A group of 34 chambers of commerce and economic development groups – including the Humboldt and Nipawin chambers – have released an open letter supporting the new health restrictions, which include mandatory masking in larger communities.
“While we acknowledge some businesses will be significantly affected by today’s announcement, returning to a widespread, large-scale lockdown would be catastrophic to Saskatchewan jobs, Saskatchewan families, and on the immediate survivability of Saskatchewan businesses – even with new and extensive government intervention. The health, societal, and economic harm would have lasting, irreversible impacts,” the letter said.
The group said they are calling on all Saskatchewan residents to follow the restrictions and guidelines set out by our public health experts, and that they support the proactive enforcement of the measures.
“Last but not least: As we enter the holiday season, we ask Saskatchewan residents to support local businesses wherever possible. Many of these businesses are barely hanging on, and every little bit counts,” the letter said. “And above all else: Be kind to each other. We are all in this together.”
The letter was signed by Brent Fitzpatrick, the executive director of the Humboldt and District Chamber of Commerce; Lisa Suchlandt, the executive director of the Nipawin and District Chamber of Commerce; and 32 others, including the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.