But no decision yet if shot will be mandatory for NOTL municipal workers
Niagara-on-the-Lake councillors are all fully vaccinated, says Lord Mayor Betty Disero.
In response to questions from The Lake Report, Disero confirmed all members of council have told her they have had two doses of vaccine.
“I’m very pleased that all members of council have shown leadership in getting the vaccine,” she said.
Niagara's chief medical officer, Dr. Mustafa Hirji, the province and the science advisory table and everyone speaking out about vaccines has said “vaccines are the only way to prevent serious illness or death from COVID,” Disero noted.
“And so, as leaders of the community, it’s important we show that leadership and set the example for everyone.”
While it might not convince everyone to get the vaccine just because nine members of NOTL council did, it “could bring some positive reinforcement to those people that are hesitant,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has not decided whether it will make vaccinations mandatory for staff members.
Some municipalities and major businesses across the province have made the jab mandatory for workers.
“The town is currently discussing and evaluating options pertaining to vaccination policies, including completing a risk analysis, monitoring what other jurisdictions are doing, and consulting with Niagara Region and local area municipalities to ensure our approach is appropriate and consistent,” town spokesperson Lauren Kruitbosch said in an email response to questions from The Lake Report.
“The town will continue to take guidance from public health and the medical officer of health,”
Disero said Niagara Region chair Jim Bradley has suggested, and she agrees, that all municipalities in Niagara should have the same vaccine policy.
She expects the issue will be discussed at the next meeting of regional council and said she personally believes municipalities should follow the advice of the chief medical officer of health.
“We’re taking our lead from the region on this, and I strongly believe in a united front,” she said, adding she’s heard different stances from different regional councillors.
The town said it isn’t aware of other municipalities in Niagara that have made staff vaccinations mandatory yet.
“The CAOs and mayors of the local area municipalities are in regular consultation to help ensure an appropriate and consistent approach,” Kruitbosch said.
