The Canadian Federation of Independent Business spoke to Arctic Radio to share their take on the province’s reopening plan for phase two.

Director of the Prairies Jonathan Alward says it’d great to see businesses that weren’t included in phase one last month such as movie theatres and museums. He goes on to say,”I think a lot of small businesses in the province certainly are going to be pleased to see that milestone too because it was hit so early. We’re moving to stage two of the reopening about 2 weeks ahead of schedule. I guess two important take aways from me. One, it wasn’t the kind of leap I’d hoped for or maybe expected. Even if you look at personal services, businesses like salons and barbershops. They’re remaining at 50% capacity. A lot of other businesses like restaurants don’t see any real significant changes happening to ease their restrictions other than allowing more people indoors. Like he requirement to sit strictly with your household, unless your fully vaccinated, remains in place. “

When asked about how vaccinated people getting more benefits under these new orders will affect independent business owners, Alward has this response.

“It’s a tough spot for businesses because on one hand you want to be able to open and serve as many customers as it’s safe to do so and the province is increasing that. On the other hand, and this is something we’re hearing a lot already, is why are businesses expected to enforce this? This is a lot of responsibilities to have on their shoulders and potentially putting them into some very difficult positions with their staff, their customers certainly with those realities.”

Catch Thompson Today at 12:40 and 5:10 this afternoon for the full update with Alward.