The Government of Saskatchewan has introduced new regulations to help stop the spread of COVID-19 in the province.

Effective Thursday, public and private gatherings will be limited to 10 people, they have also released a list of businesses allowed to remain open.,

Premier Scott Moe says these changes are being announced to give a sense of clarity to the business community.

“As we impose further restrictions to fight the spread of COVID-19, we know this creates challenges for businesses in Saskatchewan and we know that providing as much clarity as possible is important” said Premier Moe. “We are already seeing the creation of a social distancing economy in Saskatchewan as many businesses adapt their service delivery to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

The province has also released a list of critical public services and public services that are allowed to continue operating in an effort to maintain essential services and prevent a supply chain disruption.

The list includes: health care and public health workers; law enforcement, public safety and first responders; production, processing and manufacturing and the supporting supply chains; transportation and logistics; government and community services; media and telecommunications; construction including maintenance and repair; select retail services; and banking and financial services.

Businesses classified as non-essential are no longer allowed to provide public facing services but may continue services online if possible.

These businesses include clothing stores; shoe stores; flower shops; sporting good and adventure stores; vaping supply shops; boats, ATV, or snowmobile retailers; gift, book, or stationary stores; jewelry and accessory stores; toy stores; music, electronic and entertainment stores; pawn shops; and travel agencies.

These new measures pile on top of restrictions that came into effect on Monday, resulting in the closure of restaurants, food courts, and cafeterias to close except for takeout and delivery services.

Personal, recreational, and entertainment services were also told to close, along with the cancellation of non-essential services at dental, optometrist, chiropractic, registered massage therapy and podiatry clinics.