First flights to leave this weekend to pick up Canadians stranded abroad

 

Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addresses the media about the COVID-19 situation. Photo courtesy of Government of Canada, www.canada.ca

 

By Thomas I. Likness
EBC Edmonton Bureau

EDMONTON (Eagle News) — It will be wheels up sometime this weekend for a repatriation flight to bring home Canadians stranded in northern Africa.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Saturday an Air Canada flight will bring home ex-pats from Morocco. He also said there will be other flights.

We are working with airlines to make commercial flights available for as many Canadians who are stranded as possible,” said Trudeau.

But arranging the flight is just the first step. Many countries where the stranded Canadians are located have closed their borders.

We will also be working with other countries to ensure that our airlines have the permissions and other supports necessary to fly,” said Trudeau.

Trudeau said there is a lot of work to be done before other flights are arranged.

As we make these decisions, factors like the number of Canadians there, airspace closures and the local situation are being taken into account,” said Trudeau.

He warned that some may be left behind.

Now we won’t be able to reach everyone, but we’re going to do our best to help those we can,” he said.

He instructed all Canadians overseas to register with Global Affairs Canada so they can receive the latest information from the government.

For some in more remote areas, far from an airport, Trudeau says they will have to use their own judgement.

Everyone needs to take the best decisions for them,” advised Trudeau. “Obviously if they are not certain they will be getting on a flight, they’re probably better to stay in place, but Global Affairs Canada will give recommendations like that.”

He said all of those who come back will have to be isolated for 14 days upon their return.

Anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19 will not be allowed to board the flights.

(Eagle News Service)