Township of West Lincoln

MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release: September 21, 2021

Update #47 West Lincoln Response to COVID-19 - Township Prepares for Mandatory Proof of Vaccination Requirements

West Lincoln, Ont. - September 21, 2021

The Township of West Lincoln is preparing to implement new regulations from the Provincial Government, which require all eligible individuals to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (two doses plus 14 days), and to provide proof of their vaccination status prior to accessing certain businesses and settings.

These requirements come into effect on Wednesday, September 22, 2021, and impact Township facilities, including Administrative Buildings, the West Lincoln Community Centre, Caistor Community Centre, Silverdale Community Centre, and Wellandport Community Centre. Private security will be on site at the West Lincoln Community Centre during operating hours, to verify proof of vaccination and proof of identity of patrons. Proof of vaccination is required each time a patron enters the facility, as vaccination information is not being recorded or stored.

Some exemptions to the Provincial proof of vaccination mandate apply, including:

  • Medical exemptions (given they satisfy the Ontario Regulations) with proof in the form of a letter from an approved physician
  • Individuals who are under 12 years of age (proof of age may be necessary)
  • Youth aged 12 to 17 who are actively participating in organized sports. This exemption only applies when entering the arena area as an active participant and does not apply if they are a spectator or are in other areas of the Community Centre.
  • Coaches, volunteers and officials who are actively participating in organized sports. This exemption only applies when entering the arena area as an active participant and does not apply if they are a spectator or in other areas of the Community Centre.

Please note that adults and patrons aged 18 years or older who are accompanying a child are required to show proof of vaccination regardless of their child’s age. To see the full details of the new requirements, read Ontario Regulation 645/21.

Businesses and organizations under the Reopening Ontario (A Flexible Response to COVID-19) Act, are also required by the Provincial Government to implement proof of vaccination requirements. The Ministry of Health has put together documents with guidelines and common Questions and Answers to help support owners and operators in implementing these requirements.

To access your vaccination receipt, log in to the Provincial online booking portal at https://covid19.ontariohealth.ca using the information on your green photo health (OHIP) card, your date of birth, and the postal code associated with your health card.

The Ministry of Health is working on additional supports and services to assist Ontario residents who need help obtaining proof of vaccination, including requesting a copy be sent by mail. Those who need support obtaining a copy of their vaccination receipt including those who do not have access to a computer or printer can call the Provincial Vaccine Contact Centre at 1-833-943-3900.

Those looking to receive their first or second dose can visit www.niagararegion.ca/health/covid-19/vaccination/ or call 1-888-505-6074 and press 7 for more information about the COVID-19 vaccine and upcoming vaccination clinics.

For notifications and important updates, remember to follow the Township of West Lincoln on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @TWPWestLincoln.

Quotes:

“I understand that this policy will not be popular with all residents; however, the Township of West Lincoln is obligated to follow Provincial directions regarding proof of vaccination, beginning this week. Let’s try to remember to be kind and supportive of those who are trying to keep us safe and healthy during this fourth wave of the pandemic. They are only doing their jobs responsibly.”

Cheryl Ganann

Councillor

“As we have since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Township will continue to follow all Provincial regulations and Public Health guidelines, to protect the health and safety of our residents, businesses, visitors, and Staff. We thank the public for their ongoing cooperation.”

Bev Hendry

Chief Administrative Officer

Media Contact:

Beth Audet

Communications Specialist

baudet@westlincoln.ca