Ontario officially extends state of emergency for another 28 days
Ontario has extended the province’s state of emergency by 28 days amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The decision was based on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health and with the approval of the Ontario legislature, and the state of emergency declaration will be in place until May 12.
According to the province, this will allow the government to continue to enforce current emergency orders, such as the closure of all non-essential workplaces, outdoor amenities such as parks and recreational areas, public places and bars and restaurants, as well as restrictions on social gatherings of more than five people, and prohibitions against price-gouging.
“During these unprecedented times, we cannot let our guard down. The actions being taken by everyone to stay home and practice physical distancing are making a difference, but we are not out of the woods yet,” said Premier Doug Ford in a statement.
“With the support of every Ontario MPP, we continue to take any and all actions necessary to support our frontline health care workers and respond rapidly and decisively to slow the spread of this deadly virus.”
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On Monday, Ford first announced on planning to extend the province’s state of emergency.
“Hopefully we’ll get through this,” said Ford. “I just want to thank members of the opposition for their cooperation on getting these passed right away.”
The state of emergency in the province was first issued on March 17.
And two weeks after premier Ford declared the state of emergency for Ontario amid the COVID-19 pandemic, he confirmed that it will be extended on March 30.