Several Ontario Universities Will Keep Vaccine Mandates Despite Restriction Lifting
Proof of vaccination will still be required at these schools.
Ontario universities are stepping forward to say they won't be lifting vaccine certificate requirements despite the provincial government's fast-tracked reopening plan.
Post-secondary schools including Western University, York University and the University of Guelph announced this month that they would not change their vaccine policies until the winter semester ends.
Lucy Fromowitz, vice provost of York University, revealed last Thursday that the school would not be updating its COVID-19 policies for the winter term to prioritize the health and safety of all community members.
"In light of changes to the province's phased re-opening plan, I'm writing to share that the University has determined that there will be no change to York's health and safety protocols, processes, or approach at this time," Fromowitz said in a statement.
Western's vaccination policy and masking requirement will also remain in effect.
"As we stay focused on our goal of remaining on campus for the rest of the term, we will continue to adhere to a number of health and safety guidelines to keep our community healthy and safe," said John Doerksen, Western's acting provost and vice president.
However, the University of Guelph appears to be more open to shifting its COVID-19 restrictions. While the university said it intends to uphold its vaccination policy until the end of the winter term, it said an update on the policy will come in March.
"In the weeks ahead, the University will review the policy in light of the changing landscape and provide an update in mid-March," a statement from the university reads.
Health Canada has a robust website with all the latest information on COVID-19 vaccines and can answer any questions you may have.