WEST CARLETON – You better not pout, Santa has been declared an essential worker and been granted travel exemption, so get on that Nice List before it’s too late.

The City of Ottawa released a special statement today (Dec. 11) granting the Jolly Red Guy special status this COVID-19 influenced holiday season.

“Despite the current COVID-19 restrictions set out in the city of Ottawa, Mayor Jim Watson, in consultation with Dr. Vera Etches and Ottawa Public Health, has granted a travel exemption to Santa Claus to allow him deliver gifts to households across Ottawa on Christmas eve,” city staff released in a statement. “All physical distancing measures will be ensured to keep our residents safe and happy throughout the holidays.”

Your first chance to catch Santa’s eye as a good boy or girl will be this Saturday in Carp at the 11th Annual Carp Santa Claus Parade – Drive Thru Style.