The following message was distributed to all Conestoga employees through the Monday Message Board on September 27.
On September 22, the Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) released a new policy statement on COVID-19 vaccine mandates and proof of vaccine certificates.
According to the statement, mandating and requiring proof of vaccination to protect people at work or when receiving services is generally permissible under the province’s Human Rights Code (Code). OHRC contends that individuals who choose not to be vaccinated based on personal preference or singular beliefs do not have the right to accommodation under the Code. Accommodations should be provided to those who are not able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine for medical or disability-related reasons, unless such accommodations would significantly interfere with people’s health and safety.