parts of quebec under lockdown -
Three Quebec regions face partial lockdown measures starting today after reaching the highest COVID-19 alert level earlier this week, and police can now use telewarrants to enforce health measures.
montreal.ctvnews.ca
It gets worse. Just like what's happening in Australia.
Quebec gives police legal tools to enter homes quickly to stop gatherings during COVID-19
Quebec Premier François Legault says police in the province's red zones — regions where COVID-19 cases are surging — will be issuing $1,000 fines to those who violate newly strengthened public health rules.
With fees, those fines will top $1,500 and can be issued for gathering in private residences or protesting without a face covering.
Home gatherings can lead to fines
Beyond the few exceptions, such as for caregivers or romantic relations, house guests are not allowed, Legault said.
Police are authorized to demand proof of residency and if residents refuse entry, officers will be able to obtain warrants faster through a new, virtual system that was established in collaboration with the Crown, the premier said.
"We had to give the police the means to intervene," said Public Security Minister Geneviève Guilbault.
Guilbault said protesting without masks cannot be tolerated and she is not ruling out using force to disperse protests if needed.
WATCH | Quebec steps up enforcement for new COVID-19 restrictions:
Restrictions to take effect at midnight
The new restrictions take effect 12:01 a.m. ET on Thursday and are set to last for 28 days, until Oct. 28, in the red zones. The restrictions are:
- A ban on home gatherings, with some exceptions, such as a single caregiver, babysitter, tradesperson or technician, allowed per visit.
- All bars and casinos are closed. Restaurants can offer only takeout.
- Museums, cinemas and theatres are closed.
- Being less than two metres apart will be prohibited. Masks will be mandatory during demonstrations.
- Houses of worship and venues for events, such as funerals and weddings, will have a 25-person limit.
- Hair salons, hotels and other such businesses will stay open.
- Schools will remain open.