Moe self-isolating after potential COVID exposure

Premier Scott Moe is self-isolating after potentially being exposed to a person who has tested positive for COVID-19.

In a media release Monday afternoon, the Saskatchewan government said Moe wasn’t experiencing any symptoms but had had a COVID-19 test as a precaution.

The government said the potential exposure occurred Nov. 15 at Original Joe’s in Prince Albert, where Moe had lunch with family members after a death in the family.

Moe is to remain in isolation until Nov. 29.

In a subsequent media release, the premier’s office said Moe learned of the potential exposure Monday morning through a public service announcement from the Saskatchewan Health Authority.

Staff, members of cabinet or those who attended a media conference on Nov. 17 are urged to watch for symptoms.

“Preparations for the upcoming session of the Legislative Session and Throne Speech will continue unimpeded, with the Premier carrying out his responsibilities from his home in Shellbrook,” the release said. “The only impact will be to the swearing-in of Government MLAs on Wednesday, November 25th.

“Deputy Premier Donna Harpauer will attend in the Premier’s absence, and Premier Scott Moe will be sworn in as MLA for Rosthern-Shellbrook at a later date prior to the Throne Speech.”

It’s the second time Moe has potentially been exposed to an individual who tested positive. A similar incident occurred during a campaign stop in Prince Albert in early October, after which Moe self-monitored for symptoms.