Masks are no longer mandatory in many indoor places in Ottawa and across Ontario, as this mandate began to take effect today, Monday, in the province of Ontario.

The Ontario government lifted mandatory mask requirements today for many places, including gyms, shopping centers, restaurants, bars, grocery stores, and inside public elementary and secondary schools.

Liam Hickey, a first-grade student, said, "I'm a little excited to not wear masks anymore."

Steve Hickey, Liam's parent, said, "It's nice to have some flexibility and the option to take the mask off." "I think it's good for kids to be able to see their classmates' faces."

Mark Smith, an Ottawa resident, said, "It would be great to live life without needing to wear the mask, but I understand it will be optional. Especially for those who are immunocompromised. It's something we have to respect."

But many parents are worried about the risk factor in lifting the mandate.

Jennifer Cho, whose child attends elementary school, said, "As a parent, I prefer some to keep the mask because some children are not disciplined, so they might not be able to maintain distance."

The mask mandate will remain in effect inside healthcare buildings, nursing homes, shelters, prisons, and on public transportation.

In the same context, for those who work in industries where the mask will be lifted, the feeling of normal life is close at hand.

Charlene Martino from the Ottawa headquarters said, "With the mask, we have to repeat what we want to say several times and people don't necessarily understand."

Ottawa health monitoring shows new COVID-19 outbreaks and a somewhat stable situation in hospitals currently.

Experts say lifting the mandate carries the possibility of a setback in the course of the pandemic.

Zahid Butt, an epidemiologist, said, "I think the timing is a bit early. I think they could have waited at least until the end of winter."

Ontario will lift almost all COVID-19 restrictions by April 27.

 Dr. Brent Moloney, Deputy Medical Officer of Health in Ottawa, said that the province lifting the mask mandate gives freedom of individual choice.

He stated on Monday: "It becomes the responsibility of each person and each family to assess their risks and decide whether they will wear masks or not." He added that the key is for people to respect others' choices.

In a Sunday statement, Ottawa Public Health said they understand that many people feel stressed or anxious about the changes and encourage people to respect the decisions made by individuals and families.

Edited by: Dima Abu Khair