THUNDER BAY – Thunder Bay’s Municipal Emergency Control Group (MECG) met today for its weekly meeting with various community partners as part of its ongoing management of the COVID-19 situation.
Officials are starting to assess lessons of the first phase wave of the pandemic as re-opening starts, and they look ahead to preparing for fall and winter.
“There is some discussion for the potential of regional re-openings according to local conditions,” said Mayor Bill Mauro. “The Premier has indicated that he is not entertaining that option at this time, but discussions are occurring. I have spoken with Dr. DeMille, and Medical Officers of Health from across the province are providing input from a public health perspective on how this might occur.”
“Collectively, we are doing quite well in terms of our response and current situation in the City, and I’d like to thank everyone for their dedication and hard work throughout this crisis.”
Dr. Janet DeMille said public health is awaiting more details on the provincial testing strategy. “Testing plays an important role in how we move forward with re-opening both to quickly identify individuals with COVID-19 as well as to monitor what’s happening in the community,” DeMille said.
Dr. DeMille continues to encourage anyone with any symptoms, even if mild, to get tested. The strategy is also expected to provide more details on the testing of individuals without symptoms, including individuals concerned that they have been exposed to the virus and front-line workers who interact with the public.
Those in attendance represented the City of Thunder Bay, Thunder Bay Police Service, Thunder Bay Fire Rescue, Superior North EMS, Tbaytel, Synergy North, Thunder Bay Airport, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, Thunder Bay District Health Unit, District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board, Aurora Borealis Catholic District School Board, Lakehead Public Schools, the Catholic District School Board, Lakehead University and Confederation College.
Police, Health Unit and By-law Officers have taken an active role in educating members of the public about the importance of physical distancing.
As some restrictions are lifted, residents who have concerns about businesses and individuals who are not following Ontario’s COVID-19 related orders can phone (807) 625-5900 or toll-free 1 (888) 294-6630 to report any instances of non-compliance. This phone line will be monitored between 8:30 am and 7:00 pm, Monday to Friday, and between 9 am and 5 pm Saturday and Sunday. This includes residents gathering in large groups.
