If you have lived in the Okanagan long
enough, chances are you may have come across the odd sign at a local business
that reads:
“No shirt, no shoes, no service”.
Now imagine reading a sign that reads “No COVID vaccination passport, no
business.”
While that may sound extreme, in New York City (as one example), there is a
passport program being launched this month geared at allowing vaccinated
individuals to attend sports, arts and entertainment venues.
In Israel there is a COVID-19 vaccine passport program called “Green Pass” that
provides proof of vaccination via a QR code. Individuals with a “Green Pass”
are allowed to attend certain public places, including theatres and concerts.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA), IBM and others are in the
process of developing apps that provide a similar vaccination verification
service. Many airlines are working with these app developers to put these
vaccine verification app programs into use.
Regardless of what Canada decides on the topic of proof of vaccination, for
many who travel for work or pleasure, it is likely those Canadians may require
Canadian vaccination documentation in order to satisfy requirements, either
from other countries, or travel related organizations like airlines.
Another example is the cruise ship industry. Celebrity Cruises, Royal
Caribbean, Crystal Cruises, Virgin Voyages, American Queen Steamboat Company
and Victory Cruise Lines have all announced various vaccination verification
requirements.
Currently our Federal Health Minister, Hon. Patty Hajdu, has met with health
ministers from other G-7 countries to discuss the potential for
proof-of-vaccine documents related to travelling.
My question this week is:
What are your views on the subject of vaccination passports?
I can be reached at:
Email: Dan.Albas@parl.gc.ca
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