Trudeau confirms Santa Claus able to make his Christmas rounds

OTTAWA (NEWS 1130) — Any kids concerned about how the pandemic will affect their visit from Santa Claus will no longer have to worry.

On Friday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed Santa will be able to make it into work, but he is not exempt from COVID-19 health protocols.

“I’ve checked with the ministers of health, public safety, and transport, and Santa is good to go,” said Trudeau.

Santa will still be socially distancing and has promised to wash his hands in between houses as well.

“But the bottom line is that he’ll be able to come and leave us gifts,” Trudeau added in a video posted to Twitter. “We have to stay on the nice list, so keep following public health rules. And let’s all have a very Merry Christmas.”

Hey moms and dads, aunts and uncles, and anyone who’s been getting asked about Santa Claus’ travel plans this year – call over the little ones in your life, or save this post to share with them later, because I’ve got an update on Santa for them. pic.twitter.com/lF7YtLdFcN

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) December 19, 2020

Santa was also given the stamp of approval by B.C.’s Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry, Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Canada’s top doctor, Dr. Theresa Tam.

Henry still advises British Columbians against travelling when they don’t have to, but Santa will be allowed to make his rounds.

“So, no leaving out the cookies and milk this year. And let’s just be happy that he can make it around the world,” she said.

Henry added even the reindeer will be very careful as well.

RELATED: 

• “Christmas is a little different this year”: An interview with Santa

• Santa will be visiting B.C. safely this Christmas, says Dr. Bonnie Henry

• Canada’s top doctor, Doug Ford declare Santa Claus an essential worker ahead of Christmas

A few days after Henry’s announcement, Tam had a video chat with the jolly old elf on Wednesday, where she declared Santa an essential worker ahead of the holidays.

“I have a message for all the kids in Canada, too. I know some of you are worried about me, but I am well. In fact, I am feeling great,” Santa said.

“Mrs. Claus and I have been self-isolating, in fact, we have been doing it for years. Many, many years.”

Parents, #Santa and I had a call to discuss his #ChristmasEve plan, and don’t worry – he’s cleared as an essential worker in Canada.

Santa also has a special message for all the kids out there. Watch it now: pic.twitter.com/3Wr2YOjmVs

— Canada's CPHO (@CPHO_Canada) December 16, 2020

Santa said he’s had custom masks made that properly fit his beard and that the “good list” of children is a long one this year.

Tam finished off the conversation by wishing everyone in Canada a very happy holiday season.

– With files from Kareem Gouda, Nikitha Martins, Kathryn Tindale and Lucas Casaletto