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February 1, 2022 – Provincial government update on the COVID-19 pandemic
The following is an update on recent decisions and actions by the provincial government regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.
Relaxation of health measures
François Legault, Premier of Québec, Christian Dubé, Minister of Health and Social Services, and Dr. Luc Boileau, interim National Director of Public Health, announced the further relaxation of health measures, to come into effect on February 14, 2022.
Measures announced:
- Fitness centres and spas will be able to open at 50% capacity;
- Sports and arts activities will be allowed for all age groups, to a maximum of 25 people per group.
“Athletes can use their judgment regarding mask-wearing and remove it temporarily during very intense exercise, but they must put it back on as soon as possible,” Dr. Boileau stated.
Abandonment of the health tax
The Government of Québec will not table its legislation on the health contribution in the National Assembly.
“The bill is ready, but I understand that this announcement has divided Quebecers and I have heard the Opposition parties,” Mr. Legault said. “My role as Premier is also to ensure a certain social peace. Let’s tone things down a bit, try to talk and bring Quebecers together to be able to turn the page on this historic crisis.”
Situation in hospitals
A total of 2,852 people are still hospitalized in Québec.
Hospitalizations are still dropping, but the decline has slowed in the last few days.
Currently, 10,600 employees remain absent from the healthcare system.