MLA Doyle Vermette said the province should have done better managing the second wave. (NDP Caucus)

By Derek Cornet

Public Health

‘Our numbers are just alarming’: Vermette concerned about high number of COVID cases

Jan 18, 2021 | 1:04 PM

Cumberland NDP MLA Doyle Vermette is concerned about COVID-19 in the Far North East and Saskatchewan.

“It’s unfortunate Saskatchewan is leading Canada with the number of COVID per capita,” he said. “Our numbers are just alarming and watching that information coming out today is very concerning. The government needed to handle the second wave of COVID a lot better than it did.”

Last week, NDP Leader Ryan Meili stressed the current measures are not working, adding the province’s COVID numbers are comparable to those in Ontario and Quebec. He also said there has been a lack of transparency when it comes to data modelling.

Meili is calling for the government to provide weekly forecasting of all COVID-19 data and to release what thresholds need to be met to trigger changes to public health orders. He also wants regular communication on the impact COVID is having on specific health services, begin detailed inspections of outbreaks in long-term care settings and provide more detailed information on vaccination efforts.

“The government needs to do better for Saskatchewan residents,” Vermette said. “It’s very clear when you see the high numbers and other provinces I was looking at today, some of them are going down per capita. Something is not working, so I think they have to have a serious look at this.”

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As for the majority of Northern Lights School Division students heading back to class this week, Vermette hopes administration is making the best decisions based on the information they’ve been provided. He added its crucial students, staff and community members remain safe.

With Moderna inoculations continuing in the tri-communities again Monday, he encourages residents to call 811 or the La Ronge Health Centre to confirm when they will be eligible to receive a shot so those who want one don’t miss out.

“I think if people are confused and it’s not clear, lets get it right,” Vermette said. “Lets make sure people understand it and are comfortable. If you are wondering, call the number. Don’t hesitate to call the health centre or public health.”

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno