These Are The Exceptions To Quebec's Upcoming Curfew
The Quebec-wide curfew is set to begin on Saturday, January 9, but what if you have good reason to be out between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m.?
In a press conference on January 7, Deputy Premier Geneviève Guilbault clarified that there are exceptions to the rule.
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Of course, common sense means that there will be exceptions to the application of this curfew [...] but a good reason will be necessary to be able to be out.
Genèvieve Guilbault
"This curfew is for the entire province. However, there will always be exceptions: people who have to continue to work, there are sectors that will continue functioning and there are situations that will continue happening," she said.
Some of the exceptions listed on the Government of Quebec website include:
- Essential workers
- People going to or from a hospital or clinic
- Someone who has to go to the bedside of a sick or injured relative
- A student required to attend an evening class
- A parent driving their child to the other parent for custody reasons
- Accompanying another person who is unable to drive to a medical appointment
- A parent who has to drive a teenager to work
Quebecers can also pick up medication at pharmacies, which will be open past 8 p.m. for essential products only.
"We're thinking about health care workers, we're thinking here about people that have to transport merchandise or goods in Quebec," Guilbault said. "We're thinking about emergencies."
Guilbault herself said she plans to babysit her pregnant friend's children when she goes into labour. Though, it's important to note that the government says people over the age of 70 should not babysit.
While you can't take walks or go to parks after 8 p.m., you can walk your dogs during curfew hours — but only within one kilometre of your residence.
Guilbault also said you can be outside within the confines of your own private property during curfew. However, earlier in the conference there was some confusion over whether this was definitely allowed or whether the government was still evaluating.
Guilbault stressed that the curfew does not in any way limit Quebecers from leaving households if they're experiencing domestic violence.
Fines for breaking curfew without reason range from $1,000 to $6,000. If you're stopped by police, you should have proof for the reason on hand.
The curfew is currently expected to be lifted on February 8.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of domestic abuse, contact SOS Violence conjugale by calling 1 800 363-9010. The lines are open 24/7.
