Ontario is shutting down most businesses in the province with what is called a “provincewide emergency brake” amid surging C-19 case numbers and record hospitalizations. And politicians are seen to be at odds with doctors. The 25 physicians appointed by the government to advise on such matters say more is needed — mainly a full stay-at-home order. The move, which will take effect at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday and remain in place for at least four weeks, will force all restaurants across the province to close for in-person dining. That means that patios, which were just permitted to reopen in Toronto and Peel on March 22, will be shut down once again. Gyms will also have to close in the regions where they were permitted to operate and outdoor fitness classes, which were allowed to resume in Toronto this week, will no longer be permitted. Essential stores will remain open at 50 percent capacity and non-essential retail can operate at 25 percent capacity.
