Horwath says re-opening announcement is unconscionable, and could mean a third wave

HAMILTON — NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said it’s unconscionable that Doug Ford is lifting restrictions now when his own science and medical advisors have made it very clear that will plunge Ontario into a third wave and another long, deep lockdown.

On Tuesday, 27 regions – all but four – will partially or fully re-open, with no new public health measures added.

“It is still possible to save ourselves from another devastating round of illnesses, deaths, closures and lockdowns,” said Horwath. “But Doug Ford needs to avoid repeating his mistakes of opening up too fast.

“No one likes this lockdown — we all want this to end as soon as possible — but continuing public health protections like a Stay at Home order for a little longer is the only way to stop the more infectious variants from taking over and causing more devastation, and longer, deeper lockdowns.”

Horwath is calling for the Stay at Home order to be extended until cases are under control; as well as for more help to stop the spread, and support people through the pandemic, including:

• 10,000 more PSWs, plus infection prevention and control staff, for long-term care homes
• Paid sick days, so essential workers that may have COVID can stay home
• Provincially-paid and organized in-workplace testing
• A comprehensive in-school testing plan, plus a 15-student class size cap
• An eviction ban and rent subsidies for people and small businesses

“Let’s call on Doug Ford to choose public health over money this time,” said Horwath. “People deserve hope and help to make this lockdown our last.”