Premier Doug Ford says the province could look at a request to reopen local ski hills but stresses he takes his advice from his Health Table.
There have been calls to reopen hills as it’s an outdoor activity and local clubs have implemented COVID-19 health and safety measures.
The anticipated verdict?
Don’t expect any openings during the extended lockdown.
“Honestly the last thing that’s on my mind right now are the ski hills. I understand it’s great mental health, you’re out there, go maybe cross-country skiing with a family member. Get outdoors, I agree mental health is an issue, but health overall is so important right now.”
Ford adds “What I wouldn’t want to see is people in the hot zones, there’s a lot of skiers, snowboarders, here that would travel up there to get away. We need to avoid travelling. Right now we have to hunker down. I just can’t stress this enough.”
He notes local hospitals will be overloaded and won’t be able to handle the numbers that we see in parts of southern Ontario.
The Dryden Ski Hill is open for cross-country skiing only.
Premier Ford adds the government will continue to support local businesses during the extended shutdown.
He is encouraging business owners to take them up on an offer of $10,000-$20,000 grants.
“We have a bundle. It’s about $660 million that are taking care of people’s overhead and their taxes, electricity costs, and everything. Out of $660 million there’s been only $11 million of take-up on this.”
Ford notes the federal government has a relief program for anyone where up to 90% of the rent will be taken care of.
It also takes care of up to 65% of employees wages.
To hear more about relief programs and Premier Doug Ford commenting on Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford, visit the Audio link below.
