QUEEN'S PARK — Official Opposition NDP Leader Andrea Horwath released the following statement:
“Doug Ford walked us into this lockdown with eyes wide open. While experts were warning him of explosive growth of more infectious and more deadly variants, he cancelled public health protections. He marched us right into grave danger.
It should never have come to this. The third wave didn’t have to be this horrific.
My heart is with people fearing for their family’s health, and already struggling with isolation or loss of income. I’m incredibly worried about workers and local businesses that are barely holding on.
Once again today’s announcement is too little and far too late. The public health measures fall short of what many experts are calling for. That will only prolong the suffering — it’s the same failed approach that got us to where we are today.
There is more mixed messaging. There are no financial supports for small businesses. There are no paid sick days, and no comprehensive testing in essential workplaces. There is no cap on class sizes so kids can social distance in schools. And no comprehensive plan to get the vaccine to essential workers and no paid time off to get the shot.
This approach failed Ontarians before and I am fearful it will fail again.”