The Province of Ontario has released a list of 74 essential businesses and services that will be allowed to remain open past Tuesday March 24th at 11:59 p.m.
ONTARIO - Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, the Ontario government will be ordering at-risk workplaces to close-down, while encouraging businesses to explore opportunities to continue operations through work-from-home and innovative business models. At the same time, the government reminds businesses to put in place protocols for physical distancing and regular hand-washing in order to protect the health and safety of employees and the general public.
Earlier today, Premier Doug Ford was joined by Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Rod Phillips, Minister of Finance and Sylvia Jones, Solicitor General to announce that the government will be closing at-risk workplaces to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Essential businesses include, but are not limited to grocery stores and pharmacies, telecommunications and IT infrastructure service providers, and businesses that support power generation, natural gas distribution and clean drinking water. Essential businesses are being asked to put into place any and all measures to safeguard the wellbeing of their employees on the front-lines.
Teleworking and online commerce are permitted at all times for all businesses.
You can find the complete list of essential services and businesses that will be allowed to remain open online here.

Drugs Seized in Ingersoll Leads to Charges
New Program Created by SPC Oxford
WITARR Announces 2026 Trade Bursary Recipients
Handbags for Hospice Raises Over $235,000
Paris Shooting Sends One to Hospital
More Snow Expected for Oxford
Tip Tuesday - February 2026
PJHL Playoff Recap - Feb 23rd
Navy Vets Win Doherty Division Awards
Coldest Night of the Year this Saturday
New Scam Has Hit Woodstock
News Poll: Municipal Election Campaign 2026
PJHL Playoff Recap - Feb 20th to Feb 22nd
United Way Makes Period Promise to Oxford County
Woodstock Expands Eligibility for FAIR Program
Oxford County Provides Affordable Housing Update
Silver Finish for Team Canada
UTRCA Issues Statement Regarding Water Levels
OPP Investigate Reports of Extortion
PJHL Playoff Preview - Feb 20th to Feb 22nd
Comments
Add a comment