ONTARIO -- The Provincial government had announced on Wednesday, Dec. 18 that it would be using LCBO locations in Ontario as COVID-19 rapid test distribution sites. By Friday evening, Dec. 19, the LCBO announced that their supply had run out.
Consequently, soon afterwards, OPSEU/SEFPO president Warren Thomas not only voiced his support of this effort to improve access to rapid tests, including at LCBO locations, but also expressed concerns about how this plan was implemented and the lack of effective communication.
“Improving Ontarians’ access to rapid tests is certainly a positive step toward stopping the spread of COVID-19, especially as the holidays approach and families plan in-person gatherings,” said Thomas. “Unfortunately, the plan has not been communicated clearly. This is causing confusion and chaos in the stores, and increasing the risks faced by workers, customers and the general public.”
Therefore, OPSEU/SEFPO is calling on the province to issue clear, detailed instructions to the public regarding the distribution of rapid tests as a result of a huge influx of traffic at LCBO locations.
OPSEU/SEFPO First Vice-President/Treasurer Eduardo Almeida stressed the importance of clear communication in keeping LCBO workers and the public safe during the holiday season as the province experienced a spike in COVID-19 cases and the rising threat of the Omicron variant.
“With the proper resources and a plan that is effectively communicated to the public, LCBO stores are ideal locations to hand out rapid tests to asymptomatic customers who are already shopping at the LCBO,” said Almeida. “While the intention here is good, the implementation has been problematic, and dangerous-driving more traffic into already-busy stores.”
Colleen MacLeod, Chair of OPSEU/SEFPO’s Liquor Board Employees Division (LBED), spoke about the importance of additional resources and safeguards to ensure that LCBO workers can continue to do their jobs effectively.
“Since the start of the pandemic, LCBO workers have been dedicated to supporting our communities while reducing the spread of COVID-19,” said MacLeod. “But, to continue providing a high standard of safety while distributing rapid tests to the public, the LCBO must hire more staff, and provide separate spaces, like kiosks, with dedicated staff to hand out the tests.
“We must ensure that there is a steady supply of tests to keep up with demand, including enough tests for LCBO staff,” added MacLeod. “There must also be clear communication from the province to the public about their plan to improve access to rapid tests and distribute them at the LCBO.”
For more information: Warren (Smokey) Thomas, 613-329-1931; [email protected]
