National COVID-19 Update – April 7, 2020

Commissioner's broadcast sent April 7, 2020

For several weeks now, you have all been an important part of Canada's national COVID-19 response: whether taking additional health and safety precautions on the front line, or by finding alternative ways of providing the critical support services needed by our members as they continue to keep our communities safe. Some of you can't work because of your circumstances, but you are still helping just by staying home and denying the virus a chance to spread.

You, along with millions of Canadians, are doing your part to "flatten the curve" by protecting yourselves and those around you by handwashing, physical distancing and self-isolating where required. Our efforts are making a difference, however in this critical period, still more is needed.

I know that many are wondering about the status of the leave, telework and other measures put in place until April 10th by Treasury Board. I am confident that our current situation will continue for some time yet and as we receive more information, we will be sure to share it with you, so stay tuned.

This week, our role in keeping Canadians safe takes another big step forward in preventing the spread of Coronavirus, as police agencies across the country begin assisting with enforcement measures under the Federal Quarantine Act.

At a time when so many are making sacrifices for the well-being of their families, their neighbours and their communities, there are those few who wilfully disregard the advice and direction of our public health officials, and they are putting people's lives at risk. Where good public information and common sense fail, we must step in to protect those around them.

The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has asked for peace officers to assist in enforcing mandatory isolation orders under the Federal Quarantine Act, particularly the March 25 order that any person entering Canada must isolate themselves and self-monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 for a full 14-day period.

Where we are the police of jurisdiction, PHAC may ask us to physically check on specific persons who are subject to isolation orders to ensure they are complying with the requirements. This physical verification will be done safely, with appropriate physical distance and personal protective equipment (PPE) when required.

Most people will be reasonable, responsible and compliant, however for the few who aren't, we need to take a risk-based, measured approach, relying on the full range of tools and training available to us. Conversation is the preferred approach: informing violators of the law of the importance of compliance, and the consequences of non-compliance. Even under these difficult COVID-19 circumstances, persuasion and education will ensure the best results for everyone involved. Arresting a person is not the preferred approach: there is a much greater risk of exposure for you and others. Canadians know they can count on us to be calm, professional and respectful, and to exercise our discretion when enforcing the law.

During uncertainty, I find it easier and less stressful to focus on the journey and not the destination. We can do this together... one day at a time!

Good luck to all of those who will be receiving their JSE scores tomorrow!

Brenda Lucki
Commissioner

Date modified:

2020-04-09