In a statement from Port President and CEO Shaun Stevenson issued on Wednesday, the Port noted that they are taking the COVID-19 pandemic very seriously and taking measures towards keeping the community and staff healthy and safe, as well as to 'flatten the curve' to slow transmission.
Observing how they Port has a critical role towards the continued movement of goods and delivery of essential services they continue to work to ensure that trade is conducted as carefully as possible during the current situation.
As for the local measures, as of yesterday they have closed the Port Interpretive Centre/Prince Rupert Visitor Centre, which will remain closed until further notice.
As well, they have cancelled their planned Open Houses for the Ridley Island Export Logistics Platform, those sessions had been put in place for both Prince Rupert and Port Edward.
When it comes to Office business, the staff at the Port offices will be working with tele-conferencing in place of in person meetings, with non essential business travel suspended and no visitors to be received at their Atlin Terminal offices.
In a small community like Prince Rupert, where every resident has personal degrees of separation that can be very low, we all need to act now to go above and beyond in the prevention of COVID-19 transmission. We recognize that these are uncertain times for all of us, with critical health outcomes in the balance, and a country that is counting on us to ensure that the safe and efficient movement of vital goods continues to happen. As a port community, let's set the example of doing what it takes to win this battle. -- Port of Prince Rupert President and CEO, Shaun Stevenson
As for the Operations at their various terminals of the Prince Rupert Gateway the Port outlines how they have ben working towards actions and measures to address the situation as it evolves.
Ensuring the health and well-being of gateway workers, local residents, and Canadians is our top priority. PRPA has been working diligently to determine actions and measures to take throughout this evolving situation.
We have been working closely with our port tenants and partners to ensure that together we are doing our part to implement practices and procedures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
The broader marine community is doing its part to prevent the spread of COVID-19, as Transport Canada, in concert with multiple agencies including the Canadian Border Services Agency, the Public Health Agency of Canada, shipping lines, masters and crews, port authorities and terminal operators have robust screening processes and practices to ensure vessels and their crews, as well as gateway workers are safe.
Furthermore, the Government of Canada announced the delay of the 2020 cruise season, with the restriction of cruise vessels with a capacity of 500 passengers and crew at Canadian ports until July 1, 2020.
Mr. Stevenson also makes note of the scope of the Port's reach into the community and observes how every Port-related worker needs to take care of their health and take appropriate preparedness measures.
You can review their full statement from the Port of Prince Rupert website.
Further notes on local advisories can be explored here.
Cross posted from the North Coast Review.
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