RCMP in Steinbach issued a warning Friday afternoon, November 27, 2020, that participating in any type of large gathering is a breach of current public health orders.
Police stress that contravening the orders “puts people at risk, and we all have a role to play in keeping Manitobans safe.”
“Our goal is certainly not to hand out a bunch of tickets,” said Steinbach Detachment Commander S/Sgt Harold Laninga. “We want to keep everyone from coming to a large gathering in the first place. It is important to us that all citizens are aware of what the current orders are so they can abide by them. As always, our first and foremost goal is to keep everyone safe, and in these unprecedented times, that means staying at home.”
There have been two large gatherings in the Steinbach area in recent weeks.
On November 14 about 100 protesters gathered in Steinbach to denounce public health restrictions. On Sunday November 22 the Church of God south of Steinbach held a church service in defiance of the orders.
In both instances enforcement officers issued fines.
The minister associated with the church received two tickets totalling $2,592 for breaching public health orders at the protest rally and at the church. The church was issued a ticket for $5,000.
RCMP noted that “Public Health Orders supersede all other acts in the interest of public safety.”
The Church of God has stated publicly that they intend to hold another service this coming weekend.
For their part RCMP reiterated that “All places of worship must be closed and drive-in religious services, even if you remain in your vehicle at all times, are not permitted. Gatherings of more than five people at any outdoor or indoor public place are prohibited.”
© News4.ca 2020
