March 17th 2020

We had discussions with the employer today in regard to Covid 19 virus and many of our concerns. We discussed closing off the front seat around the operator, loading from the back door, the possibility of free rides, education of the public in regard to social distancing and hovering the bus pass when entering the bus, as well we spoke of the close contact Access Operators have when loading and unloading clients.

The employer has been attempting to acquire such things as alcohol wipes, hand sanitizer and gloves, the manufacturers have limited the amounts companies can order to make more available to the more critical areas such as health care providers and hospital staff. We have a bit of a supply and the EMO has directed to not start handing any of it out until they give the go ahead, it was approved today that Access Transit Operator’s will be given a very limited supply of nitrile gloves they can use when helping clients to and from the bus. The rest of our concerns have been heard by EMO and are being contemplated, we also spoke about those that are have been told to isolate the employers position is they get paid sick time, we disagree and this is something we can sort out after the smoke clears on all this. Those that need to be home to take of children with the schools closing, please let Transat know ASAP they are allowing LOA’s on a case by case basis.

Trudeau announced today that there will be programs for those that need to care for loved ones at home, we don’t know what that looks like yet.

Please remember wash your hands practice social distancing and stay diligent in these uncertain times.

Your Executive Board