Editor:
I know that I am not alone when I say nothing makes my blood boil more than when I hear about those in denial that there is a COVID-19 pandemic. This includes the “anti-maskers” and “anti-vaxxers” who continue to put themselves and fellow Canadians at risk.
Why is it that Canadians who are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine but refuse it do not suffer any repercussions?
The pandemic has wreaked havoc on individuals, families and our economy. Society in general has made tremendous sacrifices over the past year in an effort to keep Canadians safe from the COVID-19 virus, including the development of vaccines in a record time. Yet there are some people who for their own misguided or selfish reasons are being given the option not to be vaccinated and in so doing will likely perpetuate the spread of the virus and continue to put themselves and others at risk.
That being said, I believe that there should be consequences for refusing the vaccine when offered.
Those who refuse to accept the vaccine when offered should be ineligible for any form of government assistance. Travel operators, such as airlines, bus and train services, should be allowed to refuse passage and employers should be allowed to make vaccination a condition of employment.
If freedom to refuse vaccination, defy health orders and to not wear a mask is claimed to contravene our charter of rights, why are motorcyclists breaking the law if they do not wear a protective helmet and drivers and passengers in automobiles required to wear a seatbelt?
Simply stated, some individuals need to be protected from their own stupidity.
I am sure that you do not want to live through another year such as the one we have just experienced, and neither do I.
Ken Harrap, Surrey