Premier Doug Ford says he hates closing down small businesses but says current COVID-19 health concerns trump that right now.
Some businesses like restaurants are already calling the current climate an ‘extinction event’ for their livelihood. Ford was asked today to respond to that criticism.
“You want to help your local business, go online – don’t go to the big box stores, go online to the small businesses,” he said. “No one’s stopping anyone from going online. Support your small businesses. I’ve said it a thousand times, I’ll say it a thousand and one (times) – support your small businesses. Forget about the big box stores.”
Ford says once you lose a life, it never comes back, while the government will be there to support businesses get back on their feet after this is all over.
Thursday a 28-day stay-at-home order starts at midnight with non-essential businesses still allowed to operate, including those with curbside pickup.
To watch today’s full Provincial address, see below.
https://www.facebook.com/FordNationDougFord/videos/803212423594026
Effective Thursday, January 14 at 12:01 am all non-essential retail stores will be required to close by 8 pm with the exception of grocery stores, convenience stores, pharmacies & restaurants providing takeout orders.
The success of these measures will ultimately depend on you. pic.twitter.com/uEVfOQjcAY
— Doug Ford (@fordnation) January 13, 2021