Morning Update – March 24
March 24, 2020
Morning Update – March 24
Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau used some of his strongest language yet to encourage everyone to take the COVID-19 pandemic seriously, saying, “Enough is enough. Go home and stay home”.
Last night, Premier Doug Ford’s office released the list of essential workplaces that are allowed to remain open after 11:59pm tonight. Among other things, the list includes grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, and pet stores.
The list does not preclude the provision of work and services being provided either online, by phone, or by mail/delivery. Carleton President Bacon confirmed this morning that the since the University is operating with employees working remotely, it will remain open. CUASA continues to remain concerned that the University is planning to continue with business, without serious considerations for the drain on home resources and escalated workloads that our members are experiencing.
CUASA is continuing to receive a number of emails from members expressing concern about the summer term, accommodation needs and workload increases. We are encouraging members to share your concerns with your Dean as well. We are also continuing to discuss these concerns with the University administration.
President Bacon also announced this morning that the Academic Continuity Committee is looking at a number of pressing issues, notably alternative grading options for students, tenure and promotion deferrals for faculty, and options for the postponement of spring Convocation. He said these decisions will involve consultation with Senate and with the unions, however, CUASA wishes to inform its members that many of these decisions are being made before meaningful consultations are had with the unions. We will continue to do our part and work through arising issues arising from decisions being exclusively made by the University administration.
We would also like to take a moment to remind members that there is just one week left to complete the pre-bargaining survey, if you have not already. Members will find a link to the survey in their email. Please note that this survey is meant only for CUASA bargaining unit members. We kindly ask that you please not share the link to the survey.
There is also just one week left to submit nominations for CUASA President for the 2020-2022 term of office. For more information on the nominations and elections process, and the positions available, visit our How to Volunteer page.
