‘I’m the guy stealing Christmas’: Emotional Pallister pleads with Manitobans to follow holiday health rules
Posted December 3, 2020 2:55 pm.
Last Updated December 3, 2020 3:02 pm.
WINNIPEG – Manitoba’s premier came close to tears in his update Thursday as he pleaded with people to follow health guidelines and plan for a small Christmas.
Premier Brian Pallister said Manitobans “cannot fail” in staying two metres apart from other people and staying away from loved ones during the holiday season.
“So I’m the guy who has to tell you to stay apart at Christmas and in the holiday season…because it will keep you safe. I’m the guy who’s stealing Christmas to keep you safe because you need to do this. Now you need to do the right thing because next year we’ll have lots to celebrate and we’ll celebrate this year if we do the right thing this year,” said an emotional Pallister.
WATCH: Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister close to tears describing COVID-19 situation
He said he didn’t get into politics to be well-liked, but instead to “do the right thing” and try to help people.
“You don’t need like me. I hope in years to come you might respect me for having the guts to tell you the right thing. And here’s the right thing–stay safe. Protect each other, love each other, care for each other. You got so many ways to show that but don’t get together this Christmas.”
Pallister made his plea after announcing the province would be providing rapid COVID-19 testing for teachers.
-with files from Justin Slimm
