Premier Scott Moe announced that Saskatchewan has been successful in flattening the curve for COVID-19. Saskatchewan will be the first province to announce plans to lift restrictions and re-open its economy.

Premier Moe stressed that the government believes the province can continue to reduce the spread, keep numbers low, and allow more businesses to re-open if it proceeds with caution.  He acknowledged the risk in moving too quickly and seeing numbers rise again, while alternatively if the move is too slow the result could be permanent damage to the livelihoods of thousands of people and businesses.

The number of serious outcomes is more than 90% below national average and Saskatchewan maintains a testing rate more than 40% higher than the national average.

Premier Moe extended his gratitude to all Saskatchewan residents for their efforts in reaching this milestone, especially essential service providers including those working in grocery stores, food distribution, truckers, utility workers, farmers and ranchers, and of course first responders – fire, police, REMT, paramedics, among others.

Re-Open Saskatchewan was developed in consultation with Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Shahab.  The relaunch plan includes five phases.  Given the cautious approach, school closures, visitor restrictions at some health-care facilities, travel restrictions and mandatory self-isolation orders will remain in place.

Premier Moe indicated the provincial state of emergency he called on March 18 remains in place.

Phase & Date Businesses Re-Opening Gathering Restrictions
Phase one: May 4
  • Dentistry, optometry, physical therapy, occupational therapy and chiropractic treatment
  • Low-risk outdoor recreational activities re-opening in this phase with fixed dates include fishing and boating (May 4), and golf courses (May 15) on fixed dates.
 10
Phase two: May 19
  • Retail businesses and some personal services
  • Low-risk outdoor recreational activities re-opening within this phase with fixed dates include campgrounds on June 1.
 10
Phase three: TBD
  • Remaining personal services.
  • Front-facing services at gyms, childcare centres, and restaurant and bars (capacity limits of 50 for restaurants and bars).
 15
Phase 4: TBD
  • Indoor and outdoor recreation and entertainment facilities.
 30
Phase 5: TBD
  • This final phase will include the lifting of all remaining long-term restrictions in the economy.

Premier Moe and Dr. Shihab stressed that residents need to consider continuing to work from home if they’ are able, maintain hygiene practices and be conscious about only going out if required.  Small outbreaks are anticipated, therefore monitoring and contact tracing will remain critical to re-opening and remaining open.Elective surgeries, diagnostics and other non-essential services will be considered separately from this plan.