The Ontario-Manitoba boundary has reopened despite some continued worrying numbers to the west of us.
Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford says the decision was made with trust in mind.
“This has always been about good faith and people’s personal, individual responsibilities to do the right thing,” says Rickford, “There are safety protocols in place here in northwestern Ontario and across the entire province.”
He tells us many on the Manitoba side have been anxiously awaiting the move for a while.
“There’s obviously an urgency by Manitoba folks, many who’ve been vaccinated, who want to check up on their property, get work done and enjoy Lake of the Woods. They’ll know when they come here (that) they have to be safe.”
Rickford adds that he hopes any Manitobans who visit will keep safety top of mind.
“We have the potential to be compromised much faster by an outbreak. We’ve worked hard to have low numbers, and hopefully we can just enjoy and celebrate the family, friends and fellowship of the people of Manitoba and that everyone will be safe in enjoying what we have here.”
The current test positivity rate in Manitoba is 10.6%, which is just under five times the 2.3% here in Ontario.
The boundary first closed to non-essential travel on April 19.
