A Message from the President (April 21, 2022)

Posted on Thursday, April 21st, 2022

Dear Colleagues and Learners,

Earlier this month, I announced that a number of planned changes to our COVID-19 policy would take effect on May 1, if there was not an identified heightened risk to health and safety for employees and learners.

In her most recent update, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Vera Etches, stated that Ottawa continues to see high levels of COVID-19 across the community, with individuals strongly encouraged to wear masks in indoor settings, particularly where physical distancing may be difficult or impossible. Her recommendation is based on wastewater data analysis, per cent positivity rates, outbreaks and hospitalizations during this prevailing sixth pandemic wave.

As a result of this direction from Ottawa Public Health, Algonquin College will maintain its mandatory COVID-19 mask policy after May 1 and until further notice. This means that all those required to attend our campuses must continue to wear a mask.

The other changes that were announced in my last communiqué will proceed as planned and will take effect on May 1. They include:

  • Active screening for COVID-19 and proof of vaccination checks will no longer be required at campus entrances. All building entrances to our campuses will be reopened.
  • Employees and learners are still encouraged to monitor and self-screen for symptoms before coming to campus. If you are feeling unwell, please stay at home.
  • The College’s Mobile Safety App screening functions will be paused unless conditions change and reactivation is required; therefore, you can reference the City of Ottawa COVID-19 Screening Tool for Workplaces/Postsecondary Institutions.
  • Distancing of 2 metres will be encouraged on our campuses.
  • Policy HS 16 will be suspended until such time as conditions change and the policy needs to be reinstated.

Please note that all precautions will continue to be encouraged, including handwashing and hand sanitizing, and cough and sneeze etiquette. In addition, we strongly encourage people to get their full vaccination and booster shots against COVID-19, as advised by public health authorities.

The College is monitoring the situation and the directives of local public health officials on a daily basis. We will continue to place the health and safety of the College community as our top priority. Any other changes in direction will be communicated directly with learners and employees.

Thank you, and stay safe.

Claude Brulé
President and CEO

 


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