OTTAWA STANDING FIRM ON VACCINE MANDATE FOR TRUCKERS
Jan 25, 2022
By Bob Komsic
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The Trudeau government says it’s not backing down on its rule for cross-border truck drivers to be vaccinated despite opposition from some drivers and supporters.
The ministers of transport, labour, employment and president of the Canada Trucking Alliance have issued a joint statement saying vaccines are the ”most effective tool to reduce the risk of COVID-19” and protect Canadians.
The cabinet ministers say the government’s working on supply chain issues, that have been driven largely by pandemic-related shortages, constrained port capacity and a reduced workforce.
Some business organizations, such as the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and Canadian Manufacturing Coalition, are calling on the government to pause the mandate in order to prevent more supply chain issues.
The mandate, which came into effect January 15, states all Canadian essential workers crossing the border must show proof of vaccination at a point of entry to avoid testing and quarantine.
The same rules travellers have faced since last fall.