Bridges closed between provinces, Pontiac access for essential services only

In an effort to prevent COVID-19 from spreading, the Gatineau Police (SPVG) have stationed officers at specific checkpoints to limit non-essential access to Ottawa, starting on April 1. According to a press release issued by the SPVG on the same date, the decision was made to minimize interprovincial travel by only allowing it in necessary cases. 

Evaluated by officers on a case by case basis, essential movements will include commuting to work when working from home isn’t possible, travelling to obtain a medical follow-up or health care or for humanitarian purposes. “We want people to use their common sense and their judgement to decide if their movement is essential or not,” said SPVG relations agent Renée-Anne St-Amant. 

The checkpoints, for now, are located at the Champlain Bridge, Chaudière Bridge, Portage Bridge, Alexandra Bridge, the Masson-Angers ferry and at the intersection of Hwy. 148 and chemin Terry-Fox. Noting that the checkpoints will be in place sporadically, more checkpoints might be added in the foreseeable future, depending on how the situation evolves.

People with COVID-19 symptoms or who have been in contact with someone with symptoms or who have recently travelled aren’t allowed to go outside. The SPVG added that people who don’t adhere to recommended social distancing measures may receive fines ranging between $1,000 and $6,000.

The SPVG also stressed the importance of calling 9-1-1 only for emergencies.

Non-essential access to the Pontiac has also been limited, with Sûreté du Québec officers doing sporadic checks at entrance points to the rural MRC.