Message from Steven Ibbotson, President of FBC

Last updated: Mar. 25, 2021 

With growing global concerns around COVID-19 (“coronavirus”), I wanted to let you know how FBC is responding and to reaffirm our commitment to you and the entire FBC family. The health, safety and well-being of all FBC Members and employees is our top priority. We are following the lead of Canadian public health authorities at this important time.

For Members who have a tax appointment or visit scheduled with one of our staff over the next few weeks and months: know that we remain committed to completing these visits. That means, our teams across the country will continue working exceptionally hard through the coming weeks to ensure that you are able to meet the filing deadline.

Know that we are doing our part by implementing employment policies and processes that align with the recommendations of the health authorities. To prevent infection, we are encouraging all staff to follow the guidelines provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada: washing their hands frequently, coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of their arm, avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth, and regularly sanitizing their personal work spaces including computers, phones and desks.

Employees who have travelled out of country in the last 14 days, who have been in contact with someone who has travelled out of country, or exhibit symptoms related to coronavirus will stay home and immediately self-isolate as recommended by the medical community. Under these circumstances, it may be necessary to reschedule tax appointments with our Members. If that happens, we appreciate your understanding, patience, and flexibility.

We also ask that if you, or anyone you have been in contact with has travelled out of country in the past 14 days or has symptoms related to coronavirus, please let us know so that we can reschedule an upcoming visit. We will do everything we can to accommodate a change. Our intent is to protect you, your family, and ours.

Again, we continue to monitor this situation closely and will provide ongoing updates as needed. We also encourage our Members to stay up-to-date through Canada’s Public Health Website.

For nearly 70 years, FBC has been providing tax preparation and other support services to Canadian farmers and small business owners. We take great pride in the relationships we have built with our Members and the trust they place in us to help them effectively manage their businesses. Earning and keeping that trust is our first priority.