Cineplex says its employees “aren’t in a position” to open movie theatres in Ontario on Friday even though the government has announced indoor establishments can reopen in most of the province as part of its Stage 3 reopening plan amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement to Global News, a Cineplex spokesperson said the company welcomes the news but is still reviewing what’s being proposed by the province.
“While we are certainly excited for the day our operations can resume, our top priority has always been the health and safety of our employees and guests and ensuring that their time with us is safe, comfortable and welcoming,” Sarah Van Lange, executive director of communications for Cineplex, said.
On Monday, the Ford government announced that 24 of the 34 public health units across Ontario can move into Stage 3. Regions not included are those in the Greater Toronto Area, Hamilton, Niagara, Haldimand-Norfolk, Lambton and Windsor-Essex.
In mid-March, Cineplex closed all movie theatres across the country, including those in Ontario, amid coronavirus concerns.
Cineplex said it does not have a date for when its movie theatres will reopen.