Re: CRD Mandatory Vaccine Policy HR 4.1

As a taxpayer in the Cariboo Regional District, I stand in opposition to the CRD Mandatory Vaccine Policy, HR 4.1.

In light of the advent of Covid-19 concerns, VFD departments were required to implement enhanced infectious exposure protocols and protections, beginning February 19, 2020, as per the CRD’s Operational Guidelines. These measures require the use of PPE as described by the First Responder Program, and/or Worksafe BC. This also includes enhanced directions and protocols for interacting with individuals while on calls, and enhanced practices for isolating, disinfecting, and /or disposal of biomedical wastes.

This policy also provides clear Infectious Exposure documentation and reporting requirements. To the best of my knowledge, no transmission incidents have occurred throughout the course of our members answering calls out in the community, or through their training and practice duties. This indicates clearly that our current VFD’s practicing these enhanced safety protocols pose no risk to the public, and that these measures allow the VFD’s to continue to respond to and serve the public without incident regarding Covid-19.

Further, the Operational Guidelines governing Fire Departments in the CRD have always allowed for informed consent, and also refusal of vaccines by members, as is the constitutional right of all Canadians.

“Unlike some countries, immunization is not mandatory in Canada: it cannot be made mandatory because of the Canadian Constitution.
 Legislation and regulations must not be interpreted to imply compulsory Immunization.”

(Canadian National Report on Immunization, 1996 ruling) As such, I find this policy to be unlawful.
This mandate has the potential to see many members of VFD forced out, or standing down in solidarity and conscience, leaving many halls at risk of falling below necessary staffing levels.

Should this occur I am concerned that the Fire Underwriters Survey, will have a closer look at the minimum manpower requirements at our VFD and may degrade my areas rating. A downgraded rating will affect our fire insurance rates, and our property values, both commercial and residential.

Our communities deserve to preserve the experienced, dedicated crews that they have come to rely on. No amount of new recruitment can replace the combined skills and years of service that stand to be lost, putting our communities, and public in jeopardy.

We urge you to remove any reference to “Volunteer Firefighters” from this mandate, or risk your chances of reelection in 2022.

I will also support further actions from our combined VFDs, until such time that this policy is withdrawn.

I request that the CRD respond to this by mail no later than January 10, 2022.

Sincerely,
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