Alberta reopening economy today with delays in two COVID-19 hotspots

EDMONTON -- Alberta will allow all stores and daycares to reopen today, but two areas in the southern part of the province will have to wait a little longer for hair cutting services and restaurant dining.

Premier Jason Kenney says while Alberta's COVID-19 case numbers have been decreasing, Calgary and Brooks are home to three-quarters of active cases and caution is needed.

• READ MORE: Restaurants and hair salons in Calgary and Brooks to reopen May 25: Kenney

It won't be until May 25 when people there can dine in a restaurant or get their hair cut.

In the rest of the province, there will still be restrictions on the businesses that are being allowed to reopen.

Restaurants can only open at half capacity and a 15-person limit on public gatherings remains in force.

• READ MORE: Alberta moves ahead with Thursday relaunch

Kenney says if the first stage of reopening goes well, the next phase - which includes movie theatres and spas - could go ahead on June 19.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 14, 2020.