Mask mandates lifted in most public settings across Ontario

Starting Monday, face masks are no longer required in most public spaces in Ontario including schools, restaurants, gyms and retail settings.

The province says mask mandates will continue to be in place on public transit and in health-care facilities, long-term care homes and congregate care settings until the end of April.

At that time, Ontario will end all remaining public health rules implemented to keep people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier Doug Ford has said he plans on wearing a mask in the provincial legislature for a “few days” after the mandate lifts.

He says people should be allowed to keep wearing them if they want to.

Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board has decided to keep the mask mandates in place until April 1.