The federal labour minister says regulations will be extended to the private sector
Workers in Canada’s banking sector will have no choice over getting vaccinated against COVID-19 under a new government proposal.
Federal labour minister Seamus O’Regan Jr. announced Tuesday that the current regulations that require public sector workers to get a shot will be extended to federally regulated air, rail, and marine transportation sectors, along with all other federally regulated industries, such as road transportation, telecommunications, and banking.
"Canada has led the world on vaccination rates, thanks to Canadians, their belief in science, and their willingness to roll up their sleeves,” he said. “Making vaccination mandatory across all federally regulated workplaces will protect workers, their families, and their communities. It will help us finish the fight against COVID-19 and help us sustain a strong and stable economic recovery."
The move will be seen as controversial by some, who believe that vaccination should be a personal choice. However, others will agree that protection of the many must come at the expense of the rights of the few. Indigenous Governing Bodies and First Nation Band Councils will be exempted from the new requirements.
In the US, several big-name firms in financial services require their staff to be fully vaccinated before returning to the workplace, such as BlackRock, American Express, CitiGroup, Goldman Sachs, and Morgan Stanley.
Penalties for non-compliance
The proposals under Part II of the Canada Labour Code are intended to come into effect early in 2022. Those employers that do not comply may be subject to compliance and enforcement measures, including administrative monetary penalties.
"Vaccinations are one of the strongest tools we have in the fight against COVID-19 and in keeping Canadians safe and healthy,” said health minister Jean-Yves Duclos. “Through these requirements we help add an extra layer of protection in federally regulated workplaces.”
Making vaccination mandatory across all federally regulated workplaces will protect workers, their families, and their communities.
— Seamus O'Regan Jr (@SeamusORegan) December 7, 2021
It will help us finish the fight against COVID-19 and help us sustain a strong stable economic recovery.
