COVID-19 update for correctional employees: October 15, 2021

This content is a message to Correctional Service Canada (CSC) staff from CSC's Commissioner.

I hope everyone had the opportunity to mark Thanksgiving weekend in a meaningful way and were able to connect with loved ones. For those of you who worked over the long weekend, thank you for your continued dedication to public safety. Your contributions are essential and appreciated.

COVID-19

Following last week’s announcement on the new vaccination policy, I am pleased to see that 64% of you have already completed the online attestation in the GC-VATS system:

• Declare your COVID-19 vaccination status

If you have not had a chance to do so yet, you still have until October 29 to complete your attestation. Remember to use Chrome as your internet browser.

Over the past weeks, there has been an increase in hospitalization among younger Canadians who are not fully vaccinated, and surgeries and treatments are being postponed in some areas of the country. Thank you to those who have rolled up your sleeves to get fully vaccinated. Vaccinations play a central role in stopping the spread of COVID-19, but additional measures are also necessary. Please continue to:

• wear your mask
• wash/sanitize your hands, and
• keep a two metre distance from others

Please stay home if you feel sick. Your efforts go a long way to keeping our:

• institutions
• community offices, and
• workplaces

safe and healthy, and are much appreciated.

I am pleased to report that over 77% of inmates across the country are now fully vaccinated, and 83% have received at least one dose. This is helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our institutions. Kudos to those of you who continue to play a key role in increasing the amount of inmates who get vaccinated and being available to answer their questions or concerns. This will help to ensure that our environments continue to be safe and healthy.

International Conflict Resolution Day

October 21 is International Conflict Resolution Day, which promotes peaceful means of resolving conflict, such as by mediation or arbitration. It is important to resolve conflict early by avoiding blame and judgment, and instead use:

• collaboration
• empathy, and
• understanding

to help meet each other’s needs and resolve situations. Resolving issues in a healthy, respectful and productive manner is crucial and contributes to our workplace wellbeing.

You are invited to join the panel discussion on October 21 from 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm (ET) that focuses on this year’s theme:

• Compassionate Conflict Resolution: Respecting Identities, Intersectionality

Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign

This time of year, particularly around Thanksgiving, often inspires us to reflect on the things we are grateful for. It also helps us consider how we can give back and support others in our community. The Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign (GCWCC), which runs until December, provides an ideal opportunity to support the charity that means the most to you. Consider donating just $2 per day; this can make a huge difference to someone in your community. The GCWCC supports a variety of organizations and causes, including:

• youth and mental health programs
• homelessness
• health-care organizations, and
• medical research

Find out more about the GCWCC and how your generosity can help:

• Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign

Thank you for your day-to-day commitment and dedication to CSC. The work you do every day is an important contribution to the safety of our communities. I am grateful for everything that you do.