Important Notice Regarding Closed Office Space and Confidentiality Obligations

During the pandemic years, the Employer reduced its office space footprint and has not consulted with the AJC on appropriate office accommodation for our members. The AJC Collective Agreement stipulates in Appendix D: “The parties will consult, at the national level or such other level as they may agree, on the subject of appropriate office accommodation, having regard (i) to the responsibilities assigned to the members of the bargaining unit, particularly their professional obligation to maintain confidentiality and to protect solicitor-client privilege, and (ii) to the context of the federal public service.”

We are concerned with reports that AJC members may have difficulties accessing closed office spaces in order to maintain their professional obligation of client confidentiality.

If you find yourself in a situation where you are unable to do your work in a manner that maintains confidentiality, we advise you to take the following steps:

Document the Incident: Ensure that you reserve an office, where possible, when you do need to maintain confidentiality in your work. Keep a detailed record of each situation where confidentiality is compromised.

Notify Your Manager: Immediately inform your manager of the issue and the impact it has on your professional obligations

Contact the AJC: Fill out an Intake Form on the AJC website to have your situation reviewed and to examine possible recourses. This will enable us to support you in addressing these concerns formally.

Your ability to carry out your duties as a legal professional in compliance with confidentiality standards is of utmost importance. We are actively engaging with the Employer to address these concerns and encourage any members affected by this issue to take action as outlined above.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.