Latest Policy Bytes

Taking to the Skies: Vaccination Delivery in the Far North

June 2, 2021 - When the vaccine rollout began in Ontario, this brought up the age-old issue of accessibility in Northern Ontario. This was especially concerning for remote Far North communities with limited transportation options such as a winter road or air. However, as Operation Remote Immunity has shown, getting vaccines into the arms of FNMI is not impossible.

We Have Astra, Now What?

May 10, 2021 - Out of the ashes of Friday the 16th, came the decision to expand eligibility for the AstraZeneca vaccine to 40-year-olds in Ontario. It was a good decision. Now, what’s next?

COVID Supports Saving Sports in Northern Ontario

May 3, 2021 - For sports organizations, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on their operations. Most being non-profits, they have limited budgets and large expenses to operate. Their organization’s mandates are all about facilitating large gatherings of people for fun and physical activity. Activities that have been prohibited from the very beginning of the pandemic. For sports organizations, government supports have been a crucial lifeline during the past year.

Emphasis on Completing the Right Form is an Obstacle for First Nations

April 30, 2021 - Over the last two decades, the federal government has made attempts to shift towards a new type of relationship with First Nations communities. A relationship built on mutual respect and mutual accountability. A recent report published by Northern Policy Institute raises the question as to whether funding and reporting expectations continue to miss the mark.