It is a political decision to consider whether it is
preferable to enact stricter measures at first,
lifting them gradually as required, or to start with
fewer measures and add further measures if required.
It's not a scientific question in the sense that there _is_ a consensus that methods to "flatten the curve" will reduce the load on the healthcare system, which can easily be overloaded well before the peak. It is also clear that solid scientific data will come only _weeks_ after widespread contagion. What's not clear is how to handle this _politically_, i.e which decisions to make confronted with large uncertainty and relatively short timeframes.
This is mainly what Trudeau was criticized for. Sure he might be very well advised by top scientists, but he did not seem particularly interested in solving the issue _politically_. It took a few weeks before he (at least publicly) exhibited any serious interest, and then we went from 0 to 100 over a weekend.
The political response to this situation will and has to preface any solid scientific understanding.
This is mainly what Trudeau was criticized for. Sure he might be very well advised by top scientists, but he did not seem particularly interested in solving the issue _politically_. It took a few weeks before he (at least publicly) exhibited any serious interest, and then we went from 0 to 100 over a weekend.
The political response to this situation will and has to preface any solid scientific understanding.