Labour minister ‘against bosses’ vaccine bullying’

No employer can force their workers to take the COVID-19 vaccine even though they ought to take the jab, Minister of Labour and Social Relations Colin Jordan said as he addressed the nation during Wednesday’s COVID-19 live update.

Jordan noted that though no official reports had reached  his office about any bosses pressuring their employees to get the shot, the Government’s stance on such an act is crystal clear.

The labour minister said: “The Government has indicated that the vaccine rollout is optional; we strongly encourage people to take the vaccine for their own good, for the good of their relatives and friends, and for the good of the country, however, vaccination is not compulsory.

“The medical profession has been clear on that, the Attorney General [Dale Marshall] I think has also been very clear, the Prime Minister [Mia Mottley] has been clear on that. It is not a mandatory thing, even though we strongly encourage people.”

Jordan acknowledged that some employers may strongly insist or coerce their employees to take the shot but stressed it is currently illegal to force any worker to take the vaccine.  (SB)