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Paradise mandates vaccination for all town staff

By Mark Squibb/November 11, 2021

The Town of Paradise has mandated that all Town staff be vaccinated against COVID-19.

In accordance with public health guidelines, folks entering the Double Ice Complex have had to show their proof of vaccination since October 22. Those same guidelines stipulate that employees and volunteers at the Double Ice Complex, and other businesses that require patrons show a proof of vaccination, be vaccinated by December 17.

Under the provincial mandate, town hall employees are not be required to be vaccinated, as the town hall offers essential government services and visitors are not required to show a proof of vaccination before entering.

This arrangement, however, said councilor Larry Vaters, placed town employees into two different categories, depending on which building they worked in.

“It is important that policies are fair and consistent across all employees, and the Town is committed to providing a safe workplace for all employees,” said Vaters, who noted that workers often have meetings in both buildings. “As such, the Town will implement a policy that requires all employees, council, contractors, volunteers, and suppliers, to be fully vaccinated, unless there is a medical exemption. A draft policy has been developed for review by the Town’s legal counsel. There is limited financial impact in implementing this policy.”

The motion was approved unanimously.

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