Nova Scotia delays move to Phase 5 of reopening

Due to an increase in COVID-19 cases throughout the Maritime Provinces, the Nova Scotia government has delayed the move to Phase 5 of the reopening plan until October 4, 2021. Phase 5 was supposed to begin on September 15, 2021 and would have seen the end of mandatory masks and physical distancing. 

The move to Phase 5 on October 4, 2021 coincides with the requirement for proof of vaccination for non-essential activities. The government has provided additional clarification of the non-essential activities that will require proof of vaccination. Of note to RCC members, people will not be required to show proof of vaccination in order to frequent a retail store nor will proof of vaccination be required to frequent a quick service restaurant (QSR). 

RCC has been advised that this exemption for QSRs applies to dine-in, take out and drive thru service. Given that proof of vaccination will be required for regular dine-in restaurants, RCC has requested additional clarification regarding the status of dine-in areas of retail establishments (e.g. dining tables at a deli counter in a grocery retail establishment.) RCC has also requested clarification regarding food courts in shopping malls.