New Brunswick’s Winter Action Plan for COVID-19:

In response to ongoing elevated cases of COVID-19, the government has launched its Winter Action Plan.  See press release. 

The Action Plan is not markedly different from the COVID-19 restrictions that were in place before this Plan.  However, the government has made it clear that it will increase enforcement of the rules in this Action Plan.  Beginning December 5, 2021, the province will institute three Levels of restrictions in order to combat COVID-19 cases.  See guidance document explaining the three Levels.  The entire province will begin at Level 1.  

Of note to RCC members, retailers (including spas and salons) can either allow everyone into the retail store – regardless of vaccination status – provided that 2 metres of physical distancing is enforced OR retailers can mandate proof of vaccination (or medical exemption) from all customers (12 years and older) prior to entry.  The Plan continues the mandate for masking at all indoor public spaces (exceptions for QSRs when customers are seated and consuming food / when spas and salons are providing service) while adding a mandate for masking at outdoor locations where physical distancing cannot be maintained (eg: the lumber yard at a home improvement retailer).