The Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce is looking for input from businesses about their reopening plans.
It comes as New Brunswick prepares to remove all of its COVID-19 measures, including masks, by mid-March.
CEO David Duplisea said they have heard from many members in recent weeks who are unsure which measures they should keep in place.
“They have to balance how do they keep their customers safe as well as their employees safe but still adhere to a business model that works for them,” Duplisea said in an interview.
“We thought, in order to better advise and let our membership know what’s going on, let’s just get a feel for our membership. Just come out and ask them.”
The short survey asks businesses which safety protocols they plan to continue with, if any. It also asks which sector or industry they are in, and whether their employees are working from home, in the office, or both.
Duplisea said the survey launched on Monday and they received more than 400 responses during the first day.
“So far, 50 per cent are going to continue to ask for masks and/or safe distancing. Very few are going to ask for vaccinations, so far that we’ve seen, I think it was 10 per cent,” he said.
Duplisea said he hopes this survey will help guide chamber members in the weeks ahead as businesses return to more normal times.
“They don’t want to make concrete decisions right away. They want to see what the consensus is and what most people are doing,” he said.
As of this past Monday, organizations and businesses are no longer required to enforce proof of vaccination for entry.
All remaining COVID-19 measures — including mandatory masks, limited gathering numbers and physical distancing — will end March 14.
Duplisea said the chamber’s survey will also continue until March 14.
At the chamber, we are aware of the ever-changing landscapes and challenges associated with Covid-19. With mandates being lifted, what safety protocols if any do you plan on continuing with? Please send us your feedback and if you need help, reach out.https://t.co/yCqDtGmD6O pic.twitter.com/l8bwTOvpel
— The Chamber SJ (@TheChamberSJ) February 28, 2022
