Ontario orders further workplace closures, halt to many construction projects
The Ontario government has announced further business closures and a shutdown of many construction sites in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
“My government is prepared to take every step possible and today I’m asking you to do the same,” Premier Doug Ford said in an update Friday afternoon.
“Today we’re taking additional steps to flatten the curve. We’re announcing the closure of many more sectors of the economy and I can tell you this was no easy task.”
The order takes effect as of Saturday at 11:59 p.m. and is scheduled to last for 14 days.
Ford said all industrial construction will be stopped. Only essential infrastructure-related projects will proceed. No new residential construction will take place under the order, adding inspections will be stepped up. However, residential projects near completion will be allowed to continue.
As for businesses, the Ontario government lowered the number of essential workplace categories to 44 from 74. While several new businesses will be ordered to close, some will be mandated to provide services through different ways such as delivery and curbside pickups.
Physical cannabis stores were also included in the closure order.
The announcement comes after the Ontario government announced projected COVID-19 numbers to be just under 1,600 COVID-19 deaths and 80,000 cases by the end of April if the current measures in place are upheld.
“The reality is the early chapters of our story have already been written and there are some things that are out of anyone’s hands,” Ford said.
Revised list of essential workplaces
Source: Government of Ontario
Businesses and operations not listed under the government’s order must temporarily close as of 11:59 p.m. on Saturday for two weeks.
Supply chains
“Businesses that supply other essential businesses or essential services within Ontario, or that supply businesses or services that have been declared essential in a jurisdiction outside of Ontario, with the support, products, supplies, systems, or services, including processing, packaging, warehousing, distribution, delivery, and maintenance necessary to operate.”
Food and drink
“Businesses that primarily sell food, beverages and consumer products necessary to maintain households and businesses, including supermarkets and grocery stores, convenience stores, discount and big-box retailers selling groceries, restaurants (take out, drive-through and delivery service only), beer and wine and liquor stores.”
Services
Pharmacies, gas stations and fuel suppliers, laundromats and dry cleaners, security services for properties, vehicle and equipment repair and maintenance businesses, courier and postal services, funeral homes and related businesses, temporary staffing services, urgent care veterinary services and other businesses responsible for the health and welfare of animals, home childcare for up to six children and childcare for emergency services workers, hotels, motels and other shared rental accommodations (except for recreational amenities at those properties and seasonal campgrounds), cheque cashing services
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