The Ford government announced that as of December 19, health measures are being reinstated to help curb the spread of the Omicron variant. Ontario has reported 4,177 new cases on December 19, and those numbers are expected to go up.
Private social gatherings are limited to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors, and capacity limits for indoor public settings are making a reappearance. Bars, restaurants, retailers, and shopping malls will be reduced to 50 percent capacity, although this limit doesn’t apply to weddings, funerals, religious services, rites, or ceremonies.
Bars, restaurants, and strip clubs will be required to close at 11 p.m., excepting take-out and delivery. There will be a maximum of 10 people per table, and dancing will not be allowed except for workers or performers. The sale of alcohol will be restricted after 10 p.m., and food and drink services will be prohibited at sporting events and large venues, including theatres and cinemas.