Premier Jason Kenney announced that any gathering larger than 50 people must be cancelled

EDMONTON — Alberta declared a state of public emergency Tuesday in reaction to the novel coronavirus.

“This is a serious moment in our history,” Premier Jason Kenney said.

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Kenney announced that any gathering larger than 50 people — including weddings and funerals — must be cancelled. He said public recreation facilities, casinos, bingo halls, bars, museums and art galleries would be closed immediately if they weren’t already.

Worship services and conferences also fall under the 50-person rule.

Sit-down restaurants are limited to half their capacity, but only up to 50 people. Take-out, delivery or drive-through service is permitted.

Grocery stores, shopping centres, health-care facilities and airports are among the essential services that remain open.

Kenney said his government will spend $60 million on charities and non-profit groups who are helping people cope with the effects COVID-19. That’s to include $30 million focused on seniors.

Kenney said the money would be delivered before the end of the month.

“COVID-19 will test all of us,” he said. “But I believe — I know — that this province is resilient and we are ready for the test.”