Legault Clarified The Rules For Quebecers Who Can't Isolate Before The Holidays

With less than a month to go until the holiday season, the government continues to clarify points of Quebec's holiday rules. While the government recommends that those who plan on participating in holiday gatherings isolate the week prior, Premier François Legault on Thursday addressed the situation for individuals who are unable to do so.

While he said potential gatherers would ideally stay home, he also said he "[understands] very well that there are many Quebecers who need — who have to work the week before Christmas."

Editor's Choice: The Quebec Government Says There's A Possibility It Won't Allow Holiday Gatherings

“

I'm not a magician, I don't perform miracles.

Premier François Legault

For these people, he explained, it's a matter of "minimizing the risks" by "following two very important instructions: always stay two metres away from other people and wear a mask when you are indoors."

As for other "categories of employees, such as health care staff [and] people who work in daycare centres" for whom "it's more difficult [...] to follow the instructions," the premier made clear he "can't say they can go to gatherings."

"It's a question of risk" and "risk management," he said, saying that gatherers need to consider factors like the age and vulnerability of those they plan on seeing in person.

"I understand that it's not black or white."

"There are people who are going to have to ask themselves the question: Did I take risks in the week before Christmas?"

National Public Health Director Dr. Horacio Arruda underlined that it's a matter of judgment.

"Do only the essential things you have to do, avoid unnecessary contact."

This article was originally published in French on Narcity Québec.