As of Saturday, police officers in Quebec will have the authority to give tickets to those who do not respect the curfew that comes into effect at 8 p.m. that night, says Public Security Minister Genèvieve Guilbault.
Speaking to reporters this afternoon, she said scofflaws can face fines of between $1,000 and $6,000.
She said there will be exceptions such as essential workers, including health workers and people transporting goods.
People will also be allowed to be out for “humanitarian reasons” as well as for emergencies.
As well, dog owners can walk their dogs within one kilometre of their homes, she said.
Guilbault stressed that the curfew should not prevent anyone from leaving a violent household if their safety or that of their children is at risk.
“It will take a good reason to be out” during curfew, Guilbault said.
The curfew will not change much for many of the people already following Quebec directives, the minister said.
However, “for those who still like to gather with friends, the ballgame just became way more difficult,” Guilbault added
The curfew runs from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. and is expected to be lifted on Feb. 8.
