BC State of Emergency extended

VICTORIA — The provincial state of emergency to support pandemic response in BC has been extended once again. It will stay in effect through the end of the day on May 26.

“Because of our determination and sacrifices over the past months, we’re now in a position to carefully move toward the next chapter in our response to COVID-19, but we must not lose sight of the challenges that are ahead,” said Premier John Horgan. “At each and every step forward, your government will continue in its commitment to keep our communities safe and support people through this difficult time.”

The extension is based on recommendations from BC’s health and emergency management officials. BC’s initial state of emergency declaration came on March 18, one day after Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry declared a public health emergency.

“As we look forward to increasing our social and economic activity in B.C., we must remember that the fight against COVID-19 is far from over,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “Our province continues to be in a state of emergency, and we will continue in our co-ordinated response to keep people safe, support our health-care system and ensure our supply chains are secure.”