Infractions to Health Measures in an Orange Zone Could face fines up to $1546

LOCAL NEWS - DECEMBER 22, 2020 - Follow the rules or face a fine, orange zone infractions could cost you!

CFBS was speaking by email this morning with Officer Guy Pinard of the local Sûreté du Québec office in Blanc-Sablon regarding what the fines could be for those who do not follow the health directives during the holiday season, as detailed to the Sûreté du Québec by Santé Publique. Keep in mind that gatherings of no more than six people will be permitted in regions and areas located in alert (orange) zones, as well, that activities such as office parties are prohibited in all regions.

Here is what you need to know:

• If you host a gathering in your home with more attendees than the 6 person maximum, the police will attend your home if they have been notified.
• The home owner is the person who will receive a fine for infraction to the public health measures.
• Any persons committing an infraction to the public health measures set by Santé Publique will receive a fine of $1000.00 plus a fee, which would total a fine of $1546.00 per infraction.
• The infraction fine of $1546.00 is the same for anyone coming to the Lower North Shore from a red zone who does not isolate or choose to be tested, keep in mind there are a different set of rules for any essential workers coming into the region to work regarding isolation.

Officer Pinard of the local Sûreté du Québec office in Blanc-Sablon would like to also remind the population that if you have any questions about the health measures, or if you are having symptoms of COVID-19, that you can call Santé Publique at 1-877-644-4545 at any time. The SQ continue to be present at the local airport and federal wharf to remind travelers of the restrictions and recommendations for arriving into the region.

For a list of COVID-19 rules and restrictions for living in an orange zone, you can check out the Quebec government website at quebec.ca.

Abbygail Wellman
CFBS Journalist