COVID-19: Update for members working at the Corps of Commissionaires in BC

Fellow members of Local 20500,

Given the current situation and the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, I want to assure you that your Union is doing everything possible to stay on top of the latest information as it becomes available to us. The situation is very fluid and is certainly uncharted territory for everyone concerned. The Commissonaires Union may not have all of the answers but as situations present themselves, we will try to address them as quickly as possible.

Currently, there have some closures by businesses and/or a reduction in work at others. I know this is a concern for many members with regards to your financial well-being. Members of the Local Executive are meeting with the employer today via teleconference to address next steps to ensure our members are not without work - and if they are, what steps are being taken by the employer to provide some form of financial stability.

I will be asking specifically about two portions of the action plan that the Government of Canada has put into place to assist Canadians during this time of uncertainty: work-sharing and EI. The Corps of Commissionaires may have other options available that we are not aware of at this time and we will ensure that we leave no stone unturned as we work through this crisis. Please bear with us while the details are worked out and know that we are working on your behalf.

In the meantime, in order to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19, everyone has a role to play. It takes more than governments and action from the health sector to protect the health and safety of Canadians. Each of us can help our country be prepared in the event of an emergency by understanding how the virus spreads and how to prevent illness. For updates and information, visit the Government of Canada COVID-19 page and the BC Ministry of Health COVID-19 page.

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with me via email at nancysermons@gmail.com

In Solidarity,

Nancy Sermons

President, DCL 20500

Commissionaires Union of BC