We have had another big week here in Ontario, as we continue to make progress in stopping the spread of COVID-19.

As of 12:01 am Friday morning, the Government of Ontario will be increasing the limits on social gatherings from five to ten. This increase will be applied across Ontario regardless of what stage the region is in. It's important to also note that physical distancing recommendations are still in place and should be followed in any gathering. Non-medical coverings also continue to be recommended by the Chief Medical Officer of Health, particularly in situations where distancing can be difficult or impossible. 

In recent weeks, I've received calls from a number of constituents and faith organizations across the riding about places of worship. I want you to know that your voices have been heard. 

We know how important faith is to many, and thanks to your your efforts and advocacy, I am happy to confirm that as of 12:01 am on June 12th, places of worship across the province can reopen for worship services at no more than 30% of the building's capacity.  They will need to adhere to health and safety guidelines including physical distancing during worship.

On Monday, the government also announced 34 of 44 public health units in Ontario will be proceeding into Stage 2 of the Framework to Reopen our Province. While Toronto and our neighbouring public health units were not included in the first group, the province will review the status of the remaining 10 public health units every Monday based on public health considerations. 

Stage 2 of the Framework will allow for the reopening of: 

To support the reopening, the Ontario Government will allow restaurants and bars to temporarily extend outdoor patio spaces to safely accommodate patrons and staff once licensed establishments are permitted to fully reopen for business. While the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) will not require licensees to apply or pay a fee for these temporary extensions, licensed establishments must ensure they have municipal approval and meet all other applicable requirements. 

The Ontario government also intends to take action to protect commercial tenants from being locked out or having their assets seized by their landlords due to the negative impacts of COVID-19. Proposed changes to the Commercial Tenancies Act would, if passed, temporarily halt evictions of businesses that are eligible for federal/provincial rent assistance. If passed, the legislation would reverse evictions that occurred on or after June 3, 2020.

Today, the government also announced a plan to resume visits to long-term care homes, retirement homes and other congregate care settings, which is something many constituents have asked for. Beginning next Thursday, June 18th, family members and friends can visit these settings under certain conditions. Long-term care homes will allow outdoor visits of one person per resident each week. Retirement homes will resume indoor and outdoor visits in designated areas or resident suites when physical distancing can be maintained. Other residential care settings will be able to allow outdoor visits of two people at a time. Physical distancing will be required for all visits. This approach will ensure the health and safety of residents, staff and visitors.

Furthermore, visitors will be subject to strict health and safety protocols: 

For a list of guidelines in Long-Term Care Homes click here
For a list of guidelines in Retirement Homes click here
For a list of guidelines in Congregate Living Settings click here