As a result of ongoing closures and program cancellations, the City of London announced today that approximately 1,100 temporary and casual employees who deliver recreation programs and do seasonal work have now had their start dates deferred or been placed on a temporary unpaid leave.
Close to 300 seasonal temporary staff have been notified that their start dates will be deferred. As well, approximately 800 casual staff have been placed on an unpaid Declared Emergency Leave as a result of the extended closures of all indoor recreational programs and outdoor recreational and sports amenities.
“This is a difficult decision, but in these times, it’s the right decision,” said City Manager Lynne Livingstone. “This is typically when we are welcoming our seasonal staff to roles across the City, and they are an important part of our organization. Unfortunately, while we’re at minimal operations and delivering essential services only, we have no choice but to delay start dates and move to temporary leaves.”
The seasonal temporary and casual employees impacted by this include community centre staff, staff who support recreation, sports programs and neighbourhood activities, aquatics staff members, parks maintenance, golf course employees and seasonal staff in service areas that include roads, water and sewers, and facilities.
With the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, the City has not determined when these employees may be brought back to work. Impacted employees may be able to seek support through employment insurance or Canadian Emergency Response Benefits. These employees are also able to access additional supports through the City’s employee and family assistance program.
“Our staff are committed to serving Londoners during this difficult time,” said Livingstone. “I’m proud of the efforts that all of our employees are making to provide the critical services that our community depends on every day.”