(Ottawa) The contribution that will be requested from the non-vaccinated by the Legault government contravenes the very foundations of the health system, according to Jagmeet Singh.
Posted at 12:36 p.m.
The New Democrat leader believes that Quebec should rather encourage recalcitrants to get vaccinated against COVID-19 rather than imposing an amount on them to pay.
“My concern with the proposal in Quebec for a vaccine tax is that it attacks the principle of universality of our health system,” he said in a press briefing.
Prime Minister François Legault announced last week that people who are not vaccinated would have to pay a “significant” amount because they represent a “burden” on the health system. He said that the unvaccinated occupied 50% of intensive care beds, while they represent only 10% of the population.
The Quebec government also had to carry out load shedding in order to continue to treat patients with COVID-19. Patients awaiting surgery for cancers and other serious illnesses must now take their troubles patiently.
“I understand people’s frustration and it’s important to encourage people to get vaccinated,” said Mr. Singh, who is in favor of passport vaccination and mandatory inoculation for federal workers.
The imposition of a health contribution is however a “slippery slope”, in his opinion. “If we start with that, it’s an approach that can contribute to the erosion of our universal system,” he added.
He suggests that the federal government immediately create a fund to pay for surgeries delayed because of the pandemic. It also calls for increased and sustainable funding for health transfers.
Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole opposes the health levy. He considers this measure unfair and believes that it will not encourage people who are hesitant to get vaccinated.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remained cautious last week while awaiting details on the measure proposed by Quebec. It is important, he says, that it “respects the principles” of Canada Health Act.