County terminating emergency declaration

February 24, 2022 · 0 Comments

Written By Paula Brown

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The County of Dufferin will terminate its emergency declaration on March 1 after being in effect for almost two years.

“We’re thankful for Dufferin County residents’ diligence and continued commitment to the fight against COVID-19. As key public health and health system indicators continue to improve, we feel confident about terminating our Emergency Declaration,” said Warden Wade Mills. “We continue to encourage everyone to get vaccinated and follow public health guidance so we can preserve and protect the positive progress we’ve achieved thus far.”

In a press release issued on Tuesday (Feb. 22), the County said the termination of the emergency declaration comes following consultation with Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph (WDG) Public Health.

“Dufferin County has been a vital partner in the fight against COVID-19 since 2020. Without a doubt, the contributions of County leaders and staff have protected Dufferin residents and positioned the County and our region to exit the pandemic on the strongest possible footing,” said Dr. Nicola Mercer, CEO and Medical Officer of Health for WDG Public Health. “I have been grateful for the support and wisdom of the County. The County has prioritized ensuring residents had access to vaccines and timely information to protect them against this virus.”

“As we look to the future, WDG Public Health will continue to work hand in hand with Dufferin County and all local municipalities to keep our region safe, healthy, and prosperous,” she said.

Dufferin County first declared an emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic on March 26 of 2020. The emergency declaration, in accordance with the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, provided the Warden of Dufferin County with authority to take actions and make orders they considered necessary to protect property and the health, safety, and welfare of residents.

The City of Guelph and Wellington County, both of whom fall under the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health service delivery area, will be join Dufferin County in the termination of their emergency declarations as of March 1.

According to WDG Public Health, over 80 per cent of eligible Dufferin County residents (ages 5 and up) are fully vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine, and over 45 per cent are fully vaccinated with a booster dose.