Masks have been mandatory in Saskatchewan since September 2021. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

COVID-19

Masking requirement continues at some tri-community locations

Mar 1, 2022 | 2:00 PM

The provincial mask mandate ended on Monday, but several businesses in La Ronge still have the restriction in place.

“We are going to carry on as business as usual,” Penny’s Hair Design owner Penny Schooley said. “We tell people we require masks to come into the business and while you are getting your hair done also, just because we want to keep our employees safe, and we want to keep our clients safe.”

Schooley mentioned the plexiglass at the front till and barriers between stations will also remain for the time being. She expects to keep the restrictions for some time yet, noting she will continue to monitor the number of COVID cases and lift the restrictions when she feels cases have declined enough.

Schooley added the majority of the people she’s spoken to will continue wearing masks for now.

“Most clients are happy that we are still doing this,” she said. “That’s why I decided not quite yet that we are going to take the masks away.”

Iran War

Iran calls on public to find 'enemy pilot' as U.S. continues frantic search

2h ago

Cheese recall

Co-op product sold in Sask. among items recalled over listeria concerns: CFIA

2h ago

Twist on a classic

Regina board game designer puts new spin on crokinole

19h ago

Other locations in the tri-communities still requiring masks are Children’s North, Kikinahk Friendship Centre, Robertson Trading Ltd. and The Source. The Lac La Ronge Indian Band will also continue its masking polices at businesses and workplaces. A proof of vaccination policy also remains in place by the band and those requirements will be reviewed at the next council meeting this month.

“As a facility of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band, JRMCC sports & recreation department will continue to adhere to the band’s mandatory mask and proof of vaccination policy,” a letter from band director Kevin Roberts states. “We thank you for your continued support, patronage and understanding.”

Mask mandates first began to appear in Saskatchewan in November 2020, but were temporarily lifted in July 2021. In September 2021, the provincial mask mandate was reinstated.

The Source owner Sonny Montilla hasn’t had issues with extending the mandate, noting customers have been cooperative and supportive. His plan is to continue restrictions until COVID cases and hospitalization rates decline.

“No one wants to wear a mask and keep their distance to others forever,” Montilla said. “But as a way to do our part in this pandemic, we will continue to practice the safety measures to reduce the rate of transmission, especially to the children and those who are immunocompromised and help out the health care workers who have been in the frontlines for over two years.”

—

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno