Coronavirus: Mayor Tory announces further closures of non-essential city services

Toronto Mayor John Tory announced the further closures of of non-essential city services in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Tory made the announcement Tuesday via media conference as the mayor continues his self-isolation after returning from a trip to England. He said he is displaying no symptoms.

Critical and essential services will continue, which includes emergency services, Toronto water, workers in the shelter system and long-term care workers. Tory said garbage and recycling will still be collected.

Road operations, Toronto hydro and TTC operations will still continue to operate.

These measures are being done, Tory said, as the city efforts to scale back on non-essential services.

He said non-essential staff will also be sent home but that they will still be paid. He said no one will be laid off.

“We are doing this in the interest of setting an example,” Tory said.

“The real impetus behind this was to follow the advice of the chief medical officer to limit opportunities for citizens, including those who work for the city, to interact with each other and to be sure we’re setting an example.”

The mayor said that it’s early in the fight against the virus but that once it’s over, the city will plan a shop local, buy local celebration to help the local economy to rebound.

Source: Read Full Article