As COVD-related hospitalizations continue to rise in Saskatchewan, Premier Scott Moe is speculating about the future end of COVID restrictions, such as vaccine passports and close contact isolation in schools.

During a Saskatoon radio program on Wednesday morning, Premier Moe said to expect further communication around the existing public health orders over the “next number of days.” He also went on to say that proof of vaccination has run its course for the most part, adding that “I think we’re getting to a point now where those that are not vaccinated likely aren’t going to get vaccinated.”

Reporters asked the province’s Chief Medical Health Officer, Dr. Saqib Shahab for a comment during a previously scheduled briefing about two hours after the Premier’s radio interview.

“We have already extended the current Public Health Orders until the end of February, so we already know what’s in place for February.” said Dr. Shahab. “What should happen in March, April and May—I think those are recommendations that will go to government and be discussed. They still haven’t proceeded at this point, but those discussions obviously happen in an ongoing fashion.”

Saskatchewan hospitals are treating a growing number of patients who have the Omicron variant. Outbreaks have also been declared at a number of emergency shelters and correctional institutions.