| Friday, September 10, 2021
Media Release
Proof of Vaccine Required at Vollmer Complex and LaSalle Civic Centre
In response to the Province of Ontario’s announcement on September 1, 2021, a COVID-19 vaccine mandate will be put into place at the Vollmer Culture and Recreation Complex. Starting on Wednesday, September 22, 2021, anyone aged 12 and over must show proof of receiving a full COVID-19 vaccination to enter the building.
Any person entering the Vollmer Complex who is 12 years of age and older, including all participants in all programs and sports, and all spectators, will be required to be fully vaccinated (two doses plus 14 days) and provide their proof of vaccination along with photo ID when entering the Vollmer Complex. This proof will need to be shown each time the individual enters the facility. Children under 12 may be asked to show proof of age. Based on the provincial directives, a negative COVID-19 test will not entitle a person to enter the Vollmer Complex. Please note that providing fraudulent information may result in facility privileges being revoked.
The Town will continue to follow the guidelines of the province and the local Medical Officer of Health. Safety of our employees and patrons is important. Many sport organizations may provide guidelines for their membership with respect to operation of their activities. The Town of LaSalle recognizes the importance of these guidelines, however, will continue to set directives that provide the highest level of protection and safety.
Employees and volunteers working in any capacity at the Town of LaSalle must be fully vaccinated (two doses) or undertake COVID-19 testing twice a week with proof of a negative result, based on the Town’s Vaccination Policy.
· Stay at home and away from others if you are feeling ill or have symptoms of COVID-19.
· You will be required to wear a face covering upon entering the facility. It can be removed in certain circumstances based on the activity.
· Arrive no more than 15-30 minutes prior to the start of your activity.
· Bring your own water bottle as water fountains and refill stations are not available at this time.
· Please do not bring food into the facility.
· Physical distancing must be maintained at all times.
· Please ensure any garbage (such as tape or other refuse) is disposed of before leaving. Due to COVID-19, items left in the facility will not be held for pick up and will be disposed of immediately.
· Limit dressing room time to a maximum of 30 minutes after the rental. Please leave the facility promptly.
· Please report any issues immediately to 519-969-7771 x4163.
LaSalle Civic Centre
In addition, a COVID-19 vaccine mandate will be put into place at the LaSalle Civic Centre. Starting on Wednesday, September 22, 2021, anyone aged 12 and over must show proof of receiving a full COVID-19 vaccination to enter the building. This includes all visitors for town business or to access the LaSalle Branch of the Essex County Library.
Frequently Asked Questions
For information about the Province of Ontario’s directives, visit: https://news.ontario.ca/en/backgrounder/1000780/new-requirement-for-proof-of-vaccination-in-certain-settings-frequently-asked-questions
What if I don’t want to disclose my vaccination status?
It is the discretion of the individual to determine whether they would like to disclose their vaccination status. Should they make the decision not to divulge this information, they will not be permitted to access settings that require proof of vaccination.
In settings where you have to be vaccinated to attend, is recent negative test sufficient to attend if you are unvaccinated?
A negative COVID-19 test or recent COVID-19 infection will not entitle a person to enter these settings.
Will people with medical exemptions be allowed to access settings requiring proof of vaccination?
The only exemptions permitted to enter these settings are for unvaccinated people with medical exemptions and people under 12 years old. Individuals who cannot receive the vaccine due to medical exemptions will be permitted with a doctor’s note until the medical exemption can be integrated as part of a digital vaccine certificate.
Will individuals aged 11 and under be allowed to access settings requiring proof of vaccination?
Individuals aged 11 and under will be eligible to access these settings. If they are accompanied by an adult, the adult must be vaccinated.
How long will a vaccine credential be in place?
Vaccine credentials are a temporary measure to address health and safety in the COVID-19 pandemic. How long they are necessary will be monitored and evaluated based on data and the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health.
How will the government enforce the requirement for proof of vaccination?
Consistent with current practices under the Reopening Ontario Act, enforcement will be conducted by by-law officers. Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development inspectors will begin with education and warnings visits.
What will happen on September 22nd? What will happen on October 22nd?
As of September 22, 2021, Ontarians will need to be fully vaccinated (two doses plus 14 days) and provide their proof of vaccination as well as proof of identity (such a driver’s licence or health card) to access certain public settings and facilities.
An enhanced vaccine certificate, as well as a verification app to allow businesses to read the QR code, will be available beginning October 22.
What will the digital vaccine certificate look like?
Ontario will develop and implement an enhanced vaccine certificate with unique QR code and accompanying verification app that will allow users to securely and safely verify their vaccination status when scanned. This could be stored on a mobile device, such as Apple Wallet. The enhanced vaccine certificate, as well as a verification app to allow businesses to read the QR code, will be available beginning October 22.
Will people need a phone to be able to access businesses that require proof of vaccination?
A vaccination certificate is a PDF that can be downloaded online or received in paper copy. It includes the same information in both printed and digital form. These certificates will be required to access certain businesses and settings starting on September 22, 2021 as part of the Ontario government’s efforts to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. By October 22, an enhanced vaccination certificate will be available in a new digital format that will offer increased accessibility and privacy protection.
How will businesses verify digital vaccination certificates?
Ontario will develop and implement an enhanced vaccine certificate with unique QR code and accompanying verification app that will allow users to securely and safely verify their vaccination status when scanned. The enhanced vaccine certificate, as well as a verification app to allow businesses to read the QR code, will be available beginning October 22. Guidance will be provided to business ahead of September 22 to ensure they are prepared.
How will the government enforce the requirement for proof of vaccination?
Consistent with current practices under the Reopening Ontario Act, enforcement will be conducted by by-law officers. Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development inspectors will begin with education and warnings visits. |
