Good Afternoon!
At the time of writing out this message, we are keeping a close eye on COVID-19 infections, while still looking for ways to SAFELY go out and perform van patrols.
As we are moving forward, I'd like to inform you of the following OPERATIONAL changes relating to VCOP Van patrols. These changes will take effect as of April 1st, 2022. Please note that these hours apply only to van patrols; Bike, scooter and walking patrols are available anytime during the week and on weekends.
- SCHEDULES WILL OPEN UP FOR A PERIOD OF 30 DAYS IN ADVANCE, rather than the usual 7-day window utilized during the Re-Launch phase. This means that you will be able to schedule yourselves several weeks in advance, based on your availability;
- BOOKING MORE THAN 2 SHIFTS PER WEEK. As the "bottleneck" effect is no longer witnessed, we want to provide those members that wish to do more hours, the ability to do so. Again, the scheduling software will allow booking on to several shifts per week, if so desired.
- OPENING UP ADDITIONAL PATROL HOURS AND UTILIZING A 2nd VCOP VAN. The City will allow members to choose among a broader range of patrol hours by permitting more than one Patrol vehicle to be out at the same time. The hours will be as follows:
- 07AM to 10AM
- 08AM to 11AM
- 10AM to 1PM
- 11AM to 2PM
- 1PM to 4PM
- 2PM to 5PM
- 4PM to 7PM
- 5PM to 8PM
- 7PM to 10PM
- 8PM to 11PM
Thus far, we've been able to operate without any outbreaks, in large part to everyone's observance of the mandatory health and safety guidelines as described in your latest training session. THANK YOU for doing your part. This is not a Public Safety/Management request: the CNESST obligates us to wear masks for work-related purposes whenever 2m distancing cannot be maintained, such as in vehicles. If there is more than 1 person in a City-owned vehicle, you MUST wear a procedural mask and maintain hand sanitizing protocols while on shift.
ANY MEMBER OBSERVED NOT WEARING HIS/HER MASK WHILE BEING OUT ON VAN PATROLS WILL BE TAKEN OFF THE ROAD IMMEDIATELY, AND DISCIPLINARY MEASURES WILL BE TAKEN.
We too are looking forward to the end of this pandemic... but until then, we MUST OBEY THE RULES. There will be no further warnings on this issue. ALL members have received training and information on the required guidelines. This is not a negotiable topic. We have made it this far without outbreaks, we must therefore not let up.
In closing, please stay tuned for new upcoming special events where VCOP presence will be required, and greatly appreciated!
- Additional patrols for PASSOVER (April 16-23)
- CSL Blood Donor Clinic (May 3rd)
- Additional patrols for LAG B'OMER (May 18-19)
- VCOP Summer BBQ (June date to be confirmed)
Again, if you have any questions, comments, or simply want to talk, do reach out!
Jean-Marc Dubois
Public Safety Division Chief
514-485-6800 #5106
jdubois@cotesaintluc.org
