The latest coronavirus news from Canada and around the world on Sunday. This file will be updated throughout the day. Web links to longer stories if available.
Sunday 8:17 am: A group of British Columbia community organizations wants changes to the province’s COVID-19 vaccine card, saying it does not take into account the needs of people who face legitimate barriers to receiving a vaccine or proof of immunization.
A joint letter to Health Minister Adrian Dix and provincial health official Dr. Bonnie Henry says the plan could restrict access to services for people who cannot receive a vaccine for medical reasons, as well as for people without government identification.
It was published by the Vancouver-based Pivot Legal Society this month and says BC has been unable to identify a solution for the unidentified, which could include women fleeing violence, the homeless and undocumented migrants.
The vaccine card system requires users to show proof of at least one dose of the vaccine before Monday and two doses before October 24 to access certain indoor settings, including ticketed sporting events, concerts, restaurants, gyms and cinemas.
The card will not be needed at grocery and liquor stores, pharmacies, fast food restaurants, beauty salons, barbers, hotels, banks, retail stores, food banks, and shelters.
BC residents need a personal health number to request a printed copy of their vaccination card or to download the card online to display on a smartphone. The card will be verified along with the government ID.
“If you are homeless and living abroad, carrying a piece of paper just won’t work,” said Rowan Burdge, director of the BC Poverty Reduction Coalition and a signatory to the letter. “We have seen camps where people’s belongings have been taken.”
Read the news about the coronavirus on Saturday.
Reference-www.thestar.com