Bulletin
Update on vaccine mandates in workplaces
October 6, 2021
To: All MoveUP Members
On October 5, the BC Public Service Agency announced that it will require its 30,000 employees to be fully vaccinated by November 22, 2021. A copy of the BCPSA news release can be found here.
While the BC Public Service Agency does not employ MoveUP members, we have seen ICBC announce their intentions to follow suit. We also anticipate that more of the public sector employers where MoveUP members work may implement a similar policy in the future.
We are incredibly grateful to all the job stewards who have fielded questions from their colleagues. They have been instrumental since the announcement in listening to the members and collecting information.
MoveUP is committed to ensuring workplaces are as safe as possible. We know that vaccines are the most effective way to combat COVID-19, and are a safe and proven way to protect ourselves, our coworkers, our families, and our communities. We encourage everyone who is able should get themselves vaccinated.
However, we also remain committed to ensuring that workplaces are free from harassment and unjustifiable discrimination. Any employer policy must be reasonable, non-discriminatory and not arbitrary in its implementation. Where employers issue policies related to mandatory vaccinations, we will be looking closely at them to ensure they comply with these principles.
In solidarity,
David Black, President
Lori Mayhew, Secretary-Treasurer
Rysa Kronebusch, Vice-President, Utilities
Christy Slusarenko, Vice-President, Combined Units
Annette Toth, Vice-President, ICBC
