Over 1,000 city employees laid off due to COVID-19
Posted Mar 31, 2020 11:38 am.
Last Updated Mar 31, 2020 11:39 am.
CALGARY (660 NEWS) – The City of Calgary has now released details on how many part-time and casual workers are being laid off because of COVID-19.
After announcing the temporary job losses Monday, officials with the city say about 1,200 workers will be affected.
“Taking these steps allows impacted employees to apply for supports made available by the Government of Alberta and Government of Canada during this difficult time,” said City Manager David Duckworth.
“This is not an action we wanted to take but one we needed to, as the effects of COVID-19 continue to have significant impacts on citizens, City services and our employees.”
WATCH: City of Calgary announces temporary layoffs
Most employees work in the recreation department including swim instructors, arena and athletic park staff, aquatics and fitness staff.
The city’s recreational facilities have been closed and programs halted as a result of the pandemic.
“I’d like to personally thank these employees for their dedicated service to Calgarians,” said Duckworth. “I look forward to the time when we are able to reopen our facilities and restore impacted services, so we can bring our valued employees back to work.”
The city says it’s doing what it can to ensure those affected are treated with dignity and respect while making sure not to break collective bargaining agreements.
