Lax Kw'alaams introduces mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy for all employees, contractors

The Lax Kw'alaams Band Council has outlined the details to a new policy for employees and contractors in the community, noting of their commitment towards the health of their elders and most vulnerable members. 

As a result, the Band Council has announced a COVID-19 vaccination mandate for those employed by the Band or working on a contract basis.

In our day-to-day operations, we have a responsibility to the community, and it is for this reason that it is critical that the Band and its staff take all precautions to protect against COVID-19. 

A critical component of these precautions is vaccination. The provincial and federal governments and public health authorities have recommended that all individuals be vaccinated against COVID-19 as soon as possible.

This Policy applies to all employees and contractors of the Band, Coast Tsimshian Academy, Lax Kw’alaams Business Development Corp., Lax Kw’alaams Ferry Corp., Lax Kw’alaams Fish Plant and any entity in which the Lax Kw’alaams Band is the majority shareholder. Collectively they will be referred to as the “Staff”.

The Requirement for those employed or working as contractors is that they provide proof that they will be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 no later than December 24th.

As for any non-compliance of the mandate the Band Council outlines the steps that will follow as such:

Staff members who are not fully vaccinated by January 14, 2022 (subject to valid medical or religious exemptions), or who fail to provide the necessary documentation described above, will, at minimum, be placed on an unpaid leave of absence. The Band may also implement other actions, including disciplinary action up to and including the termination of employment.

The Full scope of the new requirement can be reviewed from the Lax Kw'alaams website.

Those with any questions on the policy are asked to contact the Band's Chief Administration Officer at the Band Office at 1-877-725-3293

More items of interest from Lax Kw'alaams can be examined from our archive page.

Cross posted from the North Coast Review.