I just spoke with someone at @Education Ontario about this. People can direct comments or concerns about the cloth mask RFB to: information.met@ontario.ca I encourage everyone to do so TODAY (due date). This will demonstrate opposition to cloth masks and create the 'receipts'.

Some suggested wording to get people started. To whom it may concern, I am writing with regards to the RFB tender 17125 for cloth masks. According to Health Canada, cloth masks - even with filters - do not adequately protect against airborne pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2. (1/n)

I applaud the Ministry for its effort to procure masks. To me, this is an acknowledgement of: 1. The airborne nature of SARS-CoV-2 2. The threat that SARS-CoV-2 continues to pose to Ontario schools, and 3. The Ministry's duty to provide a safe schools for a Ontario students, 2/n

However, as stated above, all available data indicate that cloth masks - even with filters - offer insufficient protection against SARS-CoV-2. Thus, procurement of cloth masks is an inappropriate use of funds. This could put students at risk due to a false sense of safety. 3/n

I strongly support procurement of N95s and other respirator-like masks in excess of the number of Ontario students to ensure equitable and sufficient distribution. In addition, I support data-driven, evidence-informed policies to ensure such masking is required when needed. (4/4)

information.met@ontario.ca

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