NEW RESTRICTIONS FOR THE PROVINCE

With a daily count of more than 4,000 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday, December 17, Premier Doug Ford has come out swinging. “Omicron is the most transmissable variant we've seen to date,” he said today. “Nothing will stop this. We're slowing it as much as possible in order to give more time to vaccinate more Ontarians.”

He continued, “The decision to limit informal gatherings and at businesses is a tough one. Over the coming days, we will explore every option for new support for businesses. But if we don't take every single precaution, the modelling is scary.”

He also told parents that no decision has been made at this point about any possible changes to children returning to school in January.

Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer, outlined some new restrictions.

  • There will be a 50 percent capacity limit in restaurants, bars, gyms, grocery stores and personal care services

  • A limit of 10 patrons per table in a restaurant

  • Patrons must remain seated in restaurants and sporting venues

  • Restaurants are to close at 11pm except for takeout and delivery

  • Informal gatherings will be restricted to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.

New restrictions will come into effect on Sunday, December 19.

For more information, visit https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1001366/ontario-further-strengthening-response-to-omicron.

COVID-19Deb Crossen