Face of Nation International : Travellers returning to Canada from abroad are facing a new order requiring them to self-isolate, the latest measure from a government trying to deal with both a rise in COVID-19 cases and the growing economic fallout.
The measure, which makes some exceptions for health-care workers and truckers, allows for fines and even jail times for people who ignore the order to stay home. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) said on Twitter that people coming into Canada at ports of entry will be asked to make a declaration.
“We are implementing the Quarantine Act to keep all Canadians safe,” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday, calling decisions by some to ignore the call to self-isolate for two weeks “disappointing” and “dangerous.”
When asked why the quarantine measure wasn’t introduced sooner, Trudeau said “the vast majority” of Canadians have been following public health guidelines and taking the precautions necessary to protect themselves and others. But, he said, “there have been too many people who have not,” which required the use of a rule with enforcement measures. (Source: CBC News – Canada)