next steps

‘It won’t be the flipping of a switch’: Four phases announced in B.C’s ‘Go Forward’ plan

May 6, 2020 | 3:49 PM

VICTORIA—The next steps towards B.C.’s future amidst a pandemic were announced today by Premier John Horgan.

The Premier addressed the province alongside Health Minister, Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry at the Legislative Assembly in Victoria.

“It wont be the flipping of a switch.” —John Horgan

B.C.’s “Go Forward” plan will take place in four phases. The Premier saying that there is some good news, we are already in phase one, seeing that British Columbia didn’t completely shut down.

Phase two allows British Columbians to open up their social circles a little bit, while also seeing the resumption of dentistry, chiropractic work, and physiotherapy, as well as the reopening of provincial parks for day-use.

Students are expected to begin their slow return back to school in Phase 2, with a mix of online and in person schooling planned for K-12 students come September.

The phases are expected to be rolled out in intervals with 2-4 week spaces depending on how well the province seems to be responding to COVID-19. Horgan mentioned that every step forward will be informed by Health Officials.

During these phases, Premier Horgan said there are several principals we must follow including, practicing good personal hygiene, such as washing our hands and coughing into our sleeves.

Phase three would allow for more reopening of parks with overnight trips allowed, movie theatres would re-open and hotels and resorts would resume work as well.

Premier Horgan mentioned that the choices British Columbians make during these phases will determine whether or not we can move on to the next. Once again he reminded the public that this is a “new normal” that we will be living in for a while.

As for phase four, Premier Horgan was very clear that it will only happen once a vaccine has been created. The Premier went on to say that this means, no conventions, no large concerts, international tourism and professional sports with a live audience will not be able to resume until a vaccine is found.