Statement from Essex County Warden Gary McNamara

We learned today from Ontario Premier Doug Ford that Windsor-Essex will not be moving to Stage 3, leaving us the only region in the province remaining in Stage 2.

I understand that this is frustrating news for so many small businesses who are struggling to make ends meet and also for residents who desperately long for some sense of normalcy in these disquieting times. Premier Doug Ford had a very difficult decision to make in terms of reopening our economy and he made it with great care, relying on the advice of health officials and case counts in our region. We have seen rising numbers of cases locally in recent weeks and those cases are not confined to the agri-farm sector. There are now significant instances of community spread and workplace outbreaks. It is imperative that residents of Windsor-Essex understand that the threat of COVID-19 is still with us.

Two Windsor-Essex residents died this week from COVID-19, bringing the number of local fatalities to 71. I would like to express my deepest condolences to their loved ones.

Our local medical officer of health, Dr. Ahmed, said in his morning briefing that the risk of contracting COVID-19 is as great as it has ever been in this community and we need to respond accordingly – with vigilance, patience and compassion. We need to avoid large crowds and even smaller gatherings, especially indoors. We need to wear masks in commercial establishments. We need to wash our hands frequently and avoid touching our faces. We need to get tested for COVID-19 if we feel sick.

Our local municipalities have responded expeditiously and creatively to the restrictions of Stage 2, opening streets to pedestrians and patios and creating space outdoors so residents can patronize local businesses while still maintaining physical distancing. I have been heartened by the support Windsor-Essex residents have been giving local businesses and I encourage them to continue. We need to support our local businesses.

To the residents of Windsor-Essex: You have already made so many sacrifices to slow the spread of COVID-19. Your efforts prevented our hospitals from being overwhelmed and saved many lives. I thank you for it. Please, do not let today’s announcement discourage you from continuing the good work you have done. We will get to Stage 3, of that there is no doubt, but we will only get there – and can only remain there – if individuals remain vigilant and follow the advice of our public health officials.