Doug Ford made it clear he doesn’t want Ontario to be like some American states where the number of COVID cases is spiking. The Premier reiterated his desire to keep the Canada-US border closed to non-essential travel.

“I know it’s inevitable I know we gotta do it, I just don’t think we’re ready for it,” Ford told reporters. “You see what’s happening down in the States, look at Florida, Texas, Arizona, California, I don’t want to be those states.”

Ontario recorded fewer than 200 new cases ten out of the past twelve days while some American states set single-day records this week.

Ford adds it’s important that goods continue to go back and forth across the border. The next decision on when to reopen the borders comes July 21st.

Also at Queen’s Park, Health Minister Christine Elliott says Ontario will not follow Quebec’s lead by releasing COVID-19 data weekly, rather than daily.

The Premier scolded the Prime Minister, after Justin Trudeau blamed the provinces for the high number of deaths in long term care.

“Put your money where your mouth is, help us out,” said Ford.”I was a little shocked with his comment to be very frank with you, we’re supposed to all be in this together?”

The province’s independent commission looking into long term care is set to begin next month.