Quarantined Canadians from China depart for final destinations while Canadians from cruise arrive in Trenton

At the end of last month, the Chief of Defence Staff, Jonathan Vance, released a letter addressed to families of Trenton. The letter provided an update regarding Canadians who had returned from China and remained under medical observation at CFB Trenton. All those under observation were now set to depart for their final destination, after the two-week observation period. 

“I want to personally thank everyone who worked so hard to welcome our fellow citizens home, and to make them feel as comfortable as possible,” read the letter. “To the local Trenton community and our military families, your support and kindness shown to strangers throughout this time is an example for all Canadians,” it continued. 

All facilities that were used during the observation period are in the process of being cleaned, with measures being taken to ensure that they are able to be used again safely. The letter went on to explain the CAF’s commitment to providing assistance to agencies supporting Canadian’s under medical observation at the NAV Centre in Cornwall, Ontario. 

“As we continue to monitor the global situation regarding the spread of COVID-19, you can be confident in the preparedness of the Canadian Armed Forces as well as the safety protocols that were employed during the return of Canadians and during their two-week medical observation period,” assured the Chief of Defence Staff. 

Earlier today, Minister of Foreign Affairs François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Health Patty Hajdu, and Minister of National Defence Harjit Sajjan announced that the plane secured for Canadians returning from the Grand Princess cruise ship has arrived in Canada.

“We continue to work around the clock to provide assistance and consular services to Canadians in areas affected by COVID-19, including those who were aboard the Grand Princess,” said François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Foreign Affairs. “We will continue to provide full support to Canadians who remain in San Francisco.”

“Thank you to our military personnel, partners, and the Trenton community for their work and support in bringing our Canadian friends and neighbours who were aboard the Grand Princess cruise ship back home,” added Sajjan.

Prior to boarding, passengers were screened for any exhibiting symptoms. Those with any symptoms of COVID-19 were not permitted to board the flight. 

Early this morning, 228 passengers landed at CFB Trenton. The passengers on board were screened again at the base by quarantine officers. They will now be subject to a two-week quarantine period, undergoing medical assessment and observation.