Why aren't COVID-19 vaccinations required for Ottawa police officers?

Unlike federal government and city workers, who could lose their jobs if they aren’t vaccinated, Ottawa police officers can continue working without getting their shots.

Unlike federal government and city workers, who could lose their jobs if they aren’t vaccinated, police officers can continue working without getting their shots.

Instead, unvaccinated officers will be required to undergo rapid testing every three days.

The Ottawa Police Service will pay for the tests at designated locations. If officers go elsewhere, they'll have to pay out of pocket.

"Members are expected to make arrangements for testing at OPS identified testing locations. Should members attend a non-OPS identified testing location, such as a pharmacy, the employee will be responsible for the costs," an OPS spokesperson said in a statement to CTV News Ottawa.