[ARANGUEZ, 18 June 2021] — We are all aware of the devastating impacts on lives and livelihoods around the world, as a result of measures taken to address a global Pandemic that is well into its second year. Truth be told, the pandemic has also exposed existing structural problems in many countries, including Trinidad and Tobago (T&T), such as extensive informality, deficiencies in education and skills training, weak social protection systems, and economic and social inequalities.

The result was a health crisis turned into an economic and humanitarian disaster.

 [ARANGUEZ, 15 June 2021] — The issue of mandatory vaccination in respect of the COVID-19 virus has been an ongoing topic of discussion around the world,   especially pertaining to the world of work. As a responsible and committed social partner, the Employers Consultative Association of Trinidad and Tobago (ECA)   has been listening, taking into consideration the views currently being expressed by highly credible commentators on the subject locally and across the region,   while conducting its own research.

 Notwithstanding the strong arguments for mandatory vaccination, having considered the views expressed and based on our own findings to date, the ECA’s   position on the subject is that making vaccination mandatory in our jurisdiction must be well-researched and must ensure that inputs from stakeholders at all   levels of society – Government, business, labour and civil society are taken on board before any policy decision is declared or legislation enacted.