Teachers will not be bullied to take vaccine – SVGTU

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Teachers Union (SVGTU) wants the authorities to know that their members will not be bullied or forced into taking the COVID-19 vaccine.

Acting first vice president, Vanrick Williams, said at a press conference on Tuesday that the SVGTU’s membership is aware that it is not mandatory to take the COVID-19 vaccine at this time, but they feel that it is just a matter of time before it is compulsory.

He said that when it comes to vaccination, there are teachers who have taken the vaccine and are encouraging others to take it; those who will be taking it and those who are waiting to take the Russian version, Sputnik-V.

Williams said that some teachers believe the Sputnik-V is the best version of the vaccine as it was taken by “top ranking officials” and “the boss”, so they are waiting until Sputnik-V is offered.

Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves took the Sputnik-V vaccine last month.

 Williams stressed that not all teachers are unwilling to be vaccinated, but some are, on religious and other grounds.

“It is not say teachers are refusing to take the vaccine. Some are still doing research and they will make up their mind,” Williams said while noting the SVGTU’s general membership wants them to echo their sentiments that they feel intimidated and are being pressured into taking the vaccine.