Message from the Regional Executive Vice President

In the North, our summers are precious. They are short, but sweet. Let’s soak in the sunshine and be armed with energy that will keep us active throughout the year… until next summer.

Summer is also self-care time. By self-care I don’t mean indulging in luxurious, hard to afford, vacations or experiences. Self-care is setting sometime to take a break… few hours… a day… couple of days. It’s taking care of one’s physical and mental well-being while checking on family and loved ones. I hope we all can take the time for some genuine self-care that will rejuvenate us and fill us with the energy we need.

We’re fortunate to be living in the spectacular North. I invite you to enjoy our beautiful outdoors and take a staycation. Snooze out from news and/or anything that might cause distress and get some fresh air, walk, run, hike, canoe or take part in any activity you enjoy.

At this point, some of you might be back to your office or workplace. If you’re critical or essential worker, you continue to show up to work. I know that many, unfortunately, are facing some hardships. Let’s together emerge from this while supporting each other as our cities reopen. Let’s continue to help each other stay healthy and safe.

To all essential and critical workers in healthcare, at food supply chains and everywhere, wherever you’re in the North, thank you. You’re our heroes. To all those affected by the pandemic, financially, physically, emotionally or in any way, my heart goes out to you.

At PSAC North, our team continues to work tirelessly. While we’re working on a plan to get back to offices, we want to do this wisely and safely to protect the health of our members and staff. Our team continues to work remotely, and I call on you to stay connected during those times.

Stay tuned to our website and social media for updates.

In Solidarity,

Jack Bourassa
REVP, PSAC North

Stay safe and enjoy the Northern summer!

Let’s enjoy what’s left of our spectacular summer. We compiled some safety tips for you and your family:

First aid kit:

It’s better to be equipped. What's typically in a first aid kit:

Antiseptic wipes
Antibacterial ointment
Assorted bandages
Gauze pads in various sizes
Painkiller
Insect sting treatment
Antihistamine
Tweezers
Navigational tool(s)
Signalling equipment (whistle?)

What would you add to the list? Think of what you need in case of an emergency.

Be safe on the trail:

Hike, walk or run with a buddy. If you’re alone, share your itinerary with a friend or a family member, especially if you’re not familiar with the trail. Be aware of your surroundings. Remember to wear proper shoes.

Insect bites:

Mosquitoes are essential to our ecosystem, but they are little monsters that thrive on our blood— especially when we’re having some summer fun time! Be armed with a bug repellent(s) and don’t let insects deter you from having a good day by the lake. Your first aid kit must include insect sting treatment.

Beware of the bear:

We don’t want to scare you. But if you’re having a hike or walk on the trail, ensure that you do this during the day when there are people around at some not far proximity. Make some noise and clap! The good news is that bears don’t like to visit human gatherings. They don’t want to join your party if you’re singing. Perhaps it’s time to organize a family choir!

Stay safe in the water:

We take pride in our northern lakes. It’s crucial to stay safe. Here are few tips on staying safe in the water:

Avoid alcohol if you’re going to be in the water
Children should never be in the water without an adult
If you’re canoeing, kayaking or boating, wear your lifejacket
Call for help if you suspect someone may be in distress

Stay hydrated:

We need H2O. While this seems to be obvious, but many of us skip on what’s REALLY important: drinking water. Make sure that you stay hydrated while you enjoy your favourite summer activities.

Food poisoning:

There is no food better than the one charred by camp’s fire. To avoid food poisoning, practice food safety no matter where you are and under all circumstances. Items that need to be refrigerated, must stay within cool temperatures. Always wash your hands and all cooking surfaces.

Camp fires:

Roasting hotdogs and marshmallows… childhood nostalgia and memories relived every summer. Let’s gather around the warm fire, but take into consideration safety measures and etiquettes:

Never make a fire if there is a fire ban
Check campfire rules and regulations in your local area
Don’t make a campfire in a dry or windy condition
Always look for an existing fire-pit to start your fire
Don’t burn your trash in the fire. This might release toxins into the air
Learn how to safely extinguish a campfire

Do you have other safety tips that you would like to share with us? Post them on Facebook and tag PSAC North or send your tips to Al-BahY@psac-afpc.com to be shared on social media.

When we get back to normal, all of our communities must break free from poverty. Now is the time! Universal Basic Income is the solution!

Click here to read July's Labour Views, focusing on Universal Basic Income as a solution to combat poverty as our nation and communities emerge out of the pandemic.

PSAC North Regional Convention

Due to the current COVID-19 situation, it is important that PSAC take precautions and act proactively to safeguard the health and safety of our members, staff and the Canadian public. In keeping with recommendations from both local and national health authorities, PSAC has made the difficult decision to postpone all seven Regional Conventions.

PSAC North Triennial Regional Convention will take place on May 28 - 30, 2021 at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre in Whitehorse, Yukon. Stay tuned for more information.

If you have any questions, concerns, suggestions, news or updates, don’t hesitate to send them to PSAC North Regional Political Communications Officer, Yusur Al-Bahrani, at Al-BahY@psac-afpc.com.

Stay tuned to PSAC North website and social media for news and updates

www.psacnorth.com