Ontario extending emergency orders to protect vulnerable populations

The orders, which were set to expire on Jan 20, will now be in force until Feb 19.

"Extending these orders ensures the necessary tools remain in place to help respond to the disturbing increase in COVID-19 cases and deaths and provide safeguards for Ontarians, especially our vulnerable populations," said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones in a news release on Jan 16. "Our government will continue to take the actions needed to preserve our health care capacity and protect Ontarians until everyone can be vaccinated."

The amendment of the rule O. Reg. 82/20 (Rules for Areas in Stage One) was done to ensure government infrastructure projects are able to continue as essential construction activities.

A second provincial emergency was declared by the Ontario government on Jan 12, under s 7.0.1 of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMPCA), and from Jan 14 stay at home order as well as enhanced authorities for enforcement personnel came into effect.

Individuals not complying with orders under the EMCPA or the ROA can be fined $750, corporations who disobey the orders would be fined $1,000, and $1,000 for anyone who prevents enforcement of the orders by an enforcement officer.

If convicted, maximum fines for committing an offense range from $100,000 for an individual to $10 million for a corporation, and for an individual, penalties could include up to a year in jail. 

(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)