Dealing with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic was listed as one of the top priorities of the provincial government Monday during the throne speech.

In a media scrum after the speech, Premier Scott Moe was asked if the province has been looking ahead to restrictions when it comes to Christmas and the holiday season.

"There will be three choices that Dr. Shahab will have on December 17; He'll be recommending that we keep measures at status-quo, he'll be recommending that we actually add to those, or he'll be recommending that potentially - the number we have for household gatherings is five right now - maybe that number will be able to creep up just a little bit so that we could have a few people in our homes for Christmas and the holiday season, just for a couple of days."

Premier Moe went on to emphasize how important it was for everyone in the province to follow all public health guidelines leading up to that date.

"We are going to have a few weeks of what I believe will be sustained higher numbers. What I would say to the people of the province is our measures are effective. Now I would ask the people of the province to ensure that they are following the measures, know what they are, and follow them carefully. For us to be truly effective in lowering the numbers of COVID-19, pay attention to what the health orders are, and follow them."

Moe also took time to credit the school divisions with the work they have done the last few months, saying that while there has been COVID-19 showing up in schools, the spread among students and staff has not been dramatic.

He also reminded all residents that with community transmission rates as high as they are, COVID-19 is going to start showing up more in facilities where we do not want it if the rules are not adhered to; places like correctional facilities, schools, and long-term care homes.

Other priorities listed by the government during the throne speech included provincial autonomy and fulfilling campaign promises.