Editorial by Valérie Verdier, Chairman and CEO
Last week was an important stage in the management of the crisis that we must face together: some of you have returned to your place of work. This stage was framed by the global plan for the resumption of activity on sites, and its local variations in regional delegations and representations, which we designed with our various partners. It was carried out in the best possible conditions given the context, very well anticipated and prepared, in particular with the mobilisation of the regional delegation teams.
The week of safeguards that we had scheduled from 11 to 15 May proved particularly useful in preparing the sites: reception, personal protective equipment, floor markings, signs, cleaning, etc. All the conditions were in place to welcome in complete safety those whose activities are essential and cannot be carried out remotely. I was able to see for myself the quality of the work carried out when I visited the Montpellier centre on Wednesday. The feedback I've had from the other sites is just as unanimous, confirming that this step has been successfully taken.
I would like to thank all those who have been involved in preparing this recovery, particularly our prevention assistants. I also have a special thought for those of you who have returned to your workplaces, in conditions that can still be difficult at times. I am not forgetting all our staff who, for more than two months now, have been ensuring business continuity at our sites or are involved in Covid-19 research.
During this first week of resumption of face-to-face activity, between 10 % and 30 % staff were present, depending on the site. In addition, some field missions abroad were resumed, with the authorisation of our representatives and our Defence Security Officer (FSD).
The success of this stage encourages us to continue our gradual resumption of activity on sites with confidence and determination. Without rushing things and while remaining extremely vigilant, as the Prime Minister requested in his speech yesterday, we can now aim for an overall presence rate on sites of around 25 % over the next two weeks. With absolute priority still given to the health safety of all and to respecting the physical distance between us, we must be able to maintain and strengthen team dynamics, relaunch projects slowed down by the crisis, initiate new projects and thus participate in the economic and social recovery.
I have instructed the structure directors and representatives to organise this ramp-up to a face-to-face resumption of activity. The principles of on-site presence for the staff of our structures will be adjusted in line with those defined in the business resumption plans. I ask them to be attentive to the constraints that may weigh on each of us at this time and in these unprecedented circumstances).
Specific provisions have been made for staff who will not be able to work remotely or return to work on site.
The success of this phase will undoubtedly have a positive impact on our gradual return to normality. It shows us just how important the activities and actions of each person within our institution are, in their own field and within their own perimeter. It also shows our ability to work together to devise solutions that can meet the challenges of major crises such as the one we are experiencing today.
I would like to express my deep gratitude to all of you. I would like to repeat the words of our Minister Frédérique Vidal in the letter she sent to all ESR staff at the end of the lockdown period to thank you once again for your commitment, your "energy in successfully ensuring the continuity of public service on a daily basis" and the continuity of the life of our institution.
Take care of yourself and your loved ones,
Valérie Verdier