Following the new rule that masks are now mandatory on public transportation, the Quebec government will make it mandatory to wear masks for anyone who is in within a "indoor public space" as of Saturday, July 18. But what falls under that description, and who does it apply to?
According to the Quebec government's website, the new rule going into effect will apply to anyone who is age 12 and over, and it applies to "enclosed or partially enclosed public places". While there are exceptions that will apply, Montrealers and people across Quebec should be ready to put a mask on in most places they previously did not have to.
The total list includes retail, "service (companies)", offices that are both private and where government and municipal services are offered, personal care businesses like salons and beauticians' parlors, shopping malls, places of worship, movie theatres, concert halls, rental rooms and venues, wherever recreational activities happen indoors, restaurants, bars, common areas like elevators and accommodations (which the exception of, say, one's hotel room), educational institutions like colleges and universities (pre-school, primary and secondary schools are exempt), transportation such as trains, ferries and buses, public transportation, and airports.
"I understand that it is not pleasant for anyone to wear a mask. But it's pretty much better than having to go back and stay at home," premier François Legault wrote in an Instagram post. "If we want to continue our activities and if we want to be able to walk from one region to another, we must be smarter than the virus and everyone must do their part."
This post followed an announcement that was made by the premier on the afternoon of Monday, July 13 in which he said that it is "not fun wearing a mask, but it's essential."
If you live in Montreal and are looking for non-medical grade face masks produced locally, check out our guide on where to buy a face mask in Montreal—if you know of local producers who are not current listed there, feel free to drop Time Out Montreal a line with a tip. Please keep in mind we are only publishing companies who are making these resources locally to better encourage our local economy.
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