Media Release: Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) Vancouver Local

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

As we continue to deal with the Covid-19 outbreak, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) Vancouver Local would like to recognize the postal workers who continue to work tirelessly to ensure Canadians continue to receive their mail and packages during this unprecedented time.  The Public Post Office is an essential service for Canadians, especially now for those under quarantine, have self-isolated, and are practicing social distancing.

During this extraordinary time, we ask that you please practice social distancing from postal workers while they provide this essential service. We also ask that if you are able, please regularly clean your mail receptacles, elevators, and entrance ways including door handles at entry points.

While many Canadians remain at home we understand that access to food, medical prescriptions, and supplies is a concern –Postal Workers can help.  Our members are committed to working safely, and ensuring that Canadians continue to be supported by their Public Post Office.

Regards,

Chris Zukowsky

President

CUPW Vancouver Local 846

LOCAL OFFICE ACCESS

Due to the ongoing safety concerns surrounding COVID-19 the Maritime Labour Centre will be closed to all “drop in ” visitors. Should you wish to make an appointment please contact us at: 604-685-6581.

We apologize for the inconvenience.

COVID-19 and Special Leave for Child Care or Elder Care 

Canada Post has issued a three-stage approach for folks dealing with circumstances outside of their control concerning the sudden challenges of school and daycare closures, as well as for those who need to care for elderly parents.The approach issued by Canada Post as understood by CUPW Vancouver Local is as follows:

Employees in this situation should inform their supervisor or team leader right away, and continue seeking alternative child care arrangements. If needed, the following three-stage approach is now in place:

  1. Employees must first use any remaining personal days
  2. Once personal days are exhausted, up to an additional five (5) days of paid special leave may be approved
  3. If further special leave is required, employees must inform their team leader or supervisor who will escalate the request to their General Manager for review and decision

As the information and direction concerning COVID-19 is rapidly changing, we expect that Canada Post will be updating its policies and procedures, accordingly. Once we receive updated information, we will do our best to quickly communicate the updates as we understand them.

If you have any questions or concerns, or feel that your rights to access paid special leave have not been upheld, please contact one of the CUPW Vancouver Local Officers at 604 685 6581.

LOCAL ELECTIONS POSTPONED

Due to the ongoing safety concerns surrounding COVID-19, the Vancouver local has decided to err on side of caution and will be postponing the annual March elections. More information to follow. We apologize for the inconvenience.

 

 

 

 

 

CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

As of March 5, 2020, 45 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Canada. In addition, the Government of Quebec reported their third case of COVID-19 and the Government of Alberta reported their first case of COVID-
19. The provinces have sent their presumptive positive samples to the National Microbiology Laboratory for further testing.

The risk to Canadian travellers may vary depending on their destination. We invite you to consult the PHAC website (below) to find out how COVID-19 is spreading in different countries.
www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html

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