As Canada’s most populous provinces enter a state of lockdown as a result of the global corona virus pandemic (COVID-19), the automotive aftermarket has been declared an essential workplace.
Ontario premier Doug Ford announced that starting at midnight Tuesday March 24, there would be a forced closure of all non-essential business for at least 14 days.
Quebec premier François Legault announced that Quebec is being put in partial lockdown as of midnight Tuesday until April 13.
Motor vehicle, auto-supply, auto and motor-vehicle repair as well as car and truck dealerships and related facilities were all among the list of businesses Ontario believes are necessary for continued operations of the economy and movement of goods and people.
Gas stations, diesel, propane and heating fuel providers including providers of motor vehicle, aircraft and water/marine craft fuels are also included in Ontario’s list.
“For the purposes of this order, businesses include any-for-profit, non-profit or other entity providing the goods and services described herein,” said Ontario’s government in announcing the list.
“This does not preclude the provision of work and services by entities not on this list either online, by telephone or by mail/delivery.
“Note that teleworking and online commerce are permitted at all times for all businesses.”
The list includes dozens of sectors in the supply chain, manufacturing, agriculture, resource, healthcare, utilities and financial services areas to name some key segments.
Quebec’s list was less detailed but did include “service stations and mechanical repair of motor vehicles, trucks and specialized equipment for industries deemed essential.”
Quebec added this caveat: “The stores and services covered by this list must ensure that the people in their establishments comply as far as possible with the principles of social distancing.”
Quebec and Ontario join Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick in designating the automotive service sector as essential businesses.
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