Niagara Health, took an international holiday vacation to the Dominican Republic and other countries from December 18, 2020, until at least January 5, 2021, contrary to public health advice to avoid non-essential international travel. Upon his vacation being reported on by the press, Stewart apologized, said he regretted it, and that everyone should avoid non-essential travel. Union leaders representing Ontario Council of Hospital Unions/CUPE, the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario, and SEIU Healthcare characterized Stewart's decision as "irresponsible" and poor leadership during a time that frontline health workers were struggling. On January 6, 2021, Niagara Health's board of directors voted to end its agreement with St. Joseph’s Health System to purchase Stewart's CEO services, replacing him on an interim basis with its president, Lynn Guerriero. References External links Niagara Health official website Douglas Memorial Site information Greater Niagara General Site information Port Colborne Site information St. Catharines Site information Welland Hospital Site information Hospital networks in Canada Regional Municipality of Niagara