Ottawa mayor glad to see restrictions on big box stores part of stay-at-home order

Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson is calling the provincial government's decision to implement a 28-day stay-at-home order difficult, but necessary to protect residents from the rapid spread of COVID-19.

“I was pleased to see that stricter regulations will be imposed on big box stores, limiting their sales to grocery and essential products to avoid the massive gatherings we witnessed over the Easter weekend,” writes the mayor in a statement issued after the province's announcement, Wednesday, April 7.

“This move also levels the playing field for small essential retail stores that were put at a disadvantage under past sets of measures,” he adds.

The provincial order goes into effect on Thursday, April 8.

Watson says he's also had several recent conversations with provincial officials regarding the flow of COVID-19 vaccines to Ottawa.

“I am confident that the City of Ottawa will receive its fair share of vaccines, and that the distribution will be steady and predictable moving forward,” writes the mayor.

City of Ottawa bylaw officers are expected to ensure all of the latest rules are being followed.

“I urge all residents to adhere to the new lockdown orders,” implores Mayor Watson. “I am asking residents to comply with these new rules in an effort to give us a fighting chance against the virus, with the hope of a more normal summer and fall ahead of us.”