Dear members,
We write to you to express our solidarity in sadness and dismay over the devastating fires occurring across western and northern Canada. We understand that some of you have or may be uprooted from your homes for safety, leaving behind belongings, homes and the security of the lives you know. With the recent evacuation of Jasper, Alberta, we are acutely aware of the threat to and partnership of our western communities.
We are thankful for all of the first responders and planners, no doubt many of our members who continue to provide support for their communities in exceptionally difficult times. These are brave hearted people and they are deeply appreciated. We also recognize the generous people who have opened their homes to host evacuees. The spirit of kindness and compassion brightens this harsh experience.
We know Jasperites are strong and will bounce back to rebuild and heal. We stand in solidarity with them. We also know that many of you are anxiously watching the skies, the news and hoping for a fire to shift away from your community, while you endure unhealthy smoky air and ash. We deeply hope for good news as this fire season continues to threaten our beautiful western provinces and territories.
If you are having any difficulties with respect to accommodation requests surrounding these fires, please contact your Employment Relations Officer for assistance. Their contact information can be found below.
Prairie/NWT: https://pipsc.ca/regions/prairie/office
BC-Yukon: https://pipsc.ca/regions/bc-yukon/office
Sincerely,
Samah Henein
Director - Prairie/NWT Region
Morgan Cranny
Director - BC/Yukon Region
Kris Hawkins
Regional Manager - Prairie/NWT and BC-Yukon Regions