Ford took this decision against the advice of a number of experts, including members of the scientific committee set up under his government.
“That’s a difficult question. But when you compare the impact of the potential resignation of tens of thousands of health workers with the small number of epidemics currently occurring in Ontario hospitals, I am not. not ready to jeopardize the care of millions of Ontarians, “said Ford.” After reviewing the evidence, our government decided to maintain its flexibility, leaving that to the discretion of each hospital. “
The Ontario Hospital Association (OHA), along with the three opposition parties, have been urging the Ford government since July to introduce a mandatory vaccination policy for healthcare workers.
In October, the OHA even filed a mandatory vaccination request signed by the administrators of 120 of Ontario’s 141 hospitals.
But that did not convince the Ford government. The Prime Minister appears to have suggested that the spread of COVID-19 in hospitals is not a significant factor in the increase in cases, given that there are only six reported outbreaks in hospitals to date.
Ontario can always take additional action in the future “if warranted,” Ford said.
But this promise does not suit the leaders of the opposition.
“We know the Prime Minister has asked for advice and the experts have made it clear that no unvaccinated person should work in medical facilities where the most vulnerable are found,” NDP leader Andrea Horvat told reporters.
“Doug Ford chose anti-Axers over cancer patients,” Liberal Leader Stephen Del Duca added in a tweet. “He is endangering our most vulnerable patients, fearing that the conservative anti-vax community will not support his re-election. He should be ashamed of himself. “
Ontario’s current policy allows unvaccinated healthcare workers to continue working if they participate in the COVID-19 rapid test program.
However, some hospitals have more stringent regulations in place.
A Toronto children’s hospital sent 147 employees on unpaid leave last month for failing to follow vaccination orders.
The university hospital chain also plans to lay off about one percent of its employees for failing to follow similar policies.
Photo SR-24.
“Internet evangelist. Extreme communicator. Subtly charming alcohol aficionado. Typical tv geek.”