Thirty-four businesses, chambers of commerce, economic development associations, hotels and other representatives from the business community in Saskatchewan have banded together to present an open letter to the people of Saskatchewan.

The letter expresses their strong support of the targeted approach presented by the Saskatchewan government to address the rising case counts for COVID-19, which includes new mandatory mask requirements.

Jim Bence, president and CEO of the Saskatchewan Hotel and Hospitality Association, says it was really important to show their support, as the idea of a total lockdown would have been catastrophic in so many ways.

Bence says the letter is to understand that this is putting people before profits, and that he’s really concerned about the mental health of all the employees in the industry, including business owners who may be faced with losing their life’s work.

He goes on to say while he’s no expert, and while there have been some challenges in some nightclubs, transmission isn’t happening historically in restaurants or bars. He says for the most part transmission is happening in private and public gatherings, and it’s important we follow Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Shahab’s lead on this.

“While we acknowledge some businesses will be significantly affected by the announcement, returning to a widespread, large-scale lock-down would be catastrophic to Saskatchewan jobs, Saskatchewan families, and on the immediate survivability of Saskatchewan businesses even with new and extensive government intervention,” reads the letter. “The health, societal, and economic harm would have lasting, irreversible impacts.”

They are calling on all Saskatchewan residents to follow the restrictions and guidelines set out describing it as doing your part and being a good neighbour. The letter concludes by saying heading into the holiday season it’s more important then ever for Sask. residents to support local businesses wherever possible.

(CJWW)