Albertans “can count on the RCMP every day” during the COVID-19 pandemic, says Alberta RCMP deputy commissioner Curtis Zablocki.
The RCMP released a statement from Zablocki Friday evening.
“The global COVID-19 pandemic has changed our day-to-day lives and challenged society in ways we haven’t experience in decades,” he said.
“What hasn’t changed is the fact Albertans can count on the RCMP every day, including during times of public health emergencies. Their provincial police force is fully operational, responsive and committed to the safety and security of the province.”
Zablocki said there has been “significant developments” in terms of how the federal and provincial governments are working to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
“Our governments are relying upon law enforcement agencies to assist them in enforcing public health orders, and we are ready to do our part,” he said.
“Community peace officers and police officers will enforce public health orders such as gatherings of groups of 15 or more, non-compliant business operations and violations of the direction to self-isolate. Additionally, the federal Quarantine Act is now in effect in our country. This act helps our federal government ensure those who are required to quarantine are doing so. What this means to the RCMP and those we serve is our officers will assist those who are ensuring quarantine orders are being followed.”
These steps are “significant,” said Zablocki.
“While these orders need to be enforced, it is our hope that Albertans can see how very important it is to follow all health orders issued and will choose to do so willingly. It is in the best interest of all of us if we can work together to follow the orders and maintain the health of ourselves, our families and each other,” he said.
“Albertans play a critical role in how much risk we all face going forward. As our team is readying itself for what may come, I ask all citizens to simply stay home. It is one of the easiest ways they can help us keep Albertans safe and healthy.”
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