Good Evening Members,

The government has just released an updated document of their COVID-19 Health & Safety Guidelines for K-12 settings.  While the Union does not support some of the statements made in this document based on our own personal experiences and exchanges with members regarding COVID-19.  There are certain criteria that we are required to adhere to while in the workplace, however, there are some things that you are NOT required to do; such as….

• Download the COVID-19 tracker app to your personal cell phone.  Member DO NOT have to do this, by asking you to do this it is not only a violation of your personal privacy, members should never be asked or directed by their supervisor to use their personal cell phones.
• Provide details either in writing or electronically relating to the Daily Self Assessments, any collecting of a members medical information is a violation of their privacy and should never be condoned.
• Be forced to use your sick time or take an unpaid leave if you are required to self-isolate at the direction of a Health Authority. (more information to follow on this)

We have also received some inquiries from members regarding vaccines, and if once a member is vaccinated are they still required to adhere to all of the social distancing, and wearing of PPE.  At this point in time the answer is “Yes”.  The vaccination is simply an attempt to strengthen a persons immune system so that should they become infected with the virus their symptoms will be minimal at best, thus not requiring any emergent hospital care.

Members seeking further clarity to this document, or any other Health & Safety item, are encouraged to email their sites CUPE JOHSC Rep so that the issue(s) can be addressed at your sites next meeting.

In Solidarity