Ontario and Quebec announce mandatory closure of non-essential workplaces

As the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, worsens, the economic impact deepens. On March 23, 2020, the provincial governments of Quebec and Ontario announced the mandatory closure of all non-essential workplaces.

What is the effective date of this measure?

In both Ontario and Quebec, these measures will take effect at 11:59 PM on March 24, 2020.

What is considered an essential business?

In Quebec, Premier Legault noted that the following businesses are considered essential:

• Grocery stores;
• Pharmacy;
• Food industries;
• Police services;
• Transportation network;
• Media;
• Communications companies;
• Restaurant (take-out only); and
• Banks.

In its announcement, Ontario noted that essential businesses include those whose operations maintain supply chains and ensure that the people of Ontario have access to groceries, medicines, and other essential products.

What is considered a non-essential business?

• View Quebec's full list of Priority Services and Activities
• View Ontario's full List of Essential Workplaces

Please note that these lists may be subject to change.

If you have questions regarding the impact that this will have on your business, we invite you to contact a member of Gowling WLG's Employment, Labour & Equalities group.