The Ontario government is asking restaurants and bars to be patient as officials develop plans to remove capacity limits.
Last week, the government removed capacity limits for concert venues, sports arenas and theatres.
“We’re going to get to the restaurants. We’re going to be rolling out a comprehensive plan, one that will withstand the test of time,” said Ford. “I’m not going to rush it because of anything that you do in this pandemic. If you rush it, it can come back and backfire on you. But we have a comprehensive plan that we are going out with next week.”
Ford said they removed capacity limits at certain venues after careful consideration with stakeholders and the Ontario Science Advisory Table.
“We’re preparing a consolidated plan for this government to review next week. I would ask that our business partners stay tuned, we’ll provide dates and timelines and data by which we anticipate further opening of the economy in a staged, phased and cautious approach that will best protect Ontarians and our businesses,” Ontario Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore.
NDP leader Andrea Horwath said Ford has had ample opportunity to level the playing field for small businesses.
“Ontarians did their part by getting vaccinated. Local mom-and-pop shops have done their part, and they support vaccine certificates. But they deserve hope and a plan. They deserve financial support to put the vaccine certificate checking program into action. And they deserve a government that’s here for them, and for everyday families – not just Ford’s big fish buddies,” said Horwath.