The government of Saskatchewan's first phase of reopening the provincial economy began on Monday, May 4, and based on what they've seen so far the official opposition doesn't think phase two should happen anytime soon. NDP Leader Ryan Meili called on the provincial government to delay the reopening plan today.

Meili cited a rise in cases as his reason the government should push back the proposed May 19 start date for phase two. He said the province has not met its own stated criteria of 1500 tests per day despite the increase in cases.

“We’re now just over a week from the start of phase two, but business owners have more questions than answers about how to open safely,” said NDP Leader Ryan Meili. “The province has failed to consult with those affected. They need to step up, listen to local business owners like those joining us today, and provide the guidelines and protections that are needed to ensure a successful and safe reopening of Saskatchewan businesses.”

As for the 1500 tests per day number, however, the province had their own views on that. In a conversation with reporters, Premier Scott Moe said the only reason they weren't doing that many tests per day is because the demand for it wasn't there.

"What we saw in the province between when I made that statement and today is our numbers have dropped in most areas of the province," Moe said. "We do have a few outbreaks, but by and large, across much of the province, as Dr. Shahab has said, our numbers are relatively quiet and we haven't had the request for tests, quite frankly, which is a positive thing by and large for the vast number of communities in Saskatchewan."

The NDP remain unconvinced, however, and rallied a few business owners who are going to be allowed to open May 19 to their side. They said they held a meeting with several salon and barbershop owners, barbers, and hairdressers this week, and three of those business owners who joined them in that announcement have said they will postpone their reopening.

“I have a large staff, including some with family members who are immunocompromised," said Julia Darling, owner of High Noon Barber in Saskatoon. "We’ll need a lot of protective equipment, and if we run out, we’ll have to close. All we’re really asking for is time and support to figure this out.”