Cst. Shona Camirand tells BayToday, as of Tuesday, North Bay OPP "have had no calls since the new rules came into effect on September 19," regarding stricter limits on social gatherings in Ontario.
However, Camirand adds the OPP is "enforcing the new rules," in accordance with O. Reg. 364/20 Schedule 3.
As of Saturday, the maximum number of people permitted to attend organized public events and social gatherings, except where the event is held at a place operated by a business or organization, has been reduced to 10 people indoors (previous limit of 50) and 25 people outdoors (previous limit of 100) in all regions.
This includes functions, parties, dinners, gatherings, BBQs or wedding receptions (but not ceremonies) held in private residences, backyards, parks and other recreational areas.
In announcing the measures, Premier Doug Ford said last week, "We have seen an alarming growth in the number of COVID-19 cases in the province. Clearly, the numbers are heading in the wrong direction. That's why we are taking decisive action to lower the size of unmonitored private social gatherings in every region of Ontario."
See the stream from the announcement: Premier makes announcement on social gathering limits
Camirand says the OPP will temporarily close any premises where the officer or constable has reasonable grounds to believe that a gathering or event is in violation of any gathering limits, including the updated 10 indoors and 25 outdoors standard.
An amendment includes new enforcement provisions that authorize a police officer, special constable or First Nations officer to require individuals to leave the premises if they have been temporarily closed (unless it is their place of residence).
"Individuals are not permitted to re-enter the premises on the same day the premises were closed unless a police officer, special constable or First Nations constable authorizes the re-entry," advises Camirand. "Individuals who are required to leave the premises, but do not, may be ticketed or charged under the offence provisions of the Reopening Ontario Act or charged with obstructing a peace officer under the Criminal Code of Canada."
See related story: Local Chief Medical Officer preaching caution as province limits gatherings Ontario-wide
Ford added, "We need everyone to follow the public health rules in order to prevent another provincewide lockdown, and protect all our citizens, especially the elderly and the vulnerable."
