Restaurants and bars won’t be opening until at least May 29 and churches will be able to hold drive-in services.

That from the province as it extends the emergency orders until the end of May.

In a news release this morning, officials say the extension includes the closure of bars and restaurants except for takeout and delivery only, restrictions on social gatherings of more than five people, and staff redeployment rules for long-term care homes and congregate settings like retirement homes and women’s shelters.

The government is also allowing drive-in religious gatherings. Churches have to organize services with conditions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 including keeping vehicles two metres or more apart, only members of the same household can be in one vehicle, people will not be able to leave their vehicles, and no more than five people can conduct the service at one time from outside a motor vehicle and they must stay at least two metres apart.

Today is the first day of reopening the province’s economy after eight weeks of lockdown to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Retailers with street front access will be able to open as well as off-leash dog parts and outdoor spaces like picnic sites, benches, and shelters in parks among other things.

Officials say it is still critical to maintain physical distance and suggest wearing a mask in areas where you can’t be six feet from other person.