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The snowbirds were returning from wintering in the United States, apparently heeding the Canadian government’s advice that they return home as the border was closed to non-essential traffic because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

But while heeding the call to return, many of the snowbirds ignored other recommendations, in a pamphlet given to them at the border by customs officials, that they go straight home and stay there for 14 days.

Brockville Police say that people returning to Canada are not breaking any law by refusing to self-isolate so police are powerless to force them to do so.

In a statement, Brockville Police said the parking lots used by the RVs are private property but that police are willing to help enforce a parking ban if asked by the stores.

Photo by Reuters

“We are working with local business to ask them to assist by not permitting overnight camping and screening people before they enter the store,” police said. “If they wish us to police their lots at night, we will certainly assist.”

Local MPP and provincial cabinet minister Steve Clark said he was disturbed to see the “travellers irresponsibly stopping to shop locally.”

“I’m working with officials to stop this serious problem that puts people at risk,” Clark said in a statement to constituents. “My message to those coming back to Canada is simple: Go straight home and stay there for 14 days.”

Mayor Jason Baker drafted a note to the travellers, translated into French by Coun. Nathalie Lavergne, that welcomed them to Brockville and reminded them of the advice to go into isolation for two weeks.