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OPINION

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LETTERS to the editor Simply vaccine supply won’t do for poorer nations

Editor,

Since March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has continually shed light on the cruel, systemic inequities that exist between high-income, Western nations and the Global South. For many Canadians, this inequality has become even clearer in recent months, as Canada hits record breaking COVID-19 vaccination rates, while many low-income countries struggle to vaccinate even 1% of their populations. Thus, while Canadians flock to newly re-opened restaurants, theatres, and festivals, thousands of people die every day in low-income countries from outcomes of COVID-19 that could have easily been prevented with vaccines. In a frantic attempt to solve this unprecedented problem, many Western nations, including Canada, have funnelled hundreds of millions into improving vaccine supply to low-income countries. However, the harsh reality is that this vaccine supply-centric approach simply won’t be enough, as it misses another key aspect that is needed to meet mass global vaccination – vaccine distribution systems. That is, even in low-income countries that do have a small COVID-19 vaccine supply, chronically underfunded healthcare infrastructure makes widespread vaccine distribution incredibly challenging. In other words, many low-income countries don’t have the healthcare systems necessary to effectively distribute vaccines to their populations, even if a supply is provided. Of course, this lack of effective vaccine distribution among low-income countries is a serious hurdle in ending the COVID-19 pandemic globally, which is a necessary goal that must be met to protect the health and safety of both Canadians and the global population. To achieve mass global vaccination then, countries such as Canada need to take a more comprehensive approach, which invests in both vaccine supply and vaccine distribution. For this reason, I call readers to write to Canada’s Minister of International Development, the Honourable Karina Gould, asking for Canada to increase its contributions to the Global Financial Facility for Women, Children, and Adolescents (GFF) – a key organization working to strengthen the healthcare systems of low-income nations.

Garrison Dyck

ALBAS: State of Merritt post office in disrepair

Prior to the writ being dropped this past Sunday calling for a federal election, MP Dan Albas put out one more weekly report in which he spoke on the state of the Merritt post office.

From the Herald archives: August, 1977

LOWER COSTS, BUT MORE FIRES

BC authorities have spent $2,110,056 - down from $2,145,087 in 1976 - to fight 1,303 forest fires to date this year. Despite this year’s lower costs, the number of fires has increased from 743 in 1976.

Reportedly, “the danger of fire continues to build over the province with explosive conditions in the southern half.”

Merritt’s Ranger District reports 70 hectares (175 acres) have been destroyed by 37 fires in their area.

In my report last week, I covered recent speculation out of Ottawa on reports of an election writ being dropped, potentially this week, creating an early fall election.

I also asked the question: “Do you want to see an election called in the immediate future?”

I sincerely appreciate the significant number of replies I have received in response to this question.

There is no question that many citizens in our region have very serious concerns of the future direction of Canada.

In the absence of the writ being dropped my summer listening tour continues.

One concern that I have heard from citizens in Merritt is the state of the local post office, who many have suggested has fallen into disrepair.

I raised these concerns directly with Canada Post in Ottawa and am pleased to report the some much needed maintenance work will soon be get-

ting underway on this post office. It was encouraging to hear Canada Post take these concerns seriously and commit to making improvements so that the Merritt Post Office reflects “the beauty and pride of the local community.” The reason why I raise the Merritt post office is that it is a reminder on the importance of raising concerns with your elected official, be it an MP, MLA, Mayor, Councilor or Regional Director. DAN ALBAS If elected officials are not made aware of challenges or concerns in a comVIEW FROM munity, there is less chance of success in addressing them. THE HILL At the same time, holding elected officials to account is part of how a healthy democracy works. As my summer listening tour continues, I invite you to contact me if you have a concern that relates to the Federal Government that you would like to share. This also relates to my question for this week. From a Federal Government perspective, what is your top concern that you would like to see action taken on? I can be reached at Dan.Albas@parl.gc.ca or call toll free 1-800-665-8711.

LETTERS POLICY

The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. Letters must be signed and include the writer’s name and address. Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity. Please keep letters to 300 words or less. Email letters to: newsroom@ merrittherald. com.

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