MLA Neudorf calls for end to Restrictions Exemption Program

Feb 4, 2022 | 1:54 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The MLA for Lethbridge-East has weighed in on what he thinks Alberta should do with COVID-19 restrictions going forward.

As the convoy and blockade near the Coutts border has gone on for nearly a full week now and protesters call for an end to all public health mandates, Nathan Neudorf says his office has “fielded upwards of three thousand calls, emails, and messages from across Alberta.”

While he said in a statement on Facebook that the Restrictions Exemption Program (REP) was never meant to deprive people of education or occupation, “it’s undeniably had that effect.”

The MLA writes that he has heard many heartbreaking stories about people losing their livelihoods, their homes, and their trust in the provincial government.

The original intent of the COVID restrictions was to protect the public healthcare system, but Neudorf believes it is no longer serving that purpose.

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“I believe it’s time for it to come to an end.”

During a time of intense division, he said he wants to see people come together on the common ground that we have as Albertans and Canadians, which is the respect and the freedom that everyone is owed in society.

“I have been working for a long time to find a reasonable and balanced approach. The message is ringing loud and clear in Alberta that our province is ready to move forward.”

Premier Jason Kenney stated during a Facebook Q&A Thursday evening that intends to announce plans to eliminate the REP by the end of March and most other public health measures could be ended before the end of February.

You can read Neudorf’s statement in its entirety below:

by David Opinko