NDP Leader Ryan Meili is calling on the province for expanded testing and tracing to slow the spread of COVID-19.

With the province case count up over 50% this past weekend Meili is calling on the province to act aggressively to get ahead of the spread of the coronavirus.

“Right now, if we are testing anyone who has symptoms associated with COVID-19 or anyone who has been in contact with any positive case. They need to be tested right away and their contacts traced as well.”

Meili also called on the provincial government to scale-up communication with the public about the measures required to fight COVID-19, by launching an aggressive public advocacy campaign. Saying people need to hear clear, up to date information from the government. Meili says there have been phone alerts and regular press conferences but there needs to be more.

“We need to see some public facing ad campaigns, television ads, online, on radio, so that people know exactly how serious this is, exactly what it is we’re facing, and exactly what they can do to keep themselves healthy and protect those around them.”