The Government of Saskatchewan clarified on March 23 that if there were any cases of discrepancies between an emergency order issued by the province and one issued by a municipal government, the province will review to ensure the consistencies of COVID-19 standards and restrictions across Saskatchewan. These reviews will be done in order to minimize confusion among Saskatchewan residents and to ensure in cases of conflicting information, provincial orders will supersede the guidelines issued by municipalities.聽
On Friday, the City of Regina issued an emergency order containing restrictions differing from those given by the Government of Saskatchewan and the Chief Medical Health Officer of Saskatchewan. Government Relations Minister Lori Carr had spoken to Regina Mayor Michael Fougere and clarified that provincial orders will take precedence.聽
鈥淚 fully understand that Mayor Fougere and Regina City Council intended to set guidelines for residents of Regina to prevent the spread of COVID-19,鈥� Carr said. 鈥淗owever, during this time of great uncertainty, it is of the utmost importance that we provide certainty to Saskatchewan residents and make every effort to minimize confusion. I have communicated to Regina Mayor Michael Fougere that the provincial emergency orders have been made based on the advice of Saskatchewan鈥檚 Chief Medical Health Officer.鈥澛�
Carr has also spoken with the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA) and the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) to ensure all municipalities are aware that provincial restrictions and standards apply to all municipalities. Consistent standards are required throughout the province. If a municipality implements an order providing contrary standards, the province will take measures to ensure provincial emergency measures are taking precedence. Minister Carr, SUMA and SARM have also established a formal communications mechanism to ensure all Saskatchewan municipalities remain updated with the latest restrictions and standards.聽
