By: Thomas I. Likness
EBC News Service

(Eagle News) — Less than a day after Premier Doug ford announced even tougher restrictions to prevent the spread of Covid-19 in his locked down province, the government is walking back some of those measures.

In a statement, the province says police will not be conducting random stops of people outside of their homes.

On Friday, police were given the authority to require anyone outside of their home to explain their purpose for not being at home as well as provide them with their home address. Police could stop a vehicle ask about an individual’s reason for not being at home.

Now, police will only question those they suspect of participating in an organized public even or social gathering.

The change comes hours after several police departments said they would not use extra powers to enforce the stay-at-home order.

In Canada’s largest city, Toronto, police out rightly refused to do random stops.

“The Toronto Police Service will continue to engage and enforce equitably and effectively, recognizing always that we must inspire public trust,” the department said Saturday on Twitter.

Other police departments echoed those sentiments.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford posted a short reaction on Twitter.

“Ontario’s enhanced restrictions were always intended to stop large gatherings where spread can happen,” tweeted Ford.

Ford also reversed his decision to close playgrounds.

“Our regulations will be amended to allow playgrounds but gatherings outside will still be enforced,” he said. “Play outside safely. Parents keep your distance & wear masks if you can’t.”

Ontario’s new public health orders extend the stay-at-home order another two weeks until the middle of May as well as bringing in a number of other restrictions.
(Eagle News Service)