COVID-19: Moving into the Red Zone
On Monday, September 28, the Gouvernement du Québec announced that the COVID-19 alert status for the Montreal area will be raised to the Red Zone as of Thursday, October 1. The second wave is upon us. We all need to increase our efforts in solidarity to curb the spread of this devastating virus, which is upending our lives. Premier Legault is asking for 28 days. Twenty-eight days of no private social gatherings, since previous ones have regrettably contributed to the increase in COVID-19 cases in Quebec. Let’s refrain from gathering for our health and our loved ones.
This situation has been difficult for everyone and has hurt many of our businesses. Restaurant dining areas, bars, museums, cinemas, event spaces will be closed. And we hope the announced financial aid to these businesses will come soon.
The Westmount Public Library will be closed to the public but will remain operational for curbside pickup for book and audio rentals. For now, Quebec has not implemented any restrictions regarding sports activities. Still, this may change. The activities at the Westmount Recreation Centre (WRC) and the Victoria Hall will continue until further notice.
Our parks will remain open, but we must reiterate that gatherings are prohibited. Please maintain a distance, avoid large groups and keep the parks clean.
Vigilance is of the utmost necessity. As a community, we must work together during these 28 days to slow down the rise of cases. We ask all Westmounters for their patience, understanding and compassion towards each other, and to follow the required measures of handwashing, physical distancing, and wearing a face covering when physical distancing is difficult. We can do this.
Christina M. Smith
Mayor of Westmount