May 22, 2020 - COVID-19 Update

Colleagues,

With the warm and sunny weather upon us, the introduction of household bubbles and the gradual re-opening of some public spaces, I find myself feeling hopeful.

While it’s clear that the future is still unknown, and adhering to public health directives remains crucial, I very much look forward to an eventual return to more normal operations. As we look to what’s next, I want to provide reassurance that we are developing plans, processes and protocols with your safety and wellbeing top of mind.

We understand that this process will be another complex undertaking, that must consider the diverse needs of our workforce and work environments. We will continue to work closely with business units to determine employee-based solutions that work for all.

Our organization’s ability to provide high-quality public services wouldn’t be possible without all of you. And because of that, it’s our job to provide you with the support and flexibility you need to make a difference in our communities.

We also continue to evaluate and adapt our safety practices to help ensure those who work in the public are protected.

As you know, Regional Council is concluding the second week of budget deliberations today. I will provide a further update about how their decisions will impact our operational and capital budget in the coming weeks.

Thank you all for your perseverance and patience as we work to get through this rare and challenging time together.

Kind regards, amitiés, wela’lioq,

Jacques

Recognizing that the duration of this situation is unknown, and to streamline your access to information, below is list of important links.

Employee updates: hrmmatters.ca/coronavirus

Municipal service adjustments: halifax.ca/coronavirus

hfxALERT, the municipality’s mass notification system: halifax.ca/hfxalert

Municipal media briefings: Follow @hfxgov on Twitter for details regarding live streaming

Public health information: Public Health Agency of Canada and Nova Scotia Health and Wellness

Human Resources: MyHR@halifax.ca or 902.490.6145

Homewood Health’s Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP): 902.466.3327 or 1.800.663.1142

Halifax Regional Police Association EFAP: 902.430.8295 or 902.430.8296

International Association of Fire Fighters FFAP: 902.483.6068 or 902.237.9087