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Ontario premier orders closure of all non-essential businesses

Toronto – To further contain the spread of COVID-19, the Ontario government has ordered a mandatory closure of all non-essential workplaces effective as of Tuesday, March 24 at 11:59 p.m.

This closure will be in effect for 14 days with the possibility of extending this order as the situation evolves. Here is a full list of businesses that are permitted to stay open.

“This was a tough decision, but the right decision, as this is no time for half measures,” said Premier Doug Ford in a statement. “But I have said from day one we will, and we must, take all steps necessary to slow the spread of COVID-19. The health and safety of every Ontarian must come first.”

Businesses that can continue operations with employees working remotely, or through other contingency measures, are being given approximately 36 hours to prepare and adapt. Essential services may continue their operations to maintain supply chains and ensure the people of Ontario have access to necessities, including groceries, medicines and other essential products.

A 1-800 number and website will be made available on Wednesday for any inquiries.

“Based on the advice of Dr. Williams, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, and the experts at our Command Table, Ontario is taking further action to contain the spread of COVID-19,” said Christine Elliott, deputy premier and minister of health. “These enhanced measures are necessary to protect the health and well-being of Ontarians. Nothing is more important.”

“Our top priority must be to protect the health of the people of Ontario,” said Rod Phillips, minister of finance. “Slowing the spread of COVID-19 will allow the people and the businesses of Ontario to move forward from this unprecedented situation.”