58 tickets handed to Manitobans over Christmas week for violating health orders

The Manitoba government is providing an update on ongoing enforcement efforts to protect Manitobans from the spread of COVID-19.  

A total of 193 warnings and 58 tickets were issued for the week of Dec. 21 to 27 including three $5,000 tickets to businesses for various offences and 51 $1,296 tickets to individuals for various offences. 

Officials advise that 44 of the 51 $1,296 tickets issued last week were in relation to gatherings in private residences. As New Year’s Eve approaches, Manitobans are reminded that public health orders remain in effect throughout the holidays and must be followed to reduce the spread of COVID-19. For information about online events and activities designed to make staying home a little easier, visit Safe at Home Manitoba at www.safeathomemb.ca/. 

Enforcement officials also issued four $298 tickets for failure to wear a mask in indoor public places. Manitobans are reminded that masks must cover a person’s mouth, nose and chin without gapping. Face shields are not an acceptable alternative. 

Since enforcement efforts began in April, a total of 1,683 warnings and 617 tickets have been issued, resulting in more than $919,000 in fines to businesses and individuals.  

Almost 3,300 personnel across various agencies are empowered to enforce public health orders to protect Manitobans. This includes RCMP, law enforcement agencies, provincial employees and municipal partners, such as the City of Winnipeg.   

Updated enforcement statistics are now posted online weekly. For more information go to Cross-Departmental Reports at www.gov.mb.ca/openmb/infomb/departments.html.  

In addition to a $298 fine for not wearing a mask in indoor public places, fine amounts for violating public health orders have been set at $1,296 for tickets issued to individuals, including sole proprietorships and partnerships, and $5,000 for tickets issued to corporations.  

Manitobans can report compliance and enforcement issues by visiting www.manitoba.ca/COVID19 and completing the reporting form, or by calling 204-945-3744 or 1-866-626-4862 (toll-free) and pressing option three on the call menu. 

The Manitoba government is taking strong action to protect Manitobans and ensure timely access to care. Current orders under the Public Health Act are available at:https://www.gov.mb.ca/asset_library/en/proactive/2020_2021/orders-soe-11222020.pdf.    

Manitobans are reminded to adhere to all current public health orders and stay home. For more information on COVID-19 in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/COVID19. 

(Media Bulletin – Manitoba)