STRIP CLUBS SAY PROVINCEWIDE SHUTDOWN UNFAIR

Strip club operators are voicing frustration over the Ontario government’s move to shut down their establishments, saying the closure was ordered without consultation and treats the industry unfairly. The province announced the shutdown late last week, saying it was needed to reduce transmission in high-risk businesses. Mauro Mastrucci, who owns the Airport Strip Club in Mississauga, said his club had Plexiglas barriers, required customers to wear masks, and checked temperatures at the door in an effort to follow public health guidelines. Two Toronto strip clubs made headlines this summer after COVID-19 cases were linked to the establishments. The Ministry of Health said the closure is part of an attempt to address a rapid increase in community transmission of COVID-19.