Premier Doug Ford extends emergency orders until May 29, forcing bars and restaurants to remain closed

Ontario restaurants and bars will be restricted to serving takeout food and booze until at least May 29.

Premier Doug Ford's government on Tuesday extended all emergency orders that have been in place since March 17.

That means social gatherings will continue to be restricted to five people until the end of next week.

However, drive-in religious services will be allowed as long as worshippers maintain a safe social distance of two metres.

While the province formally entered the first phase of opening up Ontario's economy on Tuesday, allowing most retailers with street entrances to serve customers, numerous restrictions remain in place.

The province is in a state of emergency until June 2, but the specific orders issued under that law need to be extended every two weeks.

Although we are entering the first stage of our framework to reopen the economy, it's critical that we continue to do so in a safe and responsible manner," said Ford.

The people of Ontario have been doing a fantastic job to help flatten the curve and stop the spread of this terrible virus," he said, stressing the government is acting upon the recommendations of Dr. David Williams, the chief medical officer of health.

With warmer weather beginning, individuals and families will now be able to enjoy many outdoor amenities, but everyone must continue to maintain physical distancing from those outside of their household," the premier added.

Some outdoor sports facilities and fields, off-leash dog areas, picnic tables, benches, and shelters in parks and recreational areas are now open again.

But outdoor playgrounds, fitness equipment, public swimming pools, splash pads, and other water parks must stay closed for the time being.

Health Minister Christine Elliott implored people to be vigilant to stop the spread of the virus.

It's never been more important for people to continue following the public health measures and advice we've laid out, so we don't undo the tremendous progress we've made to contain COVID-19," said Elliott.

While reopening parks and other outdoor spaces is important for our physical and mental health, we're encouraging people to be responsible by keeping a safe distance of at least two metres from members outside of their household."

Solicitor General Sylvia Jones urged worshippers attending drive-in religious ceremonies to keep their cars and trucks at least two metres apart.

Our government recognizes the importance that Ontarians place on participating in religious services," said Jones.

We continue to take a measured approach to reopening our province and this exemption is another important step forward in that process."

Robert Benzie is the Star's Queen's Park bureau chief and a reporter covering Ontario politics. Follow him on Twitter: @robertbenzie