Charla Robinson is encouraged with the gradual re-opening of Ontario but feels some details are still missing from Queen’s Park.
With the province unveiling the plan Thursday that will start Monday, January 31st, the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce President feels it’s a good first step towards what might be a post-pandemic normal.
“I’m a little bit concerned that there’s still no details as to what the thresholds are as to when we move from the January 31st rules to the February 21st rules, what are they looking to be at before they make that move,” said Robinson. “It’s a random 21-day date that they’ve said at this point and we would really like to have a bit better understanding as to what they are looking for with case numbers and hospitalization details.”
Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore indicated that Thursday’s decision was made based on positive indicators that COVID-19 transmission is starting to ease.
When it comes to the provincial rebate unveiled on January 19th, Robinson applauded the measure but pointed out a clause that might prevent some from accessing financial help.
“The restaurant that is closed is able to access the funding, but those secondary businesses that support them are not eligible,” Robinson noted. “A similar example would be a safety trainer, who rents out meeting spaces to conduct their sessions or classes, only the owner of that space qualifies for funding.
Earlier in January, Ontario also unveiled plans to offer a $10,000 grant to small businesses forced to close due to public health measures.
