June 23, 2020 by Israel Foulon LLP
Summary
On June 22, 2020, the Government of Ontario announced that public health officials have authorized Toronto and Peel Public Health regions to enter Stage Two of the Province’s plan to gradually reopen the economy, starting Wednesday, June 24, 2020.
The GTA is Permitted to Reopen for Stage Two
As of Wednesday, June 24, 2020, at 12:01 a.m., Toronto and Peel public health regions can begin reopening according to the public health guidelines outlined for Stage Two.
- You can access Israel Foulon’s full break down on what businesses are permitted to open during Stage Two HERE.
- You can access the full Ontario Newsroom press release HERE.
Windsor-Essex Remains at Stage One
Windsor-Essex County Health Unit is not permitted to enter Stage Two until they are advised by public health that it is safe to do so.
Health and Safety Guidelines for Employers Considering Reopening their Businesses
- The Ministry of Labour has partnered with Ontario’s Health and Safety associations to develop sector-specific health and safety guidelines to help businesses safely reopen.
- The full database can be accessed HERE.
Workplace PPE Supplier Directory
- Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. David Williams, announced on May 20, 2020 that as people continue to enter public settings, they should be wearing non-medical masks when physical distancing is not possible.
- The Ontario Government has provided an up to date list of companies and associations that are ready to supply businesses with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The list may be accessed HERE.
CaféTO – Toronto Restaurants May Access Additional Patio Space
The City of Toronto announced plans to assist restaurants, bars, and other food and drink establishments reopen once public health officials advise that the region can enter Stage Two.
- Restauranteurs will be able to access public space on city streets and sidewalks to assist with expanding outdoor patio areas provided that they register their outdoor dining spaces with the City of Toronto.
- The City will temporarily pause application and fee requirements to expedite approval for outdoor dining spaces.
- Full program details for CaféTO can be accessed HERE.
Ontario Announces Enhanced COVID-19 Contact Management Plans
On June 18, 2020, the Government of Ontario announced that it has partnered with the Federal government to support a privacy-first exposure notification App to alert Ontarians to when they may have been exposed to COVID-19.
- The app will be available for download free on the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.
- Use of the app will be voluntary. Public health officials will provide individuals who test positive for COVID-19 with a one-time use code that will notify people who may have been exposed to the virus to help manage contract tracing efforts.
- You can access the full Ontario New Room press release HERE.
Given the exceptional and unprecedented situation, we expect further developments in the coming days.
Israel Foulon’s Response to COVID-19 Israel Foulon is assessing the situation as it evolves, and is taking all necessary precautions within its workplace. To slow the spread of COVID-19 and for the health of our team and clients, absent extraordinary circumstances we are working remotely until further notice whenever possible. However, please be aware that our offices remain open and are fully functioning. In the circumstances, we encourage our clients to contact us by phone and email to the extent possible. Voicemail messages left at our office phone numbers are immediately forwarded via email. All messages will be promptly responded to. We remain steadfast in our commitment to our clients and would be more than happy to assist you with concerns regarding COVID-19 or any other employment or labour matters.