Canadian border to remain closed for now

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Thursday, September 10th, 2020 12:31pm

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Ottowa, Canada (KINY) - The U.S-Canadian border will remain closed until at least September 21.

A spokesperson for Canadian Public Safety Commissioner Bill Blair said they are constantly reviewing the situation for possible revisions.

"We brought forward significant restrictions at our borders to flatten the curve and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Canada.  These decisions have not been taken lightly, but we know that they are necessary to keep Canadians safe.  Alongside our American colleagues, we have announced the continuation of these measures until September 21."

The spokesperson went on to state that as the pandemic situation rapidly evolves, they will respond in lockstep.  "Going forward, we will continue to evaluate the best public health information available to us to make a decision on when and how to reopen our border.  This decision will be made with the best interest of our communities as our top priority."

With very limited exemptions, all persons entering Canada, no matter their country of origin or mode of entry, must isolate themselves for 14 days if they have symptoms of or confirmed COVID-19 or quarantine themselves for 14 days if they do not have symptoms of COVID-19.

Examples of non-discretionary or essential travel purposes include, but are not limited to, economic services and supply chain, critical infrastructure support, health or immediate medical care, safety and security, shopping for essential goods such as medication or goods necessary to preserve the health and safety of an individual or family, and other activities at the discretion of the border services officer.

Crossing the border for goods such as medication, groceries and other necessary goods has to be the only practice or realistic option for it to be considered a non-discretionary reason for travel.

 

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