RENFREW COUNTY (Pembroke) — The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) encourages businesses and individuals to voluntarily comply with the short-term restrictions introduced by the federal and provincial governments to combat the spread of COVID-19. While education, awareness and compliance are preferred options, officers will apply discretion to lay charges under the provincial Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act (EMCPA).
“I am confident that our community will do their best to be socially responsible and follow the recommendations set out for us when it comes to social distancing and staying at home for our own safety,” said Inspector Stephan Neufeld, Upper Ottawa Valley OPP.
Enforcement actions can include offences relating to: operation of non-essential businesses; and gatherings of more than five people, with some exceptions. Additionally, police have the authority to arrest those in non-compliance with the federal Quarantine Act at the request of a screening or quarantine officer.
The OPP will continue to provide public safety services to the communities we serve and support the efforts of federal, provincial and local health authorities during the current situation involving COVID-19. We appreciate the public’s ongoing support of these measures. Stay home and avoid non-essential travel, practice good hygiene and follow the Ontario Ministry of Health’s recommendations in order to limit the spread of COVID-19.
To file a report regarding non-compliance under the Quarantine Act, contact the Public Health Agency of Canada. For emergencies, call 9-1-1. For all other police matters, including non-compliance to the EMPCA, please call your local police or the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. For less serious incidents, report online by visiting opp.ca/reporting. Additional COVID-19 information and resources can be found at www.ontario.ca and the Government of Canada website. OPP-related information and updates can be found at www.opp.ca.
