HSR expects 10% of drivers won't have 2 COVID-19 shots by next week

The HSRis predicting service disruptions as soon as this week because it expects up to 10 per cent of its drivers will not to have both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Starting next Thursday (Nov. 4), all city employees who haven't provided proof of two shots will enter Hamilton's rapid testing program.

The vaccine policy is a tool to keep staff and visitors to city facilities safe and healthy, sid Lora Fontana,the city's executive director of human resources, in a media release.

"As we look to implement the city's COVID-19 rapid testing program, those employees who have chosen not to become vaccinated or not disclose their vaccination status to the city will need to submit their rapid test results starting on Nov.4," she said.

"Our policy has provided city employees with a choice, while allowing the city to continue safely delivering services to the residents of Hamilton."

The Amalgamated Transit UnionLocal 107, whichrepresentsroughly 1,000 city transit workers, has been critical of the approach.

Whilepresident Eric Tuck has said the union encourages its members to get vaccinated, he's been vocal in his objection to mandatory shots, describing the policy as"draconian."

The city says it's preparing for delays and disruptions by taking the following steps:

• Monitoring affected routes to maintain service.
• Prioritizing service at thestart and end of the day.
• Identifying high frequencyroutes that can be modified if needed.

The transit provider is encouragingcustomers to download theHSRnow app and to follow the HSR on social media for service updates.

"HSRcontinues to encourage employees to comply with the policy by getting vaccinated or getting tested regularly to ensure a healthy and safe environment," said director of transit Maureen Cosyn Heath.

"We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause our customers and commit to sharing up-to-date information with them as soon as it becomes available."