VOCM News has learned that the Clerk of the Executive Council has informed government workers that a positive COVID-19 test has been confirmed in a department located in the West Block of Confederation Building. That’s causing significant concern among NAPE members.
The worker is isolating and contact tracing is underway. Additional cleaning of the affected department is being undertaken.
Coworkers considered to be close contacts have been advised to self-isolate and seek testing.
The risk to other West Block employees and visitors is considered to be low according to a memo circulated to government workers.
Union Responds
That’s not good enough says NAPE President Jerry Earle who says government workers can work safely, and effectively from home.
He referenced a local fast food restaurant and a furniture store, both of which closed when a positive case was identified among their staff.
He says with a caretaker government in place, it’s been difficult to get through to officials to discuss the situation.