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Ontario to Gradually Resume Surgeries, Bring Back Extra-curricular Activities

Today's announcement comes as sources say Premier Doug Ford is considering speeding up the re-opening process.

Ontario may open up quicker than planned. 

The province announcing it's taking steps to resume non-urgent surgeries and bring back extra-curricular activities in schools. 

In consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the province is lifting Directive 2 to begin a gradual resumption of non-emergent surgeries in a phased approach. 

Officials say as services resume, the province's hospitals will work in partnership to ensure all regions have the capacity to resume services when local conditions permit. 

As well, effective immediately, Ontario students can enjoy extra-curricular activities, including high-contact sports. 

Students and other participants will need to wear a mask while on school premises, but can temporarily remove it for active participation in sports. 

Indoor curriculum programs such as health, physical education and music will continue with similar protocols in place.

This follows reports that Premier Doug Ford has asked for new regulations to be drawn up in order to speed up the province's re-opening schedule.

Sources telling Toronto media that there could be an announcement as early as tomorrow, but there is no word from the Premier's office. 

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