More restrictions are coming to Ontario due to surging COVID-19 cases and the Omicron variant.
The Ford government will be implementing restrictions similar to Step 2 of the province’s reopening plan.
Officials say while the Omicron is less severe, it’s high transmission rates have resulted in a larger number of ICU admissions.
Staff shortages are also expected to affect operations in workplaces across the province due to infection and exposure, including in hospitals and schools.
Schools will shift to online learning starting Wednesday January 5 until at least January 17.
In-person instruction for students with special education needs who cannot be accommodated remotely and for staff who are unable to deliver quality instruction from home will be provided.
Free emergency child care will also be provided for school-aged children of health care and other eligible frontline workers.
Other measures going into effect Wednesday, January 5 at 12:01 a.m. include:
- Social gathering limits capped at five people indoors and 10 people outdoors
- Organized public event capacity limited to five people indoors
- Requiring businesses and organizations to ensure employees work remotely unless the nature of their work requires them to be on-site
- Indoor dining closed, outdoors allowed with restrictions
- Gyms, indoor sport and recreation fitness facilities closed, outdoor facilities are permitted to operate but with the number of spectators not to exceed 50 per cent occupancy and other requirements
- Indoor meeting and event spaces closed with limited exceptions but permitting outdoor spaces to remain open with restrictions
- Casinos, bingo halls, concert venues, theatres and cinemas also closed.
- Personal care services permitted at 50 per cent capacity and other restrictions
- 50 per cent capacity at retail stores
- Indoor wedding/funeral services reduced to 50 per cent capacity. Outdoor services are limited to the number of people that can maintain 2 metres of physical distance. Social gatherings associated with these services must adhere to the social gathering limits
- Public libraries limited to 50 per cent capacity.
Hospitals will also be pausing all non-emergent procedures and and non-urgent surgeries.
Full details on the new restrictions can be read here.
