COVID-19 Update #7: Chief Public Health Officer's Recommendations for Tour Operators & Others

Dear valued members,

I am writing to make sure all our membership is aware of the updated Advisory issued today by the Chief Public Health Officer (CPHO). 

To limit the spread of COVID-19, the CPHO is advising all individuals and organizations that they should cancel all gatherings regardless of size or number of participants or whether they are held inside or outside.

In reading the updated Advisory, the CPHO recommends...

"that the following businesses be closed as the nature of their operation will not allow them to have suitable distancing measures in place to reduce the risk of spread of COVID-19:
• Tour operators
• Bottle depots
• Gyms and fitness centres
• Museums and Art galleries
• Bars and night clubs
• Theatres and movie theatres
• Buffet style restaurants
• Personal service establishments (barber, hair salons, massage, nail and other salons)"

Today's Advisory from the CPHO provides additional information that comes after the Order was issued yesterday.

Please see the link below to read the latest Advisory from the CPHO:

https://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/en/newsroom/all-gatherings-are-advised-cancel-effective-immediately

Yesterday's Order can be found at the link below.

https://www.hss.gov.nt.ca/sites/hss/files/resources/public-health-order-covid-19-travel-restrictions-self-isolation-protocol.pdf

Wile this pandemic is not in our control, our collective response to the Advisories and Orders issued by governments who are working to minimize the impact of COVID-19 in the NWT is. Whether we are tour operators, airlines, accommodation providers or NWT residents, how we respond to the Order and the Advisories is what will set our destination apart now and in the future.

The long-term success of our tourism industry in whatever the new normal is after this pandemic and the benefits that our industry brings to the Northwest Territories rely on all northerners protecting our reputation for providing a safe and healthy experience for our visitors. We can do that by listening to our CPHO and by following medical advice being provided. 

SpectacularNWT is our brand, so together let's make our response spectacular!

Cathie Bolstad
Chief Executive Officer
Northwest Territories Tourism

T:  867-873-5007, Extension 1005