CUPE Nova Scotia

COVID-19 UPDATE March 18, 2020

March 18, 2020March 18, 2020

New National Measures

Today the Prime Minister announced a series of new economic measures to support Canadians impacted financially by COVID-19. New income supports are available for those forced to stay home because of caregiving responsibilities or illness, or who have lost their income through layoff or shutdown. More details are available here: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2020/03/canadas-covid-19-economic-response-plan-support-for-canadians-and-businesses.html#Support_for_Canadians

Additional Public Services Closures in Nova Scotia

Effective immediately, Department of Community Services-funded day programs for people with disabilities will be suspended. Families will be able to receive respite care through group homes. Members working in these programs will be placed on administrative leave with pay. Please contact your employer directly for more details.

Questions from Home Care Workers

We know that many home care workers are receiving mixed guidance from employers as to whether or not they are allowed to check in with clients before visits and at what point services are withdrawn to protect home care workers’ safety. Public Health is aware of these concerns and is working on drafting protocols. We will be in touch at the earliest opportunity with an update.

In the meantime, please visit the Nova Scotia Home Support website for COVID-19 Updates including information on the precautionary principle and the right to refuse: https://nshomesupport.cupe.ca/

CUPE LOCAL 108 UPDATE TO MEMBERS RE COVID-19

March 18, 2020

Everyone is aware that there have been at least four presumptive, and one confirmed, cases of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia, all travel related. The Federal and Provincial governments have released COVID-19 protocols on travel, self-isolation and general health, safety and well-being practices. HRM is following these protocols.

I know that the uncertainty is causing anxiety and stress for many people. CUPE Local 108 executive have received many calls with concerns from members. We are trying to answer your questions and address your concerns, but we are also seeking out informed answers to your questions. Here is what we know:

Information for Continuing Care Sector on COVID-19

March 18, 2020March 18, 2020

The following information is from a NS Government Fact Sheet

1. I have employees who returned from travel outside of Canada BEFORE March 13, 2020. Should these employees be directed to self isolate?

No, however employees who returned from travel outside of Canada BEFORE March 13, 2020 are expected to closely monitor their health. If the employee begins to experience symptoms (fever, new cough, or difficulty breathing), they are required to self-isolate and call 811 for direction. More information on when you should call 811 can be found at: https://811.novascotia.ca/health_topics/covid-19-when-to-call-811/