(Nathan Denette/The Canadian Press)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Mixed Reactions

Not everyone fans of province’s plan to lift COVID restrictions

Feb 3, 2022 | 6:38 PM

There are still some in Saskatchewan who want to see the provincial government keep all COVID-19 restrictions in place for the time being.

Premier Scott Moe took to social media on Wednesday where he posted a video noting the time had come to ease all public health measures.

One person who believes this decision is coming too early is Dr. Alex Wong, an infectious disease physician with the Saskatchewan Health Authority.

He told paNOW the healthcare system needs more time to heal after a tough couple of months.

“Hospitalizations are still rising, we’re still not peaking out yet in regards to that, and obviously the strain on our healthcare system is tremendous.”

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He added he understands everyone’s frustration. However, he noted a couple more weeks with restrictions in place will help limit the time Omicron dominates the system.

The Saskatchewan Medical Association also believes Moe’s decision isn’t the best move.

In a statement sent out on Tuesday, Dr. Eben Strydom, SMA president, said they were disappointed and alarmed.

“The premier’s statements continue to ignore the advice of medical experts at a time when COVID-19 hospitalizations have reached their highest levels since the start of the pandemic.”

He also noted the decision can’t come at a worse time as hospitalizations recently hit a pandemic high earlier this week.

Politician reaction

At least one politician in Saskatchewan isn’t a fan of removing the mandates.

Prince Albert Councillor Dennis Ogrodnick also spoke to paNOW about the province’s plan.

This also comes days after residents held a rally at P.A.’s city hall opposing the restrictions, while also showcasing a petition with around 1,600 signatures.

He believes when it comes to public opinion and professional advice, it shouldn’t be a debate about who the province should listen to.

“Base your decisions not on public pressure or on opinions, base it on the people who are in place that have been hired to advise you.”

Ogrodnick added he understands everyone has the right to their opinion, however, some should outweigh others.

In this case, he noted health professionals want to keep the measures, so they should remain in place.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow