The door has been opened for teachers who lost their jobs last November, after refusing to be vaccinated for COVID-19, to be re-employed by the Government.

Prime Minister Dr Ralph Gonsalves, who made the announcement this morning at the launch of the Volcanic Eruption Emergency Project (VEEP) said under a new regime recommended by the Chief Medical Officer, there will no longer be a requirement for 100 per cent vaccination against COVID-19 for adult workers at learning institutions.

Staff however will be required to strictly adhere to a layered approach which includes masking, regular testing, sanitization, spacing and ventilation.

The Prime Minister emphasized that this offer is not a reinstatement of teachers, and interested persons would have to apply for employment.

He said the Ministry of Education and the Chief Personnel would soon make an announcement about the period within which applications would have to be received because of the need to staff schools in time for the new school year.

The requirement for 100 per cent vaccination for health care workers remains.

Vaccination will not be required for employment within the police force, the port authority and the rest of the public service, but masking, sanitation, spacing and vaccine advocacy will continue.