Conservative MPP Sam Oosterhoff faces backlash after posting maskless group photos
Posted October 26, 2020 10:45 am.
Last Updated October 26, 2020 4:54 pm.
Conservative Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff is facing backlash after posting photos to his Facebook page Sunday night, posing in a group of more than 30 people.
In the photos, that have since been deleted from his page, no one is wearing masks and there is no physical distancing.
MPP @samoosterhoff is facing backlash after posting photos to his Facebook page yesterday, in a group of 30+ people, no physical distancing & no masks. He posted an explanation in the comments (screenshot attached). Ontario Hospital Association CEO is calling for his resignation. pic.twitter.com/ecAhrJVqyN
— Tina Yazdani (@TinaYazdani) October 26, 2020
In a reply to one of the comments on the photos, Oosterhoff posted an explanation, writing “Ontario has a monitored gathering limit of 50 in staffed locations .. This was an event at a staffed banquet hall, with under 50 people, including 5 tables limited to ten people at each.”
The president of the Ontario Hospital Association is calling for his resignation.
“How many health care workers gathered this weekend for a party with 40 other people indoors?” Anthony Dale posted on Twitter.
In a statement to CityNews, Oosterhoff apologized for his actions.
“I should have worn a mask when we took a quick pic, given the proximity of everyone, and I apologize for failing to do so.”
Premier Doug Ford defended Oosterhoof during his daily media update Monday, and said the MPP will remain parliamentary assistant to the education minister.
Watch: Ford defends Oosterhoof after MPP apologizes for maskless photos
“Everyone makes mistakes,” said the premier. “He came out and apologized […] I’m a strong believer, you make a mistake, you go out and apologize and say it’s not going to happen again. I accept that.”
