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Disrespect and disregard typify UCP policy for seniors. COVID vaccines are now available. And now we learn how access will be run. Rather than a local pharmacy, known and convenient, we must drive from seven to 12 kilometres to one of the few immunization centres in and around Edmonton. There are only a handful.

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This significant inconvenience is topped by a $100 fee for the privilege. I am disgusted. This is a punitive policy.

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Beverly Lemire, Edmonton

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Not everyone can get to COVID clinics

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So the first group could book their COVID/flu shots starting Monday. Surprise! I can’t just go to the health clinic down the street. There are only three clinics in the city doing the shots as opposed to the former multitude of pharmacies.

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How are people supposed to get there? Not everyone drives, some are in poor health, are elderly, have mobility problems or whatever. Thanks, Danielle, for making this so inconvenient.

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Leslie Rivet, Edmonton

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Mining poll results warrant scrutiny

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It is not my responsibility to conduct due diligence on a study sponsored by an industry with a clear stake in its outcome. That responsibility belongs to journalists. However, I see several potential red flags with the reporting of these results, even if the methodology appears statistically sound on the surface.

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The study was sponsored by a coal-mining company, which has an obvious interest in shaping public opinion and policy. This raises concerns about potential bias in the design, administration, interpretation, and reporting of the survey. Leading questions, selective data presentation, or omission of unfavourable findings are all possible.

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The survey’s methodology is not transparent to the average reader. Critical details, such as weighting, sampling procedures, and questionnaire wording, bear close examination. While a sample of 1,400 is substantial, there is no indication that the random sample was stratified to reflect Alberta’s demographics.

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Has the study undergone a peer review process? Without independent academic oversight, there is no assurance of methodological rigour, ethical standards, or data integrity.