House of Commons keeping mask mandate, easing other COVID-19 restrictions

The House of Commons is beginning to ease some COVID-19 restrictions that have been in place throughout the pandemic, but one measure staying until the end of June will be the mask mandate.

House Speaker Anthony Rota announced Thursday that the Board of Internal Economy— which oversees administrative matters—has decided that masks will still be required for MPs and any other people who enter the buildings that are part of the House precinct.

This means that until at least the end of the spring sitting on June 23, anyone who works in and around the House will need to continue wearing masks while in all common areas, except for when eating, drinking, or seated at their desk if distanced from others.

The mask mandate does not apply to MPs when they are at their place in the chamber, when speaking at a press conference, or when participating in a House of Commons committee meeting in person.

“However, it is strongly recommended that Members wear a mask / face covering when they are at their place during parliamentary proceedings,” reads the latest guidance.