The District of Saanich will require all of its 1,800 employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 by Dec. 13.
Workers in all departments will need to show their proof of vaccination by that date, except for those who have legitimate medical reasons and are eligible for an accommodation.
The announcement comes just two weeks after the Capital Regional District (CRD) announced its vaccine mandate, making COVID-19 vaccination a requirement for its 1,100 employees.
“Saanich is committed to the health and safety of its staff and the community. This vaccine requirement will protect 1,800 employees working across our municipal facilities as well as the community members we interact with,” said Saanich chief administrative officer Paul Thorkelsson in the statement.
“This requirement aligns with advice from the provincial health officer and similar policies recently implemented by other municipalities and large employers across the province.”
The mandate does not apply to elected officials because it is an employee policy, according to the release, but the district confirms all members of Saanich council are fully vaccinated and will voluntarily follow the policy.
CHEK News reached out to the City of Victoria for comment on whether it’s considering a vaccine mandate.
In an email statement, Bill Eisenhauer, the City of Victoria’s head of engagement said, “Victoria has been in close contact with the CRD and will be determining a way forward very soon.”
Tahmina Aziz
