(Photo: The Canadian Press)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

Beginning Nov. 29

Alberta government updates Restrictions Exemption Program

Nov 26, 2021 | 11:31 AM

Starting Nov. 29, Alberta ski hills can operate outdoor activities without implementing the Restrictions Exemption Program (REP) and trade shows can opt into the program.

Officials with the Alberta government announced on Thursday that ski hill operators can implement the REP for indoor areas to permit indoor dining and other indoor activities. If participating in the REP, they are not required to adhere to physical distancing requirements for enclosed chairlifts and gondolas, but indoor masking is still required for enclosed areas.

Paid-entry markets and trade shows, including artisan and craft fairs and holiday markets, will be able take part in the REP.

“These changes maintain the intent of the REP – to keep Albertans safe – while reflecting what we’ve heard for businesses and venues to operate effectively. We continue to follow the evidence and update the guidance so the program can reduce the spread of COVID-19 in ways that make sense for Albertans,” said Jason Copping, Minister of Health.

The Restrictions Exemption Program allows eligible businesses, venues and services to be exempt from capacity, physical distancing and other operating restrictions. Businesses that implement the program must continue to follow mandatory indoor masking requirements.

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Anyone aged 12 and older is required to provide one of the following to access events and businesses participating in the program:

• Government-issued proof of a complete vaccine series with QR code, including those from other Canadian provinces and territories (with the second dose received two weeks or more before the time of service).
  • Valid identification that matches the vaccine record is required for adults 18 years and over.
  • First Nation and Canadian Armed Forces vaccine records are accepted proof of vaccination and do not require a QR code.
  • Out-of-country vaccine records are also accepted in Alberta and do not require a QR code.
• A negative, privately paid COVID-19 test from within the previous 72 hours.
• Valid proof of a medical exemption.

The program does not apply to businesses or entities that need to be accessed for daily living. A full list of in-scope and out-of-scope businesses is available on the COVID-19 public health actions web page.

Government officials say vaccines are the most powerful tool in the fight against COVID-19. Vaccine appointments are widely available through AHS or participating pharmacies and physician clinics. You can book yours at alberta.ca/vaccine.