The success of the vaccination roll-out in Northern Ireland has been well publicised and one major Co. Armagh business will play a role in the next possible big development.
As booking opened up for the 25 to 29 age group today (Thursday), Moy Park announced that they would be piloting a workplace vaccination process.
The business, which has 6,000 employees, confirmed they would be working in partnership with the Public Health Agency and local health service providers to deliver this, initially at their Craigavon facility from today.
Back in January, the poultry firm had also introduced rapid lateral flow tests across its sites as part of a government pilot.
Speaking following the announcement, HR & Performance Director Kirsty Wilkins, said that the initiative would ensure the safety of employees both at work and at home.
“We are proud to be playing our part to help tackle the spread of coronavirus and are pleased to be able to enable our staff access to the vaccine during work hours for their convenience”, she said.
The onsite vaccination programme is to be delivered by local health service providers in line with all government guidelines and requirements.
Ms Wilkins commented that the business were grateful to the Department of Health, Public Health Agency and Northern and Southern Health and Social Care Trusts for their support.
She added: “Safety is a condition at Moy Park and we continue to maintain the highest level of vigilance to stop the virus coming into our facilities and help prevent its transmission.”
Meanwhile, Head of Health Improvement for the Northern area at the PHA, Maurice Meehan, explained the initiative would help explore the value of such schemes.
He said: “We are grateful to Moy Park for the opportunity to explore the learning from the pilot and potential added value through increased uptake for those who access the vaccine.
“Vaccination is the most important thing we can do to protect our community against serious illnesses. When enough people get vaccinated, it’s harder for a disease to spread. This will help protect you and others.”
“Members of the public that are eligible can book their COVID-19 vaccine online.
To find out who is currently eligible and how to book visit the government website.
