1/7 The problem with Federal Ministers slavishly following expert advice is now becoming clear: underlying assumptions were not tested; tough questions about operational impacts were not asked. #COVID19
2/7 Across 10yrs/multiple pathogens, my experience with PHAC was the same: *certain* officials are quietly Malthusian (strong will live; weak will perish; nature's way). I recognize this as battle triage. I don't accept it as compassionate health policy while alternatives exist.
3/7 As a result, these experts do not believe in the doctrine of containment. At all. They do not believe in closing borders. Ever. They view taking traveler temperatures as silly. They advise ministers accordingly, without revealing underlying worldviews. #COVID19
4/7 @Canborder officers are highly-trained; well-led. But they aren't doctors. They ask the questions PHAC directs; they adopt the screening measures PHAC says they should under the Quarantine Act. If PHAC fails, so does CBSA. #COVID19
5/7 In one event, we discovered PHAC was not providing Quarantine Officers 24/7 to support CBSA. The reason: "Business hours = 9-5. Not resourced for overtime." The yelling was short and sharp. Full quarantine screen was established, giving all Cdns a shot at remaining healthy.
6/7 The Provinces have been proactive and decisive in protecting residents. But provinces cannot defend their borders. That's not how Confederation works. Safeguarding international borders is exclusively a federal role. #COVID19
7/7 If Canada will not block travel from highly affected zones, will we at least order a full and proper quarantine screen at air, land, and sea borders? It is literally the least our leaders can do to discharge their fist duty: ensuring the safety of Canadians. #COVID19
