Skip to main content

Coaches, officials, volunteers must show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination for indoor sports in Ottawa

(Sean Kilpatrick / THE CANADIAN PRESS) (Sean Kilpatrick / THE CANADIAN PRESS)
Share
OTTAWA -

Coaches, volunteers and officials must now be fully vaccinated to participate in indoor organized sports in Ottawa.

Ottawa's medical officer of health issued a Letter of Instruction to coaches, volunteers and officials, making COVID-19 vaccination mandatory for indoor events in the capital.

"We know that key risk factors for COVID-19 transmission include close contact, closed spaces, crowded places, prolonged exposure and forceful exhalation, all of which are prevalent with indoor organized sport activities," said Dr. Vera Etches in a statement this week.

"Requiring these individuals to be fully vaccinated provides enhanced protection for our community – especially children who are not yet eligible for a vaccine – and further reduces additional risk associated with indoor organized sports."

As of 12:01 a.m. Saturday, coaches, officials and volunteers directly supporting an organized team sport who enter facilities in the city of Ottawa used for team sport and recreational fitness activities must show proof of vaccination or provide proof of a medical exemption.

Ottawa Public Health will take an educational approach to enforcing the rules until Oct. 23 before enforcement begins.

The proof of vaccination for indoor organized sports does not apply to individuals aged 12 to 17 who are "actively participating" in organized sports indoors.

As of Oct. 12, proof of ID and full vaccination will be required for persons who support indoor organized sports in Renfrew County. The order covers volunteers, coaches and officials 12 years of age and older.

CTVNews.ca Top Stories

Trump promises a 25% tariff on products from Canada, Mexico

U.S. president-elect Donald Trump said on Monday that on his first day in office he would impose a 25 per cent tariff on all products from Mexico and Canada, and an additional 10 per cent tariff on goods from China, citing concerns over illegal immigration and the trade of illicit drugs.

NDP support for part of Liberal relief package in question, as House stalemate persists

After telling Canadians that New Democrats would back Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's holiday affordability package and help pass it quickly, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh now wants it split up, as he's only ready to support part of it. Public Services Minister Jean-Yves Duclos said the Liberals are 'certainly open to working with the opposition parties,' to find a path forward.

Stay Connected