January 15, 2016
To: Designated Departmental Contacts, Isolated Posts and Government Housing
Effective: January 15, 2016
For employees travelling under Part III of the IPGHD, Travelling and Transportation Expenses, meals are currently reimbursed based on receipts up to the limitations established in Appendix C of the Travel Directive. A grievance decision by the NJC Executive Committee in October 2007 (21.4.946), indicating that groceries do not constitute a meal was generally applied, and therefore those receipts were not subject to reimbursement.
The purpose of this notice is to provide departments and agencies with information concerning an amendment to the application of this decision when employees and/or their dependents are out of the isolated post on non-elective medical or dental treatment, compassionate travel, bereavement travel, or as a result of transportation delays where employees are granted the benefits of Section 3.10 under the IPGHD.
Many supermarkets now provide the option to purchase prepared meals. As this cost-saving option is being exercised by many employees on extended non-elective medical or dental travel, submitted receipts itemizing the prepared meal will be recognized as a suitable replacement to restaurant receipts.
As indicated, this amendment applies only to those on approved travel for non-elective medical or dental treatment, compassionate travel, bereavement travel, and as a result of transportation delays where employees are granted the benefits of Section 3.10 under the IPGHD.
The amendment is effective the date of this communiqué.