Statement On Lockdowns And Small Businesses | Dec 18, 2020
I had a Zoom meeting with local gym owners yesterday. There is a strong link to mental health and physical well-being. Regular exercise is key. I am appealing to the Government of Ontario to designate gyms an essential service.
I am also appealing to Premier Ford to find a way to keep small businesses open permanently. Their message to public officials: No more lock-downs.
Small business owners are demoralized and tapped out. They cannot borrow any more. For many, many owners, it is either open up and stay open or close forever.
Small businesses are the lifeline of our local communities and the backbone of our national economy. They are just as capable of following Covid protocols as the big box stores.
We can and must do better.