“Physical activity is critically important for the overall health and well-being of youth and is necessary to daily living.

“That is why Alberta’s government decided against requiring proof of vaccination for youth under age 18 who are taking part in sport, recreation and performance activities.

“Some arenas and facilities serving both adult and youth populations have decided to take a one-size-fits-all approach to requiring proof of vaccination, eliminating options for unvaccinated youth under age 18 to take part in sport, recreation or performance activities.

“While nothing prohibits these organizations from doing so, I encourage organizations to allow all youth under the age of 18 to participate in sport, recreation and performance activities, and focus on other ways to reduce COVID risk in these settings.

“I also want to remind parents who may be hesitant to have their children vaccinated, that vaccines are safe and I strongly support the immunization of all eligible Albertans, including those age 12 and up.”