Maple News reports that a majority of Canadians are in favor of maintaining current border restrictions with the United States until at least 75% of the population is fully vaccinated against COVID-19. This sentiment aligns with the federal government’s stance, as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s administration has stated that tourism between the two countries will not resume until that vaccination threshold is reached.
A new nationwide survey conducted by the Angus Reid Institute reveals that Canadians remain cautious about reopening. The poll found that most prefer holding off on easing travel restrictions until the vaccination goal is met, highlighting a prevailing sense of prudence despite a general decline in personal concern about COVID-19.
Not everyone feels the same, however. About 20% of respondents said the border should reopen immediately, regardless of vaccination rates. This group tends to consist of individuals who traveled frequently before the pandemic.
On the matter of lifting quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated citizens and other exempt travelers, public opinion is more evenly divided. Just over half believe the federal government’s timing was appropriate. Yet, 25% felt the change was premature, whereas another 20% argued it came too late.
Public perception of Prime Minister Trudeau’s pandemic response appears evenly split. While 50% commend his handling of the crisis, 46% express dissatisfaction. Nonetheless, his approval has seen a modest uptick, reaching its highest point since January.
The poll also shows that Canadians are reporting the lowest level of worry about contracting the virus since June 2020, with personal health concerns dropping significantly. A strong majority believes that the worst of the health crisis is behind them, with just 12% expressing continued anxiety. Economically, opinions are more cautious—72% believe the worst has passed, but 28% fear further challenges lie ahead.
The Angus Reid survey captured the views of 2,040 Canadian adults between July 9 and 13, 2021. The results carry a margin of error of ±2 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
Border restrictions between Canada and the United States are currently set to expire on July 21. Prime Minister Trudeau has indicated that, depending on vaccination progress, border restrictions may begin easing by mid-August for fully vaccinated American travelers, with the possibility of extending reopening to international travelers by early September.
As the country continues to navigate its reopening plans, the federal government’s vaccination benchmarks remain a pivotal factor in determining when normal cross-border movement can safely resume.