Canada's Health Minister Responded After She Was Seen Without A Mask In Toronto Pearson

Federal Health Minister Patty Hajdu has responded after a picture of her wearing no mask at Toronto Pearson Airport was shared on social media.

On Sunday, October 25, a photo circulated on Twitter that appeared to show Hajdu at the airport.

The health minister was sitting alone with luggage beside her, and appeared to be either speaking or laughing.

The image does not show Hajdu wearing a face covering, per Transport Canada's regulations.

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Responding to the image via Twitter, the health minister explained, “Following public health rules is important to me.”

She continued, “I wear my mask at all times at Toronto Pearson, and only take it off to eat or drink, as allowed.”

A spokesperson from Hajdu’s office told The Canadian Press that while no food or drink is apparent in the photo, there is food in the bag beside the health minister.

Per Toronto Pearson’s rules, “all passengers and airport employees must wear masks/face coverings at all times.”

However, “dining at food and beverage locations” is listed as an exception.

It’s not the first time a high-profile politician has been accused of going maskless in the airport.

In July, then-Conservative Party leader Andrew Scheer was spotted without a face covering while talking to colleagues in a waiting area.

*This article's cover image is for illustrative purposes only.