Most City of Timmins employees are in line with its new COVID-19 vaccination policy.
Last Friday, the city's new COVID-19 vaccination policy went into effect, with 97 per cent of people complying, according to Amanda Dyer, corporate communications co-ordinator.
All municipal employees, students, contractors at city facilities and volunteers were required to show proof of vaccination or a medical exemption on Oct. 1. People who have had one dose at that time must take a rapid antigen test twice a week until fully vaccinated.
"Those who are not have been encouraged to speak with their family physician to learn more about the vaccine," she said.
After the mandatory education program, people still not complying would be placed on unpaid leave.
The policy affects about 850 staff.
The 97 per cent compliance the city is reporting includes people who are fully vaccinated — both doses plus 14 days — and those who have received the first dose. A breakdown of how many people have one versus two doses was not provided.
Dyer said the city "will not be providing the number of employees currently requiring a rapid antigen test as we’ve already stated we will not make comment on the employment status of current employees."
