NEWS RELEASE
REGION OF WATERLOO
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The Region of Waterloo is implementing a mandatory vaccination policy that requires staff to disclose their vaccination status by September 27, 2021. Staff who are not vaccinated, or choose not to disclose their vaccination status, will be required to undergo education on the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination, as well as participate in a rapid antigen testing program.
The policy applies to all staff, including volunteers and students and the policy was developed following comprehensive research and analysis of options with the goal of protecting the safety of staff and the community.
“Regional Council cares deeply about the health and safety of our staff, clients and residents,” says Regional Chair Karen Redman. “A vaccine is the best defence against COVID-19 and the Delta variant and we’ve seen high uptake of the vaccine across Waterloo Region. Thanks to walk-in access across multiple locations, it has never been easier to receive a vaccine.”
The policy also builds on a number of other important safety protocols implemented at Regional locations, such as the installation of Plexiglas barriers, hand-sanitizing stations, masking protocols and required daily self-screening for staff.
“Our staff are the greatest asset we have at the Region and we value the critical work each and every employee carries out on a daily basis as we serve this community,” says Chief Administrative Officer Bruce Lauckner. “This policy puts the health and wellbeing of staff first. As we continue to move through a fourth wave of COVID-19 in Waterloo Region, we want to ensure our employees can continue to serve this community safely and effectively.”
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