Resort group tells staff to vaccinate or face twice monthly COVID tests
In a May 5, 2021, letter seen by Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), written by Company Director and Founder Christina Yates, staff were given an option to either follow the policy or be laid-off in the interest of protecting both staff and guests.
May 15, 2021 deadline given
"In the interest of preserving the health and safety of all of our staff and guests and doing our best to maintain a safe work environment, we ask that you provide us with proof of the first vaccine done by May 15, 2021," it said.
The letter went on to say, "I refer to section 135 of the BVI Labour Code which speaks to the duties of the employer and our responsibility for everyone's safety."
Persons who refuse to get vaccinated by May 15, 2021, can provide certification of a Negative COVID-19 test instead.
"Holders of a Negative COVID test who decide not to take the vaccine will need to provide proof of Negative RT-PCR Test every 14 (14) days. Cost of the testing will be borne by the employee. Failure to receive proof of at least the first dose of the vaccine and no Negative PCR test will result in a 'Lay off Notice,' employees were told.
The letter said 90 says will be provided in the first instance to allow employees to weigh their options relating to the advantage or disadvantages of taking the vaccine or being tested every 14 days.
Companies making similar moves
The letter has surfaced just as another company, Oil Nut Bay Resort on Virgin Gorda, had told its staff to either vaccinate or be laid off for 90 days; however, Oil Nut Bay Resort did not give its staff an option of regular COVID-19 tests.
With both companies referring to Section 135 of the VI Labour Code, 2010, subject Minister Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) told VINO on Thursday, May 6, 2021, that any complaint should be sent to the Labour Department.
Vaccination has not been made mandatory by the Government of the Virgin Islands.
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72 Responses to “Resort group tells staff to vaccinate or face twice monthly COVID tests”
The same way you read and misunderstand, and still telling people about the vaccine is crazy. From what i read , is that the Employees rights is not being violated. They have a choice . One or the other. No one is being force to get vaccinated. If the Vaccine is not what they want , then just get tested. I see no pressure here or there.
It is very simple. All those of you that will not comply to the businesses orders of a posible free work place, thendo soat your own expence. But do not complain against the consequences that will follow.
Soon after lawsuits are settled, it will be jail for none compliance!
HOW IT IS CRIMINAL FOR A OWNER OF A BUSINESS TO REQUIRE HIS EMPLOYEES TO BE VACCINATED? PLEASE EXPLAIN TOOOPID.
Where they don’t have vaccinated workers and the rest of us can be safe knowing you are not going to give us Covid.
FOOLS DIE FOR LACK OF WISDOM
He said only vaccinated will benefit from
The tourism sector.
I saw this coming after those statements.
Btw are we still in slavery?
Why are they telling us what we should put into our bodies?
Feels like slavery to me.
Yes boycott these businesses
When tourist season ends close your vaccinated businesses
I could care less.
If I take the vaccine and still get Covid at their workplace(proven by contact tracing).Can I sue the employee
EMPLOYERS Stop using the labor Code when it suits you..Be consistent and use it all the time
who caused it and balance the scales
Get the jab or be tested bi.weekly or fire dewuk and find another more to your personal desire or become self employed or not to be employed at all. You are also free to choose a Black owned business or White owned business for your new employment. This
These are choices given in the VI. You are also free to roam thither and yonder where requirements or no requirements are to your liking.
Reminder.. You are free. Get rid of the shackles and move on gracefully. Best Wishes for your future.