The Feds Have Explained Why Canada’s Policy On Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccinations Changed

Officials from the federal government have explained why Canada's mandatory COVID-19 vaccination rules have been updated.

On August 13, the feds announced that COVID-19 vaccines will be compulsory for Canada's federal workers and employees in the federally regulated air, rail, and marine transportation sector. Canadians who travel via plane, train or cruise ship will also be impacted by the mandate.

On several occasions previously, Justin Trudeau said that COVID-19 vaccines would not be made mandatory in Canada. In February, he stated "That's not the way we do things in Canada."

In July, the PM said that enforcement measures were not necessary, as so many Canadians had stepped up to get vaccinated.

However, speaking on Friday, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs Dominic LeBlanc explained why the situation had changed.

"This is an evolution of the government's posture in protecting the health and safety of Canadians since the beginning of the pandemic," he said.

LeBlanc continued, "We have scientific data but also real-world evidence on how remarkably effective are the vaccines that have been approved for use by Health Canada."

*This article's cover image is for illustrative purposes only.

Health Canada has a robust website with all the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines and can answer any questions you may have.