Vacation and compensatory leave carry-over for 2021

March 9, 2021 - Defence Stories

The importance of using vacation leave:

We must continue to recognize the importance of leave, its influence on mental health and work-life balance. While the scheduling of leave has been impacted by COVID-19, all employees are expected to use their 2020-2021 vacation leave within the current fiscal year, as operational requirements permit and in accordance with the applicable collective agreement.

That said, while employees are encouraged and expected to take leave this year, the DM has been clear in her direction that employees will not be forced to take leave this fiscal year. Maximum flexibility and compassion are required.

All levels of managers and employees have had flexibility in the utilization and scheduling of leave during this difficult time. We must continue to use flexibility in our decision making and in determining how to best to support employees in using their outstanding leave credits. Management should, to the extent possible, allow for unused credits to be carried over and not schedule forced leave for employees.

Managers should consult their departmental labour relations advisors if they have any concerns or questions.