“Nothing is off the table” as provincial government updates COVID-19 measures

In a press conference today Premier Doug Ford said that his government will increase spending in healthcare to keep workers safe. They have expanded lab testing, opened 17 centres dedicated to testing (so clinics and hospitals aren’t overcrowded with people that need to be tested) and they have a new online self assessment at ontario.ca/coronavirus.

Premier Ford also said that there is no need to panic buy and hoard the essentials. He has been assured that the supply chains will be able to support the additional strains.

Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development, Monte McNaughton says they will draft legislation to help pay those in quarantine or those who are caring for others in self-isolation. If passed the legislation would provide job protection for people under medical investigation, supervision or treatment for COVID-19, acting in accordance with an order under the Health Protection and Promotion Act, is in isolation or quarantine, is acting in accordance with public health information or direction, if the employer directs the employee not to work, or if the employee needs to provide care to a person for a reason related to COVID-19 such as a school or day-care closure. It will be retroactive from January 25th 2020, the first case here, and will continue until this virus is under control.  The new legislation will also make it clear that workers will not be required to provide a sick note.

“Mothers and fathers who need to care for children or dependants shouldn’t have to worry about losing their job,” said McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development. “The same goes for people who receive medical or public health advice and are required to take precautions as a result. They shouldn’t have to worry about losing their job. In this time of uncertainty, we need to support employees who must isolate or quarantine themselves, or who need to care for a loved one.”

Ontario Finance Minister Rod Phillips said he will not announce a budget next week, instead he will announce an economic and fiscal update on March 25, 2020 that will have a one year outlook based on the current situation.

In terms of shutting down bars, restaurants, entertainment centres, etc., Premier Ford said that nothing is off the table but they take their advice from Public Health officials and will work through this day by day. He also said he’s open to closing Canadian borders to visitors but would want trade to continue. Ford says the decision falls to the Federal government.