March 16, 2020
TO ALL IBEW FIRST DISTRICT LOCAL UNIONS
RE: Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Greetings:
As the impact of the global pandemic is being felt across our country, it is vitally important that we keep our members safe and informed with the correct information. The Federal and Provincial governments as well as regional health units are the best source for information as changes can be happening on an hourly basis and I encourage you to get your information from these trusted sources. We have seen a range of responses across the country and I am hopeful that measures taken will slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).
In order to combat the ongoing spread of COVID-19 virus and to ensure the safety of our members, employees and their families, the First District Office will be temporarily closed through March 27, 2020 and re-opening on Monday, March 30, 2020. Essential services will be maintained by enabling staff to work remotely, and should you require assistance please direct all inquiries to our general mailbox at: IVPD_01@ibew.org. Our main phone line will be active; however, the facsimile will not be monitored.
Local Unions seeking to suspend General Meetings are to submit the request in writing to my attention; such requests will be dealt with on a month-by-month basis.
International President Lonnie Stephenson has restricted air travel for all International Representatives in the U.S.A. and Canada however your servicing representative is available by telephone and email as required.
Best wishes and stay safe and stay healthy. In solidarity,
Tom Reid
International Vice President
TR/ln
cc: International Representatives IBEW, System Council #11
IBEW, CCO