The City of Thunder Bay is assessing impacts on municipal services in response to Ontario’s declaration this afternoon of a second provincial emergency under s 7.0.1 (1) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act.

“Today, the province asked that everyone stay home and only leave for essential purposes, such as going to the grocery store, pharmacy, accessing health-care services, for exercise, or for essential work,” said Mayor Bill Mauro. “It’s a strong reminder that although we have vaccines, the road ahead is still a long one until the distribution of those vaccines are widely implemented.”

He also urged residents to remember local businesses and restaurants, and continue to shop local using curbside pick-up, take-out and online as much as possible.

Effective Thursday, Jan. 14, at 12:01 a.m., the Ontario government is issuing a stay-at-home order requiring everyone to remain at home with exceptions for essential purposes only. The Province’s order and other new and existing public health restrictions are aimed at reducing the number of daily contacts with those outside an immediate household. In addition to limiting outings to essential trips, all businesses must ensure that any employee who can work from home, does work from home.

“The City of Thunder Bay is assessing Ontario’s orders and will provide further information in the days ahead on the specific impacts on municipal services, amenities and facilities,” said Norm Gale, City Manager. “We know residents have questions about the impacts related to our outdoor amenities and gathering numbers, so we are looking at these new regulations carefully.”

If residents have concerns about businesses and individuals who are not following Ontario’s COVID-19 related orders can phone (807) 625-5900 or toll-free 1 (888) 294-6630 to report any instances of non-compliance. This phone line will be monitored between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday, and between 9 am and 1 pm Saturday and Sunday. This includes residents gathering in large groups.

For more information:

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Contact:          Stacey Levanen, Supervisor – Corporate Communications, 625-3650