The LocalSKIM for Monday, May 17, 2021
- While the Ontario Government has increased the number of people now eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine, limited supply of vaccine in Niagara will result in longer than usual wait times to get vaccinated. (Niagara this Week)
- Despite some Niagara municipalities limiting beach access or charging for beach parking, Lincoln has not implemented a paid parking program or restricted access to Charles Daley Beach. (610 CKTB)
- Niagara’s 12 mayors have asked the Ontario Government to communicate a ‘clearly defined re-opening plan,’ and to give local health authorities the jurisdiction to regulate restrictions on outdoor activities in Niagara based upon local data. (Thorold News)
Photo: Jack Moreh - Freerange StockNiagara Health scheduling high-risk healthcare workers for second dose
- An estimated 13,000 individuals in Niagara will be impacted by the new provincial direction to shorten the second dose interval for high-risk healthcare workers.
- High-risk healthcare workers include Niagara Health staff and physicians in frontline roles with COVID-19 patients, long-term care and high-risk retirement home staff and essential caregivers as well as paramedics, firefighters and police.
- Certain community healthcare workers serving specialized populations may also qualify for the second dose.
- Niagara Health stated that fully vaccinating their staff and physicians is a priority for them.
- As community vaccination efforts continue, existing first dose appointments will not be negatively impacted.
Photo: Jack Moreh - Freerange StockNew COVID-19 vaccination clinic dates available
- In anticipation of those 18 and older eligible to book a COVID-19 vaccination starting tomorrow, Tuesday, May 18, new clinic dates have now been added into the provincial booking system for June 1-5 at MacBain Community Centre in Niagara Falls.
- Appointments are also still available at clinics in Pelham, West Lincoln, and Port Colborne in May.
- Eligible residents can book an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccination either online through the provincial portal at Ontario.ca/bookvaccine or by calling the provincial booking system at 1-833-943-3900
The LocalSKIM for Sunday, May 10
- Niagara Regional Police have arrested and laid three criminal charges against Sandor Ligetfalvy of Niagara Falls after he made a speech from the steps of city hall in St. Catharines. Ligetfalvy was one of the main figures in the recent lockdown protests which have occurred throughout the region. (St. Catharines Standard)
- A motor vehicle collision in St. Catharines lead police to discover a loaded firearm that was hidden in close proximity to the collision scene. The firearm was found by a local resident. (Niagara Regional Police)
- 29 per cent of nurses in Ontario are considering leaving the profession as the pandemic is causing burnout among nurses. (Niagara this Week)