The Manitoba Government has authorized municipal bylaw enforcement officers across the province to enforce public health emergency orders.
Regulatory amendments have been made and the officers have the power to issue tickets immediately for the violation of public health emergency orders and emergency health hazard orders including the following: orders limiting the size of gatherings; orders imposing health protection measures on business (e.g. social distancing, capacity limits, patrons to remain seated at bars, etc.); orders requiring people with a positive COVID-19 test, or those advised they are a close contact, to self-isolate; orders requiring people travelling into Manitoba to self-isolate according to public health; and orders prohibiting travel to northern Manitoba.
“Despite extensive public health education campaigns, compliance with public health orders continues to be an issue,” said Justice Minister Cliff Cullen . “Empowering additional enforcement personnel will help address the ongoing concerns about non-compliance as we reduce the spread of COVID-19.”
The bylaw officers are the latest to be authorized to enforce public health orders. Previously Police, the Health Protection Unit, Manitoba Conservation and Climate, Workplace Safety and Health, and the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority were also able to enforce the regulations.
Fines for breaching the current public health orders in Manitoba are $1,296 for individuals and $5,000 for businesses.
© News4.ca 2020
