City of Toronto orders closure of restaurant that opened for indoor dining despite COVID-19 blockade – Toronto

The city of Toronto has ordered the closure of an Etobicoke restaurant which has opened its doors to the public for indoor dining as Toronto is under lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Adamson Barbecue, located on Queen Elizabeth Boulevard near Royal York Road and Queensway, opened on Tuesday shortly after 11am and dozens of people showed up to eat inside, including a line of people waiting to get inside.

On Monday, Ontario blocked Toronto and the Peel region. This move has forced restaurants to close indoor and outdoor dining and switch only to takeout and delivery.

Owner Adam Skelly took to social media on Monday to tell people “enough is enough – we’re opening up.”

“Because we get spotted and the big multinationals are all essential, well, they’re full. Come on guys, that’s enough, we’re opening, “he said in a 3-minute video posted on Instagram.

Toronto Police Insp. Tim Crone told reporters that Toronto police officers, city state officials and public health officials entered the restaurant to investigate rule violations under the Reopening Ontario Act.

Crone said Toronto police officers were there to ensure public safety and support public health in their investigation of the crime.

“Right now, it’s not allowed to stay open,” he said.

“For the huge number of people who are here right now, we don’t have the ability to physically get in and out of everyone at this point. And it wouldn’t be safe to do so.

“We understand the level of frustration, however, the primary consideration must always be public safety. We are still in the middle of a pandemic, the numbers are still rising and the emphasis should be on flattening the curve. “

Hours after Adamson Barbeque opened, the City of Toronto released a statement announcing that Toronto Medical Health Officer Dr. Eileen de Villa has ordered the restaurant to be closed in accordance with the Ontario’s health protection and promotion

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“This establishment has opened its doors to diners at home in violation of the law designed to protect people from the spread of COVID-19,” the statement read.

“Investigations require the gathering of all facts before law enforcement action can be taken. The Municipality has now taken a counter action and the restaurant is closed “.

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The statement also said investigators are also investigating whether the company is in “compliance” with other business licenses, building code, fire code, public health, and zoning rules and regulations.

Premier Doug Ford commented on the situation Tuesday afternoon during his daily press conference.

“I just wish they had followed the rules. I can’t get mad at any businessman, they are suffering right now and struggling and doing everything they can to stay afloat, but if we let everyone open up, we will be in worse shape, “Ford said.

Meanwhile, the owner was previously under fire for controversial comments he made in April about how serious COVID-19 is and the abusive language used.

– With files by Kamil Karamali

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