Calgary businesses eager to get back to work with Open for Summer Plan and rising vaccination rates

The following statement is attributable to Murray Sigler, interim CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce:

Calgary, May 26, 2021 – “The Calgary Chamber of Commerce welcomes the provincial government’s Open for Summer Plan, which offers a clear path forward for businesses to reopen. With the first stage of the plan slated to begin as early as June 1, many businesses are prepared and poised to reopen for a much-anticipated summer season.

“We are thrilled to have an end in sight for the COVID-19 pandemic, along with a plan that offers a clear path forward to reopening. Businesses have had an incredibly challenging 15 months, and a plan for reopening provides a great reason for optimism. Many businesses and their employees have been waiting a long time to reopen, get back to work, and get back to doing what they love.

“The Open for Summer Plan and the reopening of our economy, hinges on Alberta’s vaccination rate. The Calgary Chamber is encouraging the Calgary business community, and all Calgarians, to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

“While today’s news is welcome, we know the impact of the pandemic has been uneven across sectors, and the recovery will be as well. The Small and Medium Enterprise Relaunch Grant (SMERG) extension until June 30 is welcome support for businesses as they continue to face uncertainty with permanently reopening, as well as those who will continue to face challenges despite restrictions lifting.

“This extension demonstrates the Province’s recognition that continued support is essential for businesses that are particularly susceptible to shifting public health measures. It also underscores that ongoing government support for businesses is critical to help them adjust to the new normal and recover from the pandemic. Continued consultation with businesses will also be essential to ensure a smooth reopening and relaunch, in a challenging environment.”

For more information about the Chamber’s vaccination campaign and Rapid Testing Program for businesses and non-profits, click the button below:

About the Calgary Chamber

The Calgary Chamber is an independent, non-profit, non-partisan business organization. For 130 years, the Chamber has worked to build a business community that nourishes, powers, and inspires the world.

For media inquires, please contact Arianne Brady, Communications Manager, at media@calgarychamber.com or at 403-750-0414.