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UrbanToronto Updates from the Industry for October 29, 2021: Vaccine requirements for community centres

Urbantoronto.ca
Nov. 1, 2021

The City of Vaughan continues to work with all levels of government to respond to COVID-19 and as the requirements to show proof of vaccination and proof of identification evolve.

Following a month-long campaign focused on communication and education, in accordance with York Region’s Letter of Instruction, youth aged 12 to 17 years old must provide identification and proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or a valid medical exemption before entering a community centre effective Monday, Nov. 1.

This directive applies to anyone actively participating in organized sports (including dance, martial arts, swimming and skating), ; coaching, officiating at organized sports or volunteering; or spectating at organized sports. In addition, all individuals visiting a recreational facility must comply with all other requirements under the Reopening Ontario Act and its regulations that apply to the facility.

Individuals with a medical exemption are required to present identification and appropriate written documentation from a medical doctor or registered nurse stating the individual is exempt for a medical reason and the time period for the medical reason.

Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions on this topic:

What will happen if an unvaccinated youth (aged 12 to 17) arrives for an organized sport on Nov. 1 or after?
Following a month-long campaign focused on communication and education related to York Region’s Letter of Instruction, enforcement of proof of vaccination requirements for youth aged 12 to 17 will begin effective Monday, Nov. 1. Those who do not comply will not be able to enter the facility.

What proof of ID are youth aged 12 to 17 supposed to provide if they do not have a photo ID?
Photo identification is not required. Youth aged 12 to 17 can provide documentation issued by an institution or public body, such as a student ID, a library card or health card, provided it includes their name and date of birth.

Whom should I contact to voice my concerns about the proof of vaccination requirements?
Should you have questions or comments about the regulation set by the Ontario government, speak with your Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP). If you do not know who your MPP is, contact Elections Ontario to confirm your representative. Inquiries about York Region’s instructions should be directed to York Region Public Health at yr.corporate.communications@york.ca.

How will parents who are not vaccinated attend to their children coming for City-operated programs?
Parents or guardians who do not meet the vaccination requirements for entering a community centre – as set out by the Province of Ontario and York Region – will not be able to enter. If you are unable to enter the facility due to vaccination status, City staff will meet your child at the entrance and walk them to their City-run program room. Be prepared to provide identification when picking up your child at the same location as drop-off.

How will parents who are not vaccinated attend to their children coming for non-City-operated programs?
Parents or guardians who do not meet the vaccination requirements for entering a community centre – as set out by the Province of Ontario and York Region – will not be able to enter. If you are unable to enter the facility due to vaccination status and your child is participating in a non-City operated program – such as a minor sports league – you should contact the body operating the program your child participates in for next steps.

What is the refund policy for City-operated recreation programs and swim lessons?
If your child is unable to meet the vaccination requirement, a full refund, without penalty, will be honoured prior to Nov. 1, 2021. To withdraw your child from their existing program and request a refund or credit to your account, email RecCSD@vaughan.ca. Full refunds will be processed back onto the original form of payment (i.e., credit card) within three to four business days. Nov. 1 onwards, post-dated refunds will still be honoured for those who are unable to meet he vaccination requirement. We anticipate email and phone wait times may be longer than usual; your patience is appreciated. To make the process easier, include the following information in your email request for a refund:

Do I have to wear a mask if I’m fully vaccinated?
Yes. Masks are mandatory when entering, exiting and travelling throughout the facility, and while watching and/or waiting for participants in programs. Masks must be worn while participating in programs, except during physical activity.

Is proof of vaccination required to visit Vaughan Public Libraries?
No. The Province’s regulation and guidance on proof of vaccination does not apply to libraries. Customers can browse Vaughan Public Libraries’ physical collection, access on-site study and reading spaces and use public computers. Visitors are reminded to remain vigilant and follow public health guidelines, including physically distancing at least six feet (two metres) from others, wearing a mask or face covering, and thoroughly washing and sanitizing hands. Note: Maple Library remains closed due to renovations.

What does it mean to be fully vaccinated?
An individual is considered fully vaccinated if they have received:

Find out what vaccines are authorized by Health Canada. Individuals must receive their final dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at least 14 days before providing the proof of being fully vaccinated.

Why is the York Region Letter of Instruction different from the provincial exemption?
Under the Health Protection and Promotion Act, health units have the ability to issue letter of instruction, like the one issued by York Region, based on the local situation, data and epidemiology. York Region reviewed local data and data across the province to assess the risk associated with after-school sports, along with modelling data which currently estimates 44 potential hospitalizations of those under the age of 19 between now and the end of 2021. This requirement will help keep participants and their families safe, minimize outbreaks and help ensure the long-term sustainability of these programs.

Why is the enforcement date so soon?
Many indoor sports activities and leagues are starting now or have already started. Recent cases and outbreaks in basketball camps, dance events and other indoor sports have demonstrated a need for this as sports return to indoor settings over the fall and winter months. It’s important to act quickly to stem further spread of COVID-19.

For more, visit the City’s COVID-19 webpage at vaughan.ca/COVID19.