COVID-19: BC Government unveils reopening plan

May 6, 2020

Today, Premier John Horgan unveiled “BC’s Restart Plan,” a pathway detailing how some guidelines will be gradually relaxed to allow for a “new normal” amidst COVID-19 in the province.

The next phase of British Columbia’s pandemic response will allow residents to host a small group of friends for dinner, access some in-person services and have a variety of businesses to begin reopening as early as mid-May.

As of next weekend, gatherings with two to six guests will be permitted, as long as there’s a strict understanding that no one will socialize if they have any symptoms of COVID-19. Provincial parks will be open for day use as of May 14, just in time for the Victoria long-weekend.

The provincial government is set to provide more guidance on its reopening plan in the coming weeks, in particular as it relates to new safety guidelines for businesses. Our union is following the province’s reopening plan closely and will be following up with employers once more details are unveiled to ensure the safety of our members.

You can take a look the reopening timeline provided by the government today below. The province will be easing into Phase 2 of the  timeline beginning in mid-May. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at reception@ufcw1518.com or 1.800.661.3708.

Phase One (Today) – Essential Services Operating During COVID-19

  • Enhanced resources for hospitals and health care.
  • Child care for essential workers.
  • K-12: Online and in-class learning.
  • Non-essential businesses.
  • Construction, manufacturing, agriculture, silviculture.

Phase Two – Under Enhanced Protocols

  • Small gatherings.
  • Elective surgeries resume.
  • Dentistry, chiropractic, physiotherapy, in-person counselling resume.
  • Provincial parks will open for day-use.
  • More retail businesses to re-open, supported by WorkSafeBC.
  • Expanded in-person schooling for K-12 (voluntary).
  • Legislature resumes.

Phase Three – Under Enhanced Protocols

  • More parks open, camping resumes.
  • Film and TV production.
  • Movie theatres.
  • Personal services like spas and non-medical massage.
  • Hotels and resorts.

Phase Four (Treatment/Vaccine)

Conditional on at least one of: wide vaccination; “community” immunity; broad successful treatments.

  • Large gatherings (rock concerts, conventions).