Good afternoon,

Since activating the National Business Resumption Plan in June, you’ve resumed various business functions and continued to support the emergency benefits programs. We know how hard you’ve been working, and we hope you have taken some well-earned summer vacation to relax and enjoy time with your friends and families.

Now, as the fall approaches, and other business functions are added, many of you are likely wondering how you will continue to balance your duties at work and home. In particular, you may be seeking clarity about specific support and work arrangements available should your childcare needs continue beyond the summer, depending on re-opening guidelines for schools and daycares where you live.

As you know, most provincial and territorial back-to-school plans have now been established. In line with the message that was shared with employees on July 8, 2020, we will continue to provide Leave with pay – COVID-19 Family Care (6992) under exceptional circumstances. Please note that choosing not to send your child to school or daycare based on preference or level of comfort is not considered an exceptional circumstance. You may, however, avail yourself of other leaves with or without pay that are available to you in your collective agreement or terms and conditions of employment.

We know this balancing act is not easy, and want to reassure you that the move to business resumption does not mean the end of our commitment to flexibility and adaptability. We encourage you to talk to your manager to determine the best plan for you and your family as the situation evolves. Managers are encouraged to remain flexible with their employees where possible based on operational considerations, while respecting the collective agreements or terms and conditions of employment.

We anticipate that physical distancing requirements will be in effect for the foreseeable future. We want to remind you that remote work will also continue to be prioritized where it is possible and that if you are working out of a CRA building, we assure you that your health and safety is still our number one priority.

We are aware that these changes at work and at home have upended normal routines, perhaps causing stress or frustration. Now, more than ever, it is important to be kind to yourself, your colleagues and your family. Remember that you and your family members can always talk to someone by calling the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

As the country continues to reopen at various stages, we want thank you for the phenomenal work you do to support Canadian individuals, families and businesses who need help during these challenging times. It is a privilege to work with each and every one of you and we are always amazed by your determination and resilience to put Canadians first. Thank you for your continued efforts – we are so proud.