The union representing Toronto's police officers is asking members to defy an order from the chief to abandon their ballcap protest.
Last week, the Toronto Police Association encouraged officers to wear navy blue and white ballcaps on the job instead of their uniform hats to register their frustration with staffing levels and a move to modernize the service.
"This is a message that, no, we are not happy," President Mike McCormack told NEWSTALK 1010 last Thursday. "The workplace is a disaster. Morale is a disaster."
In a memo to officers obtained by NEWSTALK 1010 Chief Mark Saunders said he would allow the ballcap protest "for a short period" in the spirit of solidarity. In a notice sent to members Monday, the TPA reveals the Chief expected officers to be back in regular uniform as of 6 a.m. Tuesday. But the union remains defiant.
"The TPA Board is asking all uniform members, from the rank of constable to staff sergeant, to continue to wear their hats in a show of solidarity and support," reads a memo obtained by NEWSTALK 1010.
Civilian members were encouraged to take off their TPA hats and instead display them on their dashboards or desks.
Speaking on Moore in the Morning Tuesday McCormack said they are still working toward action to resolve some of their concerns and are continuing to meet with the chief and chair of the police services board.