A popular downtown Montreal restaurant was ordered to shut down its packed terrasse on Friday night, the eve of the Grand Prix race, due to concerns over COVID-19 safety measures.
According to the Quebec government’s COVID-19 guidelines, restaurants are allowed to have outdoor terrasses open with a maximum of six people per table. However, images circulating on social media showed the terrasse at the restaurant, located on Peel Street, packed with people, many of whom were not wearing masks or practicing social distancing.
The restaurant’s owner, who wished to remain anonymous, claimed that they were not aware of the restrictions and were caught off guard by the sudden closure order. They also stated that they had implemented safety measures, such as temperature checks and hand sanitizer stations, but admitted that they were not strictly enforcing mask-wearing among customers.
The closure order was issued by the city’s public health department, who stated that the restaurant was not in compliance with COVID-19 regulations and posed a risk to public health. The restaurant was given a warning and will be allowed to reopen once they have made the necessary changes to ensure compliance.
This incident has sparked outrage among Montrealers, with many expressing their disappointment and frustration over the lack of adherence to safety measures. The Grand Prix weekend is known to attract large crowds and the city has been working hard to prevent any potential COVID-19 outbreaks.
In a statement, Mayor Valerie Plante reminded citizens and businesses to follow the guidelines and take the necessary precautions to keep everyone safe. She also urged people to report any violations to the city’s COVID-19 hotline.
As the city continues to navigate through the pandemic, it is crucial for everyone to do their part in preventing the spread of the virus. This includes following safety measures and guidelines set by the government, especially during high-profile events like the Grand Prix. Let us all work together to keep our community safe and healthy.
