Dear members,
We know you are watching and listening to the latest news and updates from Dr Bonnie Henry, including the messaging that wearing masks is now an “expectation” in public indoor spaces. Many members have welcomed this shift in language and we’ve appreciated hearing from you. We also appreciate hearing from those of you not in agreement. We understand the concerns of those who feel the move is not far enough and recognize that some individuals are unable to meet the new expectations. We request that you continue to employ patience and compassion in your interactions with each other. We are often not aware of the personal circumstances that factor in to an individual’s actions and they are not compelled to disclose. If you feel comfortable discussing your situation with a supervisor we encourage you to do so.
You will find the employer’s plan and response on the Hub. The union continues to be engaged in the conversation – at the Executive level, through the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee, and with the employer at the Union Management Committee table. At this time, the position of the executive is to ensure the employer continues to respond and adjust in accordance with health authorities. As with everything, this is an active discussion and we will communicate any developments.
You are not expected or required to remain in a situation that puts you directly at risk. Please continue to assess the situations you are in and adjust accordingly where maintaining a distance of 6 feet from an individual without a mask is not possible.
Yours in solidarity,
Kari