The County of Renfrew has passed a COVID-19 vaccination policy.
Individuals will either need to be vaccinated or provide proof of a negative COVID-19 rapid antigen test on a weekly basis.
This policy applies to all County of Renfrew employees, students and volunteers at workplaces.
County council approved the new policy at their meeting Wednesday morning (October 27th, 2021).
Individuals who do not want to be vaccinated and refuse to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test will be placed on an unpaid leave of absence.
The testing is to be completed at the individuals own time and expense.
It was identified the cost of a rapid test ranges from $10 to $40.
The County of Renfrew will review and update the vaccination policy as the pandemic progresses.
The new policy comes into effect on December 1st, 2021.
The policy will also be for county council members.
Councillors who choose not to get the vaccine will be required to get tested and submit results to deputy clerk 48-hours prior to attend any in-person county function.
Only Admaston/Brolmey Mayor Michael Donohue and Laurentian Hills Mayor Jed Reinwald were opposed to the policy.
All 15 other county councillors voted in favour of the vaccination policy.
Donohue voiced support for the vaccination policy, but wanted it to be reviewed more. Donohue says he was opposed because showing leadership requires following appropriate process.
The policy will be returned to committee next month to determine what happens to councillors who do not follow the vaccination policy.
