Legault says reopening gyms, restaurants 'not a good idea' in Quebec red zones

Quebec Premier François Legault says easing restrictions intended to limit the spread of COVID-19 is “not a good idea.”

During the government’s daily briefing, Legault said the pandemic’s numbers remain too high to “back off” on lockdown restrictions in red zones areas.

He says officials are working on ways to find a “balance” as the pandemic rages on.

“It’s a balance that’s difficult to find between life, saving lives, and the quality of lives of all Quebecers,” he said. “For now, we don’t think it’s a good idea to open restaurants, gyms, and public venues.”

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Legault’s statement comes on the heels of Quebec’s opposition parties demanding the government release documents from public health calling for gyms, museums, concert halls, and libraries to reopen.

The document claims that the government’s partial lockdown (in Montreal, specifically) risks causing serious mental and physical health issues to the population.

Legault says keeping restrictions is “necessary,” stating that the overall “battle isn’t yet over.”

Legault said public gatherings cause too many opportunities for the virus to spread, not just inside, but near the exits and entrances to public buildings.

La situation continue d’être stable, mais elle est critique dans certaines régions. On doit rester prudents et essayer de trouver un équilibre entre sauver des vies et la qualité de vie de l’ensemble des Québécois. Notre point de presse en direct: https://t.co/R65oJGdcy0

— François Legault (@francoislegault) November 5, 2020

The government extended its initial October red zone lockdown to at least November 23.

“It’s not an exact science,” continued Legault in French. “There is no operational guide on how to manage a pandemic and which decisions to make. Every single day, I question the decisions that we take and I speak with as many advisors as possible.”