Premier Doug Ford says Ontarians returning from abroad must, for the safety of their fellow citizens, self-isolate for two weeks.
The premier, along with Health Minister Christine Elliott, spoke to reporters on Thursday afternoon, covering a wide range of issues surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. He announced several measures to ease the burden on Ontarians, such as a suspension of the renewals of driver's licences, licence plate stickers, and health cards. But it was his plea to returning travellers that caused Ford to speak with such determination. In an appeal to Ontarians who are returning or have returned from abroad to self-isolate, the premier pleaded with them to protect the health of their neighbours.
"People have to police themselves. It's common sense. We're in a critical situation right now," he said. "If you're coming back from a holiday, and you are not self-isolating, you are putting the people of Ontario at risk. You're putting your family, your kids, your grandparents, your mothers and fathers at risk. Please follow the guidelines that everyone else is following. Do not go into work. Do not go into public spaces. Do not be selfish and go out. Stay isolated for two weeks as required."
With the suspension of licence and health card renewals, Ontarians will be allowed to continue driving and accessing health services, even if their permits have expired. The province said these measures will reduce the need for people to attend Service Ontario offices and help promote social distancing.
"We have a responsibility to Ontarians to ensure that we take every possible step to enable social distancing and stop the spread of COVID-19," said Elliott. "By implementing these additional measures, Ontarians can avoid putting themselves at risk and will continue to have access to the services that they need, when they need them."
Premier Ford also announced that, it an effort to keep store shelves stocked, deliveries to stores will be allowed to be made at any time. The delivery of goods will over-ride any local noise bylaws that might otherwise prevent overnight deliveries. He also asked Ontarians to stop hoarding things like toilet paper.
The news conference came as provincial health officials announced 43 new, confirmed cases of COVID-19. That brings the total in Ontario to 257, six of which have been resolved.