(The Canadian Press)

By paNOW Staff

Province announces Phase 2 of vaccination plan

Mar 18, 2021 | 12:07 PM

The Government of Saskatchewan announced Phase 2 of their vaccine delivery plan, as well as a special vaccination leave, to allow employees paid time off work to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Both are now in effect.

According to a media release, residents 67 years of age and older can book an appointment to get vaccinated by phone or online. Those who are considered extremely vulnerable, live in select congregate living settings such as group homes and emergency shelters can also book an appointment.

The government says the expansion came earlier because of the successful rollout of vaccinations. Those looking to get vaccinated can do so online or by calling 1-833-SASK-VAX.

“The implementation of the online and telephone appointment booking system has enabled the rapid deployment of vaccinations across the province,” Health Minister Paul Merriman said. “This move into Phase 2 is ahead of the anticipated schedule but with the vaccine and the ability to move forward swiftly we do not want to delay. This achievement is great news for our residents and our province as every vaccination delivered brings us one day closer to returning to normal.”

The SHA explained while their plan has been expanded, individuals in Phase 1 will continue with first and second doses until completed.

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Individuals who may be considered clinically extremely vulnerable will receive a letter with instructions for booking appointments. A complete list of clinically extremely vulnerable conditions is available at www.saskatchewan.ca/covid19.

“We continue to be a leader in Canada at getting vaccines into arms quickly and safely,” Saskatchewan Health Authority CEO Scott Livingstone said. “Achieving this milestone ahead of schedule is a reminder for us to celebrate and thank the health care workers who are working long hours to make this possible.”

Special Vaccination Leave Introduced

The Government of Saskatchewan has also amended The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020 to allow for paid time off from work for an employee to get vaccinated for COVID-19 and are effective immediately. Special Vaccination Leave is similar to provisions allowing residents to vote during a general election.

The new section 6-22.1, Special Vaccination Leave, establishes that during the pandemic:

• Workers are entitled to three consecutive hours leave during work hours to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.
• Workers are entitled to more than three consecutive hours if the employer determines the circumstances warrant a longer break from work.
• Workers do not lose any pay or other benefits while receiving a COVID-19 vaccination.

“We want to ensure that everyone in the province gets vaccinated,” Labour Relations and Workplace Safety Minister Don Morgan said. “The amendment today ensures workers also have paid time off during the work hours to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.”

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panews@jpbg.ca

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