Here are the latest developments in regards to the novel coronavirus in British Columbia:
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau goes into isolation
The Prime Minister has gone into self-isolation over fears of COVID-19 after his wife, Sophie, showed symptoms of the disease. According to the PMO, Sophie Grégoire Trudeau was recently at a speaking engagement in London, United Kingdom and started showing flu-like symptoms last night. The two are awaiting test results, but have decided to quarantine themselves for 14 days.
Horgan stays in BC; minister meetings called off
BC Premier John Horgan will not make the trek to Ottawa today for the premiers conference, after Trudeau cancelled. The premiers, along with Trudeau were scheduled to meet for the First Ministers Meeting, which was to focus on economic issues, tumbling oil prices, the pressing need for critical infrastructure and the impact of COVID-19.
Princess Cruises suspends operations
Princess Cruises has announced the immediate suspension of operations for 60 days. The cruise company will cancel all sailings from March 12 to May 10, pulling all 18 of their boats from service in order to run a deep clean. There were three Princess ships scheduled to arrive in Victoria during the next 60 days, including the Grand Princess on April 3.
Victoria Council to consider cancelling all cruises
Councillor Ben Isitt wants the GVHA to suspend all cruise ships from arriving at Ogden Point. Victoria council will discuss today. @CHEK_News #YYJ
— Joe Perkins (@JoePerkinsCHEK) March 12, 2020
Victoria City council will discuss a motion today from Councillor Ben Isitt suggesting that the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority should suspend all cruise ships scheduled to arrive at Odgen Point. The issue will be discussed and a decision is expected on the subject later today.
NHL season suspension looming?
Yesterday, the National Basketball Association announced that they were going to suspend their season indefinitely after a player on the Utah Jazz tested positive for the disease. The NHL has revealed they will announce their plans surrounding COVID-19 later on today. Earlier this morning, the league informed teams to not conduct any practices, morning skates, or team meetings out of uncertainty. According to insiders, teams on the road have now been asked to fly home.
No more Juno Awards
One of the latest events to be cancelled as a result of the pandemic is the Juno Awards scheduled for Sunday, March 15. The biggest night for Canadian music was going to be held at the SaskTel Centre in Saksatoon and be hosted by Alessia Cara. The cancellation comes at the same time as Saskatchewan announcing their first confirmed case of the coronavirus.
Graham Cox
