Today, Premier Rankin and Dr Strang outlined the Province of Nova Scotia's plan for re-opening from the current restrictions and state of emergency related to COVID-19. Details are as follows:

  • 68% of Nova Scotians either have, or are booked for their first dose of vaccine (53% have actually received it). All Nova Scotians 12 and older are now able to book their vaccine appointment.
  • Re-opening will be gradual and cautious, yet flexible
  • Testing will continue to key throughout the 5 phase re-opening plan
  • Testing will begin at the Halifax airport June 14
  • Higher vaccine targets have been chosen vs other provinces
  • The plan announced today is based on 1 dose of vaccine and is meant to see us through the summer. Phases can be moved between every 2-4 weeks, how quickly is based on vaccine coverage rates.
  • In September, once 75% of people have 2 doses, it will be about living with covid (phase 5)
  • The pace and design of the phases is to avoid ever having to lockdown again
  • Loose target of July 1 for an Atlantic Bubble (Phase 3)
  • Phase 4 looks beyond Atlantic Canada (best case scenario - beginning of August based on vaccination status as far as removing quarantine requirements for travelers outside Atlantic Canada)
  • Note, even at Phase 5 there is no mention of removing mask requirements or eliminating the state of emergency
  • Vaccination targets to move between phases (1 dose):

-  Phase 1: 50% (achieved)

-  Phase 2: 60% (mid June potential)

-  Phase 3: 65% (early July potential)

-  Phase 4: 75% (mid July potential)

-  Phase 5: 75% (2 doses, expected September)

View/Download the PDF HERE