Before reopening the Canada-US border can even be considered, Manitoba’s Premier says a mindset shift will have to take place in many of the southern parts of the province.

Overcoming the stigma against the COVID-19 vaccine will be key to having international vehicle travel return to normal according to Brian Pallister, who says he was talking to North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum just yesterday.

“We both recognize that it is really important to encourage our citizens to take advantage of the vaccines that are going to be available to them in order to speed up the herd immunity that we all want to see happen."

Pallister acknowledges that many folks in our region remain skeptical of the incoming drug but stresses much of that fear is misplaced.

“There are honest reasons why people might be concerned about taking a vaccine, and so we have to address those honest concerns, and part of that is helping people understand the benefits and that the risks are pretty minimal.”

He acknowledges that closed ports of entry continue to make life difficult, especially for those living nearest to them, but says it is essential that both sides do their best to get the virus under control. He notes the two nations are tied; Manitobans might want to shop down in the states, and Americans may want to come up and watch a Winnipeg Jets Game, for either to happen again, Pallister says there needs to be a level of mutual understanding.

“When you think of our economy, so intertwined with North Dakota and other states, it is a real benefit to have them be safe," he says. "We will better be able to open up the borders if we know we are keeping each other safe in the process.”