416 640 1550

A Further Update on COVID-19 – Modified Stage Two Restrictions for York Public Health Region

October 19, 2020
by Israel Foulon LLP

Summary

On October 16, 2020, in response to the recent surge of COVID-19 cases, the government of Ontario announced new closures and additional public health measures for the York public health region.

Modified Stage Two Restrictions for York Public Health Region

The government of Ontario announced additional targeted public health measures for York public health region due to their higher than average COVID-19 transmission rates. These modified Stage Two restrictions will be in place for a minimum of 28 days and be reviewed on an ongoing basis.

As of Monday, October 19, 2020, at 12:01 a.m., the following targeted measures will be in place:

            Restrictions on Social Gathering Limits:

  • All social gatherings and organized public events are limited to a maximum of 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors. These limits may not be combined for an indoor-outdoor event.

Restaurants and other food and drink establishments:

  • Are prohibited from opening for indoor food and drink service.

Personal Care Services:

  • Are prohibited from providing services where face coverings must be removed for the service (e.g. makeup application, beard trimming).

Select Businesses Subject to Reduced Capacity Limits:

  • Tour and guide services to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors,
  • Real estate open houses to 10 people indoors, where physical distancing can be maintained,
  • In-person teaching and instruction (e.g. cooking class) to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors, with exemptions for schools, child care centres, universities, colleges of applied arts and technology, private career colleges, the Ontario Police College, etc.; and
  • Meeting and event spaces to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.

Closing of Select Businesses:

  • Indoor gyms and fitness centres (i.e., exercise classes and weight and exercise rooms);
  • Casinos, bingo halls and other gaming establishments;
  • Indoor cinemas;
  • Performing arts centres and venues;
  • Spectator areas in racing venues;
  • Interactive exhibits or exhibits with high risk of personal contact in museums, galleries, zoos, science centres, landmarks, etc.;
  • Limiting team sports to training sessions (no games or scrimmages).

The Ontario Newsroom announcement detailing the full list of new public health measures can be accessed HERE.

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.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice, which in all circumstances must be tailored to the specific facts of any problem. You should obtain a proper legal consultation in order to determine how this article applies to your specific situation. Please feel free to contact Israel Foulon LLP to learn more at 416-640-1550.