Phase 2: Social gatherings increase from 5 to 10 people province-wide

The next phase of Ontario’s economic reopening plan will see a loosening of restrictions on social gatherings and places of worship across the province, while allowing businesses like bars, restaurants, and barbershops to reopen Friday only in the regions deemed safest from the threat of COVID-19.

“Effective Friday, June 12, 2020 at 12:01 a.m., the province will increase the limit on social gatherings from five to 10 people across the province, regardless of whether a region has moved to Stage 2,” the province said in a release, adding that people must still practice physical distancing, by keeping at least two metres away from others outside of their direct household.

“Additionally, all places of worship in Ontario will also be permitted to open with physical distancing in place and attendance limited to no more than 30 per cent of the building capacity to ensure the safety of worshippers.”

Toronto, along with Peel and York, are among the regions that will remain in Phase 1 until key health indicators clear the path to safely reopen. (full list below)

“Entering Stage 2 means parts of the province will see more people back on the job and an opportunity to get back together with friends and family,” Premier Doug Ford said. “Although this is extremely encouraging, I urge everyone to exercise caution and continue to follow public health advice as we are not out of the woods yet.”

The regions given the green light to enter Phase 2 on Friday will see the reopening of restaurants and bars, shopping malls (with food courts restricted to take out), personal care services like barbers, salons and tattoo parlours.

Tour and guide services will also commence and splash pads and swimming pools will reopen.

Film and television production will return and wedding and funerals will be permitted with limits on social gatherings to 10 people.

The province said it will release more details soon on child care, summer camps, and public transit.

Measures announced earlier Monday will let licensed establishments set up a new patio or expand an existing patio without the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario requiring an application or fee.

Attorney General Doug Downey says it will give the hospitality sector more tools to be able to recover, and will help ensure physical distancing.

With files from The Canadian Press

A Framework for Reopening Our Province Stage 2 by CityNewsToronto on Scribd