COVID-19 vaccination policies are being revealed as the fourth wave of the Delta variant gets Canadians firmly in its grip.
The Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) announced a mandatory vaccine policy Tuesday afternoon.
“Our government has implemented a policy that requires all our staff, elected officials, affiliates, contractors, board members to be fully vaccinated,” said MMF minister of health Frances Chartrand. “This will also include anyone who comes to our buildings and facilities, conduct meetings or do business with us.
“We do not take this decision lightly. We support the safety of our citizens, employees, families and through them our elders. Our elders are our wisdom and the keeper of our knowledge.”
The MMF said its policy provides counselling for individuals who are hesitant about getting a vaccine. And gives them time to reflect on their options.
Manitoba government
The Manitoba government was also talking vaccine policy Tuesday but stopped short of making it mandatory.
“All provincial employees who work with vulnerable populations must be fully immunized by October 31 or undergo frequent COVID-19 testing,” said Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister at a news conference.
“This includes healthcare providers, educational and early learning and childcare providers, public servants and agencies who work in high risk settings, and Manitoba justice officials who work with vulnerable people and in correctional facilities.”
Manitoba’s top doctor said the recommendations will help those most at risk of contracting the virus during the fourth wave.
“By requiring these individuals who are working with vulnerable populations to get immunized and continue to follow the fundamentals,” said Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitoba’s chief provincial public health officer, “we can protect those most at risk of COVID-19 as the Delta variant is approaching us.
“In previous waves, really the lockdown, the intense public health restrictions were really our only tool and now we have a much better tool and that’s a vaccination.”
