New Brunswick Day marks first major gathering since all public health restrictions lifted
Monday marks New Brunswick Day and one of the first major gatherings in the province since public health lifted all pandemic-related restrictions.
But amid the celebrations, there's still some concern with a double-digit jump in COVID-19 cases over the long weekend.
The public holiday was originally set as the target day for New Brunswick's Green phase of recovery.
But on July 23, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jennifer Russell announced the province would lift all mandatory public health orders on July 30, a few days early.
"It's been about two years since I've been actually out in public, I've actually taken a break since the pandemic hit and now I'm out with all my collection and enjoying the scene. It's great to be out again," says Peter Murchison, a wood carver and vendor.
A lively scene, with events going on throughout the day in the province's capital city provided a sense of normalcy that could take some getting used to.
"I won't lie, it's a little overwhelming seeing such a large group all at the same time, but it's nice to see that maybe a little of normalcy is coming back to the world," says Fredericton resident Paul Mansfield.
Some are embracing the new normal.
"It's a bit of shock, but government cleared us, so I'm happy, I'm good, I'm comfortable. Were outside especially, and especially at this stage in the game, get it while the getting's good," says Ethan Garnier, a UNB student.
However, New Brunswick has seen a spike in COVID-19 cases this weekend and Premier Blaine Higgs says the increase was not unexpected.
"It is concerning when we have like 18-per cent of our population that are eligible that haven't gotten their first vaccine and that's why even today we have a vaccine clinic right here, right next door," says Higgs.
There are currently 37 active cases in the province and as of Monday 67.9 percent of New Brunswick's eligible population has received both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.
Originally the province had set a target of 75 per cent being fully vaccinated before going Green.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Expert warns of food consumption habits amid rising prices
A new survey by Dalhousie University's Agri-Food Analytics Lab asked Canadians about their food consumption habits amid rising prices.
Documents reveal Ottawa's efforts to get Loblaw, Walmart on board with grocery code
It was evident to the federal government as early as last fall that Loblaw and Walmart might be holdouts to the grocery code of conduct, jeopardizing the project's success.
opinion The special relationship between King Charles and the Princess of Wales
Royal commentator Afua Hagan writes that when King Charles recently admitted Catherine to the Order of the Companions of Honour, it not only made history, but it reinforced the strong bond between the King and his beloved daughter-in-law.
Charlie Woods, son of Tiger, shoots 81 in U.S. Open qualifier
Charlie Woods failed to advance in a U.S. Open local qualifying event Thursday, shooting a 9-over 81 at Legacy Golf & Tennis Club.
Improve balance and build core strength with this exercise
When it comes to cardiovascular fitness, you may tend to focus on activities that move you forward, such as walking, running and cycling.
'I just want to be safe': Ukrainian man in Canada faces limbo amid consular freeze
A recent decision to restrict consular services for fighting-aged Ukrainian men has made a Ukrainian man in Canada feel less certain of his next steps — and worried he could be pulled back to the war.
B.C. tenants evicted for landlord's use after refusing large rent increase to take over neighbouring suite
Ashley Dickey and her mother rented part of the same Coquitlam duplex in three different decades under three different landlords.
Mountain guide dies after falling into a crevasse in Banff National Park
A man who fell into a crevasse while leading a backcountry ski group deep in the Canadian Rockies has died.
$70M Lotto Max winners kept prize a secret from family for 2 months
During a special winner celebration near their hometown, Doug and Enid shared the story of how they discovered they were holding a Lotto Max ticket worth $70 million and how they kept this huge secret for so long.