PERTH-WELLINGTON – With regions across Ontario, including all Perth-Wellington moving to stage three of the province’s re-opening plan this Friday, local MPP Randy Pettapiece states that he strongly supports the plan.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced the move to stage three of the reopening plan July 13.
It will see nearly all businesses and public spaces reopen, including gyms, restaurants, movie theatres and playgrounds.
“Our government’s approach has been cautious, and now it’s paying off,” Pettapiece said.
“But this would not have been possible without care and sacrifice from all of us.”
In a July 16 press release, Pettapiece said jurisdictions that rushed to reopen, notably in certain parts of the United States, are facing record high COVID-19 cases.
“We don’t want to find ourselves in that position,” Pettapiece added.
The province will allow indoor gatherings of up to 50 people in stage three and outdoor gatherings of up to 100 people.
Physical distancing will remain a requirement for those not from the same household or established social circle.
Gatherings for religious services, weddings or funerals can continue to fill up to 30 per cent of a room’s capacity in stage three.
Unable to reopen at this point are amusement parks, overnight camps for children and buffet-style dining, among other activities.
Pettapiece reiterated his support for the efforts of local health units, hospitals, long-term care and retirement home staff, and others caring for people on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19.
He also acknowledged concerns that some constituents have expressed over visiting restrictions at long-term care homes and hospitals.
“Not being able to visit loved ones hasn’t been easy,” Pettapiece said.
“Things are changing, and that’s good—but we need to remain vigilant.”
The MPP also welcomed the government’s moves to reopen childcare centres. The province is increasing the maximum allowable number of children to 15 per group, effective July 27.
The move effectively doubles the number of available spaces province-wide, to 90% of pre-COVID capacity.
For more information on spaces and services allowed to open in stage three, visit ontario.ca/reopen.
To learn more about Ontario’s response to COVID-19, visit Ontario’s website: ontario.ca/coronavirus.
The province’s coronavirus support page for businesses can be accessed at ontario.ca/page/covid-19-support-businesses.
Residents of Perth-Wellington can email Pettapiece at randy.pettapiececo@pc.ola.org. His toll-free phone number is 1-800-461-9701.
