Good morning,

In the last few months, I’ve continued to be amazed by your commitment to service and all you are doing to help Canadians in need during this pandemic.

I am beyond grateful for your dedication and perseverance. It was challenging in the beginning as you worked long hours and on new programs and priorities, but you always kept Canadians’ needs at the forefront. Now, and into the future, I know it’s not getting any easier but you continue to rise to each and every challenge. I wish that I could thank you each individually, but since that’s not possible, please take a few moments to watch this video message from me.

There are so many examples of employees and teams going above and beyond. There are great examples of your stories on InfoZone, but the following are highlights for me:

• You promptly developed, designed and implemented new emergency support programs.
• You expedited refunds, benefits and credits.
• You gracefully pivoted from compliance functions to support.
• Hundreds of you reported to work sites across the country, sometimes working shifts to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
• You adapted to a new work environment, ensuring seamless service to Canadians.
• You engaged with community members and business owners to provide information and guidance virtually on the emergency benefits, tax obligations and changes to tax filing season.
• You found the right way to communicate with Canadians and employees during this unprecedented and stressful time.
• You demonstrated sensitivity and flexibility in prioritizing fair and impartial reviews.
• You put effective health and safety measures put in place quickly.
• You provided sage and thoughtful advice and guidance on risks and internal controls.

I admire your ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities and am in awe of how you keep going above and beyond. I know I can continue to count on your flexibility as we move forward into the fall and will likely see more changes to the current and new benefit programs; it will require your well-demonstrated adaptability and support.

If you haven’t already taken some summer vacation, I encourage you to take some time off soon to enjoy the nice weather and recharge.

Over and over, we hear from Canadians who are appreciative of the help you all give them. In their name, I want to say, thank you; and from me, you have my deepest appreciation and gratitude.

Thank you for all you do and continue to do.

The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, P.C., M.P.
Minister of National Revenue