Covers on VIA 911

I just came across a photo of VIA P42 #911, with covers over the blue and yellow electric and drive connection receptacles on the front of the locomotive. Check it out:

http://railpictures.net/viewphoto.php?id=301004&nseq=6

Look right below the ditch lights.

So, can anyone explain....

-is this the only P42 with these covers?
-how long have they been there?
-are they experimental, temporary, or to be applied on all of the P42s?
-Why were they added?

Thanks again everyone.