By: Thomas I. Likness
EBC News Service

(Eagle News) — More people will have to be vaccinated before Canada will agree to reopen its border with the United States to non-essential traffic, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Friday.

The closure, which was set to expire on Monday, has been extended to July 21.

“We’re not out of this pandemic yet, we’re still seeing cases across the country and we want to get them down,” said Trudeau. “At the same time, we know we have to hit our targets of 75% vaccinated with a first dose and at least 20% vaccinated with a second dose before we can start loosening things up.”

Trudeau rejected the idea of allowing fully vaccinated recreational travelers to cross the border at this time.

“Because even a fully vaccinated individual can pass on Covid-19 to someone who is not vaccinated, and that means we have to really make sure that not only people who are fully vaccinated can travel but that the communities to which they will return are not at risk,” he said.

Measures for fully vaccinated on the way

Public Safety Minister Bill Blair says other international travel restrictions will be extended until uly 21.

And he hints there will be some allowances made for travelers who are fully vaccinated.

“As we have said, the government is planning measures for fully vaccinated Canadians, Permanent Residents, and others who are currently permitted to enter Canada and will provide further details on Monday, June 21,” Blair said Friday on Twitter. “Our number one priority as we fight Covid-19 is keeping Canadians safe.”

Trudeau said when he spoke with the provincial premiers about the border during a conference call last night they indicated they were in no hurry to put out the welcome mat for recreational travelers.

Canada is being pressured by politicians and the travel industry in both countries to open the border sooner than later.

It has been closed since March 21, 2020.
(Eagle News Service)