Columbia Basin Trust is moving forward with implementation of a proof of vaccination policy requiring staff and Board members to be fully vaccinated by the end of November.

“It is critically important we remain vigilant in our efforts to support a safe and healthy workplace,” said Johnny Strilaeff, President & CEO of the Trust. “The decision to implement a proof of vaccination policy was made after careful consideration of a range of issues, including workplace health and safety as well as legally protected rights under human rights laws. We are committed to implementing the policy in a manner that respects this full range of considerations.”

Throughout the pandemic, the Trust has taken guidance from the Provincial Health Officer, Interior Health and WorkSafeBC when developing workplace health and safety protocols. The Trust will continue to adapt workplace policies as recommended by these agencies, and a proof of vaccination policy is the most recent example of a further layer of protection against the spread of COVID-19 in the workplace. The new policy is aligned with the Province of BC’s direction for public sector organizations, along with several other Crown corporations, local governments and private sector businesses in the province.

The initial phase of the policy will include employees and Board members; however, further work is being done to investigate expansion of the policy to include contractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders with whom the Trust may interact with on a face-to-face basis. There is currently no requirement to present proof of vaccination to visit any one of the Trust’s four locations in the region; however, there are strict protocols that must be respected while visiting.

Columbia Basin Trust supports the ideas and efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin. To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, and how it helps deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the Basin, visit ourtrust.org or call 1.800.505.8998.