The City of Saskatoon issued a news release around 9 o’clock last night (Monday) saying that it would require masks starting September 1st on Saskatoon Transit and when accessing indoor City-operated facilities and services.

The City of Saskatoon has also decreed that with the rise of COVID-19 cases in the Saskatoon region, it is introducing regular mandatory COVID-19 rapid tests for all City staff who report to the workplace. Mandatory testing of staff regardless of their vaccination status is scheduled to start mid-September.

Pamela Goulden-McLeod, Director, Saskatoon’s Emergency Management Organization says, “Tests identify asymptomatic cases of COVID before they can enter the workplace, including in those who are fully vaccinated who are still able to catch and transmit the virus.”

City Council supported the mandatory testing for City staff and added that they would like Administration to explore the possibility of adjustments for fully vaccinated staff.

Also at its August 30 meeting, City Council requested that Administration explore and report back on the following items in the coming weeks:
• The potential implementation of vaccine requirements for City staff only, in consultation with local health authorities; and
• Following the Government of Saskatchewan’s update on August 30, 2021 that “businesses, municipalities, venue and event organizers may request proof of vaccination to host and attend events or access their services,” to provide Council with advice on how this could apply to civic events, events in civic facilities and other relevant gatherings.