Premier Doug Ford has declared a state of emergency in Ontario as cases of the COVID-19 corinavirus increase in Canada's most populous province.
"We're facing an unprecedented time in our history. This is a decision that was not made lightly," said Ford Tuesday morning at Queen's Park. He was joined at the podium by Solicitor General Sylbia Jones, Health Minister Christine Elliott, and Finance Minister Rod Phillips.
The state of emergency will temporarily close all restaurants, bars, and public gatherings of more than 50 people. Theatres, concerts, and indoor events are all included in these restrictions. The state of emergency is set to expire on April 1.
"COVID-19 constitutes a danger of major proportions," Ford continued. "We must act decisively, we must not delay."
"The vast majority of businesses," Ford clarified, "including vital to day-to-day life, will not be affected by this order."
Ontario currently has 177 confirmed cases of coronavirus, though that number is projected to grow with incoming test results. Five cases have been resolved, with the majority of cases coming from Ontario's capital of Toronto.
Tuesday's figures are set to be released at 10:30 am.
Ford also announced the COVID-19 emergency relief fund, wherein $300 million would be used to increase the number of critical-care beds by 75, along with 600 post-acute care beds at Ontario hospitals. That funding will also go towards opening 25 additional coronavirus-dedicated assessment centres throughout Ontario.
Funding will also go towards protective equipment, medical professionals, and 1,000 additional nurses and personal support workers.
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