Mayor Greg Dionne speaks during a February city council meeting. (Alison Sandstrom/paNOW)

By Alison Sandstrom

Loosening Restrictions

Mayor and Chamber of Commerce praise province’s Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan

Apr 23, 2020 | 2:10 PM

The Mayor of Prince Albert and the leader of the local chamber of commerce are applauding the Premier’s Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan released Thursday.

Mayor Greg Dionne told paNOW he’s glad the government intends to move cautiously in loosening restrictions.

“I think it’s important we get people back to work, so I praise the government for taking these steps and we’ll continue to monitor and work with them,” Dionne said.

“It’s going to be a slow project but I believe in the end if we keep the curve flat it’s worth it.”

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As for Prince Albert’s skate park, which remains open, residents can expect to hear the city’s decision on the facility in the coming days.

“We will soon be making those announcements because we were waiting for [the Re-open Saskatchewan Plan], and so we will be meeting with the departments,” he said. “The way I read it, the skate park will be closed, but I just want to confirm that with the government.”

Dionne added he was disappointed to visit the skate park Wednesday evening and see large groups of young people gathering there.

Chamber of Commerce

Meanwhile Chamber of Commerce CEO Elise Hildebrandt said the plan is “very positive news for our businesses.”

While she acknowledged a phased approach means many businesses will likely have to wait at least a month before they can consider reopening, she believes the province has struck the right balance.

“For lack of better words it sucks that we have to do a gradual reopening, but I think that is the best way to observe and make sure that we’re all staying safe,” she said.

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alison.sandstrom@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @alisandstrom