Considering the recent global events surrounding the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), we’d like to reassure the community that Port Saint John is taking COVID-19 and its potential ramifications very seriously. We recognize, acknowledge, and respect the concerns citizens may have about Port Saint John operations, particularly as they relate to the cruise season.
We can assure you that the safety and security of our employees, their families and members of our community are our top priority. As such, we will follow the direction and advice given by the federal government and public health agencies. We will continue to coordinate with those entities to do our part in combatting the spread of COVID-19.
We will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation and follow the advice of relevant government authorities for all Port operations.
Like many organizations, Port Saint John is facing the realities of the COVID-19 pandemic on our country’s workforce. The health and safety of our employees, their families and our community are our top priorities and, as such, we are on a mandatory remote work program, except for critical and essential operational tasks.
Designated members of our team performing these essential roles are using modified procedures to ensure the health and safety of all personnel. You can still get in touch with us by calling (506) 636-4869 or directly via mobile or email to your usual Port Saint John contact. Or by reaching out to the designated leads for these three areas of our organization:
Captain Chris Hall
VP, Operations & Harbour Master
Chris Hall by email
Andrew Dixon
Senior VP, Trade & Business Development
Andrew Dixon by email
Paula Copeland
Director, Communications & Corporate Social Responsibility
Paula Copeland by email
Port Saint John is deemed to be critical infrastructure by both the federal and provincial governments, and through this designation, the Port participates in emergency planning and preparedness groups on an on-gojng basis, and in the current situation is in regular contact with emergency management officials and the federal, provincial, and municipal levels.
To date, we haven’t had any impact on our supply chain or cargo operations. The uninterrupted movement of goods is paramount for New Brunswickers and Canadians, particularly in this time of crisis. Together with our port stakeholder community, we continue to play our role in ensuring Canada’s supply chain is operational and secure. Canada’s Ports are vital to international trade.
The federal government has implemented policies regarding the 2020 cruise season aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19. Before July 1, 2020, no vessels with the capacity to carry 500 or more people (passengers and crew) will be allowed to visit Canadian Ports or travel within Port jurisdictional waters.
For Port Saint John, this will mean the loss of at least 18 cruise ship calls and over 41,600 passengers. Our 2020 season is still strong from July through to end of October, with approximately two-thirds of ships visiting in September and October. See the updated cruise schedule here.
For questions and inquiries regarding our venues and event bookings please contact Natalie Allaby by email.
In recognition of the impact of COVID-19 on economic realities for many, we have dropped the requirement to provide one-month cancellation notice requirement for our parkers. For questions and inquiries regarding parking at Port Saint John lots please email parking@sjport.com.
The evolving COVID-19 crisis has been impacting major events in our community, region, and the world.
Like many of you, the Port Saint John team has been closely monitoring the situation and warnings from health officials about the risk to our communities.
Considering government directions on large gatherings, we’ve made the decision to not deliver our Port Days and Community Day events for 2020. We did this with the health and safety of our team and their families, our stakeholders, and our community at top of mind.
Our heart goes out to all folks who may be impacted by the challenging weeks and months ahead. We wish you well and hope you’ll continue to follow the advice of our governments and medical authorities.
We support the government’s efforts and will continue to follow their lead when it comes to slowing the spread of the Novel Coronavirus.
Everyone has a role to play in mitigating the impact and spread of COVID-19. It takes more than governments and action from the health sector to protect the health and safety of Canadians.
Follow government and medical community’s advice on social distancing and frequent hand washing.
Please be aware and vigilant of false or misleading information and follow official sources for information on the spread of COVID-19:
