With the upcoming implementation of the curfew, it aims to lessen the spread of COVID-19. Quebecers out in the street after 8 PM tonight can expect to be questioned by police as a month-long curfew comes into effect to control the spread of COVID-19.
The province announced earlier this week that the curfew will be implemented from 8 PM to 5 AM, with an exemption for those who fall into certain categories, such as essential workers.
According to Deputy Premier Genevieve Guilbault earlier this week, the measure is designed to make it easier to catch people who are intent on gathering, in violation of the current health orders.
The province will send out an emergency alert this afternoon to remind Quebecers of the curfew, and that police will be more visible on the streets throughout the weekend.
The curfew is a necessary move to make as Quebec’s COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to rise and hospitals state that they are filling up and risk becoming overwhelmed. The curfew will last at least four weeks until February 8 and the violators could face fines ranging from $1,000 to $6,000. Minors over 14 years old will also face a fine of $500.
Some public health experts stated that the implementation of the curfew will help to reduce exposure and send a message about the seriousness of the pandemic. But others have questioned whether the measure will be effective and have expressed concerns it will lead to excessive ticketing of people who are vulnerable or homeless.
Under the latest protocols, grocery stores and convenience stores will have to close their doors at 7:30 PM to allow workers and customers to get home. Stores connected to gas stations can stay open to serve essential workers.
The province has also shut down places of worship, tightened the mask-wearing regulations for schools, and have extended the closure of non-essential businesses until at least February 8.
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