Dear Members and guests,
As the C.D. Howe Institute (the "Institute") looks to return to in-person events, we want to thank those of you who participated in our [anonymous] recent survey to ascertain your expectations on a potential vaccination policy.
Your views, our regulatory obligations and, importantly, the health and well-being of our staff, members and guests have guided the Institute’s actions throughout the pandemic. They will guide our reopening as well.
In view of Ontario Provincial and City of Toronto rules and regulations on vaccine policies and vaccine passports for non-essential services, as well as the wishes and interests of staff and members, the Institute is introducing a Mandatory Vaccination Policy (the "Policy") for COVID-19, which shall apply to visitors and attendees at events, and to staff as well.
In short, all attendees for in-person events must show proof of full vaccination to attend an Institute event. Guests who do not present proof of vaccination, or acceptable proof of medical exemption and a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours old, will not be permitted to attend an event. The Policy is found here.
Please note that these protocols reflect our location in Ontario where we host most events. As we look to open up more widely and consider events in other regions, we will adopt appropriate policies to reflect local requirements and needs. We will advise members accordingly.
We want to thank you all for your cooperation and for sharing your perspectives.
There is always a range of views on such matters, which we want to acknowledge. Our policy accords with the expectations of members expressed in our recent survey, and our judgement as to how to keep our staff and guests safe. If you have any questions or concerns, please let me know.
Thank you for your cooperation. We look forward to seeing you in person soon.
Duncan Munn
President
C.D. Howe Institute