called leader of Canada and his family go to their cottage in Quebec traveling from ONTARIO for a easter egg hunt First off where are the cops that are supposed to stop non essential travel between Provinces and why are the family not practicing social distancing and why are the RCMP escorting them? "
My answer still is
Methinks the rules don't apply to the elite as they have their way with our taxpayer funds N'esy Pas?
David Amos
Methinks everybody knows who is blogging, tweeting and emailing the "Powers That Be" about this malicious nonsense N'esy Pas?
David Amos
David Amos
David Amos
WOW I refresh the page and the change in the tally says nearly 1000 opinions went poof. Methinks lots of folks must be upset by this news N'esy Pas?
Michael Craine
Reply to @David Amos: If this page is your version of the news then you are very right.
David Amos
David Scott Barclay
Imagine if everything the Provinces needed had to pass through the tangled, convoluted Ottawa bureaucracy, and get lost in dead-ends?
David Amos
Rae Nilsson
The Quarantine Act has already given the RCMP power to enter your home and arrest you WITHOUT a warrant according to the G&Mail.
David Amos
Michael Craine
BobbyTaylor
Content disabled
https://www.scribd.com/doc/2718120/Integrity-Yea-Right
Henri Hudson
Glad to see the provincial premiers send a clear message to this drama instructor. United they stand.
Mike Morris
As apposed to the failed insurance salesman Scheer who lost an election he might have won, but did't.
Elton Elm
Reply to @Henri Hudson: “molon labe” day the premiers to the feds
The premiers
probably have
30-60 days
to come around on this.
The Emergency Act
will probably be needed
Robert Jones
Reply to @Kat Burd: "As the Federal Government's handling of this crisis "
Oh, you mean watching what Donald Trump does and then duplicating it a week or two later?
Yeah...that's not very impressive, really...
David Amos
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/new-brunswick-covid-19-update-1.5530317
2 new cases of COVID-19 detected, 2 more people hospitalized
New Brunswick still has three people in intensive care
CBC News · Posted: Apr 12, 2020 1:26 PM AT
Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health, said the small increase should not make people complacent. (Submitted by the Government of New Brunswick)
The province announced two new cases of COVID-19 on Sunday, bringing the total to 114.
The new cases are both in the Saint John region. One is a person between 60 and 69 years of age, and the other is a person between 70 and 79.
The number of recoveries is steady at 70, and the government's messaging also remains the same. Chief medical officer of health Dr. Jennifer Russell reminded people that the small increase in the number of cases and the large number of recoveries is a good thing, but should not make them complacent.
"Staying home will save lives," she said.
Of the 114 cases, 66 are travel-related, 36 are close contacts of confirmed cases, seven are the result of community transmission and five remain under investigation, a government release said.
Two more people have been hospitalized, bringing the total to 12. Five of those have already been discharged, and three of the remaining are in intensive care.
New Brunswick has done 7,963 tests in total, which includes 280 in the last 24 hours.
Premier Blaine Higgs said the government is "closely monitoring" the COVID-19 response in nursing homes. One employee has tested positive in a Quispamsis nursing home last week.
"I thank the dedicated staff of these homes who are working tirelessly during these unprecedented times," he said.
191 Comments
Commenting is now closed for this story.
Robert L. Brown
So i cannot go fishing by my self while the so called leader of Canada and his family go to their cottage in Quebec traveling from ONTARIO for a easter egg hunt First off where are the cops that are supposed to stop non essential travel between Provinces and why are the family not practicing social distancing and why are the RCMP escorting them
David Amos
Ray Oliver
Reply to @Robert L. Brown: He is a joke. Hypocritical. Soft. In no way commands respect on the world stage
David Amos
Dotty Gaudet
Are police still patrolling at every NB border and 24/7?
David Amos
David Peters
There is an article posted on Saturday, by the Daily Mail, that hints that maybe a US taxpayer funded lab, in China, might be involved in this virus scare.
Gov't has ballooned to such a size, even the ppl running it don't know what it's doing...let alone the ppl paying for it.
Transparency leads to accountability.
Gov't needs to be reformed to cost less, to be less dangerous, and to be less intrusive, imo.
Nicholas Krinis
The source is "The Daily Mail"? Then you might as well stop right there...because there is no real story to talk about.
Are you saying they made that whole thing up?
The US dept of health didn't recently give the Chinese lab in question a grant of over $3 Million? All the images of the lab are fake? The statement by the US Congressman was made up? The lab in question isn't doing cruel acts of experimentation on animals, then selling them at a nearby market?
Seems like a strange, oddly specific, thing to make up out of the clear blue...
john smith
as log as the borders are closed ya should be able to move here soon everyone s repatriated
David Amos
Matthew Smith
there appears to be a second outbreak I think could be referred to as "david-19" in these parts. Those exposed suffer bewildering effects of petty vindictiveness c/w diatribes of a persecution complex, there may be a cure...
Methinks folks should read all the comments Lou Bell's thread in order to judge me for themselves. They may enjoy checking out who is the desperate dude with the ad hominem attacks because he can't argue himself out of the corner her has painted himself into N'esy Pas?
David Amos
Reply to @Matthew Smith: FYI You can find my reply within my blog
David Amos
Reply to @Matthew Smith: "My passion is applying financial knowledge and skills to help my clients develop a personal financial strategy. I will take the time to understand what matters most to you"
Yea Right Methinks that dude should Google "Harper and Bankers" N'esy Pas?
Shawn McShane
I never paid attention or noticed this before but I see strangers who I have never seen before walking their dogs on my street using leashes that go super far into my yard, even when our family and children are doing yard work or playing. The dog owners also come into our yard to pick up the dog crap. Is this legal?
Mac Isaac
David Amos
Reply to @Mac Isaac: Methinks the police not investigating things should concern folks N'esy Pas?
Janice small
Mr Higgs, Jennifer and Ted.. you are all doing a good job as these are trying times and we all need to be aware of what's facing us and how serious this is..And I believe we are slowly beating this down as we can see from the numbers..The 3 of you have to start looking at the glass have full ,instead of have empty...NB and all our people are hungry for some positive news as we continue the journey of lock down..Between the 3 of you their must be some positive news on all the great recoveries that have been recorded,, the very low minimum of new cases,,.. The weather is warming, people are getting stir crazy and we need tentative date from NB to look forward to even if it's a moving target..You must be able to tell us something soon....!!!!
Garth Harris
You New Brunswickers are doing just fine. If any province dropped the ball on this it was Nova Scotia. Look at their stats vs your stats. Per capita, Nova Scotians are doing very poorly.
SarahRose Werner
I did say "per capita" didn't I? It was not an international airport for most of the present situation. International flights were denied landing rights.
I believe it's the buses in HRM that are the harbingers of doom for that city.
As stated...shut down the buses. They're contributing to the mayhem. NB has three large cities. NS has only one very spread out large city made up of smaller boroughs.
If density is the problem then it just proves that Haligonians are thumbing their noses at social distancing. Scofflaws the bunch of them.
Mike Bookman
I went to my local Sobeys yesterday for some necessities. From the people I saw shopping there, no too many were adhering to the mouth and nose covering besides myself and two other people. It's like they don't get it or are just being stubborn. Most of them looked like they came out of the backwoods 'fer supplies' and feel they are immune. One millennial dude was strolling past us with his earbuds like only his world mattered.
Ray Oliver
Brian Decker
David Amos
Content disabled
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Too Bad So Sad that folks could not see my reply to you but the RCMP know where to read it Correct?
June Arnott
Lots of people out shopping on Saturday in NB I heard. Line ups everywhere I heard. Let’s see what that does to the curve.
Ray Oliver
Lou Bell
If we can get through this weekend with JUST A FEW cases we'll be lucky ! With people showing such ignorance as those letting their kids get together for play dates as reported in the Hanwell , there are always a few who are a detriment to the many
David Amos
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: You should try to cry him one maybe it will wash him away for good
David Amos
David Amos
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Methinks some not so clever cops will be reading my reply to you in short order N'esy Pas Mr Jones?
Ray Oliver:
Reply to @David Amos: I dont know what that means
David Amos
Reply to @Ray Oliver: The RCMP know I already blogged it while awaiting moderation before it went "Poof"
David Amos
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Yea Right
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: Building another rock solid case are ya
David Amos
David Amos
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: Which means absolutely nothing. Best of luck with your case.
David Amos
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Methinks I can tust that the RCMP know that it is a fact that as soon as picked up the phone and talked to Luc Labonte a former Assistant Deputy Attorney General the Crown stayed the charges against the farmer named Bock N'esy Pas Mr Jones?
Graham MacNab
Reply to @David Amos: Successfully sued?
David Amos
Reply to @Graham MacNab: Check my blog for my reply
David Amos
Reply to @Graham MacNab: Moncton NB E1C 4J4???
David Amos
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Methinks its illegal to impersonate a cop N'esy Pas?
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: You're accusing me of being one constantly. They threw that out because that farmer wasn't wired right and they felt bad for him
Ray Oliver
"And its Constable Oliver to you. You should start CCing me in all your fascinating emails you send to anyone who will listen"
Reply to @Marguerite Deschamps: It was a holey cow after the UFO laser beams!!
Roger Richard
Reply to @Roger Richard: I highly doubt I've ever witnessed anybody as dubious as in talks above. Just like a fiddle you guys!! A fiddle.
Roger Richard
Roger Richard
Reply to @David Amos: You have steer me right for many years now. Actually, you intervene in my issues at a critical time. You have all my confidence.
David Amos
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: Awwww too cute guys!
David Amos
T.J. Burke letter played like a fiddle
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: yes as only he ever has ever used such saying. Great work Sherlock or did your new sidekick make this breakthrough discovery?
Roger Richard
Dianne Bastarache
Reply to @Lou Bell: We won't know the impact of that for as much as 2 weeks.
Ray Oliver
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: I said I used a common term to describe this back and forth. You're jumping to far fetched conclusions assuming I'm someone. Or should I say. Grasping at straws?
Ray Oliver
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: Again. No clue where you're headed with these tales
David Amos
David Amos
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Methinks even you must have heard about how I raised Hell with all the lawyers last summer at the Wu Centre under Chatham House Rules? If not ask Roger about it he witnessed it as we argued NB Power bigtime about Not Sop Smart Meters etc. You can bet that circus put Higgy's nasty blue knickers in a quite a knot Nesy Pas TJ Baby???
David Amos
You already told me you knew
Roger Richard
Reply to @Ray Oliver: I appreciate that you recognize my work concerning smart meters and its importance for our society. But all I did is a very small fraction of the work Mr. Amos did and is still doing. His work for the betterment of our society is astounding. Unfortunately, being very ethical and honest, he cannot be accepted by our “honorable” elites. Hence, are you one of his many targets?
David Amos
Heres hoping you enjoyed the circus and that our words don't go "Poof" N'esy Pas?
Ray Oliver
Reply to @Roger Richard: Long time reader of these before joining and it didn't take long for him to bite. He bullies people trying to have a little friendly debate on the topic of article at hand, then says either "cry me a river" or something to the effect and then proceed to hijack it to make it about his persecution or his other endeavors. That's what his blog is for. It annoyed me. That is all this boiled down to. Then he keeps poking so I poked back. Just a little banter.
David Amos
BruceJack Speculator
Reply to @Ray Oliver: is this Richard the same guy who worries about smart meters? what about the damage from dental xrays ?
David Amos
Dianne Bastarache
Reply to @David Amos: I am intrigued, David Amos. I notice that you end many of your posts with **N'esy Pas**. Could you please explain the meaning and function of you using this?? Thanks.
David Amos
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/bail-hearings-new-brunswick-covid-19-1.5529428
Lawyers call for courts to dramatically reduce number of people on remand
People awaiting court hearings live in uncertainty as all trials are postponed to June or later
· CBC News · Posted: Apr 11, 2020 9:00 AM AT
Moncton-based criminal defence lawyer Mathieu Boutet says his clients are afraid for their safety as they wait in custody to face their charges. (Radio-Canada)
New Brunswick lawyers concerned about COVID-19 spreading through jails say the justice system should dramatically reduce the number of people awaiting trials and hearings in custody.
Mathieu Boutet, a Moncton defence lawyer, said his clients feel vulnerable, waiting for COVID-19 to infect their jail population when they're still presumed innocent.
"I'm terrified we have this black spot where no one is looking," he said. "We need to address this immediately before it becomes a bigger problem."
He said several decisions out of Ontario show judges are more likely to release people on bail while they await trial since the coronavirus outbreak began.
"Essentially, I think that's what the courts should be doing. But we're a little bit slow on that end here in New Brunswick."
Saint John defence lawyer Nathan Gorham says courts should start reviewing cases for every person in remand and release them on strict bail conditions. (Hadeel Ibrahim/CBC)
He said in every other aspect of the response to COVID-19, the New Brunswick courts have moved quickly.
"But in my opinion, for individuals who are incarcerated looking at bail or pleas, sentences or trials, there's actually been a slowdown."
Advocates have been calling for the temporary release of people in custody, even ones found guilty and sentenced, because there's a risk that once COVID-19 enters a jail, it will spread exponentially.
Advocates have also spoken out about the difficulty of maintaining physical distancing inside, and the mental health impacts of cancelling visits.
New Brunswick courthouses have reduced operations to hearings considered "essential," including domestic disputes and urgent criminal matters. Most bail hearings are done by video conference or over the phone.
Crown prosecutors ... are making every effort to ensure bail hearings are only requested when deemed necessary.
- Coreen Enos, provincial spokesperson.All jury trials have been postponed to tentative dates in June and later, but it's not clear if courts will be able to resume operations by then.
Saint John defence lawyer Nathan Gorham said this has left his clients afraid for their safety but also unsure when they'll be able to defend themselves in court.
"I think that every person who's been detained at the pretrial phase of the process should have their case looked at closely to see if there's any reasonable way that they can be released," he said.
He said there should be some plan available to protect the public and release people on bail, such as having strict house-arrest rules and zero-tolerance for any breaches.
Province releasing convicted inmates
Meanwhile, the province says it has strengthened the screening of staff and new inmates, improved cleaning and been releasing people using the temporary absence program.Government spokesperson Geoffrey Downey said the program has been used for years to rehabilitate people and "reduce institution populations."
He said with that program the "lowest-risk, sentenced inmates" are sent back to the community to finish their sentence under supervision.
However, Downey said this program does not apply to people on remand.
Enos said a decision to release a person early is based on the nature of the sentence (if it's a non-violent crime), criminal history, sentence length, days remaining in sentence, stability of home life and the person's conduct in the institution.
Gorham said the threshold for who should be kept in custody based on the nature of their crimes should be higher for people not proven guilty yet.
"You could have really unfair situations whe.re people who were actually innocent are held on bail," just because they're accused of a violent crime, he said.
"Crown prosecutors are very aware of the present situation and are making every effort to ensure bail hearings are only requested when deemed necessary," she said.
Enos also said no directives have been issued by the courts in relation to bail hearings.
Boutet said this is what's missing.
"I see a willingness in individuals to do what they can to help," he said. "But without direction, without policy in place, without a clear indication of what type of steps to be taken, wishes are just that. They're wishes."
David Amos
Methinks Higgy et all should not be surprised to see Chucky Leblanc's lawyer appear at the circus N'esy Pas?
Lou Bell
I guess the old " They have a drinking problem " and " they have a drug problem " are old news so they gotta come up with something !!! My suggestion would be " they've got a terrible Lawyer " !!
David Amos
Johnny Almar
I don’t get it. Let the crooks out to keep them safe from COVID-19 but we all have to stay locked up.
David Amos
Shawn Tabor
A black spot and nobody is looking. Why do you need the court, the decisions are made long before you enter the court, the rest is just formality and government connected jobs. You can decide on a computer and just e-mail it. Remember it just a game, learn to play it. Too funny.
Chuck Michaels
How about "... don't do crime" ?
Consider : Covid doesn't give double credit for time on remand. Covid doesn't care about your high-priced lawyer. Covid doesn't care. Stay at home. DON'T get into trouble. BEHAVE.
The fewer folks that STAY OUT of jail in the FIRST place - the better it is for everyone.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/covid-19-new-brunswick-recoveries-1.5529844
N. B. COVID-19 roundup: Recoveries jump to 70, no new cases detected
New Brunswick has 42 active cases as recoveries jump by 10 in one day
· CBC News · Posted: Apr 11, 2020 12:42 PM AT
Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health, says measures taken by the province are 'clearly making a difference,' but it's too soon to tell if the COVID-19 pandemic is slowing in the province. (Submitted by the Government of New Brunswick)
A government news release said there have been 112 cases in total in New Brunswick. But the 70 recoveries mean there are only 42 active cases.
It's too soon to say the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic is slowing in the province, but the numbers show that physical distancing and other measures are working, said chief medical officer of health Dr. Jennifer Russell.
"I know it is difficult but please keep doing what you are doing because it is clearly making a difference."
Ten people have been hospitalized in total. Five have been discharged, and three of the five remaining are in the intensive care unit.
New Brunswick doesn't use testing to decide who's recovered
People diagnosed with COVID-19 will be considered recovered 14 days after showing their first symptom, unless they continue to have a fever or feel unwell.Those people can stop isolating themselves at that point, government spokesperson Anne Mooers said in an emailed statement Saturday.
"Hospitalized patients will be assessed on an individual basis by the treating physician and/ or infectious disease specialist to determine when isolation precautions can be discontinued," she said.
Mooers said it's "reasonable to believe" that people who have recovered would have immunity, but because this coronavirus is new, it's not clear how strong the immunity is or how long it will last.
She said that's still to be determined by research being done across the world.
RCMP on the lookout for people breaking physical distancing rules
RCMP officers are patrolling their regular routes, continuing to staff highways and looking out for people breaking the rules around COVID-19.Although people are being asked to stay home if possible, RCMP spokesperson Jullie Rogers-Marsh said RCMP have a regular number of officers patrolling during the long weekend.
"It would be our regular patrol," she said. "Tickets are being issued when appropriate."
Rogers-Marsh said officers have issued a number of tickets in the past week but wouldn't say how many.
"If we come across a situation where people are not following the guidelines, they could be given a ticket," she said.
She said officers are getting their directions about COVID-19 enforcement from the province. The province has asked people to avoid non-essential travel, and being near anyone who's not in their household. This includes being in the car with people they don't live with, gathering outdoors or being outdoors and not keeping a two-metre distance between each person.
"It's Easter weekend, everybody wants to spend it with their friends and family and there certainly are many traditions that simply are not possible this year," Rogers-Marsh said.
Province investigates transmission mode of six cases
Of the 112 cases of COVID-19 previously confirmed in New Brunswick, 64 are travel-related, 36 are close contacts of confirmed cases, six are the result of community transmission and six remain under investigation, the government said in its regular Saturday statement about the disease.The gender breakdown of positive cases is 42 per cent male and 58 per cent female.
The majority of the people tested are between the ages of 20 and 69. The age group that's been tested the most is 40 to 49 with 1,377 tests.
In the release, Premier Blaine Higgs thanked all essential workers for working on the holiday weekend and keeping New Brunswickers safe.
"Many people who work in the private or public sectors would be enjoying time off this Easter weekend with family and friends," said Higgs.
"Instead they are doing the most important work they will ever do. On behalf of your fellow New Brunswickers, thank you for working in these trying times. What you are doing is really appreciated."
What to do if you have symptoms?
People concerned they might have COVID-19 can take a self-assessment on the government website. Symptoms of coronavirus include fever, cough or breathlessness, as well as sore throat, headache and runny nose. People with symptoms are asked to:- Stay at home.
- Immediately call Tele-Care 811.
- Describe symptoms and travel history.
- Follow instructions carefully.
Johnny Almar
Masks don't do anything except make you sick.
David Amos
Will Leeson
Its the perfect enemy to control a population with.....invisible, and broadcasted like an unending incoming apocalypse 24/7..... well done folks, great job.
David Amos
Johnny Almar
“This is the new norm until there’s a vaccine.” Justin Trudeau Thursday, April 10, 2020.
Vaccine expected, at earliest, sometime in late 2021.
Yeah. Right.
We will revolt by then. NB will revolt if fishing season is delayed.
Lou Bell
Dave Girdwood
It's not time to get complacent, just one outbreak in a large seniors home would change the outlook. I hope they really focus in on testing all residents and staff for all seniors and special care homes so we can stay ahead of the curve and avoid what is happening in other jurisdictions.
.
oops that counts as one for David..................
I've been saying since Wednesday that the peak of the pandemic has been reached and we are now over the hump. There will be more cases. Many more. There is still a great need for safety precautions.
James Risdon
But the rate of spread of Covid-19 is now slowing. We are over the hump.
Ray Oliver
!
Accept it or reject it. It's all the same to me. I made that statement and so far I see no reason to take it back.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/new-brunswick-covid-19-cases-1.5529222
N.B. COVID-19 roundup: Province sees 1 new case, recoveries reach 60
Three people remain in ICU, 10 hospitalized in total
CBC News · Posted: Apr 10, 2020 1:39 PM AT
Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health, announced in a statement Friday there was one new confirmed case of COVID-19 in New Brunswick. (Submitted by the Government of New Brunswick)
New Brunswick has one new case of COVID-19, bringing the total to 112, the provincial government said Friday.
A news release says the new case is a person 60 to 69 years old in Zone 2, or the Saint John region.
The release said of the 112 cases, 63 are travel-related, 35 are close contacts of confirmed cases, six are the result of community transmission and eight remain under investigation.
Sixty people have recovered since the outbreak began, the release said. Ten people have been hospitalized in total, and five were still in hospital Friday. Three of them are in an intensive care unit.
In the release, chief medical officer of health Dr. Jennifer Russell reminded people how important it is to stay home this long weekend.
"It is difficult to not visit our parents, other family members and friends but it would be more difficult to see them become sick because of a decision that was made not to stay home," she was quoted as saying in the release.
Premier Blaine Higgs echoed the recommendation in the release.
"By staying at home and practising physical distancing, you are making a difference," he was quoted as saying.
Lack of enforcement clarity
Local police forces and the RCMP will be out this long weekend enforcing the physical-distancing rules related to COVID-19, educating residents and handing out tickets or fines to people found violating orders related to the province's emergency declaration.
Staying two metres away from people who are not in your family or household is mandatory, a rule that is outlined clearly in the emergency order.
Meanwhile, Public Health recommends limiting non-essential travel within the province. It's not something that is clearly outlined in the state of emergency order, leaving some residents confused as to what they can and can't do.
"What is actually a violation of the order versus what's just not following Public Health
recommendations can sometimes get a little bit muddied," said Jamie McConnell, a constitutional lawyer based in Saint John.
McConnell said the lack of clarity raises questions about what police are being told they can and can't do, too.
"There can be concerns over increased police powers when you have a state of emergency in effect," said
McConnell said police are allowed to pull motorists over anytime under the Motor Vehicle Act, but there's nothing in the state of emergency order that requires people in the car to answer questions, unless they are coming from out-of-province.
"There's nothing in the mandatory order that says police can stop you and you have to answer questions related to COVID-19," he said.
RCMP spokesperson Hans Ouelette has previously said that officers' first impulses will be to educate, rather than hand out tickets and fines.
McConnell said that doesn't mean people shouldn't use their common sense or not take recommendations about staying home seriously.
He also expects the mandatory order will be continuously updated, as Public Health figures out the best practice for certain situations, such as carpooling to work.
Hunting, fishing season delay doesn't affect treaty rights
The delay in the recreational hunting and fishing seasons will not impact First Nations and their Aboriginal and treaty rights, according to a spokesperson for the Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development.
"However, everyone is asked to stay home and to only go out for work or essentials, avoid any non-essential travel, and practise physical distancing," Kelly Cormier said in an email Friday.
The provincial government announced Thursday it was imposing a two-week delay at minimum before re-evaluating the situation on April 30.
Should garden centres be deemed essential?
Farmer Brown's owner Lisa Brown says she believes garden centres should be deemed an essential service because of the demand for vegetable seeds and plants.
"We've had so many calls from people wanting to start their first garden, to pre-order their vegetable plants, it's just through the roof."
Brown said many people are concerned about food security.
"People want to grow their own food and they need the advice, they need the seeds, they need the starter plants, all those things."
"That's how much people are concerned about food."
Because of the demand, Brown has hired someone to deal with the phone calls and keep an inventory of what has been ordered.
What is usually a busy time for planting has turned into a busy time for sales.
"We're trying to do both at the same time."
Brown is now seeking clarity on whether garden centres can be considered essential and able to open during the state of emergency declared to control the spread of COVID-19.
Brown said if garden centres were open so people could purchase flowers and shrubs for their property, people could more easily stay home.
Brown said her MLA toldl her garden centres could open as long as they maintained social distancing, but she wants the province to make this clear.
Calls to delay lobster fishing
Maritime and Quebec lobster processors say Ottawa should immediately delay fishing in all spring lobster fishing zones in the Gulf of St. Lawrence amid concerns about the COVID-19 outbreak and the cratering markets.
Twenty-four processors from the four provinces signed a letter to the premiers and Fisheries and Oceans Canada that also calls for financial aid for the industry.
The group called for a minimum two-week delay two weeks ago, but processors now say the situation has deteriorated.
"Unfortunately, the crisis has taken a significant turn for the worse and market conditions have degraded even more," the letter dated April 9 said. "A perfect storm is gathering in Canada's lobster industry."
Lobster processors want Ottawa to delay the start of the spring fishing season in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. (CBC)
Processors say they're concerned about being able to provide safe working conditions for their 10,000 workers.
"Our Canadian workers and their families are justifiably concerned about being called to work on May 1."
The group is also calling for a "significant industry contingency plan with a broad suite of support measures," including extending employment insurance benefits.
Premier Blaine Higgs said Thursday he wants the federal government to delay spring fishing.
"But I think if we had a choice it would be delayed at least for a few weeks and maybe maybe a little longer."
If the season is delayed, and especially if it's cancelled, Higgs said he would expect the federal government to provide compensation to fishers.
The federal government has postponed snow crab fishing in the gulf after consulting industry representatives.
N.B. farmers want action plan
Provincial farmers want to see an emergency plan on local food developed to improve market access and public food security, according to the president of the New Brunswick division for the National Farmers Union.
Rébeka Frazer-Chiasson told CBC News this week there are separate conversations happening in the province around helping farmers bring their products to market and what needs to be done to ensure households in need can put food on the table.
"We need to bring those conversations togethera and use New Brunswick farms to feed New Brunswick people," Frazer-Chiasson said.
In the weeks since restrictive emergency measures were ordered, food banks have described the deficit they're facing in supply and funding, and gaps in food security could widen in a prolonged lockdown.
Frazer-Chiasson said with government assistance, local farmers could help fill those holes. She proposed changes to regulations and quotas for small-scale operations as well as ensuring direct-to-consumer access so more products can reach the public.
She said local farms could also develop agreements with food banks, nursing homes and hospitals
.
Some local farmers face serious economic hurdles during the pandemic, from labour issues to cash flow, and the government aid packages are not tailored to farms.
For instance, the federal wage subsidy program requires businesses to show a 30 per cent loss of revenue, a tricky situation for farmers to report in the short term. Disruption to operations on the farm will result in lost revenue months and months from now when produce is ready to sell, she said.
96 Comments
Commenting is now closed for this story.
David Amos
Methinks most importantly the people who are employed to be concerned about our investments and pensions etc should have asked Higgy et al why the lawyers working for the Yankee SEC were calling me last week N'esy Pas?
David Amos
Methinks Higgy et all should at least agree that is one many clever lawyers I predicted would step up to the plate N'esy Pas?
"Meanwhile, Public Health recommends limiting non-essential travel within the province. It's not something that is clearly outlined in the state of emergency order, leaving some residents confused as to what they can and can't do.
"What is actually a violation of the order versus what's just not following Public Health recommendations can sometimes get a little bit muddied," said Jamie McConnell, a constitutional lawyer based in Saint John.
McConnell said the lack of clarity raises questions about what police are being told they can and can't do, too.
"There can be concerns over increased police powers when you have a state of emergency in effect," said"
john smith
Reply to @David Amos: it is what ever the population allows the mounties do thats why its ambiguous
David Amos
David Amos
Methinks some of Maritime lobster processors must recall our conversation last week N'esy Pas?
Jim Cyr
We could certainly begin to very gradually lift the lockdown right now. But here’s the problem with that: people are generally idiots who are not very responsible. So the second you loosen the lockdown a little, 20% of the population will rush right out and wreck the whole war on Coronavirus. And we will be right back where we started. That’s why Higgs and other leaders are going so slow in loosening things.
David Amos
David Amos
Methinks its interesting that Rébeka Frazer-Chiasson the current president of the National Farmers Union New Brunswick and her partner a former president of the SANB don't call or write since Janet Matheson and I first crossed paths with them many years ago N'esy Pas?
Justin Gunther
Let's completely wreck the economy because the generation that got $30 unionized labor jobs right out of high school, and who have all of the retirement savings and own their houses mortgage-free are scared and want to stop the world for 18 months. Again I'm not trying to be insensitive but let's get real, who really wants to wake up and smell the commmiesocialism?
Let's get real NB it appears things are trending downwards and it wasn't even that bad to begin with.
David Amos
Reply to @Gil Murray: Perhaps folks should Google "Harper and Bankers"
john smith
Reply to @Justin Gunther: i dont think the people want that i am very confident that this is top down driven and on recomendations by the same folks that want this to last until we are mandated to inject their medicine
Shawn McShane
You can't catch the same cold twice. Corona virus. We need antibody test. There is no vaccine for the common cold/corona. This is a fools game. Get the antibody test and lets get to work. Those with underlying illness and the elderly stay home. We will work and pay taxes to support you.
Reply to @Ray Oliver: So you say EH Mr Jones?
Reply to @David Amos: Who?
Reply to @Ray Oliver: You
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Methinks its illegal to impersonate a cop N'esy Pas?
Reply to @David Amos: Me thinks.. tell me more law dog. How many of these big cases you filed you actually won?
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Methinks I will call this dude to see what he thinks of you N'esy Pas?
The RCMP is starting a new way of issuing summary offence tickets.
As of Monday, RCMP Traffic Services in North Eastern Nova Scotia, including Bible Hill, the South Shore, Bridgewater and Cape Breton have been using a new electronic, or ESOT, system. Nova Scotia is the first province in Canada to implement the program.
"Today I had the opportunity to try this out and this system will improve the speed and the performance of our officers," said Insp. Ray Oliver, officer in charge of traffic services for the province.
"This will improve the safety of the public and our front-line officers."
Oliver said the system will help officers reduce the time spent writing tickets on roadsides. He said it can take upwards of 20 minutes for one ticket to be written and inputted into the computer. However, with the new system, that number can be down to about six minutes.
"Instead of manually writing everything down, the officer can take a driver's license and swipe it into a reader in the car and all the information is automatically uploaded," said Oliver.
Reply to @David Amos: Sometimes I go by Inspector Gadget too or Lieutenant Dan. Give them a ring will you?
David Amos
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Just yesterday you were Mr Jones Methinks desperate people do desperate things N'esy Pas?
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: Terrified. Between your knowledge of the law and close friendly contacts in law enforcement I'll be tossing and turning all night!
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: No I think bored people are having too much fun with someone like yourself who always has to have the last word and usually those words are as backwards as they come.
David Amos
Reply to @David Amos: BTW All the Feds on both sides of the 49th know that I blog and Tweet as i post
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: My guess is if they even track you that closely my tone is clearly sarcasm to wind a guy up right. In no way did I use a joking tone of being a constable to gain leverage from it. They're smarter than you.
David Amos
David Amos
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Trust that RCMP are very well aware of my connection with Staff Sgt Jones
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: All that unnecessary typing of methinks and nesy pas. Give the thumbs a little break!
David Amos
Ray Oliver
Reply to @David Amos: You're fun. I like you.
David Amos
David Amos
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Methinks the editing is desperately comical N"esy Pas?
Johnny Jakobs
Delay the lobster season till summer, after they molted. The foreign buyers will love the soft shell, no meat bugs and will probably pay top dollar....
Total sarcasm.
Delay it to long and the fishers may miss it.
Andrew Clarkson
Maybe they could give all the lobsters to the food banks? They are going to need a lot of food!
David Amos
Reply to @Ray Oliver: Nighty Night Mr Jones
Ray Oliver
David Amos
Reply to @Johnny Jakobs: Methinks you should review our words N'esy Pas?
Chantal LeBouthi
Have a great weekend NB poeples the majority are staying homes and doing physical distancing even if is hard especially for teenagers and young adults
To seniors like the Queen said we will meet again don’t worry
Fred Brewer
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/covid-19-quebec-friday-april-10-1.5529028
your quebec leaders a bit out there dont ya think
David Amos
Reply to @Marguerite Deschamps: For the record I did not bother with the circus today until I noticed mean old Fred made your words go "Poof" Methinks that was unusual of him to do with one of his pen pals N'esy Pas?
Marguerite Deschamps
Reply to @Lou DumBell: Why should I try to keep up to what an old lady said on the other side of the pond? Which god should save her? - Zeus Bacchus, whatever? There, I posted it again just for you!
David Amos
Methinks you SANB dudes must have enjoyed the fact that I sued that lady while running in the election of the 42nd Parliament N'esy Pas?
David Amos
Reply to @Marguerite Deschamps: Methinks your fellow Quebecker talks just like our Queen N'esy Pas?
"Quebec's schools could still reopen in early May, Premier François Legault said Friday, citing the latest numbers on the coronavirus pandemic as further evidence the first wave is stabilizing.
"When Quebec is united as one, nothing can get in our way," he said, in perhaps the most positive remarks since his daily press conferences on the pandemic began.
"We Quebecers know one thing: In the heart of winter, we still know that spring will follow. We know better days are coming."
David Amos
Reply to @Toby Tolly: Methinks I made decent use of your tip N'esy Pas?
David Amos
Reply to @Marguerite Deschamps:
I will take our Majesty kind words any days of the week
That you prefer a republic like the US is your choice
Im sticking with the monarchy
Marguerite Deschamps
David Amos
Reply to @Marguerite Deschamps: Methinks it would not be wise to believe anything you claim until you get a real name N'esy Pas?
https://twitter.com/DavidRayAmos/with_replies
David Raymond Amos @DavidRayAmos
Replying to @DavidRayAmos @alllibertynews and 49 others
Methinks nasty people should say Hey to Higgy and their RCMP buddies for me as they try to snitch on their neighbours over Easter N'esy Pas?
https://davidraymondamos3.blogspot.com/2020/04/nb-covid-19-roundup-police-have-power.html
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/coronavirus-covid-19-pandemic-1.5525933
N.B. COVID-19 roundup: Police have the power to pull vehicles over, check on compliance
Dr. Jennifer Russell urges people not to gather for Easter weekend, with 3 new cases bringing total to 108
· CBC News · Posted: Apr 08, 2020 11:22 AM AT
Premier Blaine Higgs has been providing daily news updates throughout the work week since the outbreak started last month. (Submitted by the Government of New Brunswick)
Police and Public Safety officers have the power to pull vehicles over during the COVID-19 state of emergency to check whether the occupants are complying with the rules, Premier Blaine Higgs said Wednesday.
"We are in unusual times right now," he told reporters during the daily update in Fredericton.
"And although the directive is not to say, you know, you can't go from point A to point B within our province, the directive is, we encourage people to stay home and use their common sense and go for essential travel only."
Higgs said he personally commends the initiative being shown by officers to understand where people are going and why because that information will help the government make better decisions about what changes are required to limit possible exposure to the virus.
"The more the safety officers can glean from people, I'm not going to complain about it."
New Brunswick has three new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing the province's total to 108, the chief medical officer of health Dr. Jennifer Russell announced on Wednesday.
Six COVID-19 patients remain in hospital, including four in the intensive care unit.
The new cases include:
- Zone 3, the Fredericton region: two people in their 60s.
- Zone 6, the Acadie-Bathurst region, one person in their 80s — the first case in that region.
Three new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed on Wednesday, including the first case in the Bathurst region. (CBC)
Higgs said officers might pull over carloads of people, for example, to ensure the occupants are all members of the same household because otherwise they would be in violation of the requirement to keep a physical distance of at least six feet or about two metres.
"If someone … [drives] around their community, they don't get out of the car, they're family, they're not friends and neighbours, just travelling — you know are we going to fine them for that? No, we're not going to find them for that.
"But there is a common sense element here," he said. "Don't take anything for granted, don't take any chances."
He believes there have been instances of people travelling through different communities — and even attempting to cross New Brunswick borders — for something as basic as a cup of coffee.
Why would you put yourself at risk or why would you put others at risk at a time like this?
- Blaine Higgs, premier"That's not an essential service. Maybe some think it is, but basically right now it's not."
The province has also been getting questions from "different communities" about what to do about unwanted visitors, Higgs said.
Although he doesn't want to put up borders between communities, people have to start using their judgment and stop making unnecessary visits to communities they don't live in.
"Why would you put yourself at risk or why would you put others at risk at a time like this?"
Here is a roundup of other developments.
Weekend could be 'turning point,' Higgs says
Of the 108 cases, 60 are travel-related, 33 are close contacts of confirmed cases, six are the result of community transmission and nine remain under investigation.
The province continues to do better than many jurisdictions in terms of the number of cases and hospitalizations, chief medical officer of health Dr. Jennifer Russell told reporters during the daily update in Fredericton.
It would be tragic to see an upsurge in cases next week if New Brunswickers ignore the advice of Public Health to stay home and choose instead to gather over Easter weekend, she said.
"You may think, 'It's just my family,' or 'It's just my friends.' But the COVID-19 virus may be an uninvited guest at your table, brought along by someone who has only mild symptoms, or no symptoms at all. Do not let that happen."
Dr. Jennifer Russell, New Brunswick's chief medical officer of health, held a briefing with reporters Wednesday afternoon. (Photo: Government of New Brunswick)
In-person religious services and recreational events are also prohibited, but Premier Blaine Higgs said he is aware of at least two ATV rallies planned for the weekend.
He called them a "mistake."
"A rally exposes you to friends and neighbours unnecessarily," he said.
Fifty of the 108 infected people have recovered to date, "which shows we are gradually improving," said Higgs.
But "that could all be lost this weekend," he said.
He cited the example of a funeral in Newfoundland, where one person with no evident symptoms quickly multiplied to 143 cases.
"This long weekend could be the turning point," he stressed. This is not the time to be complacent.
"We must stay strong, stay focused and stay home."
Enforcement officers will be out over the weekend, Higgs said. The goal continues to be to educate, he said.
"Ideally, no one will be ticketed. Ideally, everyone will be following the rules."
Passover Seder will be different
For the Jewish community, Passover starts Wednesday at sundown and lasts for eight days.
Most Jewish families celebrate Seder, where they retell the story of the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. Then, they take part in a special meal.
Afterwards, families sing traditional songs.
But this year might look a bit different.
"The fact that we cannot gather as a family anymore is going to be hard," said Francis Weil, president of Tiferes Israel Synagogue in Moncton.
New Brunswick pharmacists imposed a 30-day limit to prescription refills last month. (Elise Amendola/The Associated Press)
"Only the family [who] lives together can do it. But brothers and sisters cannot get together and that's going to be very hard this year."
Typically, observant Jews aren't supposed to use technology during this holiday, but Weil said it's a way for family to still be together during the traditional holiday.
He was celebrating Passover over Skype on Wednesday afternoon with his daughter and her family, who live in France.
"The important thing is to remain safe."
Pharmacists urge people to respect 30-day prescription rule
The New Brunswick Medical Society and New Brunswick Pharmacists' Association are urging residents to respect efforts to limit prescriptions to 30 days.
The 30-day limit on prescription refills was imposed by pharmacists in late March to protect the province's drug supply.
"We understand that this is a challenging, frustrating time for New Brunswickers," the two groups said in a news release Wednesday.
"Please do not direct your frustration on the health-care professionals who are doing their best to take care of your needs and those of your families while risking their own health and safety, as well as that of their loved ones."
All 233 pharmacies in the province have stayed open during the pandemic, medical health officer Dr. Jennifer Russell said Wednesday.
In the last few weeks, New Brunswick pharmacists have seen a surge in demand for medical supplies and medications as a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic.
Francis Weil, president of Tiferes Israel Synagogue in Moncton, talks about Passover in a Skype interview with CBC News. (Photo: CBC News)
The news release said health-care professionals are working together to try to ensure medications are available for all patients.
Once the pharmacy regulatory authorities across Canada are confident in the security of the drug supply, pharmacies will be able to return to normal practice.
"By limiting supply to 30 days, pharmacists are taking a proactive step to ensure their patients continue to have access to their medications," she said.
Expiry date for lotto tickets extended
The Atlantic Lottery Corporation has extended the expiry date for winning tickets.
In a release issued Tuesday, the corporation granted players an extra six months to claim prizes for tickets that have an expiry date from March 17, 2020, to Sept. 17, 2020.
In addition to draw-based games, the extension also applies to scratch tickets.
Tech group develops COVID-19 tracking tool for Saint John food program
A volunteer tech group in Saint John is developing a tracking tool to help a local food program see who their employees are coming into contact with.
Civic Tech, a group that tries to come up with solutions to community problems, has created a tool to assist in tracking who relies on the Greater Saint John Emergency Food Program.
COVID-19 has led pharmacists to limit prescription refills to a 30-day supply. (NIAID-RML/The Associated Press/The Canadian Press)
This will help the non-profit organization track the potential spread of COVID-19 in the area.
"You want to be able to track who's touched what in an infectious disease situation," said Lorna Brown, a member of Civic Tech.
About 10 people are involved in building the tool, which could be used by Public Health for contact tracking.
Before Civic Tech came up with the idea, the Greater Saint John Emergency Food Program was using an Excel spreadsheet to track who had packed food bags, who delivered them and who received them.
Civic Tech is hoping to deploy the tool in the coming weeks.
RV company donates vehicles to health-care workers
An RV dealership in Moncton is donating motor-homes to frontline health-care workers needing to self-isolate.
"I just feel like it's something that we have to do," said Matthew Brown, general manager and owner of Pine Acres Moncton.
Brown saw a Facebook post from another RV company in Canada that was offering up its RVs to health-care workers, and decided he should do the same.
Twelve RVs are available for use.
So far, 40 people have expressed interest in acquiring an RV.
Brown plans to restrict distribution to people living in the Moncton area.
The RVs come equipped with fridges and a bed.
"All they need to do is have a hot water hose and some power hookup for us."
The company will drop off the RV and set it up, without coming into contact with the person receiving the vehicle. It will also send a video via text giving a quick tour of the unit and how to use it.
There's no time limit on how long people can keep the RV.
"As long as this pandemic is still going and they're working in the health-care system, then obviously we're going to make sure that they're protecting themselves as well as their family."
The difference between allergy symptoms and COVID-19
Dr. Jennifer Russell, New Brunswick's chief medical officer of health, said there are many similarities between COVID-19, seasonal allergies and the flu.
Although COVID-19 has many symptoms, a cough and fever are still the main symptoms health-care workers are looking for.
"Most people with allergies would have burning eyes and runny nose and sneezing," she said.
What to do if you have symptoms?
Symptoms of coronavirus include fever, cough or breathlessness. In this case, residents should:
- Stay at home.
- Immediately call Tele-Care 811.
- Describe symptoms and travel history.
- Follow instructions carefully.
137 Comments
Commenting is now closed for this story.
Meghan Clark
My fiance and I still technically live apart. Are we going to be fined for walking or driving together? We are both socially distancing but law enforcement can't take our word over what it says on our licences.
David Amos
Pat Holland
Reply to @David Amos:
You have seen Higgs and Leblanc driving together with an unknown woman?? Sounds like a conspiracy at the highest levels.
Johnny Almar
Good. Now the cottage goers can be fined. Thank you Premier Higgs. Make them stay home.
David Amos
Jim Johnston
Reply to @Johnny Almar: ??? I didn't see anything about that. If someone owns two homes, a summer and winter home, and they keep to themselves regardless which house they are in, they are not breaking any of the regulations.
Jim Johnston
Maybe the warning should be if we find a car load of unrelated people they will all be walking home. For many that would be enough to stay out of that situation.
David Amos
Reply to @Jim Johnston: A friend called last evening to tell me about what happened to him in Higgy's Police State. He is a retired military guy who lives in the hills outside of Sussex. He does not have the Internet. Yesterday he did what he has often done for years when he comes to town. He pulled into Tim's and parked and began checking his email and the news etc byway of their free WiFi. Lets just say the RCMP pounced on him and threatened that all kinds of mean nasty ugly things would happen to him his did such a thing again. Methinks many folks know why I am grinning as I hear Higgy yapping on radio right now about property tax etc. Trust that I don't care that desperate conservatives claim I am unknown or vague or a failure as a politician Vicky et al know why Higgy and the RCMP should not enjoy an email from me later today N'esy Pas?
Terry Hughes
Reply to @David Amos: Koo Koo, Koo Koo
Robert Buck
Reply to @David Amos: You know there are two sides to every story.
Robert Buck
Here is the emergency order. Everyone please read it. It is not complicated. https://www2.gnb.ca/content/dam/gnb/Corporate/pdf/EmergencyUrgence19.pdf
David Amos
Robert Buck
Reply to @David Amos. Just read the second paragraph. That gives the authority. Do you want me to post the link for the Emergency Measures Act?
Murray Brown
Edward Andrews
Did I miss something here? Higgs is saying its ok to go from point A to point B within the province but we should stay home? Higgs its ok to go to C, D, E, F as well and I don't need permission and I don't need police to be asking me about my business as they only information they will get is what they are entitled to under law. The won't get any information about where I'm going, where I have been, what my purpose of travelling is. I'm good with distancing and not gathering as means to slow the spread but the cure is quickly becoming worse than the virus. I'm not good with Higgs suggesting there are rules in place that don't exist or that suddenly charter rights have been fully suspended.
Chantal LeBouthi
And not much transparency
You may want to read the government’s power during a state of emergency! It is exactly that, your charter rights are suspended and you can be charged as they wish if you don’t follow the rules set out.
It doesn’t mean trying to create your own marshal law
The only poeples who can declare marshal law is the federal government
And this isn’t a state emergency
Is a public health emergency
Pat Holland
Reply to @Edward Andrews:
Because it is clear you haven't read it I thought I would put the section that applies there for you it is quite clear they can limit travel
Emergency Measures Act (R.S.N.B. 2011, c.147)
Pat Holland
Reply to @Chantal LeBouthi:
March 19 as per GNB website " state of emergency declared in New Brunswick" In response to a health crisis. So yes this province is under a state of emergency
Edward Andrews
Reply to @Pat Holland: Oh Pat, one thing that is clear is you have not read the actual declaration and seem to believe the Act and the declaration are one and the same. The Act enables such declarations and the content of the declaration must be both reasonable and based on facts to respond to the immediate threats. Dig a bit deeper for your education Pat. I agree a SoE, as allowed under the Emergency Measures Act, has been declared. I agree the government "can" suspend charter rights under such a declaration. The fine point is "can". Now go read the actual declaration and mandatory order, its right there on the NB gov page. You'll see what powers and orders Higgs has put in place and that have been approved by the Lt Gov, as is required. If you read it you will see what rights are being limited. Those limitations not expressly included in the declaration are not limited in any way and remain intact and available to all. Higgs is making personal appeals sound like orders (not included in the declaration) and needs to not blur the two at this time and endanger the public through over zealous police enforcement.
Marguerite Deschamps
Hogwash! Trumps said it would be business as usual by Easter.
Pat Holland
You are mis quoting that.
He said it would be nice to see things open by Easter followed by wouldn’t it be nice to see people back to work by Easter and churches full of people celebrating Easter
I tried sending the link to the actual video as well as the politico transcript where it it clear in his speech from the rose garden he said he would “love to open” the economy again not he was going to.
It would not allow me to upload it.
Marguerite Deschamps
Reply to @Pat Holland: That's the flip flop you were looking for.
Pat Holland
Reply to @Marguerite Deschamps:
Not looking for flip flop at all, But when people misquote things to push a narrative or stoke fear and hate for another it becomes troubling and not very helpful in times like these.
David Amos
Chantal LeBouthi
Quebec will test every seniors in nursing home to protect the seniors
?
David Amos
Reply to @Marguerite Deschamps: Methinks you SANB dudes flip flop just like Trump and Trudeau N'esy Pas?
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/new-brunswick-transfer-payments-abortion-access-1.5527586
Feds penalize province for lack of abortion access, but reimburse payments because of COVID-19
Federal Health Minister's office says payments reduced by $140,000 because of lack of abortion access
· CBC News · Posted: Apr 09, 2020 12:10 PM AT
Health Minister Patty Hajdu's office said reimbursement of the $140,000 penalty is temporary. (Adrian Wyld/Canadian Press)
The federal government took away $140,000 in transfer payments to New Brunswick as a penalty for not providing adequate abortion access.
But then gave it back.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the country, the government found New Brunswick was violating the Canada Health Act by not covering out-of-hospital abortions under Medicare.
As a result, it deducted $140,216 from the annual health transfer payments that were paid out in March. That's how much money New Brunswickers spent out-of-pocket on abortions at a clinic in 2017, when they were supposed to be covered.
However, because of the pressure on the health system caused by the novel coronavirus, the federal government has decided to reimburse that amount, according to a statement shared by the Minister of Health Patty Hajdu's office.
Health Minister Ted Flemming said the Health Act has a dispute mechanism that the federal government can use, but he believes New Brunswick is compliant. (Ed Hunter/CBC)
The statement said the reimbursement was "temporary", but it did not provide a timeline.
"As the prime minister has said, we will ensure that the New Brunswick government eliminates patient charges for abortion services outside of hospitals," said Hajdu's spokesperson Cole Davidson.
The statement said discussions about reducing barriers to abortion are continuing.
During the daily COVID-19 news conference Thursday, Premier Blaine Higgs said the province's position has been clear from the beginning: "that we're not funding a private clinic in New Brunswick."
"We're meeting the Canada Health rules and the Canada Health Act," Higgs said
Dr. Adrian Edgar, medical director of Clinic 554. (CBC)
New Brunswick provides abortions in two hospitals in Moncton — the Moncton Hospital and the Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre — and the Chaleur Regional Hospital in Bathurst.
In late February, Hajdu said "Obviously there is an inequity in terms of access to services, and under their proposed regime women are not covered in very specific regions."
New Brunswick received $860 million in health transfer payments in 2020.
Barriers remain
Dr. Adrian Edgar of Clinic 554, New Brunswick's only abortion clinic, said COVID-19 has thrown up even more barriers to people seeking abortion services.
He said travelling to get abortions in hospitals is riskier now because of COVID-19. He said allowing abortions in clinics would make the process safer.
"If they would just fund everything we do, including abortions, patients in the southern part of the province wouldn't have to travel during a pandemic and they wouldn't be asked to enter a hospital when we're trying to limit all unnecessary hospital visits," he said.
"Patients accessing abortion services at Horizon's The Moncton Hospital will be screened before entering the hospital," she said.
Vitalite spokesperson Thomas Lizotte said surgical abortion services in Chaleur Regional Hospital and Dr. Georges-L.-Dumont University Hospital Centre are still operational despite the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Nothing has changed," he said.
49 Comments
Commenting is now closed for this story.
David Amos
Methinks Health Minister Patty Hajdu's office should review their emails ASAP N'esy Pas?
FIRSTLY it's "n'est pas" NOT "n'ecy pas" "N'ecy pas" does NOT exist in English NOR French
SECONDLY the same as every word in a sentence in English does NOT need to be capitalized, we also DO NOT capitalize every word in French, either.
THIRDLY Perhaps you think ending EACH AND EVERY post with this incorrect phrase makes you appear pithy and fresh, PLEASE believe me when I tell you - IT DOES NOT....
Yea Right Methinks you should learn how to use Google N'esy Pas?
David Amos
Reply to @David Amos: Methinks I should ask people who hate me so much is that any reason to justify why both Health Ministers would deny my right to Health Care? Imagine if such a time happened to you I bet you would complain N'esy Pas?
Tim Biddiscombe
We were lucky to get that money back..
David Amos
Reply to @Tim Biddiscombe: Methinks you have no clue how deep the rabbit hole goes N'esy Pas?
David News
It is a shame that in NB our health system across the board is substandard compared to the other Canadian provinces. The government rations so many services that are generally readily available for free in the rest of the country. Lets see, blood tests, full medicals on an annual basis, oh the ability to actually go to a clinic and discuss and address more than one issue with the doctor, or better yet actually get a family doctor. Why is it a surprise that the province ration's medical services that are protected by the charter of rights for women. Only in NB eh! Shame on the current and previous provincial governments for not investing in a rigorous health system that actually address's all of the needs of N Bers
eddy watts
What about other provinces who follow the law....will they get extra $$?? Yes it's ($$) needed in NB, but not at the expense of women's rights.
David Amos
Mike Morton
Liberals playing politics during the pandemic again...
David Amos
:"With the GREAT daily updates we're getting it has sure stifled the Liberal naysayers going after Higgs .They must be really , really be keeping their fingers crossed for some type of negative news. Marc , Maggie , and others have been pretty well muzzled . Need new orders I guess from melanson and the Shediac 5 ".
Bruce Sanders
"adequate abortion access" Why should any Canadian have their hard earned taxes given to people for a life choice they have made. Well, Morgentaler would be so proud.
much (obese) no heart treatment etc etc...punishing women (only) for life choices smacks of "hate" to me.
Axel Roosevelt
How was 140k supposed to be any kind of punishment? $140,000 is less than a rounding error in government money terms, it's more like the equivalent of dropping a nickel somewhere.
David Amos
Frank Ward
In the Last Days, Good will be called Evil .
And Evil called Good.
BruceJack Speculator
Johnny Almar
Taxpayers should not have to pay for little Suzy's night of fun.
David Amos
Same for little Johnny.
Arish Moogadoo
You'd think that in the middle of a pandemic that the federal government would have better things to do than to continue to persecute New Brunswick.
David Amos
Arish Moogadoo
Canada has been knee capping our province since 1867 and then telling us to be grateful for the money they give us, all the while telling us how to run our province. Time to keep the borders in place once this crisis is over and get back our traditional New England trade routes. So sick of the way these Canadians treat this province and how they keep telling us what to do! Anyone notice how the national networks cover every other province but pretend New Brunswick doesn't exist? It seems we're in a federation who doesn't like us.
I'm with you that we are NOT treated well compared with other regions, but we combat that by PROVING our worth, not whining and crying about it
What we REALLY have is fishing and farming and, although great for feeding the masses, neither is an industry we can stand alone on.
I don't like it any batter than you do, but we are dependent on the rest of Canada for our survival..
.
Johnny Jakobs
Reply to @Arish Moogadoo: the point powers most of new england...
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/covid-19-new-brunswick-projections-modelling-1.5527065
N.B. COVID-19 roundup: Businesses could begin opening as early as summer, Higgs says
New Brunswick government also releases its COVID-19 case projections
· CBC News · Posted: Apr 09, 2020 12:25 PM AT
Premier Blaine Higgs said, depending how the next weeks and months, New Brunswick could begin rebooting the provincial economy this summer. (Submitted by the Government of New Brunswick)
Premier Blaine Higgs said Thursday there's a chance New Brunswick could begin jump-starting the economy and regain a sense of normalcy within a matter of months.
"There is hope New Brunswick can return to normal in some form this summer," Higgs declared during the regular afternoon media briefing after the province announced three new confirmed cases of COVID-19.
That brings the provincial total to 111, a number that officials and researchers say shows the restrictive measures in place are working — so far. But hauling back restrictions, or non-compliance, could have devastating and deadly consequences for New Brunswickers and their health-care system, according to new projections released Thursday.
Higgs said his government is considering the steps it would take to allow businesses to reopen. That includes maintaining physical distancing practices in the meantime and testing for potential carriers returning to the workplace.
"Then we look at each business and we say, 'OK, how can this one operate, how can it meet the social distancing required in the situation, and how can we allow it to start up," he said.
Opportunities New Brunswick, which is co-ordinating the program for working capital loans between $100,000 and $1 million, is now assisting 1,200 businesses.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wasn't as optimistic in his remarks Thursday, saying "this is the new normal" until a vaccine is developed, which could be a year or two away.
Higgs said any move to reopen businesses would depend on how the next weeks and months play out and the economy won't be fully restarted until there is a vaccine.
But the premier is concerned about the financial fallout.
"We believe there is a balance here because if people don't have a job, if they don't have income, if they don't have a future that they can see and a livelihood, they can become more stressed, we can have social situations that become unbearable and we don't want to see that happen," he said.
More than 64,000 people applied for the province's one-time $900 payment for affected workers.
In an interview Thursday morning with CBC News, Higgs also explained how the provincial government coffers have been hit by the pandemic. The province is losing out on $40 million in revenue per month, and Higgs said he's concerned about equalization transfer payments with Alberta's economy "devastated."
It raises questions about how the government will maintain critical services in a prolonged shutdown.
"We're saying, 'Are we going to be able to borrow money?' We need to maintain critical services and be able to supply everyone what they need," said Higgs, who even raised the notion of applying for federal disaster funding.
"So, how we get businesses up and running and contributing again is a focus because we need that source of revenue."
Here is a roundup of other developments.
3 new cases include child, two adults in same family
The province announced three new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Thursday.
All three cases are in the Fredericton area. Cases include a person under the age of 10, a person between 30 and 39 years old and a third 40 to 49 years-old. All of the cases are in one family after one family member travelled from Ontario more than a week ago, Premier Blaine Higgs said.
"I want it to be clear how easy it is to not only have your family impacted, but how easy it is to spread to other members of the community," he said.
These new cases bring the total number of cases up to 111.
There are 111 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in New Brunswick. (Photo: CBC News )
The number of COVID cases continues to rise, but slowly, said Dr. Jennifer Russsell, New Brunswick's chief medical officer of health.
Fifty-three people have recovered from the virus.
Government releases COVID-19 projections
COVID-19 could kill between 550 and 1,750 New Brunswickers over the next 18 to 24 months, until a vaccine is available, projections released by the provincial government Thursday reveal.
"These aren't just figures on a graph. These are people. These are New Brunswickers," Premier Blaine Higgs said.
Between 15 and 132 could die by the end of this month, Health Minister Ted Flemming said.
Had there been no public health measures, as many as 5,600 New Brunswickers could have died, said Flemming.
The number of people in intensive care could hit a peak of 84 on any given day this month, under the worst-case scenario model, which was based on northern Italy's data, he said, and acute care hospitalizations, 194.
Caution tape hangs over chairs at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital that aren't allowed to be used by patients to promote physical distancing. (Photo: Elizabeth Fraser/CBC News)
At least another two weeks of data is required to be able to project a peak of the pandemic.
Some other provinces, such as Ontario, Alberta and Quebec, previously released their projections.
Higgs said New Brunswick's relatively low numbers to date make accurate projections challenging.
"And that's been kind of the focus here is how accurate can we be?
"We want to make sure people realize this is very, very real. The potential is very, very high. And so the situation that we present … needs to be as accurate as possible."
Virus consistently turns up less frequently in New Brunswick
As of Tuesday, when New Brunswick had 105 cases of COVID-19, it had the fewest cases per capita of all the provinces.And while New Brunswick has tested less for COVID-19 than most provinces, in testing that has been done, the virus consistently turns up less frequently in New Brunswick than elsewhere — once in every 58 tests since the beginning of the pandemic last month.
By comparison, in neighbouring Nova Scotia the virus has shown up once in every 35 tests and in Quebec, once in every 13 tests.
New Brunswick's chief medical officer of health, Dr. Jennifer Russell, said she supports making the province's projections public.
The modelling is important, she said, so the province can be prepared and adjust plans, if required.
Province delays hunting and fishing season
The province will delay the opening of recreational fishing and hunting season for a minimum of two weeks.
This position will be evaluated again on April 30.
According to the government's website, all Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development have been ordered to close until further notice.
Stay home over Easter weekend
This week, Premier Blaine Higgs and Dr. Jennifer Russell have been urging people to stay home and to avoid family gatherings and church services over the Easter weekend.
Right now, Higgs said, New Brunswickers are doing what Public Health is asking of them to flatten the curve and slow the spread of COVID-19.
"If we continue to follow the rules closely, we can be a game changer in New Brunswick," Higgs said.
Earlier this week, Higgs said he was aware of at least two ATV rallies planned for the weekend, but on Thursday, Higgs said organizations like the New Brunswick All Terrain Vehicle Federation have made it clear they aren't going to sanction any rallies.
"This isn't the weekend to head out," he said.
Police and RCMP officers have the authority to enforce the rules against gatherings of any kind, Higgs said.
"Will they proceed with that enforcement? I hope it won't be necessary. But if it is, yes they will. We must adhere to the rules for our own health and safety."
Province's income benefit program ends Thursday
The deadline for the provincial emergency income benefit has come to a close. The $900 was meant to help New Brunswickers who have lost their jobs due to COVID-19.
Despite concerns raised around access to the benefit, Premier Blaine Higgs remained strong that there would be no extension.
"It was very, very clearly a stopgap until the federal government benefit was going to come into play," said Higgs of the $900.
According to government's recent projections, COVID-19 could kill between 550 and 1,750 New Brunswickers over the next 12 to 24 months. (Photo: Government of New Brunswick)
New Brunswickers were told they would have until 8 p.m. Thursday night to register for the benefit.
But that wasn't the case for some New Brunswickers, like Samantha Williams. The Sussex woman called the line Thursday morning, and after waiting for just over an hour, was told registration for the benefit was already closed and it could not be reopened.
"I'm definitely a little disappointed. I mean I was really counting on that money. It's a scary time for sure and you never really know what's going to happen," she said.
On Thursday morning, Higgs told Information Morning Fredericton that there were "technical issues" on the GNB website, which resulted in them closing online registration earlier than expected.
On Tuesday, Higgs said more than 60,000 people applied for the benefit to date, and more than $20 million had already been paid out.
Liberal MLA for Moncton Centre Robert McKee called on the government to extend the New Brunswick workers emergency income benefit for people who lost their jobs or had to close their business because of the COVID-19 outbreak
But McKee said members of the Liberal caucus have received "many" calls in recent days from people experiencing problems with online applications and in trying to reach someone on the phone.
Premier hopes to delay fishery
Premier Blaine Higgs says he wants Fisheries and Oceans Canada to delay the spring fishing season in New Brunswick.
The government is in discussions with other provinces about what it would mean for them, he said.
"But I think if we had a choice it would be delayed at least for a few weeks and maybe maybe a little longer."
If the season is delayed, and especially if it's cancelled, Higgs said he would expect the federal government to provide compensation to fishers.
What to do if you have symptoms?
Symptoms of coronavirus include fever, cough or breathlessness. In this case, residents should:
- Stay at home.
- Immediately call Tele-Care 811.
- Describe symptoms and travel history.
- Follow instructions carefully.
74 Comments
Commenting is now closed for this story.
David Amos
Methinks the photo is a a telling thing. In order for folks to uphold Higgy's law perhaps the hospital should put tape on two chair between each seated client before the cops opt to ticket everybody N'esy Pas?
Lou Bell
With the GREAT daily updates we're getting it has sure stifled the Liberal naysayers going after Higgs .They must be really , really be keeping their fingers crossed for some type of negative news. Marc , Maggie , and others have been pretty well muzzled . Need new orders I guess from melanson and the Shediac 5 .
David Amos
David Amos
Reply to @Lou Bell: BTW Methinks you already know that I quoted you to Maggie in a heartbeat N'esy Pas?
Sean Pendragon
Small business = non-essential.
Walmart = essential
Fred Dee
Sadly... do not break a tooth.... Dentists will not be back till much later!!! They need PPE"s to work!!
john smith
why would you delay fishing and hunting thats ridiculous you can purchase everything online and you defitely practice social distancing in those activities that sort of decision makes people go hmmmm
eddy watts
ummm Canada will open when the States open.....N.B. will open when Ontario opens....You have to love Higgs ("on the world stage")
Kris Boucher
Perspective
Cancer
Nearly 80,000 people died from cancer in 2018, according to Statistics Canada.
Cardiovascular disease
In 2018, more than 53,000 Canadians died from heart disease, according to Statistics Canada.
Accidents, including a car crash
Nearly 13,300 people died from unintentional injuries in 2018, according to Statistics Canada.
The flu
Influenza and pneumonia killed 8,511 people in 2018, per Statistics Canada figures.
Suicide
In 2018, 3,811 people died by suicide, according to Statistics Canada.
When you cut through the hysteria and see the facts, such as the elderly and those with a compromised immune system are the ones at greater risk from the covid virus. Perhaps we should be isolating these people, but don’t shut down the country our economy will take years to come back. So far there is over 500 deaths from this virus, but over 5206 people have recovered out of the 20,682 cases in Canada.
Perspective is everything.
Methinks Nobody Should Deny That Is What I Have Been Harping About Since The Nonsense Began N'esy Pas?
Kris Boucher
Reply to @Kris Boucher:
You do need to realize that none of these causes of death with the exception of the flu are spreadable through community transmission. It's like comparing apples with oranges. And comparing the flu with COVID-19 is again incomparable, since we do have vaccines for the flu, but none with COVID-19, which is why the number of deaths from the flu are so low. We are currently in a honeymoon phase with COVID-19, where we don't know the full impact of the virus as of yet, but we are projecting over 11,000 to 22,000 deaths by the end of the year with strict measures according to experts. Without any measures, it could end up between 50,000 and 100,000.
Kris Boucher
Georges Saint Yves
Reply to @Gabriel Boucher: But, vaccines for the flu is incidental depending on the virus. One flu vaccine doesn't prevent all flu strains. What is needed is a herd immunity. Although one death is too many, if you look at the percentage of deaths to the people infected and the percentage of deaths to the population it is extremely low. Perhaps if we had received the actual data from China for the Wuhan flu, the projected numbers may be more accurate. Nevertheless, after the panic that Trudeau continues to preach everyday and his foolishness about not reopening the economy for abundance of months, the amount of deaths from suicide will far outnumber the amount of deaths from this virus. There is a solution if a politician is brave enough to put it forth. Trudeau's solution is to continue to raise panic so that he can move his vision of destroying an already weak economy. Canadians will start to question and there will be the possibility of anarchy in the streets.
Lou Bell
Reply to @Kris Boucher: New York city and other American cities were like you . DID NOTHING and look at them now ! Isolating and social distancing has paid off BIGLY !! Pay attention and comprehend if you can where all would be without following the strict parameters ! Look at Italy / Spain .You want perspective , then take off the blinders .
David Amos
Lou Bell
Reply to @David Amos: 15 to 20 votes while running in any election . Not even those signing your nomination papers voted for you . We know how much faith people are putting in your revelations !
David Amos
Reply to @David Amos: Sounds like they've done a pretty good job withholding it so far to me
David Amos
Johnny Almar
I just discovered the mute button. Good bye Mr. N'esy Pas. Rant to yourself.
Reply to @Johnny Jakobs: Out of that gate every word of his first foray under his new ID last weekend went "Poof" as soon as I asked a very simple question remember?
Methinks desperate people do desperate things N'esy Pas?
Johnny Almar
So a person returned to New Brunswick from Ontario last week and infected three people in their family. One being a child.
1) This person traveled unnecessarily.
2) The should of self-isolated for two weeks when returning. They did not.
3) This person was very selfish and I hope that they are going to be charged for breaking the law.
David Amos
Johnny Almar
Ignore whatever worst-case scenario they say. Look at the best-case scenario divide it in half and call that the worst-case scenario because governments have over-estimated this virus from the getgo.
David Amos
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/blaine-higgs-covid-recovery-1.5527362
Higgs optimistic about COVID-19 trajectory — if we don't blow it this long weekend
Normal life is a while away, but premier is already thinking about economic recovery
· CBC News · Posted: Apr 09, 2020 10:36 AM AT
Premier Blaine Higgs said New Brunswick could flatten the curve within a month or two, so long as people follow the rules. (Submitted by the Government of New Brunswick)
New Brunswick is on track to being a model for the rest of the country in terms of its response to COVID-19, but only if people aren't reckless over the long weekend, Premier Blaine Higgs said Thursday.
"This may be our first big test," Higgs said in an interview with Information Morning Fredericton.
New Brunswick's success depends on people following the rules, which include staying indoors and not spending time with people other than those who live in your home, Higgs said.
As of Wednesday, the province had 108 cases.
I do think with continued measures we can be talking weeks instead of months and months.
- Blaine Higgs, premierHiggs is optimistic the government will flatten the curve in a month or two.
"I think it's hard to tell. This weekend will be telltale. We've seen our numbers decline over the last few days, but you can't jump on that and say it's getting over.
"I do think with continued measures we can be talking weeks instead of months and months."
Until a vaccine is found, which may not be for a year or two, certain precautions will remain in place, Higgs said.
Higgs did not specify what those precautions could look like but said it will depend on testing for the virus.
"It'll depend on the conditions we find at the time."
The province is two to three weeks away from even considering lifting restrictions, Higgs said.
Higgs has already started thinking about economic recovery as well, which he said will take several months, if not years.
"How do we get businesses up and running and contributing again is a focus because we need that source of revenue."
Some business may not make it through, he said.
"For us to get back to normal, it's going to take a while."
119 Comments
Commenting is now closed for this story.
David Amos
Methinks its amazing how many people claim that they are not associated to certain parties today N'esy Pas?
Johnny Almar
Peter J Hickey
Reply to @Tom Simmons: How did they blow it?
Tom Simmons
Reply to @valmond landry: I think you might need a new keyboard you're all over the map Valmond. The worst isn't yet to come we are in decline. People keeping their distance and playing by the rules along with our provinces population density has got us in a positive place
Reply to @David Amos: Yeah that'll be in the toilet for a while no argument on that front!
Lou Bell
Reply to @valmond landry: Praying won't get you the answer you're seeking !
Michel Forgeron
Reply to @valmond landry: It's simply a list of possibilities, not predictions. Unfortunately not everyone will see it that way.
Lou Bell
Reply to @David Amos: Use that in your next platform . Nothing else worked !
David Amos
Reply to @Jeff LeBlanc: Be sure to tell that to an officer once he stops you for aimlessly driving. Good old vigilante attitude wont get you anything but trouble.
Reply to @Jeff LeBlanc: Someone sounds like their loneliness on Easter is going to feel the wrath of a wannabe rent a cop. Use the hotline for over the top blatant abuse of the emergency order not tying up the lines with your nonsense afternoon entertainment.
Tom Simmons
Reply to @Jeff LeBlanc: We are in a time machine right now with your actions.
Very confusing information.
Johnny Almar
Reply to @David Amos: Where did I claim that?
David Amos
Johnny Almar
I have backside intel coming in on Transponder 9 from the Fandango Rangers that the emergency declaration will not be lifted until two months of little to no infections. That will take us into November. Newfoundland is factoring that in. New Brunswick is not.
Arish Moogadoo
Johnny Almar
Premier Higgs is beginning to sounds like President Trump with his optimism.
David Amos
SarahRose Werner
Higgs is taking a very pragmatic attitude. It's a bit startling to find myself agreeing with a Conservative!
Lou Bell
Expanding gov't to this degree is the opposite of Conservatism.
It's a good thing that we currently have a minority government to guide our way through this. If it wasn't for that, we would've been in the same boat as other provinces that acted out late. Higgs is being pressured by the other parties to do the right thing, and it's been successful so far.
Methinks the SANB and everybody else knows there is no bigger fan of Higgy than you N'esy Pas?
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/st-andrews-stay-away-covid-19-pandemic-tourism-1.5525562
Saint Andrews asks visitors to stay away during COVID-19 pandemic
Increasing vehicle traffic prompts resort town to ask tourists to stay home
· CBC News · Posted: Apr 08, 2020 7:18 PM AT
Mayor Doug Naish is asking tourists to stay away from Saint Andrews during the COVID-19 pandemic. (Shane Fowler/CBC)
Saint Andrews Mayor Doug Naish is used to welcoming visitors to the seaside resort town, but now he's urging them to stay away.
The town issued a statement reminding people looking to ease their boredom that traveling to the community isn't the best option at this time.
"We don't want to send anybody away, but at this point in time it just seems that the additional risk of having people of unknown backgrounds coming here at a time when we've managed to convince our vulnerable population to take care of themselves just somehow doesn't seem fair," said Naish.
"Frankly, we don't know whether someone who's coming here to walk on our beach is supposed to be quarantined where they live. You know, we have no idea of knowing that or controlling it."
It was this that prompted the request.
"It just got us thinking that perhaps as the weather gets better this may get worse," said Naish.
"There actually may be some people who are just not thinking that there's any problem with [visiting]."
Attractions shuttered
Naish said because of the COVID-19 pandemic there isn't a lot to do in the town at the moment anyway.
Most businesses are closed, except for those deemed essential.
Local beaches and parks, including the St. Andrews Blockhouse, are also closed.
The town has closed local parks to curb the spread of COVID-19. (Shane Fowler/CBC)
"We've got barricades up because again that was one of those places where two weeks ago on a sunny Saturday there were a dozen or 18 cars there and they weren't local cars," said Naish.
In the province's daily COVID-19 briefing on Tuesday, Premier Blaine Higgs said there have been talks about how to regulate travel between some tourist communities and the idea of checkpoints has been raised.
"Do we have the ability and is it a necessity to put that same kind of connection around communities, because that will be very difficult," said Higgs.
Tourist season concerns
The ongoing pandemic has business owners in the town anxious, said Naish.
The local economy is largely based on tourism, an industry that has already taken a hit in the community.
"We have a big music and outdoor festival called Paddlefest … that takes place in the middle of May," said Naish.
"That's already been cancelled and that's really the kickoff of our tourist season."
Visit, 'but not right now'
The town is also home to many summer properties.
Naish said these property owners can still come into the town, but he asks they also think about staying away during the pandemic.
And if these part-time residents do choose to go to their summer homes, Naish asks they inform the town first.
"Not just because we want to control what you're doing, but because if you're going to be there in residence, if we know about it, we've developed a good volunteer system here in the crisis and we're checking on people who are vulnerable ... in our community," said Naish.
The mayor said he hopes people will continue to visit the picturesque community, when appropriate, after the pandemic is over.
"We appreciate their business and we want them to come, but not right now," said Naish.
"There is, we believe, a significant risk ... particularly when we don't know where people are coming from."
44 Comments
Commenting is now closed for this story.
Danny Devo
Seems a lot of folks here do not understand the rules. Let me help.
2 meters = 6 feet (the distance you may find yourself under ground of you don't heed the rules)
Do not engage in non essential travel. Translation: seek help for your hopeless addiction to timmies; make a list before you go shopping for once in your life; do not pleasure cruise; do not go to your cottage to have an awesome adventure unless you enjoy paying heavy fines. Does that help?
David Amos
James Jones
aka Ray Oliver
Reply to @Danny Devo: I'll pleasure cruise alone all I want come and get me
David Amos
Danny Devo
Reply to @David Amos: Maybe you should have voted for the Green Party. Guess you learn the hard way N'est pas?
David Amos
James Jones
aka Ray Oliver
Reply to @Danny Devo: Not sure the fear mongering you've been saying about the "COVID death sentence" and comparing it to drunk driving thru playgrounds is something they'd be spreading if in power either. This is any politicians first run thru something of this magnitude. Leave the party platform out of it. Youd hate Higgs even if he was the guy who found the cure for COVID
Danny Devo
Reply to @James Jones: I don;t hate anyone. I do not appreciate what his party stands for. They are a disgrace. The libs are almost as bad. Both are corporate parties that leech from the public.
Ben Haroldson
Reply to @David Amos: I wish I was in that riding. You'd get mine.
David Amos
Danny Devo
Good idea. Keep the reckless zombies out. Higgy says this pandemic may last a long time in this province. Is he talking about his government or covid 19?
David Amos
Danny Devo
Reply to @David Amos: The only rational choice are Greens
Danny Devo
Reply to @David Amos: Since when is rational funny?
David Amos
Johnny Jakobs
Stay Home. That's what the whole world is advocating for. Why give St. Andrews flack when many other communities have already done so? Getting in a car, going for a drive and setting up lawn chairs to talk in the greenspace is not staying at home.
This confuses me too.... if you dont like St Andrews and what is has to offer(when open for business), what's it matter to you? Other than spreading negativity.
Ben Haroldson
Only in st a. eh.....
I'm pretty sure the police have better things to do than stop all cars going for a drive to St Andrews and tell the occupants to stay away please.
David Amos
Murray Brown
Went to St. Andrews once... Have stayed away ever since. Glorified tourist trap.
David Amos
James Jones
aka Ray Oliver
There are lots of home owners down there with summer places and the mayor states hes only "suggesting" they stay put during the pandemic. How do you know they just landed and haven't been around for a while? Primary residence is a suggestion not a law
And just landed? well, the St John airport has no commercial traffic, and hasn't for a week now.
Reply to @Ben Haroldson: St. Andrews is always one of these places that's got it's own set of rules. Their parks are no different than any other ones nor should they be. People going for drives to get out a little if they're practicing the social distancing set in place then what's the difference?
Reply to @Bruce Sanders: Landed in town I meant. And if they drove recently they'd be subject to mandatory self isolation. So maybe they've been there and just out for the first time now. People see other plates alot in this Province especially Alberta ones from time to time. Practice the distancing and give people space and use common sense. NB is doing great so far but some people are taking this to the total extreme
Johnny Almar
Yet I saw 2 vehicles from Ontario pull into town today. Go figure.
Arish Moogadoo
https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/physical-distancing-enforcement-rcmp-1.5522736
Education over enforcement: What to expect under new physical distancing rules
Caraquet man fined for breaking new mandatory two-metre distancing rule
· CBC News · Posted: Apr 05, 2020 7:07 PM A
The province has ramped up enforcement of orders for physical distancing, and has made staying two metres away from people mandatory. (Fredericton Police Force/Twitter)
The first weekend under new physical distancing rules saw both residents and law enforcement figuring out how to adapt to the new normal.
On Friday, Premier Blaine Higgs announced the province would be cracking down on violations of the physical distancing order.
Staying two metres away from another person is mandatory, except in the case of members of the same household, and in some cases at work.
Keith Gagnon of Caraquet found out about the new enforcement rules the hard way.
On Saturday, he was handed a ticket for $292 for driving with a friend he doesn't live with. The two were on their way to get a car wash.
Keith Gagnon plans on contesting a $292 ticket for breaking the physical distancing order, because he says he didn't know the rules had changed. (Submitted by Keith Gagnon.)
Gagnon said he plans on contesting the ticket, since he doesn't feel it was fair for the officer to fine him without giving him a warning first.
"I was just finishing a night shift and never knew about that law," said Gagnon in an email to the CBC.
Despite the incident this past weekend, Gagnon said he is taking the outbreak seriously, and has been practising physical distancing as best as he can.
"I never left my home," he said. "I don't want my family to get this disease."
Education first
New Brunswick RCMP spokesperson Const. Hans Ouellette couldn't give any specifics about new ticketing practices but said it's something officers across the province are taking seriously."We're asking people to do what New Brunswickers do so well, which is we look out for one another.
So our primary focus still remains working with the communities to do everything that we can to reduce the spread of COVID-19."
Ouellette wouldn't give details of what officers might be on the lookout for, as each case is different, but said they are basing their response on advice from Public Health.
"That may include tickets or other enforcement actions for people who are not following the directive aimed at keeping everyone safe," he said.
RCMP are urged to educate people about new physical distancing rules before handing out tickets and fines. (CBC News)
He added that ticketing is at the discretion of each officer, but not adhering to a self-isolation order after entering the province or being within two metres of someone you don't live with are things that could potentially bring fines.
Ouellette said the officers' first reflex should be to educate rule-breakers.
"Are you going to see police officers out there with yardsticks measuring how far apart everyone is? Probably not. … Are we going to be stopping every car we see with more than two people in it? No.
"Our main goal out of all of this, before the enforcement action comes into play, is to have that collaborative work, that educational piece to really be able to help people make the right decisions."
A runner and walker keep their distance from each other on the Charlottetown boardwalk. (Brian McInnis/CBC)
No numbers for tickets or fines issued have been released by the RCMP or the province.
The Saint John Police Force said no tickets have been issued under the compliance order so far.
"The SJPF is encouraging and promoting compliance," said spokesperson Jim Hennessy in an email.
Kennebecasis Regional Police Force spokesperson Inspector Anika Becker said the force did not issue any tickets on the weekend for physical distancing violations.
Other local police forces have yet to provide comments.
David Amos
Methinks a clever lawyer will see this as a ticket to the Supreme Court and the history books N'esy Pas?
David Amos
Methinks Higgy knows why Keith Gagnon and I should have a long talk sometime soon N'esy Pas?
Marc Bourque
People have to learn a lesson the hard way,when it hits your pocket book you will pay attention.Talking with an individual the other about what can happen.He said I will not pay any fines....I said no problem 30 days in prison would do you some good,and dont forget your soap on a rope either!
Mandel Rooney
Ignorance of the law is no excuse. I hope the judge upholds the fine. He says he was upholding the distancing rules "as best as he can". Do better. Why was your buddy in your car with you if you were doing "your best"?
David Amos
Fundamental human right: crusin with the bud during a pandemic. Not sure that qualifies.
Terry Tibbs
$292............. that's a tidy little moneymaker right there.
David Amos
rayma allaby
would the police not have to have a reason to stop you in a vehicle. something isn't being told here or adding up.
Terry Tibbs
Sure it adds up, $292 a time, easier than enforcing the seat belt law.
You see 2 in a vehicle you stop them, it's up to them to prove they are related/connected, 2 X $292.
kelly sherrard
Part of the problem is that people in this province are being bombarded with information, misinformation, new regulations, new news reports of latest cases to the point that our heads are spinning.
Terry Tibbs
The real "problem" is we are not being told the truth. We are getting our doses of fear in 2 week doses, and have been getting them since around March 15th, for the first 2 week period we were told to stay home and isolate ourselves, only going out if we can maintain distancing. Sooner, or later, this will get old, my vote is for sooner. So, here we are, into the second 2 week period of huddling in our huts living in fear. How many times will they be extending this 2 week period? The Ontario prediction is 2 years.
John Grail
Who didn't see this coming. Our most basic freedoms are being eroded. This is happening all across the country.
Bob Smith
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