May 9, 2017 -  Due to heavy rainfall over the past week, communities across Eastern Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes, have been experiencing severe flooding.

Several of our members have been impacted and could use our support, specifically in Gatineau, Montréal and its surrounding areas.

So far, we know that twenty Telus employees have been affected, some of which are members. We know that none have been physically harmed, but have all sustained damage to their property and some are unable to attend work at this time.

We have been notified that there are two of our members from the Business Client Experience department that have been evacuated, and have lost their homes completely.

Telus has set up emergency phone lines to respond to inquiries; however, for members who are being affected by the flood or have questions regarding time management, flexibility of scheduling, or potential assistance from the Union, you are encouraged to contact your Local Union Representative for assistance.

In the immediate wake of these events, the best way you can help is by making a donation to Red Cross, who has been helping flood victims in nine regions and twelve operational centres, helping some 1,400 people. Currently, Red Cross has stated that additional funding is needed to help support affected communities for longer. Money goes towards food, basic home repairs, personal services, and providing shelter.

The government of Quebec has donated $500,000 into a special Red Cross flood relief fund.

You can donate to the Red Cross Flood relief page, or by calling 1-800-418-1111.

“Our members have always been great at rallying around our brothers and sisters in need. This is another time where natural disasters have struck and caused damage to members’ homes, which will be a huge financial blow to many of the affected families. I know we will all come together again to support those who have been impacted by the floods,” said National President Lee Riggs.

We will continue to keep the membership up-to-date as the situation unfolds.

In Solidarity,

United Steelworkers Local 1944