York South-Weston mustn't be left behind in vaccine rollout: Hassan to Ford

YORK SOUTH—WESTON — NDP MPP Faisal Hassan (York South—Weston) said Premier Doug Ford is again leaving behind residents of his riding as the government’s vaccine rollout fails to include a plan for getting the shot to high-risk communities in his area.

“York South—Weston is an identified COVID-19 hot spot and home to many essential workers, many of whom are Black and racialized,” Hassan said. “Residents in my community were neglected by the Ford government in its failure to establish sufficient local testing facilities, and folks are now worried they will be denied access to local vaccination sites.”

A story in the Toronto Star listing more than 350 planned vaccination sites for the city did not include a single location in York South-Weston.

Hassan is urging the Ford government to work with Toronto Public Health and ensure high-risk communities like those in his riding are prioritized and assured local access to vaccinations.

Hassan sent a **letter to Ontario Health Minister Christine Elliott and Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health Dr. Eileen de Villa making recommendations regarding local access and accommodation.

**Attached.