Premier Caroline Cochrane announced earlier today that she has tested positive for COVID-19.
The premier made the announcement via press release, stating that, as per the Chief Public Health Officer’s recommendations, she will be staying home and limiting her contact with others. This also means that she will be absent from House sessions, as it would risk the chance of spreading the virus to her colleagues.
Cochrane said in a statement that, “I recognize that my self-isolation comes at a time of great uncertainty in the territory due to forest fires and flooding. I want to reassure residents that Cabinet meets daily on these matters, and I will continue to chair these meetings virtually. Deputy Premier Diane Archie will remain in the House during my absence, and I am hopeful that I will be able to attend Session next week.
“COVID-19 is part of our new normal, and I want to encourage residents to stay up to date with their vaccinations. While there are no COVID-19 Public Health Orders in place requiring isolation, staying in place and avoiding contact with others remains an effective way of limiting the spread of COVID-19 in the territory.”
