During the provincial COVID-19 update Tuesday afternoon, both Premier Scott Moe and Dr. Saqib Shahab took the time to recognize the protest that took place in front of the Legislature.

Moe, who had earlier took to social media to speak against the vandalism of the Saskatchewan War Memorial ahead of the protest, says it was a shame that someone would do that.

“I’m heartened by the fact that disgraceful act was done quite likely by one individual, meanwhile we had hundreds at the peaceful demonstration in front of the Legislature (Tuesday),” Moe said. “I commend those in the U.S. and Canada, as well as here in Saskatchewan who are making their voice heard and are doing so peacefully and safely.”

Many may be concerned about the spread of COVID-19 with hundreds of people in one area at one time.

Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said just because there was a large crowd today, doesn’t necessarily mean there will be an influx of cases.

“I see around Wascana Lake hundreds of people are walking safely, keeping their physical distance, and I think just practicing those measures of physical distancing helps all of us to stay safe,” Dr. Shahab said. “I would remind people who were at the rally and were maybe closer than two meters and weren’t wearing a mask, just keep an eye on their symptoms and do seek testing if they are concerned.”

When asked why he didn’t attend today’s events, Moe says he was travelling from his home in Shellbrook, while also stopping for meetings in Saskatoon.