COVID-19 is a virus that can cause a serious medical illness, the risk of which can be effectively minimized by vaccinations. Recently in Alberta, there has again been a very significant increase in infections with hospitalizations and admissions into intensive care rising rapidly. On September 15, 2021, the government of Alberta declared a further state of public health emergency.
The Court of Appeal of Alberta, the Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta and the Provincial Court of Alberta (the Courts) have a responsibility to provide a safe location for all individuals who voluntarily come to or who are compelled to attend court. In furtherance of this responsibility, the Courts announced on September 21, 2021 their respective Policies on the need to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to access secure Court workspaces.
The Courts now provide notice that effective November 1, 2021, all Court staff, including clerks and court technology personnel, and Sheriffs must be fully vaccinated to access courtrooms in Alberta courthouses.
Catherine A. Fraser, Chief Justice of Alberta
Mary T. Moreau, Chief Justice, Court of Queen’s Bench of Alberta
Derek G. Redman, Chief Judge, Provincial Court of Alberta