Read on Twitter
. 
. This debate, at this juncture, seems more about positions than principles. Our Western society is mired in individual rights versus collective wellbeing. Dangerous position to be in a novel pandemic scenario. Let go of the ego and do what makes theoretical sense. https://twitter.com/estelliaslair/status/1282061243407310854
The guidelines and data are often lagging behind the science, such as indications for drug therapy and so on. As science progresses, not only physical distancing, hand washing, and masks, but increasing studies from aerosol scientists suggest proper ventilation is also important.
When people are not able to or non adherent with social distancing, that’s the equivalent of adjusting ones mask improperly, washing your hands improperly. Mandate may mean giving businesses the authority to deny entry to those without masks.
Keep in mind, Ontario is still under the Emergency Management and Civil Protrction Act.
This allows for government to enact certain powers which includes “Authorizing people to perform duties they would not otherwise be permitted to engage in”, and “Closing private and public places to limit access”.
This is not a rights issue. It’s a social responsibility and accountability issue in the face of a novel pandemic, dealing with a highly transmissible virus that we know very little about and that is acutely lethal for some.
As for why now when cases are generally low. Well, do we have a vaccine? Do we have herd immunity? Do we have collective cohesion in following guidelines? Do we have evidence/data that harm from mask wearing out weights benefits of mask wearing during this time?
Do we want a safe gradual move towards phase 3? Do we want a safe environment for our children as schools open? Do we have time for all the data to come in to make these decisions? How many waves of COVID 19 resurgence is the data going to take? Are we willing to wait?
Of course, there will be legitimate reasons why a mask cannot be worn for some people, and there will always be the anti-folks who will resist. However, I believe the majority of Canadians/Ontarians will be responsible and accountable. An honour system will be enough I believe.
