BREAKING: Ford government extends COVID-19 lockdown orders to ‘protect the public’

The Ford government confirmed the extensions on Tuesday morning, saying that all orders under the Reopening Ontario Act will be extended, besides ones that deal with hydro prices and electronic personal health.

This will effectively allow the province to manage business closures and limit public and private gathering sizes.

"With the cold and flu season upon us and the continuing high number of COVID-19 cases in certain parts of the province, it's critical we continue to take the necessary steps to protect the health and safety of Ontarians," said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones. "We have renewed the majority of orders to ensure we have the tools in place to address any urgent public health situations and support the continued delivery of critical services."

"Ontario is also amending emergency orders for regions under modified Stage 2 regulations (Toronto, Ottawa, York and Peel Regions) to clarify that classes delivered for the purpose of teaching or training amateur or professional dancers in dance techniques are permitted to operate provided specified conditions are met.

"Additionally, regulations Rules for Areas in Stage 2 and Rules for Areas in Stage 3 have been amended to remove restrictions on in-person teaching and instruction for fire departments. The amendments, similar to what is currently in place for police training, are critical for public safety and the safety of fire department personnel.