Doug Ford expected to announce second stage of reopening plans today

Ontario Premier Doug Ford is expected to announce details for the second stage of the province’s reopening plan during his daily briefing today.

Last week, Ford said that providing details on Stage 2 does not mean that they will be implemented right away. On Saturday, the province extended it’s current emergency orders until June 19th. This includes the banning of gatherings in groups larger than five, and the continued closure of child care centres and bars/restaurants except for take-out and delivery.

It is expected that Ontario will be removing some bar and restaurant patio regulations and restrictions. It will allow licensed establishments set up a new patio or expand an existing patio without the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario requiring an application or fee

Additionally, the province is expected to include details on an increase of the size of group gatherings. He has also indicated that he will provide details this week about the province’s plan to reopen child care centres. However, it is not yet known if restaurants or barbershops will be reopened.

Ontario began its first stage of reopening May 19.

Ford will be joined by several cabinet ministers for today’s announcement, including Health Minister Christine Elliott, Finance Minister Rod Phillips, Economic Development Minister Vic Fedeli, and Labour Minister Monte McNaughton.

CHCH News will stream the announcement live on Facebook at 1:00 p.m.