From Jeff Leiper’s Newsletter Dec 30/20
Covid update: rink mask order
Councillors received this afternoon a new order issued by the GM of our emergency and protective services mandating the wearing of masks when skating outdoors. The note reads:
“In my capacity as General Manager of Emergency and Protective Services, I am exercising my authority delegated under S.3A of the Temporary Mandatory Mask By-law as outlined in the attached Order.
“I am satisfied that such an Order is necessary for public health and safety based on the following, with concurrence from Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Vera Etches:
· Ottawa Public Health and EPS’ By-law & Regulatory Services have observed and received significant information about large gatherings at outdoor skating rinks since early December, which have increased concerns about potential transmission of COVID-19
· The size and dimensions of outdoor skating rinks is relatively limited such that maintaining 2-meter physical distancing is often not sufficiently practicable
· The Enforcement Task Force implemented a voluntary-compliance approach, including signage, that has not been effective in limiting contact between rink users
· There are no alternative and immediate enforcement mechanisms available to the City of Ottawa to ensure distancing to limit virus spread
· Due to the current Reopening Ontario Act regulations and the Province-wide Lockdown in place in Ottawa, there is an anticipated high-demand for recreational activities under the circumstances which may lead to large gatherings.”
The order is as follows:
ORDER
This Order is issued pursuant to Section 3A of the City of Ottawa Temporary Mandatory Mask By-law 2020-186 (as amended) and establishes Designated Unenclosed Public Spaces where masks must be worn for public health and safety reasons
Mandatory Mask in Designated Unenclosed Public Space Requirement:
Every person who enters or remains on outdoor ice skating rinks operated by the City of Ottawa or on the City’s behalf, including publicly accessible areas that are within a fifteen (15) meter distance of the edge of the ice surface, shall wear a Mask in a manner that covers their mouth, nose, and chin.
Duration:
Effective December 30, 2020 at 5:00 p.m. until January 28, 2021 at 12:01 a.m., twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week.
Exemptions:
- As prescribed by By-law 2020-186 (as amended) including but not limited to young children, persons with medical or cognitive conditions, persons engaged in athletic/fitness activity
- Outdoor rink operators when performing rink maintenance when the public is not on the surface of the ice rink