An emotional Premier Doug Ford apologized for introducing controversial public health measures "too quickly" last Friday, only to reverse course just days later.
At a news conference this morning, Ford admitted his government made a mistake in granting police the power to randomly stop people to ensure they are obeying the stay-at-home order.
"I know we got it wrong, I know we made a mistake and for that I'm sorry and I sincerely apologize," said Ford.
Ford held the news conference virtually from his late mother's house where he is self-isolating after a staff member tested positive for the virus. Often emotional, Ford needed to compose himself during the new conference, fighting back tears.
He also announced his government would be introducing a new program to provide all workers in Ontario with paid sick days, saying the fact he was speaking while in quarantine was not lost on him.
"I want workers to know, as I have right from the beginning, I will always have your back," promised Ford. "and I want all of you to know I will always try to do what's right."
But Ford offered few details of the program saying only it would "fill the gaps" left by the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit that provides $500 a week for eligible Canadians.
"Well, we're working on that right now and we'll be rolling that out," said Ford. "But what I can tell you, it's gonna be one of the best - in conjunction with the federal government - in the entire North America."
