A glance out the window today along the Ontario – Quebec border does not bring to mind waterskiing and marshmallows around the campfire but one major obstacle preventing area cottagers from accessing their properties will soon be lifted.
If there are no negative developments in the COVID-19 situation, the Quebec Provincial Police says the restrictions at the Ontario – Quebec border at Temiscaming will be lifted as Sunday changes to Monday.
QPP Communications says the roadblock will come down, officers will no longer be asking for travel documents such as proof of residence at the border, and Ontarians will be able to visit their cottages as long as they observe health guidelines and social distancing.
Quebec Public Health also confirms the border will be open to the Abitibi-Temiscaming region Monday if all goes according to plan. The border has been closed since late March, except for essential travel.
While at one time, health officials seemed destined to restrict travel between regions and provinces beyond the reopening dates, Quebec Public Health says that it is no longer the case. Outfitters in the area have not received the go-ahead to reopen but QPP says cottagers from Ontario will not be denied access.
A few North Bay residents are planning to cross over to Quebec on the May long weekend to open cottages for the summer, as usual. Their plan is to head straight to their properties without stopping in Temiscaming for supplies. They say they will bring everything they need out of respect for — and to keep their distance — from the local population.
This is similar to advice given by Premier Doug Ford to southern Ontarians heading to Cottage Country, although Ford continues to encourage people to stay home altogether.
Temiscaming Mayor Yves Ouellet says, "We will be glad to see our friends from Ontario come back and contribute to our economy."
