Quebec shutdown prompts calls for co-ordination ahead of Boxing Day

With Quebec mandating the closure of non-essential businesses for two weeks starting Christmas Day, some are left wondering what to do if people from Gatineau cross the provincial border to do their Boxing Day shopping in Ottawa.

"The latest announcements from the Government of Quebec do pose some risks here in Ottawa by the proximity," Coun. Mathieu Fleury told Radio-Canada on Wednesday.

At the same time, the Rideau-Vanier councillor says Gatineau and Ottawa should be viewed as one large region when it comes to restrictions, as both have comparable COVID-19 case numbers.

• Quebec's Christmas shutdown another blow for Gatineau businesses

"The latest information recreates an imbalance, which is of concern for us," the councillor said. "We're a region that shares two provinces."

Fleury said actions by businesses in Ottawa should help protect the city from any potential surge caused by Quebec shoppers crossing the Ottawa River for deals.

Stores arefollowing proper health protocols, he said, likeensuring people clean their hands, wear masks and are limiting the number of people allowed inside.

Desire to see cities viewed as one

The city councillor isn't alone in wanting to see coordinated decision making for the Ottawa-Gatineau region

Lise Sarazin is the general director for Regroupement des gens d'affaires de la capitale nationale, which represents businesses on either side of the Ottawa River.

She believes the shutdown will drive shoppers to Ottawa, leaving Gatineau stores with stocked shelves and locked doors.

She'd also like the two cities viewed as a one, special region.

"[And] allow those businesses to open on a certain level, maybe with more restrictions," she told Radio-Canada. "But at least leave them open so they can sell their merchandise."

No checkpoints at border

Meanwhile, officials on both sides of the river said they don't plan to implement border checkpoints, as happened during the spring lockdown.

"The City of Ottawa has no authority to close a border between two provinces and, in any event, the Mayor doesn't feel this is a good use of police resources," the office of Mayor Jim Watson said in an emailed statement.

"He encourages residents to stay in their respective communities as we continue to fight the spread of COVID-19 over the holidays."