TORONTO — The Ontario government has announced it will provide more supports for workers on the front lines. That includes supporting the regular closure of retailers such as grocery stores that provide essential services in the province on Easter Sunday, along with Good Friday.
Both days are statutory holidays, but with many exceptions, both in terms of types of stores and locations, especially within the City of Toronto. Ford was, according to a spokesperson from his office, restating existing policy, after his office had received calls earlier in the week urging the government to allow stores to stay open during these holidays this year. “We have decided to maintain the status quo to give workers the break they rightfully deserve,” she said.
Premier Doug Ford also announced he will deploy more safety specialists and officers to go into stores and businesses to ensure that good safety practices are being employed. That includes reaching out to retired specialists to go back in the field.
Ford added that he was frustrated by the rate of testing for the COVID-19 virus in Ontario, and has committed to increase the testing going forward.
