Welcome to the first Generation 2004 Newsletter of 2021. And to week 47 of telework for most of us.

Since our last instalment we’ve given over 200 colleagues one-to-one assistance with their self-assessment for the annual career development review (CDR) and provided presentations on the CDR, promotions and AST careers/certification: we’ve made the recordings and PowerPoints available on our website.

We look now at the certification process and why it’s becoming more and more difficult to make the leap from AST to AD. We also update you on the outcome of our special-leave-for-parents-of-young-children petition. We provide details of the latest information exchange with DG Trade on their shift to open plan and now our work with the Committee for prevention and protection at work (CPPT) shows in its agreement that staff be consulted before any reorganisation of office space. We provide the latest news from the Central Staff Committee and share the JSIS updates on reimbursement for psychological support and COVID-19 vaccination.

Generation 2004 is hiring a part-time secretary (50%) for its headquarters in Brussels (depending on future availability this might become 100%). If you are a Contract Agent FGII you can join the team.

One last-minute mention: the proposed CHAFEA accompanying committee will happen and there is now a January 2021 edition of CHAFEA’s frequently asked questions (49 pages long!).

Take care and enjoy reading!