Ford, Elliott being tested for COVID-19
Premier Doug Ford and Health Minister Christine Elliott are being tested for COVID-19 after Education Minister Stephen Lecce came into contact with someone who has the virus.
“I have been tested and I’ve been in isolation since, working from home. I was informed minutes ago that my COVID-19 test results have come back negative,” Lecce said Wednesday afternoon.
“The premier and Minister Elliott have been extremely clear: if you feel you need a test, you should get tested. We all have a role to play in combating this virus,” he said. “Thank you to the incredible team at UHN who offered their support and care to me yesterday. I also want to thank all Ontarians who are working together to fight COVID-19.” That news prompted Ford and Elliott, who stood with Lecce on Tuesday at Queen’s Park, to get tested themselves Wednesday.
There is a COVID-19 assessment centre less than 200 metres from the Ontario legislature, so testing can be done quickly.
“As we await the results, out of an abundance of caution, Premier Ford and Minister Elliott will not be participating in today’s press conference,” said Ivana Yelich, the premier’s director of media relations.
“Premier Ford and Minister
Elliott will be getting tested today. Both will continue to monitor for symptoms and take appropriate action as necessary,” said Yelich. “The premier’s office will notify the public once we receive the testing results.”
Ford’s test came one day after his nephew, Michael Ford, a 26year-old Toronto city councillor, disclosed that he has COVID-19. “This morning I was made aware that I have tested positive for COVID-19,” the councillor wrote in a statement Tuesday night.
The premier has not seen his nephew in about two weeks.
“I have been self-isolating and will continue to do so over the next 14 days as I work from home to participate virtually in city business and committee meetings, and to continue serving the residents of Etobicoke North,” said the younger Ford. “I am feeling well and will continue to remain in constant contact with Toronto Public Health.”