Concordia University students asked to vacate residency by March 22

Students living in residency at Concordia University have been given three days to find somewhere else to live during the worldwide pandemic.

“Our decision was taken in consideration of the welfare of our students, our residence staff and our community,” read Concordia’s release. “It was made in the context of the public health emergency that has been declared in Quebec, in addition to the rapidly shifting situation nationally and internationally.”

According to the university, there are currently no cases of the virus on campus and strive to “do everything we can to keep it that way.”

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“We are sensitive to the reality that some students in residence are simply unable to leave,” said Graham Carr, president and vice-chancellor of Concordia University. “I want to assure them and the community at large that Concordia will support any student who has nowhere to go to the best of our abilities by providing them with accommodation, meals and other services until conditions improve.”

Concordia said from the beginning of the outbreak, the school has been focused on the health and safety of its community.

The school also noted that due to the government’s enforcement of social distancing, the physical layout of Concordia’s residences, “where individuals share essential amenities” is too close in proximity and distancing can’t be achieved.

“We ask for the full cooperation of everyone in residence so we can focus our resources on those who need it the most,” concluded the release. “We all have a part to play during this emergency.”

Note: With coronavirus on the rise, Quebec Public Health is reminding individuals who attend events and large gatherings to monitor their health for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. And if you’re not feeling well, they recommend staying home at this time. Also, due to unexpected cancellations, please check the event you plan to attend is still taking place. Keep up with COVID-19 news here.