Despite an increase in the number of cases in Quebec for a ninth day, Deputy Premier Geneviève Guilbault assures us that the situation is "stable and under control".
Ms. Guilbault first thanked Quebeckers for their extraordinary civility observed since Saturday. In addition to a few isolated cases, Quebecers have overwhelmingly adhered to the wearing of masks throughout the province, she said.
She also called on people to get used to wearing face coverings and masks because “you have to live with this new normal for quite a while until a COVID-19 vaccine or drug is found…” “Get used to it because I think it’s for a long time.” she repeated.
A few incidents related to the refusal of citizens to wear the mask in closed public places have been recorded since Saturday. An incident took place in a Tim Hortons in the Villeray district, in Montreal, on Saturday. A man who refused to wear the face covering did not comply with police requests and resisted being arrested. A video where he is seen being pepper sprayed has been widely shared on social media.
A protest against the obligation to wear a mask also took place in Saint-Georges, bringing together around 500 people.
We must individually take responsibility for our actions and respect sanitary instructions, Ms. Guilbault said in response to a question about anti-mask demonstrations.
Ms. Guilbault also reminded Quebecers that gatherings of more than 10 people in private places, such as homes, are prohibited, whether indoors or outdoors.
With construction holidays in full swing, Ms. Guilbault also said that there will be more inspections at campgrounds to ensure compliance with health safety instructions.