Photo taken in Saskatoon on Wednesday April 21, 2021. (Saskatoon StarPhoenix / Michelle Berg)

Over 300 officers are getting vaccinated against COVID-19 this week, thanks to a partnership between the Saskatoon Police Service and the Saskatoon Tribal Council. Tribal Chief Mark Arcand says he and Police Chief Troy Cooper have been working together to find ways to better serve the community and both organizations, so when the STC had the opportunity they offered their vaccination clinic at SaskTel Centre to be part of the solution. They negotiated with the Saskatchewan Health Authority to get the doses and this week officers are getting their shots.

At the end of the day, Arcand says, the STC is just trying to do its part to keep everyone safe. The clinic is open to anyone who wants a vaccination. Arcand explains that you apply through the STC’s website, then when your age group is eligible, you will be called to book an appointment. Since opening on April 6th the appointment-only clinic has vaccinated over 1900 people, averaging a little over 200 doses a day.

Saskatoon Police Chief Troy Cooper says, “The SPS is very fortunate to have strong partnerships in our community.” He says, “As a service, we appreciate the opportunity to build on our relationship with the Saskatoon Tribal Council and use their existing clinic to vaccinate our front line officers.” The Chief says it means many of the officers are protected much sooner, without having to wait for the SHA mobile vaccination. It will also mean they will have a critical layer of protection when they enforce Public Health Orders and respond to calls in uncontrolled situations.