Citing the vaccination rate and ”continuing improvements” in key public health indicators, the Ford government has decided to move Ontario into Step One of its Roadmap to Reopen this Friday – three days earlier than planned. 

”The only reason we’re able to do so is because of the enormous sacrifices made by individuals, families and communities,” says Doug Ford in a statement.

Outdoor gatherings of up to 10 and limited outdoor dining will be allowed as more businesses will be permitted to open for in-store sales with capacity restrictions.

Outdoor religious services, rites or ceremonies, including weddings and funerals, capped at the number of people where a distance of two-metres can be maintained.

Indoor religious services, rites or ceremonies, including weddings and funerals permitted at up to 15% capacity of the room.

Non-essential retail permitted at 15% capacity, with no restrictions on goods sold.

Essential and other select retail permitted at 25% capacity, with no restrictions on what is sold.

The province will remain in Step One for at least 21-days before deciding whether to move to the next phase.