No free COVID-19 test kits coming to K-W libraries
'Only select libraries' will be getting kits, KPL tweets
Free rapid COVID-19 tests will not be available through Kitchener, Waterloo or Region of Waterloo public libraries.
The Kitchener and Waterloo libraries tweeted that they were informed by the province that they were not selected to be distribution sites.
In a press release on Dec. 16, the province said tests would be available at "high-traffic settings" including malls, retail settings, holiday markets, public libraries and transit hubs.
Kitchener Public Library tweeted this week that the government "has clarified that only select libraries will be distributing rapid test kits."
Both libraries link to the region's COVID-19 testing page, but it doesn't list where people can access rapid tests.
Regional staff confirmed on Wednesday that Region of Waterloo libraries are also not on the list to distribute the kits.
UPDATE: Rapid antigen tests are NOT AVAILABLE at the Waterloo Public Library. We have been advised by <a href="https://twitter.com/ONgov?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ONgov</a> that we are not a designated distribution site. <br><br>Visit <a href="https://twitter.com/ROWPublicHealth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ROWPublicHealth</a> for info on local testing centres: <a href="https://t.co/tK1aFbYB6k">https://t.co/tK1aFbYB6k</a> <a href="https://t.co/PIDVkYdtK7">pic.twitter.com/PIDVkYdtK7</a>
—@WaterlooLibraryThe province had sent rapid tests to select LCBO stores, but local LCBO stores listed by the province reported not receiving the kits and the LCBO indicated it ran out of tests the same it started distribution. It was unclear when more would be provided.
Attempts to resell kits 'deplorable'
In some cases, people have tried selling the rapid test kits online — an act the province has denounced.
Ross Romano, the MPP for Sault Ste. Marie and Minister of Government and Consumer Services, said it was "deplorable to see bad actors" reselling the kits. The province says to date, 900 "of the most egregious complaints" have been referred to police services across Ontario.
"We are proactively working to identify, track down, and fine any businesses and individuals who may be in breach of our government's emergency order which prohibits charging unfair prices for necessary goods," Romano said in a statement sent to CBC.
People caught reselling free rapid test kits could face a ticket of $750.