(UPDATED April 4)
The Manitoba government has issued a new public health order to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in an effort to protect the health and safety of all Manitobans, Premier Brian Pallister announced on Monday, March 30. All non-essential businesses are to close effective 12:01am April 1 to April 14, 2020. Golf courses were not-listed as an essential service within the health order and would therefore be required to close.
An interpretation of a provision within the public health order would allow businesses such as golf courses to access the grounds to be able to continue with maintenance and repairs. As of April 1, it was confirmed by the provincial government that golf courses can continue to employee staff for maintenance. Additionally, if the golf course has a shop they can provide goods online or by telephone for delivery or pickup. Additionally, workplaces should still follow social distancing practices as recommended by the Chief Provincial Public Health Officer.
Manitoba health officials clarify business operations >>
The closure of non-essential business services was announced just 10 days after the province declared a state of emergency in an effort to protect the public and reduce the spread of COVID-19.
For more information on the public health order, please click HERE >>.
For golf facility managers and owners looking for more information about how to navigate operations during this time, the National Golf Course Owners Association has populated their website with some resources for your reference. Please see below: