UPDATE TO SEIU-WEST MEMBERS RE: SASKATCHEWAN HEALTH AUTHORITY (SHA) EMPLOYEE PROOF OF VACCINATION POLICY DIRECTIVE
October 22, 2021
Since we last updated members, we have pressed the SHA for further details about the declaration form you’ve been asked to fill out, the “monitored testing” program for those who don’t get vaccinated, and what the SHA’s next steps are.
We have received some information we want to share with you, as well as update you on what questions remain unanswered.
THE DECLARATION FORM
- So far, 38,000 staff have completed the declaration:
- 98% are already vaccinated or committing to get vaccinated
- less than 2% are seeking an accommodation;
- 1% are participating in the monitored testing program.
- A further 15% of SHA staff have not responded to the declaration form.
- The SHA will be following up with them via email to remind them of the need for compliance with the policy. There is a warning in the email that failure to comply with the vaccination policy may result in discipline up to and including termination. There is no acknowledgement of the structural deficiencies in the declaration form, nor instructions on how to provide their response.
- Outstanding issues:
- Who will SHA share employees’ vaccination information with?
- How does an employee respond with their declaration as the form is no longer available and no alternate method of communication has been identified?
- What scientific data is the SHA relying on as proof that the currently available vaccines are effective?
THE TESTING PROGRAM
- This will be a phased in process with a go-live date of November 15.
- Will be using the Rapid Antigen tests 3x week (Sunday/Tues/Thur). Staff in this program can test, upload a screen shot of the results with name/date to their MyConnection.
- The tests provided by the federal government for free aren’t able to be used for this program.
- The $225/month testing fee is a flat rate, regardless of whether you are full-time, part-time, or casual.
- Outstanding issues:
- Will employees be sent an invoice, or will there be a payroll deduction?
- If by payroll deduction, how will casuals who may not be working get a payroll deduction done?
- What about employees who are on a leave?
- Is the cost of the test tax-deductible?
We will continue to follow up on our outstanding questions and report back to the membership.
Respectfully,
Barbara Cape
President
SEIU-West
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