WINNIPEG - Manitoba Public Insurance says those who have a New Year’s resolution to get a driver’s licence will have two options: either provide a negative COVID-19 test, or provide proof that they’re fully immunized against COVID-19.
The non-profit Crown corporation says, starting on January 3, 2022, customers taking a road test or an in-office knowledge test — including Classes 1 to 5 — will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 rapid test result or full vaccination before entering any MPI location.
While the change applies to customers, MPI says contractors and consultants who may interact with MPI employees will also be required to either show proof of full vaccination or proof of a negative test result 48 hours before arriving to work at an MPI location. The agency explains that the policy applies to third-party individuals, such as contractors, consultants, volunteers, board members, students, and instructors, in addition to students.
The new rule will coincide with a similar policy for all MPI staff that will come into effect on the same day. All MPI employees will be required to either take a COVID-19 test every 48 hours before going to work or present proof that they were fully immunized.
MPI president and CEO Eric Herbelin says the insurer says it’s committed to taking “reasonable precautions” to ensure the health and safety of its employees, customers, and the public for the duration of the pandemic. But Herbelin notes the policy will be reviewed regularly.
Manitobans who need to get tested for COVID-19 can find the nearest testing location using a searchable map available on the province’s website.
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