Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante is demanding answers after several terraces were forced to close during the Grand Prix weekend, causing frustration and disappointment among business owners and customers.
The closures, which occurred on Friday and Saturday, were due to a last-minute decision by the city’s public health department to enforce COVID-19 restrictions on outdoor dining areas. This came as a surprise to many, as the terraces had been operating for weeks without any issues.
Mayor Plante expressed her disappointment in the decision, stating that it was not communicated to her or her team beforehand. She also emphasized that the closures were not in line with the city’s gradual reopening plan and that it was a setback for local businesses who have been struggling during the pandemic.
“It will not happen again,” Mayor Plante declared, promising to get to the bottom of the situation and ensure that such miscommunication does not occur in the future. She also acknowledged the importance of the Grand Prix for the city’s economy and the impact that the closures had on both businesses and visitors.
The mayor’s office has since reached out to the public health department for an explanation and is awaiting a response. In the meantime, Mayor Plante has assured business owners that the city will work with them to find solutions and mitigate the financial losses incurred during the closures.
The unexpected closures have sparked criticism and frustration among residents and visitors, with many questioning the consistency and effectiveness of the city’s COVID-19 measures. Some have also raised concerns about the impact on the city’s reputation as a tourist destination.
As Montreal continues to navigate the challenges of the pandemic, Mayor Plante remains committed to finding a balance between public health and supporting the local economy. She has also urged residents and businesses to remain vigilant and follow all necessary precautions to prevent further setbacks in the city’s reopening process.
In the end, the closures during the Grand Prix weekend have highlighted the importance of effective communication and coordination between different departments in the city. Mayor Plante has made it clear that she will not tolerate such disruptions in the future and is determined to ensure a smoother and more successful reopening for Montreal.
