10-Apr-2020–The City of Toronto continues to respond to the COVID-19 emergency. This weekend, the City’s COVID-19 enforcement team will continue to conduct coordinated enforcement efforts, targeting busy parks across the city.

Residents are urged to stay at home and keep their distance from others during this weekend’s holidays, leaving only for essential reasons. All residents are reminded they are an important part of the COVID-19 response, as everyone is working on to flatten the curve in Toronto.

Toronto Public Health is reporting there are now 1,891 cases of COVID-19 in Toronto. Of the cases, 1,637 cases are confirmed and 254 are probable, 177 are in hospital with 79 in ICU. In Toronto, there have been 77 deaths to-date.

Based on public complaints received through 311 and in-field reports from officers, the following parks have been identified as target areas:
• Bluffer’s Park
• Rosetta McClain Gardens
• High Park
• Humber Bay East
• Christie Pits
• Trinity Bellwoods
• Woodbine Beach
• Allan Gardens
• Sunnybrook Park
• Sherwood Park

Residents are urged to take emergency orders and safety measures seriously. Officers will issue fines to those who are not in compliance. The fine for people failing to keep at least two metres of distance from others in City of Toronto parks and public spaces has been set at $1,000.

Yesterday, the City received 550 complaints involving people using amenities or not practising physical distancing in parks. Bylaw officers spoke to 770 people regarding the closure of park amenities and distancing, and issued 32 written cautions and 11 tickets – bringing the total to 79 tickets since April 4.

In addition, the City received 78 complaints yesterday, related to non-essential businesses remaining open in contravention of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act. Since March 24, Municipal Licensing and Standards has issued six charges and 44 notices to non-essential businesses.

The City of Toronto recognizes the importance of spiritual, emotional, and mental wellbeing during the holidays. Residents are encouraged to connect with loved ones, friends and vulnerable members of the community online or by phone. Many places of worship are also hosting services online and implementing innovative ways to connect with their communities while staying physically apart. Residents should check the website of their place of worship for information on online services and supports.

Quote:

“I want to thank the vast majority of Toronto residents who are staying home and respecting physical distancing rules – they are doing their part to respect the advice of our public health professionals and to save lives. Thank you as well to the members of our COVID-19 enforcement team who will be out all weekend driving home the message that people need to stay home as much as possible and keep their distance from others.”
– Mayor John Tory