QUEBEC: grocery stores to be closed on Sundays to give front-line workers a break

Grocery store employees will get some time to relax during the COVID-19 pandemic as Quebec premier Francois Legault is ordering grocery stores and businesses to be closed on Sundays. The order was announced by Legault in a recent press briefing.

Gas stations, depanneurs (convenience stores), pharmacies restaurants that serve take-out will be the only exceptions allowed to be open on Sundays.

"You have to be realistic, it will last for weeks more," said Legault, reminding Quebecers that the pandemic will be long and challenging. Legault also wanted to send a message to those who may suffer from stress and anxiety at this time, saying that "a mental health problem is as important as a physical health problem." Legault invited Quebecers to consult a mental health professional if necessary. He then expressed his gratitude of social workers for their work as well during the crisis.

Quebec now has 3,430 confirmed cases with over 590 new cases as of Sunday. A total of 235 infected people have been hospitalized, 78 of which are in intensive care, noted Legault.

Prime Minister Trudeau said the government is presently looking into the possibility of reusing N95 masks after they have been disinfected. The government is also currently in discussions with several Quebec companies to see about them manufacturing protective equipment to help with the pandemic.