Nova Scotia re-opening plan – Phase 3 is here

Kelly MacMillan March 21, 2022 9:09 am Last Updated on March 21, 2022 9:09 am

It was March 22, 2020 when then Premier McNeil declared a State of Emergency in Nova Scotia.

On Sunday, after almost 2 years, the state of emergency in Nova Scotia ended.

Phase 3 of the re-opening plan for Nova Scotia began today.

I almost said “we made it to phase 3” but not everyone did. That’s important to remember.

You still may see people wearing masks for personal reasons. I keep seeing reminders to “not make those people feel bad” for doing so. I like to think that reminder is unnecessary, most people are kind. I feel that the vocal minority on social media has shifted our mindset slightly, making us think those enthusiastically express their opinions online represent the views of the majority. I refuse to believe that is the case.

We also learned on Friday that masks will be required in schools until next month.

For the most part though, Phase 3 means there are no mandated gathering limits, social distancing or mask restrictions. That said, health officials still recommend you take any precautions you feel are needed.

Like schools, some restrictions may remain in high-risk settings like healthcare and continuing care and some businesses may also ask you to wear a mask.

Continuing care and healthcare
Adult residential centres and regional rehabilitation centres	Residents in homes licensed by the Department of Community Services under the Homes for Special Care Act can have up to 5 visitors at a time (it doesn’t need to be the same visitors each time). Larger groups of visitors are permitted for special occasions (like a resident’s birthday or anniversary). Check with the facility to make sure they can accommodate 5 visitors and larger groups of visitors.All residents in homes licensed by the Department of Community Services under the Homes for Special Care Act can leave the facility.Visitors at homes licensed by the Department of Community Services under the Homes for Special Care Act need to wear a mask and be fully vaccinated (except for end-of-life visits). Visitors may need to follow social distancing guidelines (except for quick, close contact, like a hug).
Long-term care facilities	Long-term care residents can have up to 5 visitors at a time (it doesn’t need to be the same visitors each time). Larger groups of visitors are permitted for special occasions (like a resident’s birthday or anniversary). Check with the facility to make sure they can accommodate 5 visitors and larger groups of visitors.Long-term care residents can leave the facility to visit with family in their homes (overnight stays are permitted). Residents can also leave the facility to visit indoor and outdoor public places (like parks, stores and restaurants). Masks and social distancing are recommended.All long-term care residents can participate in recreational activities and personal services (like hairstyling) within the facility.Visitors at long-term care facilities need to wear a mask and be fully vaccinated (except for end-of-life visits). Visitors may need to follow social distancing guidelines (except for quick, close contact, like a hug).
Nova Scotia Health Authority and IWK Health Centre	Nova Scotia Health Authority and IWK Health Centre are gradually changing patient and visitor restrictions.

Kelly MacMillan

Kelly MacMillan lives in Port Hawkesbury with her husband and son. She has been part of the team at 101.5 The Hawk for more than 25 years, sharing stories from around the region. You can join her weekdays from 10am until 2pm.
View all posts