IEU open letter: Response from ACT Chief Minister
On August 18, the IEU sent an open letter to the ACT Chief Minister, Andrew Barr, requesting vaccination priority for all school staff, including those in early childhood, in the face of the ACT's expanding Delta outbreak. Here is his response to IEU NSW/ACT Branch Secretary Mark Northam. It may not be the answer we wanted, but we know Mr Barr is listening. The lack of vaccine supply sits squarely with the federal government.
From: BARR Reception <BARR@act.gov.au>
Subject: RE: Contact my Minister - Correspondence
Dear Mr Northam
Thank you for your email regarding vaccine access.
As has been the case throughout the pandemic, vaccine supply continues to be the responsibility of the Commonwealth. At present, our supply of Pfizer vaccines remains limited.
The ACT Government is aware of the demand for the vaccine, and we will expand eligibility as soon as the supply of the vaccine allows us to do so. Unfortunately, we cannot extend eligibility at the moment.
Anyone aged 18-59 is welcome to speak to their GP about access to the AstraZeneca vaccine based on an understanding of the risk and benefits.
For more information on vaccine eligibility, please visit Frequently asked questions - COVID-19 (act.gov.au).
Thank you again for reaching out. I have provided your feedback to relevant officials for their consideration.
Kind regards
Iris Eagar
Office of Andrew Barr MLA
Chief Minister
Treasurer
Minister for Climate Action
Minister for Economic Development
Minister for Tourism
Member for Kurrajong