'Erring on the side of caution': Edmonton adopts proof-of-vaccine program for youth sports at its facilities
Following the Government of Alberta’s recent implementation of the Restrictions Exemption Program, there’s been some confusion on how the rules will affect youth sports in various municipalities.
According to Alberta’s top doctor, kids aged 12 to 17 do not have to provide proof of vaccination or a negative test when they’re playing in the province. However, facilities are allowed to enforce stricter measures.
“Physical activity is critically important for the overall health and well-being of youth and is necessary to daily living,” Dr. Deena Hinshaw said on Monday.
“I encourage organizations to allow all youth under the age of 18 to participate in sport, recreation and performance activities, and focus on other ways to reduce COVID risk in these settings.”
Municipalities not implementing the new proof-of-vaccination-program at their arenas and rec centres include Spruce Grove, St. Albert, Strathcona County, Beaumont and Fort Saskatchewan.
But, it will not be honoured in Edmonton as the city has chosen to impose stricter health measures.
“That’s erring on the side of caution which has generally been the city’s approach, and out of respect for other patrons who have taken the steps to get vaccinated and then proved their eligibility to be in the facility in a safe way,” Mayor Don Iveson said to media on Wednesday.
The city will require everyone 12 and up to provide proof of immunization or a negative test. As it stands, they’re only exempting previously booked school activities for the next three weeks.
“It’s on a transitional basis here, recognizing that not everyone has it and bookings are in place. But, out beyond Oct. 11, it will be required for everyone.”
What these guidelines mean for surrounding municipalities is some kids might not be eligible to play in Edmonton.
Minor hockey associations told CTV News Edmonton they have been informing parents they have to abide by local rules wherever their teams play.
“By and large, our parents have done a remarkable job navigating these ever turbulent waters that are the pandemic,” Steve Hogle, from Hockey Edmonton, said.
Hogle added there’s only been the occasional player or parent saying they’ll “tap out and take a pass on hockey” this year. Those families were fully refunded.
“We’re trying to move in the right direction that is the safest way for our kids to play hockey.”
With files from TV News Edmonton’s Carlyle Fiset
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Grandparents killed in wrong-way crash on Hwy. 401 identified
A 60-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman killed in a wrong-way crash on Highway 401 earlier this week have been identified by the Consulate General of India in Toronto.
Police arrest 3 Indian nationals in killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar
Three people have been arrested and charged in the killing of B.C. Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar – as authorities continue investigating potential connections to the Indian government.
Suter scores late goal, clinches series for Canucks
Pius Suter scored with 1:39 left and the Vancouver Canucks advanced to the second round of the NHL playoffs with a 1-0 victory over the Nashville Predators on Friday night in Game 6.
TD worst-case scenario more likely after drug money laundering allegations: analyst
TD Bank Group could be hit with more severe penalties than previously expected, says a banking analyst after a report that the investigation it faces in the U.S. is tied to laundering illicit fentanyl profits.
Quebec man who threatened Trudeau, Legault online sentenced to 20 months in jail
A Quebec man who pleaded guilty to threatening Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premier François Legault has been sentenced to 20 months in jail.
Human remains found in rural Sask. possibly a decade old, RCMP say
RCMP say human remains found in a rural area in central Saskatchewan may have been there for a decade or more.
Britney Spears 'home and safe' after paramedics responded to an incident at the Chateau Marmont, source tells CNN
A source close to singer Britney Spears tells CNN that the pop star is 'home and safe' after she had a 'major fight' with her boyfriend on Wednesday night at the Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood.
Canadian doctor concerned new weight-loss drug Wegovy may be used inappropriately
As Wegovy becomes available to Canadians starting Monday, a medical expert is cautioning patients wanting to use the drug to lose weight that no medication is a ''magic bullet,' and the new medication is meant particularly for people who meet certain criteria related to obesity and weight.
Drew Carey is never quitting 'The Price Is Right'
Drew Carey took over as host of 'The Price Is Right' and hopes he’s there for life. 'I'm not going anywhere,' he told 'Entertainment Tonight' of the job he took over from longtime host Bob Barker in 2007.