On March 14, 2022, at 12:01 a.m., Grey County terminated the COVID-19 Emergency Declaration which has been in place in the County since March 26, 2020. The decision was made on March 11, 2022, following a meeting of the Grey County Emergency Control Group.
“Over the past two years we’ve experienced several challenges as our communities and services responded to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Grey County Warden Selwyn ‘Buck’ Hicks. “Throughout this challenging period the people of Grey County have shown tremendous resilience, adapting to various mandates and doing what was necessary to keep our communities healthy and our local economy moving. I am incredibly grateful for our unified strength and I’m proud of our ability to persevere during these difficult years.”
The County’s decision to terminate the emergency aligns with the action of many neighbouring counties and municipalities, as well as decisions from the Province to ease restrictions. The decision was reached in consultation with the Grey Bruce Health Unit
“The Grey Bruce Health Unit has played a pivotal role in this public health emergency. On behalf of County Council and the people of Grey County, I send our sincere thanks to our Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Ian Arra, and the dedicated team of professionals at the Health Unit for helping guide us through this emergency,” said Warden Hicks.
“Grey County’s decision to terminate its COVID-19 Emergency Declaration is a very measured and positive step on the journey to ending the pandemic. I applaud Grey-Bruce residents for their commitment to public health requirements, recommendations and guidance throughout the pandemic,” says Grey-Bruce Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ian Arra. “Grey County Council and staff have played an indispensable role in ensuring the safety of communities and getting us to a place in the pandemic where nearly all public health measures have been lifted and key public health indicators continue to improve. Without a doubt, it has been the privilege of my career to work side by side with the County’s capable leadership and staff to serve the public.”
Although the emergency declaration has been lifted, COVID-19 remains present in our communities. Grey County encourages the public to continue monitoring for symptoms, and to stay informed of updates through Grey Bruce Public Health, the Province, and the Federal Government.
