In response to the rising number of COVID-19 cases, provinces
and territories across Canada have taken action to protect the
public and "flatten the curve". This article provides an
explanation of the various measures taken by provincial governments
in Atlantic Canada as it pertains to COVID-19, as well as
information for employers with regard to what is considered an
"essential" service or workplace in their respective
jurisdictions.
Public Health Emergency vs. State of Emergency
New Brunswick
On March 19, 2020, New Brunswick declared a state of emergency
pursuant to the Emergency Measures Act. This legislation
defines an emergency as a present or imminent event in respect of
which the Minister of Public Safety "believes prompt
coordination of action or regulation of persons or property must be
undertaken to protect property, the environment or the health,
safety or welfare of the civil population". The Emergency
Measures Act provides certain powers to the
