Testing has been a critical component of Nova Scotia’s successful pandemic response, but the Houston government’s new testing policy is leaving early childhood educators out of the equation.

“Right now, across this province, ECEs are providing care to children without knowing if they are safe,” says Liberal Education and Early Childhood Development critic MLA Derek Mombourquette.

Starting today, Nova Scotians who have symptoms or have been identified as a close contact and are at increased risk for severe disease, live in congregate settings, or a frontline health care worker will have access to a PCR test. Educators are not included in the Houston government’s new testing strategy.

“This is alarming when you consider only 32% of children under the age of 11 have been partially vaccinated against COVID-19,” says Mombourquette. “By not prioritizing educators for PCR tests, or rapid tests through the workplace screening program, means our educators and children are at risk of this variant.”

Educators have stepped up to help our youngest Nova Scotians during the pandemic for the past 21 months. Now, it’s time the Houston government stepped up to help them.