Sask. premier plans to scrap proof of vaccination requirement by end of February

Premier Scott Moe says the provincial vaccine requirement program is expected to be scrapped by the end of the month.

In a news conference on Monday, Moe made the claim that COVID-19 vaccines no longer reduce the transmission of the Omicron variant and as a result, the vaccines are no longer required.

"People are asking their government for a return to normal, a removal of public health restrictions," he said. 

"It is time for us as a government to do what Saskatchewan people are asking for."

At present, all Saskatchewan residents must show proof that they have received two shots of the COVID-19 vaccine to enter restaurants, bars and other businesses. They also have the option to provide a negative COVID-19 test.

The current health order expires on Feb. 28. Moe said the vaccination policy will end sometime this month.

Premier Moe began making comments about the effectiveness of the Omicron variant this weekend, in a letter written in support of the national truck convoy movement in what began as opposition to mandatory vaccination for cross-border truckers — and has since evolved to include a range of opposition to COVID-19 public health measures.

WATCH| Moe says his government is looking at removing public health restrictions:

Many health professionals have spoken out against Moe's stance, saying his information is incorrect.

Opposition leader Ryan Meili said he strongly disagrees with the plan and believes Moe is relying on false information.

"It's idiotic. I cannot imagine someone in a leadership role displaying such extreme ignorance," he said. 

"He's ignoring expert virologists. He's ignoring epidemiologists. He's ignoring [chief medical health officer] Dr. Shahab."

During the news conference, Moe noted that both he and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had contracted the Omicron variant, despite receiving three shots of the vaccine, including a booster shot.

"It's quite obvious that the virus itself has adapted through Omicron and transmits among vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals quite freely," said Moe.