Unvaccinated workers protest unpaid leave

A small group of protesters took to Province House on Wednesday afternoon in opposition to immunization mandates for public sector workers in the province.

Demonstrators gathered at Peace and Friendship Park early this morning before marching through downtown Halifax. There, approximately 200 people called on the provincial government to end vaccination requirements for employment.

The protest marked the first day employees in the public sector must show proof of vaccination to continue their employment. Those who refuse to be immunized have been placed on unpaid administrative leave. 

Among the protesters were self-identified teachers, guidance counsellors and registered nurses. Others held signs including expletives, obscenities, and misinformation. 

The mandate covers employees in health care, education, emergency services, correctional services, and day cares. 

The provincial government reported 20 vaccination mandate exemptions were granted, 18 of those for medical reasons. Only two of the 134 human rights exemptions that were requested were approved.

The immunization mandate required employees have at least a first dose of vaccine by Nov. 30, and the partially vaccinated are expected to show proof of full vaccination up to 70 days after their first dose.

They also may face additional health and safety measures, including testing. 

The mandate has resulted in shortages in some industries, including bus drivers servicing the Halifax Regional Centre for Education (HRCE).

There’s also concerns of short-staffing in long-term care facilities.

“While vaccination rates are high across the sector, existing workforce shortages mean that even a small number of unvaccinated staff could result in a facility or agency not being able to accept new residents or seniors,” read a Tuesday provincial press release. 

“Contingency plans could include using employment agencies and travelling nursing staff and offering part-time and casual staff full-time employment.”

In a statement, Halifax Regional Police said officers assisted the group as they moved to several locations throughout the downtown core.

“Our focus was the safety of the general public and of those in attendance,” said Cst. John MacLeod.