Hamilton ends its COVID-19 emergency declaration

Hamilton has ended its COVID-19 emergency declaration.

The declaration was first declared on April 17, 2020. Hamilton mayor Fred Eisenberger formally notified the province of the order’s termination on Tuesday.

The move comes one day after Toronto ended its emergency declaration.

As a result of the termination, there are multiple updates and changes taking effect. This includes the resumption of in-person city council meetings on a hybrid basis starting May 25.

Mandatory masking requirements for all city staff will also be lifted on May 25. The city says in line with provincial orders, masking requirements will remain in effect in select higher-risk settings until at least June 11. These settings include health care settings, long-term care and retirement homes, shelters and other congregate living settings and on public transit.

“While COVID-19 remains a serious concern requiring ongoing efforts and vigilance, the City of Hamilton’s efforts in fighting COVID-19 have put Hamilton in a position where our emergency declaration can be terminated. It is important we remember that COVID-19 will be a part of our lives moving forward, and our work to help people get vaccinated and to support our economic recovery must continue. I want to thank our City staff for their dedication and resiliency throughout this emergency period for continuing to deliver municipal services that residents count on. I also want to thank Hamilton residents across our community for their hard work and ongoing support. As I have stressed throughout this pandemic, we are all in this together,” said Mayor Fred Eisenberger, in a statement.