Premier Dennis King, I write to urge you to make Prince Edward Island a world leader in re-opening its economy fully, without any delay or incremental phase-in, which are simply unnecessary.
A 2019 WHO study found little or no evidence for the effectiveness of the various lockdown measures in a pandemic, that are in effect now in Prince Edward Island. Many world-leading experts have advised that the COVID-19 pandemic is not worse than the pandemics that sweep through every year, and lockdown measures are unwise and ineffective.
I write out of a deep concern for the poor, both in Prince Edward Island and abroad. Aid agencies have estimated that the worldwide lockdown will drive tens of millions into absolute poverty or starvation. A strong economy and a strong virus response are both essential in this battle.
There will be far more casualties from the lockdown than from COVID-19 in any case. In this, I recognize the sad and tragic loss of many seniors and other citizens in Prince Edward Island, who have died “with” or “of” COVID-19. The loss of even one human life is profoundly significant.
I urge you to make Prince Edward Island a world leader in confronting the fear around this pandemic, and returning the province to business as usual without delay.
Herb Dunton,
Abbottsford, B.C.