Montreal officials have acknowledged that the sudden closure of patios during a busy Grand Prix night was unacceptable.
According to reports, several restaurants and bars in the city’s downtown area were forced to close their outdoor dining areas on Saturday night due to a last-minute decision by the city’s public health department. This decision came as a surprise to many business owners who had been preparing for the busy night for weeks.
The closure of patios not only caused frustration and confusion among patrons, but it also resulted in significant financial losses for the affected businesses. Many restaurant and bar owners had invested a considerable amount of time and money into preparing for the Grand Prix weekend, which is known to bring in a large number of customers.
In a statement released on Sunday, Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante acknowledged that the sudden closure of patios was unacceptable and apologized for the inconvenience caused to businesses and their customers. She also stated that the decision was made in the interest of public health and safety, as the city had seen a recent increase in COVID-19 cases.
The mayor also assured that the city would be reviewing its protocols and procedures to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future. She emphasized the importance of communication and collaboration between the city and business owners to ensure a smooth and successful event.
The closure of patios during a busy Grand Prix night has raised questions about the city’s handling of the pandemic and its impact on businesses. Many have criticized the lack of transparency and communication from the city, while others have called for better support and compensation for affected businesses.
As the city continues to navigate the challenges of the pandemic, it is crucial for officials to prioritize effective communication and collaboration with all stakeholders. The sudden closure of patios during a busy event night serves as a reminder of the importance of clear and timely communication in ensuring the success and safety of all involved.
