Today’s vital updates: 

• Statistics Canada’s March Labour Force Survey data are now available. The GNCC’s rapid update can be found here. Niagara has been hard hit; regional numbers for employment and unemployment rates are worse than peer regions such as Hamilton, Guelph, Brantford, and London. The hardest-hit industry, accommodation and food service, is also Niagara’s largest industry by employee count. The disproportionate effect on the region is likely explained by Niagara’s concentration of vulnerable industries and sectors.
• The Ontario government has launched the Ontario Jobs and Recovery Committee, including all senior members of the Ontario cabinet, whose role will be assessment of the economic impact of COVID-19 on the Ontario economy and the development of a plan for economic recovery.
• Essential construction projects in Ontario will be permitted to operate 24 hours a day. This will include construction and expansion of hospitals, healthcare facilities, and COVID-19 assessment centres.
• Ontario’s Grocery stores are mandated to close on Good Friday and Easter Sunday.

If you are showing symptoms, self-isolate for 14 days. Call a public health authority. Do not visit any healthcare provider in person before calling.  

It is important that everyone practice social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Remain at home unless absolutely necessary. Minimize contact with other people. Wash hands frequently and thoroughly. Avoid touching the face. Maintain a 2-meter distance from others if you are required to be out in public. If you have recently traveled outside the country, self-isolate for 14 days. This means that you must not leave your home under any circumstances. Have supplies delivered and left at your door. 

Previous updates can be accessed at https://gncc.ca/covid-19/covid-19-gncc-news/.  

Stay safe and be vigilant. The GNCC is here to support you. Contact us with any questions you have.