Nunavut public workers transitioning to work from home during pandemic

'This is an evolving situation, so we want to have staff prepared to work remotely, where possible'

Nunavut public workers transitioning to work from home during pandemic
The Nunavut government has temporarily waived the need for medical certificates.

Nunavut is transitioning to work-from-home procedures for non-essential public service employees amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The measures will come into effect by the end of day on March 20.

“The health and well-being of our employees is critical. In keeping with our advice to practise social distancing, we are shifting our public service to work from home,” says Premier Joe Savikataaq. “This is an evolving situation, so we want to have staff prepared to work remotely, where possible. Essential service positions will continue to work in-office, as much as possible.”

Affected employees will work with their supervisors to find ways to perform their duties and job requirements away from the office, he says.

The Nunavut government previously announced all government employees affected by school or daycare closures have three weeks of paid leave. Those experiencing flu-like symptoms will also receive 14 days of paid leave during self-isolation.

The government has also temporarily waived the need for medical certificates.

New Brunswick has shut down all non-essential government services, while many private employers have asked their workers to do their jobs from the confines of their homes.

Latest stories