Alberta Chambers of Commerce push for transparency around restrictions

The Alberta Chambers of Commerce is joining the chorus of voices pushing for further transparency from the provincial government regarding how COVID-19 restrictions are determined.

In a letter dated April 7, the Alberta Chambers asked for the government to provide the terms of reference and criteria used to determine which businesses are essential, which businesses are included in Steps 1, 2, 3, or 4 of the reopening plan, and details of the process and timeline for a business to be reclassified if they do not fit their existing classification or feel they are miscategorized.

“Over the last year, we have worked together with your government to manage the impacts of COVID-19 and associated public health orders. This collaboration is essential to allow job creators to plan for the future while complying with public health orders,” said President Ken Kobly.

“This relationship has been challenged by a lack of transparency and limited availability of government information. This is a vital concern as the ongoing public health orders threaten the viability of the thousands of Alberta businesses and employees our network supports.”

Lakeland Connect did reach out to the Premier’s office for a comment but has not yet received a response.