Region of Peel declares Emergency in wake of COVID-19 spread

The Region of Peel declared an Emergency on March 19 in support of the Province of Ontario’s State of Emergency declaration, which was made earlier this week. 

The region said the declaration was made with support from the Interim Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Lawrence Loh.

The region says that declaring an emergency under s 7.0.1 (1) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act provides Peel with all options available to protect the health and safety of individuals and families living in the rregion. 

This follows the activation of the Regional Emergency Operations Centre (REOC) on March 10, 2020, and supports Peel Public Health’s ongoing work to protect community health.

Because of the declaration on the province’s side, the Ontario government can levy fines and penalties against businesses that refuse to comply with social distancing measures. As of now, all libraries, community centres, theatres, cinemas, recreational facilities and bars and restaurants that do not offer takeout or delivery are prohibited from operating. 

There is also a ban on public gatherings of more than 50 people. 

“Declaring an Emergency is an important step in slowing the spread of COVID-19 and protecting the residents, businesses and employees in Peel. We’re working with Caledon, Brampton and Mississauga to ensure we are all protected during this time,” said Regional Chair, Nando Iannicca in a statement. 

“We are thankful to the Province of Ontario and the Canadian government for their commitments to protect every resident from the impacts COVID-19 is having on our communities. We are doing everything we can to contain the virus. Declaring an emergency allows us to act quickly and be able to respond to this evolving situation.”