Here's What You Need To Show Police If You're Out Past Curfew In Quebec
By now, most Quebecers know a curfew is coming into effect on Saturday, January 9, meaning we risk hefty fines if we leave our homes between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. — but there are exceptions.
Even if you have a justifiable reason to be out past curfew, there's a chance you'll get stopped by police. In a press conference on January 7, Deputy Premier Geneviève Guilbault explained what you're expected to show police if that happens.
Editor's Choice: Quebecers Living Alone Are Still Allowed One Visitor In The Next Phase Of Lockdown
“
It will be the responsibility of that person to show to a police officer [...] that they have a good reason for being outside.
Geneviève Guilbault
"I suggest all people concerned to have in their possession a proof of the legitimacy of the fact that they are out of their home," said Guilbault.
Essential workers, she said, could have a document from their employer declaring they are working or supplying an essential service.
She said many companies already emitted these types of documents during the first lockdown and can use their own templates.
Otherwise, there is a form on the government's website that employers can fill out and supply to their employees.
If you have to go to the hospital or get medication at the pharmacy for yourself or someone you live with, Guilbault said you should keep your receipts.
"There are relatively simple ways of being able to show that there's a good reason for being outside," she said.
Asked by a reporter what would happen if you're on your way to the pharmacy and therefore can't use a receipt as proof, Guilbault said it will be up to police officers to "apply the rule with judgement and efficiency."
She said police might ask you questions or follow you.
"They are used to applying new rules," she said.
Guilbault also stressed that women in abusive or dangerous living environments should not let the curfew stop them from leaving, implying they would be supported by police rather than penalized.
The homeless population will be accompanied to shelters and resources, she said.
