It has come to our attention that Financial Officers in several departments have received communications from their deputy heads regarding sick leave and short-term disability.

While the employer has the right to introduce new benefits unilaterally, any changes to existing sick leave provisions defined in the FI Collective Agreement must be collectively bargained.  Since bargaining for this round has not yet begun, no changes have been formally discussed or agreed to. As such, you are still free to use your accrued sick leave credits as necessary.