Support from Loyalist College community for mask recommendation

Cage King and Matti Goodwin-Sutton from the Film and TV program told QNet News, “we agree with the new mask recommendation given the increase in COVID cases and the number of children going to the hospitals.” Photo by Victoria Caminha, QNet News

By Victoria Caminha

BELLEVILLE – Many Loyalist College students and faculty are welcoming the new mask recommendations by Ontario’s medical officer of health, Dr. Kieran Moore.

In a press conference Monday, Moore said he “strongly recommends” that people start wearing a mask in indoor places again. Cases of respiratory syncytial virus, COVID-19 and influenza are increasing fast, and hospitals across the province are being overwhelmed, he said.

Kayla Muma, a massage therapy student at Loyalist, told QNet News Wednesday: “I personally think that (mask-wearing) makes a lot of sense based off the fact that there are the sicknesses that are going around right now and the hospitals (are) filling up.

“I think that logically it would help.”

The mask recommendation is preferable to a mandate, she said:

Raven Chartrand, an environmental technician student, said, “I think the recommendation kind of leaves it open for people who aren’t feeling well – they can mask up. It’s really up to each person how they’re feeling.”

Tracey MacLeod, officer co-ordinator of career services at the college, said, “I’m kind of on either side of the fence. I’m understanding the number of people in the hospitals is increasing so I’m kind of thinking I should start wearing a mask. But on the other side of the fence, I still feel comfortable, safe, not wearing it.”

Andy Malone, a faculty member with the college’s Community Integration Through Co-operative Education program, said, “I would agree with (the mask recommendation) now that the numbers are kind of rising again. I will listen to the health specialists. I do think that we need to give people the option, but I do feel if it’s recommended, then we should (wear a mask).”

QNet News asked to interview Loyalist’s acting president, Mark Kirkpatrick, about whether the college plans to bring back a mask mandate. Kirkpatrick’s office said he was not available, but sent a statement issued by the college:

“Loyalist College supports the recommendation of Ontario’s chief medical officer of health who strongly encourages Ontarians to wear masks in public indoor settings.

“While masks and proof of COVID-19 vaccination are not mandatory to enter campus buildings, they continue to be made available at building entrances, free of charge. Individuals always have the option to wear one and the college maintains a respectful and supportive environment for this decision.

“We continue to monitor this evolving situation closely and will ensure alignment between our safety protocols and the advice of our public health authorities and the government of Ontario.”