AMTA supports Government’s of Canada and Alberta in International Travel Pilot
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Calgary, AB (October 22, 2020) – The Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA) is applauding a joint pilot program from the Government’s of Canada and Alberta to safely test an alternative to 14-day quarantine requirements for international travellers.
Announcing the pilot today, the Alberta Government said this first-of-its-kind pilot will explore the feasibility of using rigorous testing and monitoring as a strategy to reduce mandatory quarantine periods, while keeping Canadians safe. Travellers returning to Canada are still legally required to abide by the 14-day quarantine.
The pilot could have a particular impact on the commercial transportation industry, ensuring the safe movement of goods across the country and United States borders.
“COVID testing like this helps strengthen and protect Alberta’s supply chain and meet the growing demand for service in our province,” says AMTA President Chris Nash. “Alberta’s economic recovery depends directly on our industry’s ability to move goods to market quickly and efficiently.”
The Alberta Government announced, starting Nov. 2, COVID-19 testing will be offered at the Coutts border crossing and Calgary International Airport. Travelers who participate will receive a test upon entry into the country before proceeding into quarantine. With a negative result, they can end quarantine if they commit to a second COVID test on day six or seven after arrival, at a participating community pharmacy. Participants will be closely monitored through daily symptom checks. They will also be required to follow enhanced health measures, such as wearing masks in public places and avoiding visiting high-risk groups.
“The association is committed to working closely with the Canadian Trucking Alliance, and our federal and provincial partners on this, and any other initiatives, to ensure the safety of commercial drivers, and the public while maintaining the efficient movement of goods,” adds Nash.
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About Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA)
The Alberta Motor Transport Association is a not-for-profit, advocacy and safety training association functioning as the voice, the standard and the resource for commercial transportation in Alberta. For more than 80 years, our work has encompassed a broad range of environmental, social, economic, safety and compliance matters, which impact provincial highways.
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