‘We will take appropriate enforcement action,’ officials say about businesses that plan to reopen despite lockdown rules

Thestar.com
Feb. 9, 2021

City officials say they are “prepared to respond as required” against businesses that say they intend on reopening Thursday, despite provincial health orders.

“We will take appropriate enforcement action against any business that operates in contravention of the regulations governing the operation of non-essential businesses as we have done throughout the pandemic,” fire Chief Matthew Pegg said Monday during a COVID-19 briefing. Pegg leads the city’s emergency operations.

A number of businesses have announced their intent to reopen through a group called “We Are All Essential,” which plans to defy COVID-19 rules.

Businesses listed on the site include Toronto’s Adamson Barbecue, whose owner was previously arrested and charged after reopening the restaurant.

Also announced at Monday’s briefing was a list of charges that were laid over the weekend for lockdown violations.

After responding to 122 complaints related to large gatherings, municipal enforcement officers and Toronto police handed out 37 charges, according to Pegg.

Three charges were laid against the owner and operator of a cosmetic store under the Reopening Ontario Act.

After responding to protests, police laid six charges under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act and six under the criminal code.

At around 6 p.m., officers attended a gathering near Sheppard Avenue East and Leslie Street after receiving multiple calls about a social gathering.

Upon arrival, officers determined the occupants were having a Super Bowl party and the charges were laid. The people were also dispersed.

Additionally, 236 bars and restaurants were inspected with no violations observed and no enforcement action required.

“We know that the vast majority of businesses and residents continue to do the right thing in support of our collective public health. By complying with the public health regulations we save lives and protect the capacity of our health-care system,” Pegg said.