Image Credit: CFJC Today

By James Peters

COVID-19

MLA Stone disappointed with protest location, notes ‘valid questions’ about COVID-19 proof-of-vaccination program

Sep 1, 2021 | 4:43 PM

KAMLOOPS — A large throng of protesters marched in front of Royal Inland Hospital Wednesday afternoon (Sept. 1), showing opposition to government measures intended to decrease the spread of COVID-19 and encourage vaccination.

Organizers of the event billed it as a demonstration against the B.C. government’s proof-of-vaccination program, and Kamloops-South Thompson MLA Todd Stone says the B.C. Liberal opposition has its own questions about the program.

“Why is there no exemption for medical situations? Will the government provide support to small businesses and others who will be expected to check or enforce the proof of vaccination in the place of business? What about tourists and people who come from outside of British Columbia?” Stone told CFJC Today.

“There are a whole wide range of valid questions that we have posed to the government — and that we will continue to pose to the government — that we believe need to be answered,” he continued.

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Stone notes he and his colleagues have supported the vaccination push, as well as all of Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry’s public health orders surrounding COVID-19.

The event was ostensibly about the so-called vaccine passport program, but many carried signs and banners alluding to a variety of issues — ranging from vaccine opposition to questioning media integrity.

Stone says people have the right to demonstrate, but believes organizers could have chosen a more appropriate location.

“While I don’t begrudge anyone’s right to participate in a peaceful protest, I do wish that this protest — and if there are any further to be scheduled — would not be held in front of the hospital. I think it’s terribly unfair to the healthcare workers who are on the front lines actually saving people’s lives,” Stone said.

“Frankly, the vast majority of folks who are in Royal Inland Hospital today because of COVID are unvaccinated.”

Image Credit: CFJC Today