From Erynne Grant, Labour Relations Officer
Yesterday’s news has created excitement for some and anxiety for others. I know there are questions regarding the College’s CamNews announcement, and I take your comments, concerns and requests seriously and remain committed to assisting whenever possible.
Many of you have already reached out in previous months inquiring about the continuation of remote work, post pandemic. The messaging has remained the same: The College views remote work as temporary.
You’ll recall, in advance of ‘lock down’, we agreed with the College that safety was of paramount concern and the hollowing out of our campuses began. This decision was made with full understanding that we do not have remote work language in our Collective Agreement. Safety drove our decision then and will guide our return now.
A return to campus is an Employer directive and will be made in accordance with direction from the Provincial Health Officer and WorkSafe BC requirements.
For CUPE 2081, this means, if we are directed back to campus and our workplace safety can be reasonably assured, we go back. I respect this will be welcome news to some and anxiety inducing for others. Please know, I hear you and I mirror all your concerns. We are a unionized public sector workplace, directed by Government and must negotiate with the College, our Employer, in accordance with Government directives and the Public Sector Employers Association, of which Camosun is a member.
This means, for us, bargaining is the mechanism to address remote work post pandemic. When the CUPE 2081 bargaining survey goes out next year, I expect a high response rate for negotiating remote work language in a new Collective Agreement!
I anticipated engagement with the College regarding negotiating a safe return to campus this spring/summer but after yesterday’s announcement, all timelines have likely moved up. Please know, I am doing everything reasonably possible to support each of you, while advocating for safety. This has not been an easy path to tread and while competing interests crop up from time to time, I take my responsibility to you all seriously. I also thank you for your continued support and commitment to our community and too each other.
There will be more questions to follow now that we see light at the end of this roller coaster. Continue to read Camnews. Important information will be shared in the coming weeks and months. As we learn new information, I will also send out updates to you all.
Employee Resources – COVID-19 – Camosun College
Your concerns are duly noted, and I remain committed to assisting in all ways possible.
In solidarity,
Erynne Grant l Labour Relations Officer