MEMORANDUM

 

TO:                 All Members of Hockey NL, Board of Directors

FROM:           Craig Tulk, Executive Director,  Hockey NL

DATE:             October 22, 2021

RE:                  Vaccine Passport Information

October 22nd marks the initiation of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Covid Vaccine Passport program.  This program is outlined on the Government’s Covid website:  https://www.gov.nl.ca/covid-19/life-during-covid-19/vaccination-record/citizens/

Of note for members, ALL arenas are required to utilize this system. This means that any individual over the age of 18 is required to show a valid vaccine passport prior to admission to the facility and their ability to participate with any activity within said facility. For Hockey NL members, this means that all players/coaches/officials/volunteers/spectators who enter the facility and are over the age of 18 MUST possess a valid passport to attend and participate. This requirement from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador may put added stress on members. We encourage all members to work with their local arenas on ways to minimize the impact on their operations. As well, we encourage sharing of knowledge/ideas/best practices that may help all of our members as we adapt to this new Government required practice.

It is important to note that all members between 12-18 are NOT required to present a valid passport for participation. This can also be extended to those under 12 as they are unable to attain a passport due to lack of vaccination options for that age group at the current time. Hockey NL continues to STRONGLY ENCOURAGE those in the 12-18 year old age group to get vaccinated and utilize the vaccine passport.

At this time, the use of medical masks and buffs is still a requirement within facilities, dressing rooms, and bench areas for all members.

Hockey NL cannot stress enough and strongly encourages ALL members to get vaccinated. There are a great many of our members who cannot be vaccinated either due to age or medical reasons, such as those in vulnerable medical positions (age, multiple complex medical needs), that could have a significant medical outcome should they become infected with the Sars-2-Cov (Covid 19) virus. Protecting our members, friends, neighbors, and families, is a very simple thing to accomplish if we step up to get vaccinated.

Please remember that the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador regulations differ from site to site. All members are encouraged to review the information found on the Covid NL website listed at the top of this letter.

Kindest Regards,

Craig Tulk

Executive Director, Hockey NL