EDITORIAL: Travel, sure, but do it at your own risk
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Travel if you will, but do so at your own risk. Be aware that taxpayers are not willing to pick up the tab for people stranded by their own hubris or their own incompetence.
Yes, you may be yearning to return to the golden age of cruising the Med or island hopping in the Caribbean. The reality is that in a pandemic, things can change on a dime.
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EDITORIAL: Travel, sure, but do it at your own risk Back to video
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At the same time, governments must likewise ensure travel restrictions they impose are fair, rational and enforceable.
Make no mistake, it is possible to travel safely in a pandemic. Some people have no option but to cross international borders for business or family reasons.
With sensible measures and a little care, it can be done. But we’re tired of hearing the plaintive bleats of people who seem not to have noticed the rest of the world has bigger problems than the bad food at a quarantine hotel.
In the real world, many are struggling to get back to full employment. Parents are worried their kids are falling behind in school.
If you choose to travel, then it’s on you. Don’t ask for your government – meaning taxpayers – to bail you out if things go pear-shaped.
This would all be made easier if governments ensured their rules are clear and reasonable. If they require people to quarantine or self-isolate upon return to Canada, then the system should be safe and fair, recognizing this is a public health measure and not house arrest.
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The federal auditor recently slammed the hotel quarantine system. It needs to change if it’s to have any credibility.
Travellers, for their part, need to do their homework to ensure they have all the documentation they need. These are extraordinary circumstances.
The knee-jerk mantra is that seniors don’t own smartphones and can’t use technology. Nonsense! Seniors today have been using computers for 30 years.
Those that can’t handle the technology would be wise to stay home right now, because downloading a travel app is the easiest hurdle they’ll have to overcome when crossing international borders.
If you’re going to travel, then take personal responsibility and don’t expect the rest of the world to rush to your rescue if things don’t work out.
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