Nunavut ending lockdown Jan. 17

Nunavut’s circuit breaker lockdown will end January 17 with the easing of public health restrictions.

Dr. Michael Patterson, chief public health officer, announced the following changes starting Monday, Jan. 17:

– Community travel restrictions will be lifted;

– Outdoor gatherings will be permitted to 25 people;

– Indoor gatherings in dwellings will allow up to five people, plus household members;

– Government, Inuit organizations and all other offices may open;

– Childcare facilities may open;

– Long-term care and Elders’ facilities may have one visitor per resident, but masks are mandatory;

– Indoor public gatherings, including community halls and recreation centres will be limited to 25 people or 25 per cent capacity;

– Gyms and fitness centres can open to 25 people or 25 per cent capacity for solo workouts only, no group sessions;

– Libraries and galleries can open to 25 people or 25 per cent capacity, no gatherings or group tours;

– Places of worship will be permitted up to 50 people or 25 per cent capacity, no singing allowed;

– Arenas will be permitted up to 25 people or 25 per cent capacity, as well as 25 spectators, no team sports allowed;

– All non-essential businesses may open, including personal services such as hair and beauty salons;

– Taxis may have one fare per trip, with mandatory masks;

– Group counselling sessions are now open to 10 people;

– Parks and playgrounds may open, but buildings remain closed;

– Restaurants and licensed establishments remain restricted to take-out only, with a maximum of 10 people in line;

– Schools will be opening January 24.

“The strict public health restrictions since the end of December have been effective in controlling the spread of Covid-19,” stated Dr. Patterson in a news release. “It is now safe to ease public health measures and lift the travel restrictions across the territory. I remind all Nunavummiut to stay cautious and safe and do their part to keep their community healthy.”

Masks remain mandatory in all communities and non-essential travel continues to be discouraged.