Band and Drill Competition March 2020

As per RCSU policy;

Ref: A. SharePoint Message, “COVID-19 impact on RCSU ops and activities”, 10 Mar 20

B. email message “COVID-19 impact on OPS” from CO RCSU(A) 10 March 2020 (Attached)

Good day,

Per the above references, a decision has been made to cancel the various Band and Drill competitions slated for March 2020, as a precaution amid growing current public health concerns.

Decisions to cancel or postpone activities are never made lightly, and in these cases have been made to protect the health and well-being of cadets, their families, and CCO staff from unnecessary risk of exposure and the possibility of quarantine or self-isolation.

On March 9, in response to higher headquarters direction, the Natl CJCR Sp Gp updated its response to the COVID-19 concerns, cancelling all international trips (including travel to the USA) and directed RCSUs to review all ops and activities that require travel and make appropriate recommendations. As can be reviewed at the reference above, RCSU(A) informed our decisions based on key criteria to which Band and Drill competitions are impacted by most notably travel through major transit hubs and the requirement for large gatherings of cadets and staff for non-essential training activities.

Although competitions can be unique and rewarding experiences, it was determined conducting non-essential activities, that required travel such as the band and drill competitions do, was contrary to our mission at this time of ensuring the health and well-being of those participating on our program.

We understand that this is disappointing, and that the timing is not ideal; however, this decision has been made with the health and well-being of our cadets, their families, and our staff as our primary focus.

I would like to also extend a thank you to all of the staff that was involved in the planning and preparation of these events over the past month as these activities were well planned on short notice with minimal resources. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed and your work efforts are valued and appreciated.

In light of the recent events, Drill Practice for Monday Mar 16 and Wednesday Mar 18, will be cancelled.

Capt Bull