TORONTO – Ontario will move into Stage 1 of its latest reopening plan on Friday.
Premier Doug Ford said the province is in good shape, on Monday having reported 525 new COVID-19 cases, the lowest number in Ontario in eight months.
“Thanks to the ongoing success of Team Ontario’s vaccine roll-out and the ongoing improvements in public health trends, we are able to enter step one of the Roadmap and begin to safely and cautiously lift restrictions,” Ford said, in a release issued on Monday
“The only reason we’re able to do so is because of the enormous sacrifices made by individuals, families and communities across Ontario. As we begin to enjoy the benefits of the first step in our roadmap like meeting friends on a patio or visiting your favourite local store, please do so safely by continuing to follow all public health guidelines.”
Stage 1 was originally supposed to begin on June 14, and comes into effect once 60 per cent of Ontario adults have received at least one dose. As of Monday, 72 per cent of those 18 and older in the province have received an initial dose.
In the first stage, non-essential retail outlets can open at 15 per cent capacity, with essential retail capacity capped at 25 per cent.
Outdoor gatherings of up to 10 people are permitted and outdoor dining for up to four people per table is also allowed. Day camps, campsites and campgrounds are also allowed to reopen, and outdoor religious ceremonies can take place, with physical distancing measures in place.
Ontario Parks, outdoor horse racing and motor speedways can operated and outdoor pools, splash pads and wading pools are also allowed to open.
“Thanks to the tremendous efforts of every Ontarian, beginning June 11 we will be able to cautiously lift public health measures in the settings we know are safest,” said Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Christine Elliott. “While this is exciting news, as we move to enter Step One of Ontario’s Roadmap it remains critical that all Ontarians continue to follow public health advice and roll up their sleeves to receive the vaccine.”
Stage 2, which would include the return of personal-care services and outdoor cinemas and live-music events, could begin as early as three weeks later, on July 2, provided Ontario hits 70 per cents of adults vaccinated with one shot and 20 per cent fully vaccinated.
Stage 3 could happen three weeks after Stage 2 begins, when between 70 and 80 per cent of adults have a single dose and 25 per cent are fully vaccinated.
It would permit the return of movie theatres, gyms and indoor gathering, as well as casino and bingo halls.
