PSA encourages members to get vaccinated, but not mandatory

29 November 2021

The Public Servants Association (PSA), one of the largest public-sector, has called on its members to get the COVID-19 vaccination whilst warning that such vaccination should not be a mandatory process.

The PSA is, however, concerned about the fact that government is mulling over possible mandatory vaccination for certain sectors. The PSA encourages its members to get vaccinated, especially those employed in the Health sector, Correctional Services, the Education sector, Home Affairs, and the SA Police Service where service delivery presents a high risk of exposure. The PSA, however, maintain that vaccination should be totally voluntary. Many people are still afraid on the effects of the vaccine and making vaccination mandatory will add to this anxiety.

Government should step up its efforts to educate South Africans about the benefits and possible negative effects of being vaccinated rather than wasting resources on mandatory vaccination. Resources should be channelled on ensuring that employees have access to personal protective equipment and that workplaces are safe.

The majority of the PSA’s members commute daily, utilising public transport, which is major contributor to the spread of the virus. Employers should step up their effort in ensuring that employees have the necessary tools to work remotely as far as possible as this will greatly contribute to curbing infections.

The PSA, whilst encouraging voluntary vaccination, calls on all workers to, as the festive season approaches, take extra precaution to protect themselves and their loved ones against the deadly virus.

Issued by PSA, 29 November 2021