As three communities so closely tied together, we felt it was important for our residents and businesses to hear from us as one voice regarding the state of emergency facing us as a result of COVID-19. All three communities took proactive steps to close city buildings including recreational centres and municipal offices early on in order to do what we could to help with preventative steps. There is a current state of emergency declared by the province and we commend those who are both on the frontlines of that as well as those who are taking due care to protect themselves and others. With limits on public gatherings and increased requirements for self-isolation and social distancing, we are thankful that most of our community is taking this seriously. However, over the past several days we have been made aware of several instances in which these mandates were not followed. Please know that these are not suggestions, they are a provincial mandate, and by adhering to them we can reduce both the health and the economic impact of COVID-19 in our country, in our province, and in our own communities.
Please continue to check the Province of Manitoba’s website for updates and continue to follow the guidelines for social distancing and self-isolation after you have travelled between provinces or internationally.
We understand that these measures are causing significant disruption to our daily lives, and are not easy to follow. Please have patience and compassion for one another, while these challenges can bring out the worst in each of us, it can also bring out the best. We have already seen people helping and volunteering where they can, sharing their resources with those who are in need, and making personal sacrifices for the greater good. Remember that physical separation doesn’t mean that you need to be emotionally distant; there has never been a better time to reach out and call a neighbour, a friend, or a loved one. Find ways to stay connected, even at a distance, keeping in mind those who are particularly vulnerable and alone such as the elderly in this time.
All three of our communities continue to work together with our local health authority, provincial officials, and with one another. Please care for one another in this difficult time, help us to be a shining example to other provinces and communities as we do what is best, not what is easiest.
Martin Harder, Mayor of the City of Winkler
Brandon Burley, Mayor of the City of Morden
Morris Olafson, Reeve of the RM of Stanley
P.S. If you have concerns about your symptoms, or have travelled provincially or internationally, please use the online self-assessment tool at www.gov.mb.ca/covid19 or call Health Links at 1-877-308-9038
