While the province moves forward – and not backward – with reopening plans related to COVID-19, Seabird Island leaders encouraged caution amid the optimism.
Chief Jim Harris said in the past few weeks, it appears the pandemic is letting up quite a bit, but urged caution to the community not to let their guard down in his address issued on June 24.
“It is still here,” Chief Harris said. “We still need to wash our hands as much as possible and keep two metres or six feet apart, and don’t be scared to wear a mask when shopping or out in public.”
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Chief Harris stressed the importance of keeping gatherings down to less than 50 people, per the guidelines set forth by provincial health authorities.
“Remember it is possible we might get a second wave of this pandemic,” Chief Harris said. “If you plan on doing any traveling this summer, keep safe. I think the Canada-U.S. borders will be closed for a while yet, so I guess if there’s to be any traveling, it will have to be done in our own country.”
Chief Harris said the school year, wrapping up at the time of the speech, presented special challenges this year amid the pandemic.
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“‘Good job to everyone!” he added.
On Friday, June 26, the Seabird Island graduates will be holding a graduation ceremony to be held outside the Canoe Races grandstand from 10 a.m. to noon. Each student will be allowed to bring two guests.
“Our council knows that our communities like to have family gatherings and gather to show support to those in need,” Chief Harris said. “We know it’s hard to keep up with the COVID-19 [gathering rules], but we all must try. It is for our people’s safety.”
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