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The Town of Orangeville is implementing a COVID-19 mandatory vaccination policy, given the role vaccinations have in protecting the community and providing a safe working environment for staff, and to be consistent with the best available public health advice to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and variants.
The Town of Orangeville recognizes the tremendous impact that COVID-19 has had on the community, the health system, and on the economy. Throughout the pandemic, the Town has worked actively with Public Health and followed the guidance of the Provincial and Federal Governments.
The new policy will require all Town employees, volunteers, students, and contractors who have in-person interactions at Town properties to be fully vaccinated, unless there is a valid exemption, by December 31, 2021.
Mayor Sandy Brown says Orangeville Council has reviewed and endorsed the vaccination policy. “It is important the Town is aligned with other levels of government and that we continue to work towards ending this pandemic. The CAO and the senior management team have worked closely with legal counsel and public health to develop this policy. The health and safety of all employees and of all persons attending at our municipal buildings and facilities is of paramount importance.”
Individuals who do not comply with the vaccination policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination in accordance with applicable legislation, collective agreements, and Town of Orangeville policies.
Exemptions will be made in accordance with the Town’s Accommodation Policy for grounds protected by the Ontario Human Rights Code which includes confirmed medical reasons, creed and exceptional circumstances. The Town of Orangeville will work with individuals who receive an exemption to develop an appropriate accommodation plan.
The Town recognizes that those who are unvaccinated or who are not fully vaccinated pose a significantly increased risk of becoming seriously ill from COVID-19 and also of spreading the virus to others within the community. Employees who choose not to be vaccinated or who choose not to disclose their vaccination status must complete an educational program approved by the Town to ensure they are adequately informed about the COVID-19 vaccines and the risks associated with being unvaccinated.
During the implementation period, to access any Town facility, unvaccinated individuals (who fall under the policy) shall be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen screening test or equivalent in the manner requested by the Town.
“I thank the Town of Orangeville for their commitment to the safety of residents and staff,” said Dr. Nicola Mercer, Medical Officer of Health and CEO of Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health. “This vaccination policy is another layer of protection against COVID-19 and proof of the Town’s commitment to doing its part to end this pandemic using all the tools available to them.”
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