By Canadian Press

The latest developments on COVID-19 in Canada

Mar 19, 2020 | 7:26 AM

The latest news on the COVID-19 global pandemic (all times Eastern):

8:45 a.m.

British Columbia’s Municipal Affairs Ministry has cancelled three municipal byelections and a referendum in four communities around the province as part of efforts to avoid the spread of the new coronavirus.

A statement from the ministry says it has scrubbed byelections set for Victoria and Rossland on April 4, a referendum in Kamloops on the same day and a byelection slated for Lytton on April 25.

None of the votes have been rescheduled.

gun fired

Ponoka RCMP arrest two people in rural area, warn residents of taking matters into their own hands

30m ago

Firearm possession

Red Deer RCMP arrest Stettler man for possession of multiple weapons

1h ago

a journey that takes courage

World Prematurity Day event celebrates milestones, recognizes hardships for Red Deer NICU families

3h ago

The ministry says public health and local government officials asked for the postponements to ensure voters don’t gather in polling stations, and to free up local resources to focus on fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

7:45 a.m.

The Toronto Transit Commission says one of their employees has tested positive for COVID-19.

The agency says the employee worked at a TTC maintenance workshop for buses.

It says between 130 and 170 employees are in self-isolation as a result.

The TTC says the employee worked one shift on March 11 after returning from vacation.

The Canadian Press