York Region is introducing a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy for its 4,900 full and part-time staff, as well as contractors and visitors.
The extended measure, announced today, will require proof of a first COVID-19 vaccination dose by Oct. 1 and confirmation of two COVID-19 doses by Nov. 1, according to director of corporate communications Patrick Casey.
The policy includes York Region Paramedic Services and York Region Transit staff.
“With the delta variant now targeting the unvaccinated and many who are vulnerable, including children not yet eligible to receive a vaccine, we need to be united in our fight against COVID-19,” Casey said in an email.
Exemptions for medical or human rights reasons will be accommodated, he added.
Staff who do not have a valid exemption and choose not to receive the vaccine will be required to attend a mandatory education session on the benefits of vaccination, Casey said. Those who do not comply with the policy after a session could face disciplinary action.
Unvaccinated staff with a valid exemption may be required to complete regular COVID-19 testing, he added.
The policy and its processes are still being finalized, with more details to come.
The move comes with the City of Toronto announcing similar measures Aug. 19. The province is also widely expected to introduce a vaccination requirement, or "passport" system sometime this week.
Most York Region staff continue to work from home, though some are working in-person to maintain critical programs and services, Casey said.
Numerous vaccination clinics are available across the region, Casey said, adding, “It’s never been easier to get your COVID-19 vaccine.”
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