Grocery Stores to Open Sunday, Feb. 22

Grocery stores will be allowed to open on Sunday, Feb. 22, to help Nova Scotians recover from this week's winter storm.

The Nova Scotia government approved a regulatory change under the Emergency Measures Act to permit grocery stores to open from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

"We are still in a state of emergency and it's essential that Nova Scotians stay off our highways and roads until they have been cleared," said Ernest Fage, Minister responsible for the Emergency Measures Act. "Letting grocery stores open on Sunday will give Nova Scotians time to replenish their household food supply in a responsible, measured fashion."

The provincial government continues to urge Nova Scotians to stay at home until highways, roads and bridges have been cleared. Emergency vehicles, such as police, fire service, ambulances, power trucks and snowplows, must receive first priority.

"The safety of Nova Scotians is our number one concern," said Mr. Fage.

Nova Scotians are advised to call their local grocery store before venturing out Sunday to be sure the store has decided to open.

1:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, 2004