Ottawa – The Steering Committee of the Standing Committee on Internal Economy, Budgets and Administration (CIBA) has announced the suspension of the COVID-19 vaccination requirement in Senate workplaces, effective June 20, 2022.

Today’s decision means that Senate staff members do not need to be vaccinated as a condition of employment. Also, members of the Parliamentary Press Gallery, visitors, guests, contractors, volunteers and interns do not need to be vaccinated in order to access Senate premises.

Quick facts

• The decision was made in light of the high vaccination rates among Senate staff (between 97% and 98% depending on staffing fluctuations), decreasing COVID-19 cases, and the easing of vaccination requirements in Ontario and Quebec.
• Preventive measures remain in place at the Senate including masking, physical distancing, and contact tracing for confirmed cases. The Senate will continue to follow public health guidance and advice.

Associated links

• Nov. 1, 2021: Senate to require COVID-19 vaccination for all staff
• Mar. 25, 2022: Easing of certain COVID-19 preventive measures in Senate workplaces

For more information:
Alison Korn
Issues Management and Media Relations Advisor | Senate of Canada
613-410-1892 | alison.korn@sen.parl.gc.ca