Item - 2022.ZB21.9

The Board of Management of the Toronto Zoo:

1.  Approved the continued implementation of the following policies until May 30, 2022 or until the high-risk animals in the Zoo's care have been inoculated:

a. requiring proof of vaccination for persons 12 years and older to enter the Zoo;

b. requiring mandatory vaccination of all staff; and

c. requiring the wearing of masks in sensitive areas of all staff and contractors.

Since our last meeting of the Board of Management, the Ontario government released its plan to lift COVID-19 restrictions and regulations as part of its re-opening plan. On March 1, vaccination mandates were lifted for certain businesses that were previously required to have mandates under Regulation 364/20. On March 21, mandatory masking requirements were also eased. As these Government directives pertaining to certain COVID-19 health and safety measures were lifted, individual organizations have been provided the authority to keep health and safety policies in place.

Your Toronto Zoo endeavours to ensure a safe, inclusive and inviting experience for our team, animals, guests and community. Overall, we have experienced a relatively small number of staff reporting positive for COVID-19 and there have been no known cases amongst our COVD-19 susceptible animals. We attribute this to our vigilant and proactive approach to the implementation of various health and safety measures throughout the course of the pandemic to protect our team, animals, guests and community. 

The systems and processes we have in place have proven to be effective at keeping our team and animals healthy and safe. As such your Zoo, with the support of our Wildlife Science team has made the decision to continue to take additional precautions.