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441-00910 (Civil and human rights)

Paper petition

Original language of petition: English

PETITION TO THE HOUSE OF COMMONS

We, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, draw the attention of the House of Commons to the following:

Whereas:

  • Canadians from coast to coast are engaging in convoys, protests, and rallies across the country opposing ongoing Covid-19 mandates;
  • Throughout the pandemic, truckers have served Canadians and are heroes;
  • Truckers are now subject to a vaccine mandate, which impacts the supply chain and Canadians' access essential goods;
  • The Prime Minister has politicized vaccines insulting Canadians who disagree with his position, by calling them "racists" and "misogynists"; and
  • It is the sacred duty of the Government of Canada to guard against discrimination and guarantee the freedoms of all Canadians.

Therefore, we, the undersigned citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons to:

1. Immediately end all Covid-19 vaccine mandates implemented by the Federal government, regulating employees, truckers, and travellers; and

2. Call for an end to all Covid-19 mandates and restrictions by any entity.

Response by the Minister of Labour

Signed by (Minister or Parliamentary Secretary): TERRY SHEEHAN

The Government of Canada thanks the petitioners for their engagement on this issue.

Throughout the pandemic, the Government of Canada’s response has been informed by expert advice and sound science and research. As the COVID-19 pandemic has evolved, so too have public health measures and advice, which includes vaccination requirements that were always meant to be a temporary measure.

As of June 20, 2022, the Government of Canada suspended vaccination requirements for domestic and outbound travel, federally regulated transportation sectors and federal government employees. Furthermore, the Government has announced that it is no longer moving forward with proposed regulations under Part II (Occupational Health and Safety) of the Canada Labour Code to make vaccination mandatory in all federally regulated workplaces.

Additionally, as of October 1, 2022, all COVID-19 border requirements, including vaccination, mandatory use of ArriveCAN, and any testing and quarantine/isolation requirements ended for all travellers entering Canada whether by land, air or sea.

While the suspension of vaccine mandates reflects an improved public health situation in Canada, the COVID-19 virus continues to evolve and circulate in Canada and globally. Vaccination continues to be one of the most effective tools to protect Canadians, including younger Canadians, our health care system and our economy. Everyone in Canada needs to keep up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccines, including booster doses to get ready for the fall. The Government of Canada will continue to work with provinces and territories to help even more Canadians get the shots for which they are eligible.

The Government of Canada also announced that masks were no longer required for travel within Canada since October 1, 2022. Although the masking requirement is being lifted, all travellers are strongly recommended to wear high quality and well-fitted masks during their journeys.

The Government of Canada will not hesitate to make adjustments based on the latest public health advice and science to keep Canadians safe. This could include an up-to-date vaccination mandate at the border, the re-imposition of public service and transport vaccination mandates, and the introduction of vaccination mandates in federally regulated workplaces in the fall / winter, if needed.

Presented to the House of Commons
Arnold Viersen (Peace River—Westlock)
December 1, 2022 (Petition No. 441-00910)
Government response tabled
January 18, 2023
Photo - Arnold Viersen
Peace River—Westlock
Conservative Caucus
Alberta

Only validated signatures are counted towards the total number of signatures.