Is Hamilton about to make mask-wearing mandatory?

Toronto did it. So did Mississauga, Brampton and Caledon.

Is Hamilton next?

A day after the GTHA mayors called on the province to make mask-wearing mandatory in large municipalities," four of those calling for action are now taking that action themselves.

Toronto's medical officer of health has recommended mask-wearing be mandatory in public indoor spaces - a matter Toronto city council will vote on today.

Peel's medical officer of health and the mayors of Brampton, Mississauga and the Town of Caledon are also exploring the possibility of implementing a temporary bylaw that would make mask-wearing mandatory inside public areas.

The Spectator asked if Hamilton will follow suit.

These matters will be discussed in detail today at the media availability," said Paul Szachlewicz, a spokesperson for the mayor's office.

A media briefing is scheduled for 3:30 p.m.

Just yesterday, the GTHA mayors asked the province to implement a mandatory face covering measure" in their regions. But the province said that's a step the local medical officers of health can take on their own.

Hamilton's associate medical officer of health said last week that Hamiltonians won't be forced to wear masks. It's unclear if that position has changed. Public health did not respond to requests for comment on the issue Monday or early Tuesday.

Other regions, such as Kingston and Guelph, have already implemented mandatory mask orders.

However, in Guelph, questions have been raised about whether such orders violate human rights. Toronto's mayor and medical officer of health have too expressed concerns about whether they have the legal power to implement such orders, despite assurances from the province they do.

The GTHA mayors' call for mandatory masking noted exceptions should be made for age and health."

Katrina Clarke is a Hamilton-based reporter at The Spectator. Reach her via email: katrinaclarke@thespec.com