Go after scofflaws, not snowbirds

Why are federal and provincial authorities wasting valuable resources policing people who are vaccinated and tested?

I am one of the thousands of Florida's snowbirds returning to Canada this month. Thanks to the state's effective and inclusive vaccination policy, the majority of vacationers returning home will have had two vaccine doses. The shots have been administered a strict 21 days apart (following the manufacturer's directions), and matched to be from the same pharmaceutical company.

Very few snowbirds planned this virus success when we flew south in November or December.

In addition to two vaccines, to comply with travel guidelines, travellers incoming to Canada must be tested in the U.S. 72 hours before boarding their flights, and we will be tested again upon arrival at Trudeau airport.

When I arrive back home, I will have had those four levels of proof — two vaccines and two tests within days. I am as safe as you can get.

Yet, the government insists on quarantines — either in dedicated hotels for air travellers, or at home for those who drive across the border. If inspectors find someone in breach of quarantine measures, the person can be heavily fined.

Policing people who have been vaccinated and tested is a waste of resources that could be spent on going after the real culprits — those who break rules.

Please don't waste more money on healthy people. Steve Lash, Montreal