VACCINE BUBBLE TO INCLUDE CONTRACTORS

The Government today said that contractors, their agents and subcontractors must follow the vaccine bubble arrangement to be implemented at government buildings and offices from February 16.

The vaccine bubble for government employees will take effect from February 16 at all government buildings and offices.

The Financial Services & the Treasury Bureau has issued a circular memorandum to all bureaus and departments to direct them that suitable clauses should be incorporated in all service contracts awarded on or after that day, requiring contractors, their agents and subcontractors to follow the vaccine bubble arrangement as well.

Except for those who are medically unfit for COVID-19 vaccination as supported by a valid medical certificate or pregnant staff with prior exemption granted on a case-by-case basis, all employees of the service contractors, their agents and subcontractors will be required to present a jab record of at least the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine when they enter indoor government premises for work-related purposes.

Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui said that expanding the vaccine bubble at government buildings and offices to cover service contractors could further fortify the protective barrier, reduce the risk of the spread of mutant strains and safeguard the health of government employees and the public.

Financial regulators, including the Insurance Authority, the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority and the Financial Reporting Council, will also roll out the same vaccine bubble arrangement at their office buildings and premises from February 16 to cover employees and staff of service contractors.

The vaccination rate of the employees of various financial regulators is now over 90%, Mr Hui noted.

He said: "I strongly believe that as long as everyone works together to set a good example to all walks of life by trying their best to implement the vaccine bubble arrangement, it will surely be conducive to steady economic recovery and resumption of the normal operation of society."

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