As we move into the end of 2020 and turn an eye towards 2021, there are many questions ahead of us. Across the country, there are numerous jurisdictions that are facing increased restrictions as well as the scheduled reviews of extensions and temporary polices. Here are some highlights from multiple provinces on what we can expect for year end and the start of 2021.
As a general reminder for all dealerships, Boxing Day falls on a Saturday this year, so if this is a statutory holiday in your region, it is time to start planning accordingly.
On the topic of holidays, most jurisdictions have announced that Christmas celebrations this year are to be confined to those within your own household. For dealerships this means that we need to keep a diligent eye out for any future parameters that may impact operations such as requests for alternate days off for holidays, potential announcements of quarantine provisions or other post-holiday announcements. As well, in keeping with regulatory requirements dealership celebrations, awards ceremonies, onsite sale events and gift exchange or other holiday related parties need to be re-evaluated.
In BC, the current restrictions will remain in effect until at least January 8th. The Vancouver Coastal and Fraser Health Regions will also be the targeted areas of focus for the Environmental Health Officers to ensure all compliance requirements are being met by businesses.
In Alberta, the stronger measures that have been implemented since November 27th will remain in effect until January 12, 2021. This includes the mandatory use of masks in all indoor public spaces and workplaces, as well as the implementation of the mandatory working from home where a physical presence is not required (effective Dec 13th).
Saskatchewan will hold their next review of their restrictions on December 17th.
Manitoba has also implemented stronger restrictions including the extension of their restrictions until January 8, 2021.
The Ontario government has announced that they are extending their current COVID-19 orders to January 20, 2021. Additionally the following areas are currently in grey (lockdown) level: PEEL, TORONTO
The following areas are in the red level- Durham, Halton, Hamilton, Waterloo, Windsor -Essex, York. For detailed information on the requirements for each level please visit https://covid-19.ontario.ca/zones-and-restrictions.
Quebec remains to have multiple levels of restrictions in place. As a reminder, those dealerships who have capacity limits, such as those that operate in a red zone, are required to have capacity limits and restricted hours in place. Those limits must also be posted. Copies of the required posters can be found here.
In the Maritimes the Atlantic bubble has not been re-established across all provinces. As well, Prince Edward Island has implemented additional "Circuit Breaker" measures as of December 7th. Retail operations are required to operate at 50% of their standard operating capacity. Other measures also remain in effect.
If you require more information on how we can assist dealerships in meeting these, and other regulatory requirements, please email us at info@dealerpilothr.com.