Easter Bunny is an essential service, declares premier

The premier stopped short of declaring chocolate an essential good, but will allow the Easter Bunny to deliver treats this weekend

Newmarkettoday.ca
April 8, 2020
Erika Engel

In case you’re scrambling to make sure Easter at home is still magical, Ontario’s premier is ‘ear to tell you to leave the hopping to the bunnies.

Premier Doug Ford has signed an official declaration confirming the Easter Bunny is, in fact, an essential service.

The order authorizes Bunny “to deliver Easter chocolate, candy, and related treats to the children of Ontario.”

Ford’s declaration also states said delivery of chocolate is an essential service, and should continue to function to the fullest extent possible.

Though the order stops short at declaring chocolate an essential good.

However, Bunny’s duties -- like so many essential workers in Ontario -- will be changed due to COVID-19 pandemic rules and the provincial state of emergency.

The hopping holiday mascot will be prohibited from delivering, hiding, or even placing chocolate, eggs, and any Easter treats in parks, playgrounds and other outdoor recreation amenities.

In response to questions from Village Media, Bunny’s director of communications, Theadore Chipmunk, said Bunny and Easter Bunny Enterprises, values public health and is happy to comply with the emergency restrictions. The organization is preparing its delivery and transport equipment to accommodate more home visits.

“We urge everyone to continue practising physical distancing and staying safe,” said the statement from Easter Bunny Enterprises. “We can all work together to make sure Easter treats -- and all essential services -- continue to be delivered in Ontario.”