Big hints on reopening

And what to expect at today's housing summit

ABOVE THE FOLD

THE BEGINNING OF THE END — A big hint from Premier DOUG FORD that the latest round of pandemic restrictions could soon be lifted:

“We’ll have some positive news. I believe we’re going to make some announcements later this week about going back to the other levels of restrictions.”

Ford was speaking to Bill Carroll on NewsTalk 580’s Morning Rush about his blizzard taxi and shovelling efforts when he was asked about what comes next.

Ford didn’t offer up any specifics, but any changes will likely impact bars, restaurants, gyms, theatres, concert venues and more, which were ordered to close their doors until January 26 at least. That coincided with the delay on in-person schooling and the hospital directive to postpone non-urgent surgeries.

Word on the street is that restrictions will be gradually lifted over the next few weeks, starting with looser capacity limits — but it isn’t clear if that includes restaurants and gyms right away. Cabinet still needs to sign off on the …