New federal vaccination rules

PRINCE GEORGE – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Deputy Prime Minister, Chrystia Freeland, announced details Wednesday of the government’s plans to require COVID-19 vaccination across the federal public service and federally regulated transportation sectors. And the rules are strict.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, federal public employees, including members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, will be required to confirm their vaccination status by October 29th. Those who are unwilling to disclose their vaccination status or to be fully vaccinated will be placed on administrative leave without pay as early as November 15th. Unvaccinated employees will be barred from going to work, either in person or remotely, and will not qualify for employment insurance (EI) benefits.

“Employees have an obligation to provide a true attestation. Failure to do so would constitute a breach of the Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector and may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.”