The Government of Ontario has extended a number of COVID-19 restrictions that were set to expire on June 2, including the ban on people entering Ontario for non-essential reasons.

In total, nine regulations under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act have been extended and will now expire on June 16, 2021.

Kenora-Rainy River MPP Greg Rickford said in a Facebook post this afternoon that the border closure could be extended again in 14-day increments and encourages area residents to only travel to Manitoba for essential reasons.

"Respect and adherence to these restrictions on both sides of the border will be our best route to re-opening, towards a time when we can welcome back those from outside the region who make this place their seasonal home, and those who come to visit the region to enjoy our natural beauty and all that northwestern Ontario has to offer," Minister Rickford's Facebook post continued.

Other notable regulations and restrictions that have been extended include; the enforcement of COVID-19 measures and the closure of public lands for camping.