Cape Breton leaders call for end of non-essential travel to island

A group of community leaders in Cape Breton wants non-essential travel stopped to the island as new cases of COVID-19 continue to be reported daily on the mainland.

The request was sent toNova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil and Dr. Robert Strang, the province's chief medical officer of health,by a group of municipal leaders and First Nation chiefs.

The group, which met recentlyto discuss a possible Cape Breton bubble,is also seekingcheckpoints and rapid testing for COVID-19.

"We can't be afraid to do the right thing just out of fear of stepping on the wrong toes," saidWe'koqma'qChief Annie Bernard-Daisley, who signed the letter as an organizer of the meeting.

There wereno confirmed cases of COVID-19 on the island as of Tuesday when the province reported 10 new cases, all in the central health zone.

Risk factors to be considered

Bernard-Daisley said various health factors, such as higher rates of cancer and diabetes, put Cape Bretoners atrisk of developing complications from COVID-19.

She saidhousing shortages in First Nationcommunities makes the situation more dangerous.

"There are some homes with multiple families residing in one," Bernard-Daisleysaid. "Some have over 20 family members in a home. In these situations, how can we effectively fight COVID?"

With students and families expected toheadto Cape Breton over the holidays, Bernard-Daisley said the time to act is now.

She would like to see anyone visiting the island from areas in the province experiencingCOVID-19activityto self-isolate for at least 14 days.

'It hits close to home'

Concerns over the spread of COVID-19 were heightened after a Sydney restaurant was identified as a possible exposure site.

Ardon Mofford,the owner ofGovernor's Pub andEatery,said his staff have since tested negative.

Mofford said the provinceshould screen visitors to theisland, asbusinesses are already carrying a heavy load.

"We're trying to deal with a crazy business environment," he said.

"It hits close to home when you get a potential situation like we did down here at Governor's. And then obviously what endured was incredible, what happens on social mediaand how your phone lights up. And you can see how the community gets scared and it's understandably so."

Provincial strategy

The Department of Health has said it's focusing testing efforts onasymptomatic people in locations with the most concerning spread.

A provincial spokesperson said the public will be informed as the province's strategy evolves.

Health officials continue to ask Nova Scotians to limit travel in and out of places with COVID-19 activity, such as the Halifax Regional Municipality and parts of Hants County.

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