Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is telling provinces not to keep sectors of the economy open if it means putting Canadians at risk, and to reach out for more help from the federal government if they need it.

The comments from Trudeau come as COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Canada.

The message is not sitting well with Premier Scott Moe.

Moe says in a statement from the government that it is “extremely unhelpful” for the Prime Minister to question the response of the provinces and creating a “false choice” between protecting the economy and jobs, and protecting against the spread of COVID-19. The statement goes on to say people in Saskatchewan have shown it is possible to do both at the same time, and that we can keep our economy open and people working by following the sound practices that reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Moe adds Saskatchewan will continue following the sound public health guidance from Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab which has been successful in protecting families and communities while allowing our economy to stay open.