Sheffield residents have mixed views about government’s ‘Covid passport’ scheme to unlock the country

Boris Johnson recently announced government plans for a ‘Covid passport’ scheme, which will start to be trialled this month at a series of pilot events.

People attending will have to show certification proving that they have had a vaccination, are immune or clear of the virus.

Ministers in England are hoping the certification passes will allow the safe return of large events, including sports matches, conferences and concerts, and entry to places where social distancing is hard to maintain, like theatres, nightclubs and bars.

The government has announced that a number of sporting events, including the World Snooker Championships in Sheffield will be used as trials in a scheme to help enable the safe return of mass gatherings and indoor events following the coronavirus lockdown.

World Snooker Championships to be used to trial Covid Vaccine passports

Businesses that open on April 12, including pubs, restaurants, and non-essential retail, will not be required to ask for vaccine certification; and it will not be necessary on public transport or in essential shops such as supermarkets.

The NHS is said to be currently working on ways of providing people with the means to demonstrate their Covid status through “digital and non-digital routes”.

The news comes as more than 31.5 million people have received a first dose of the vaccine, and nearly 5.4m have received both jabs, according to the latest government figures.

People in Sheffield have spoken about the proposals for a vaccine certification scheme and how it will impact their plans to visit hospitality venues and events.

Marion Manterfield said: “To be honest, I don’t think I would mind. I have had both vaccines, but I doubt we will ever be free of this virus anyway. I think it’s our new way of life for the foreseeable future, unfortunately, whatever the government decides.”

Joanne Angela said: “I really can't see what the problem is. It's still early days, and safety must come first, in my opinion. If you don't like it, get the jab. If you can't have the jab for medical reasons, then you should be exempt and still be permitted entry with evidence.”

Sarah Louise Hemmings said: “It would discriminate against those that can’t have the vaccine due to medical conditions and those that haven’t already been offered the vaccine.”

Richard Jenkinson said: “If the vaccine prevents death and reduces hospitalisation for the vulnerable groups, why do we need them.”

Speaking about the trials at the snooker, Laura Staniforth said: “Seems a good idea. If they are able to monitor the people attending and no one contracts covid as a result of going, then would be a green light to roll out from there.”

Mc Stuart said on Facebook: “Proof of negative test is fine, but vaccine passports is a massive infringement on people's rights.

"As a person that has not been offered the vaccine yet, I think this is a disgusting attempt at implementing a social credit scheme, which works so well for the people of China.

"I will boycott anywhere that implements a vaccine pass entry scheme.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.