Mark Slapinski
Support for lockdowns amongst Canadians has decreased, according to a new Ipsos poll, with only 56% of Canadians supporting the lockdowns, as opposed to 69% in July.
Canadians are becoming colder to lockdowns. Despite the fact a new variant is making its way through Canada, overall support for lockdowns is dwindling. According to a new Ipsos poll, 56% of Canadians agree with lockdown. This is down from 63% in September and 69% in July. Notably, only 20% of respondents “strong agree” with lockdowns. The other 36% only “somewhat” agree.
The support for lockdowns is highest in Quebec at 62% and lowest in Alberta at 44%.
The government of Ontario has stopped short of re-introducing lockdowns, however it has slashed capacity limits and ordered bar and restaurants to close early every night. Doug Ford, Ontario’s premier stated that the new Omicron variant is “unlike anything we have ever seen.” The new restrictions will take effect Sunday.
According to a news release: restaurants, bars, retailers, shopping malls, gyms and personal care businesses like hair salons will have to abide by a 50% capacity limit.
Lockdowns in Europe
Lockdowns have been re-introduced in countries across Europe, including Austria and Germany. The Netherlands will begin a hard lockdown on Sunday. According to the BBC:
Under the new rules, people are being urged to stay at home as much as possible. Strict limits will be placed on the number of people who can meet – a maximum of two guests aged 13 and over will be allowed in people’s homes, and four on 24-26 December and on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
Meanwhile, officials in England have drawn up plans for a two-week circuit breaker lockdown after Christmas as the tabloids warn of an earlier Christmas lockdown.
