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The Ford government is being urged to immediately begin reopening the economy.
The call comes from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business.
The provincial stay-at-home order expires today (Wednesday) but the province has said it doesn’t plan to begin Stage 1 of the reopening plan, which will see patio dining resume and non-essential retail reopen at 15% capacity, around June 14.
The CFIB is slamming the plan and says thousands of businesses may be forced to shutter their doors permanently because of the delay.
The advocacy group says COVID cases continue a strong downward trend, and estimates show vaccinations have already hit the first-dose threshold for Step 2 in the reopening framework.
They urge the premier to revise start-up dates so they are in line with other provinces, stressing if current trends continue, Alberta is expected to be fully open around the same time Ontario allows haircuts.
In an open letter to the premier, the CFIB urges Doug Ford to immediately reopen:
-All retailers at minimum 20% capacity.
-Restaurant patios and limited indoor service.
-Hair salons and barbers by appointment.
-Gyms and recreational activities by appointment.
We further urge you to go back to the drawing board on Ontario’s reopening plan to:
-Announce significantly earlier reopening dates in line with other provinces.
-Provide a detailed timeline for the full economy to reopen, including events and entertainment.
-Allow regions with low case numbers and hospitalization rates to reopen much faster.
-Announce a 3rd round of Ontario Small Business Support Grant funding and expand coverage to all businesses that have been locked down or significantly affected by a shutdown or stay-at-home order.
Here is what is allowed with the stay-at-home order ending today:
-Indoor gatherings limited to households only, outdoor gatherings up to five people
-Essential retail locations can maintain 25 per cent capacity
-Non-essential retail restricted to curbside pickup and delivery
-Parks and campgrounds can be used for the day only
-Short-term rentals allowed for those who need housing
