From coast to coast to coast, I’m hearing of many positive reports of vaccine roll outs to high priority First Nations people.

I’ve said this before, but Minister @MarcMillerVM and the entire Indigenous Services Canada team deserves a huge thanks.

Few thoughts below

The logistics alone would be a nightmare. The amount of planning and coordination is absurd. It’s made even more difficult by those First Nations who don’t have access to year round roads, internet, cell service, etc.

This doesn’t happen without all hands on deck.

For centuries, First Nations have reasonable distrust in the federal government - which also includes the efficacy of the COVID vaccine.

ISC has been able to work with First Nations to promote the science and efficacy of the vaccine.

This means more people are getting the shot.

Even though the federal govt is responsible for healthcare, they have continued to stand up to provinces who don’t want to prioritize urban First Nations people.

Vaccine distribution needs to be based on science and public health advice - not politics.

And finally, accessibility.

Miller’s office is accessible and incredibly smart.

That extends to the Public Service too. From the Deputy Minister, to the junior policy staff working on Canada’s COVID response - thank you. The honest to god heroes and real MVPs. #ThankYou