Windsor-Essex to finally enter Stage 3 of COVID-19 reopening process

"Thanks to the collective efforts of our frontline health care workers, public health experts, and the people of Windsor-Essex, more businesses in the region can hang up their 'Open for Business' sign and more people can go back to work as of this Wednesday," Premier Doug Ford said.

"As all of Ontario now enters into Stage 3, I ask everyone to remain on their guard and keep following the public health measures to protect the tremendous progress we've made and keep this deadly virus at bay."

Ontario's website indicates that Stage 3 means that "more restrictions will be loosened and nearly all businesses and public spaces will reopen, as long as they follow the public health advice and workplace safety guidance necessary to keep everyone safe."

The Chief Medical Officer of Health and other public health experts said that all other businesses will be able to open except for the following: amusement parks and water parks; buffet-style food services; dancing at restaurants and bars, other than by performers hired by the establishment following specific requirements; overnight stays at camps for children; private karaoke rooms; prolonged or deliberate contact while playing sports; saunas, steam rooms, bath houses and oxygen bars; and table games at casinos and gaming establishments.

The province added that the venues that open will still be "subject to ensuring the appropriate health and safety measures are in place, as well as limits on gathering sizes."

“I want to take the time to thank each and every Ontarian for their efforts, sacrifice and hard work, the entire province will now be in Stage 3 effective this Wednesday," Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and minister of health, said.

"This is an important milestone for the province in our fight against COVID-19 and one we can all be proud of. However, it's never been more important for each of us to remain vigilant in following all public health advice."