As he does every day, the Premier of Quebec, François Legault, reports on the most recent assessment of the COVID-19 pandemic in the province. He is once again accompanied by the Minister of Health and Social Services, Danielle McCann, and the National Director of Public Health, Horacio Arruda.
As of today there are 3,647 deaths in Quebec that is 51 more than yesterday. There are 44,197 confirmed cases of COVID-19 that is 570 more cases than yesterday. 1784 people are in the hospital, including 180 whom are in intensive care.
For the second consecutive day, the news is encouraging in Quebec as the number of deaths progresses more moderately. “In general, this is good news. First, [we have] the lowest total of new cases since April 11th. The situation in hospitals continues to be stable, the number of deaths continues to decrease compared to previous weeks, "said François Legault
Premier Legault confirmed yesterday that the game plan for the deconfinement of Greater Montreal is still on track. Public health has given the green light for the reopening of businesses that have a door leading to the outside from May 25th daycares June 1st.
145 health care workers have returned to work, Mr. Legault confirmed. "There is still work to be done," He also had a message to send to the Fédération Interprofessionnel de la santé du Québec (FIQ), whose members manifested outside Parliament earlier today. “I want to say a few words about the FIQ union. Earlier, in front of our offices, the union held a demonstration. Obviously, it disappoints me.
The main demand of the FIQ is to increase the ratios, to increase the number of nurses. What you have to understand is that since we have been in government, we have greatly increased the number of positions, “explained Mr. Legault. “Unfortunately, many positions have not been filled. So it is a bit theoretical to say that the number of positions should be increased even more when the positions posted are not filled. I understand them, but first recognize this, "he added.
“The news is encouraging;” Premier Legault said but has made it clear that the battle is not over. "We are slowly regaining control, but the game is not won. The virus continues to lurk," he said. He reiterated the importance of following the health guidelines in place, such as social distancing, hand washing and wearing a mask is always strongly recommended.
The government will also make announcements "in the coming days" to workers in hair and massage parlors. Details of the day camps will also be released soon, he added.