Ottawa promises vaccine passport for international travel this fall

The federal government says it plans tocreate proof-of-vaccination documentation for international travelby early fall.

Immigration Minister MarcoMendicinosaid thisafternoon that Ottawa is working with the provinces which hold the data on vaccinations to develop consistentcredentials.The minister said the government isalso working withother countries to recognize thecredentials issued in Canada.

The federal certification would include data on the type of vaccines received, datesandlocation.

"For Canadians who decide to travel, using a proof of vaccination will provide foreign border officials with the vaccination history needed to assess whether a traveller meets their public health requirements and provide a trusted and verifiable credential for when they return home," says a government release.

Intergovernmental Affairs MinisterDominic LeBlancsaid the government expects the credentials to be digitalbut will also make it available for those without access to a device.

The federal announcement comes in the middle of a fierce debate as some provinces talk about introducing domesticproof of vaccination.

In Quebec, beginning in September, anyone wanting to visit non-essential businesses like bars, restaurants, gyms and festivalswill need to present a scannable QR codethrough a smartphone app to prove they've been fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Manitoba has been issuing proof-of-immunization cards to residents who are two weeks past their second shot.

Nova Scotia Liberal LeaderIain Rankin has promised that are-elected Liberal government would bring in a proposed ScotiaPass forfully vaccinated residents and thatbusinesses and other organizations would be able to use the system tolimit access to their services.

Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, meanwhile, continues to insist his province will not introduce proof-of-vaccination documentation.

"We've been very clear from the beginning that we will not facilitate or accept vaccine passports," Kenney told reporters last month.

"I believe they would in principle contravene the Health Information Act and also possibly the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act."