It’s impossible to be unaware of the upcoming G20 summit in downtown Toronto. The level of security is unprecedented – as is the level of disruption in many workers’ lives. We want to make sure that potential risks are minimized.

If you are expected to report to work during the summit or in the days surrounding it, it is your responsibility to arrive on time as usual. This might mean making alternate plans, and if you live or work in the downtown core you should expect delays. Try to keep up with media reports of delays or disturbances. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. If you have to enter the security zone, keep in mind that there are multiple gates; if there is a long line-up or a large protest at one gate, another gate may be safer to use.

If, at any time, you believe your personal safety may be at risk, contact your manager and inform him/her that it is currently unsafe for you to proceed. Both federal and provincial labour laws give you the right to refuse to work if you reasonably believe there is danger to your well-being. You can’t be compelled to work under unsafe conditions; however, you have to inform your manager and if they are able to make the situation safe for you (for example, by allowing you to work from home, or arranging another method of transportation) you are required to work as usual.

The CMG’s Toronto office will be closed on Friday June 25, but we will be monitoring our e-mail and voice mail systems. Call 416-591-5333 or 1-800-465-4149 if you have questions or concerns. You can also contact a staff rep via e-mail. The reps on duty during the summit are Glenn Gray (glenn@cmg.ca), Dan Oldfield (dan@cmg.ca) and Bruce May (bruce@cmg.ca). Our Vancouver and Halifax offices will remain open.