In it's ongoing battle against COVID-19, the Ontario government announced Saturday morning, it is extending all emergency orders, already in place in the province until April 23rd.
The order includes the continuing closure of outdoor amenities in parks and recreational areas, non-essential workplaces, public places, as well as bars and restaurants, along with restrictions on social gatherings and the prohibition of price gouging.
In the government release, Premier Doug Ford acknowledged the closures have been painful to many, but necessary to try and conquer the pandemic.
"I understand the actions we are taking are affecting the lives and livelihoods of people across the province, but these are extraordinary times and we need to do whatever we can to keep individuals and families safe and stop the spread of this terrible virus," said Premier Ford. "We all must continue to do our part by staying home and practicing physical distancing. With the proper precautions and additional measures we're taking today, I am confident we will get through this together and stronger."
The number of COVID-19 confirmed cases in the province has surpassed 6,600, with 253 deaths and more than 2,800 cases resolved.
With files from Heather Seaman