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Preparing for Convention: The Essential Role of Committees

Between June 7 and June 11, 2026, UNE committee members gathered in Gatineau at the Hilton Lac‑Leamy for the pre‑Convention committee meetings. Over several focused days, delegates rolled up their sleeves and began the essential work that ensures Convention runs smoothly.

These meetings are where every resolution submitted by UNE members nationwide is reviewed, debated, prioritized, and prepared. The work done here allows delegates in August to make informed decisions that will shape the future of our union.

Convention Committees

Three committees met in June:

Finance Committee, General Committee, and the Constitution & Bylaws Committee.


Across all three committees’ members examined the resolutions submitted by locals and members across the country. Their responsibilities included:

  • Reviewing each resolution carefully
  • Debating concurrence or non‑concurrence
  • Analyzing impacts on UNE’s structure, operations, and members
  • Prioritizing resolutions so Convention delegates can debate them efficiently
  • Preparing clear recommendations for Convention 2026

While the Finance Committee also receives resolutions, their primary responsibility was developing the UNE budget for the next three years. Their focus was to build a budget that ensures UNE can deliver everything its members need to function effectively.

All committees work will be shared at Convention.

Delegates at Convention will vote in August for each resolution in the order of priority prepared by the committee. The thoughtful preparation done in Gatineau ensures that debates will be organized, informed, and grounded in the needs of the membership.

Who Serves on These Committees

Committee members were selected by UNE’s current Deputy Trustee and PSAC Vice‑President, Alex Silas, with a clear goal: representation that reflects the full diversity of UNE. All members of the committee will be Convention.

Delegates included voices from:

  • Every UNE region
  • Equity groups
  • A wide range of workplaces

With all perspectives in one room, the union becomes more balanced, more representative, and better equipped to address the real needs of its members.

Throughout the week, delegates considered how each resolution would strengthen UNE, support members, and position the union for the future. They asked important questions:

  • Would this proposal help build a more effective organization?
  • Does it support members equitably?
  • Will it help UNE remain strong, stable, and member‑driven for years to come?

Our Journey to Convention 2026

The debates have begun, the groundwork has been laid, and momentum is building. Delegates at Convention will make the final decisions in August, but the collaborative work completed between June 7 and June 11 has already shaped the path forward.

The future of our union starts here—through the careful, democratic, member‑driven work of Convention committees. Thanks to the dedication of UNE members from across the country, that future is already taking shape.

Click to here to read the article about 2026 committee meetings.

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Elections at the 2026 UNE Triennial Convention

The 2026 UNE Triennial Convention—taking place August 24 to 28—marks an important and encouraging moment for our Component.

This Convention represents a meaningful step forward in rebuilding UNE’s democratic structures. While trusteeship remains in place, Alex Silas, PSAC National Executive Vice-President and the UNE Trustee appointed by PSAC’s National Board of Directors (NBoD), has expressed confidence based on engagement with rank-and-file members and regional leaders that UNE is moving in a positive direction, with strong signs of progress and renewed engagement from members.

The upcoming elections are a key part of that ongoing journey.

We are happy to announce that elections will be held during 2026 UNE Triennial Convention on Thursday, August 27. National elections will take place on the Convention Floor and Regional elections will take place during regional caucuses.

National elections will be chaired by Alex Silas as Convention chair and Trustee. Regional elections, which may run concurrently in different caucuses, will be chaired by qualified individuals selected by the Trustee. A nomination committee of delegates to Convention will be struck shortly to review nominations forms.

National Elections

Delegates will elect the following National positions:

  • National President
  • National Executive Vice-President
  • National Vice-President, Human Rights
  • National Vice-President for Occupational Health and Safety
  • 1st Alternate National Executive Vice-President
  • 2nd Alternate National Executive Vice-President
  • Assistant National Vice-President, Human Rights

All-Candidates Debate

The All‑Candidates Debate for all national positions listed above will take place on Wednesday, August 26.

Regional Elections

Regional elections will take place during regional caucuses. Delegates will elect:

  • Regional Vice-President
  • 1st Assistant Regional Vice-President
  • 2nd Assistant Regional Vice-President
  • 3rd Assistant Regional Vice-President when applicable
  • Regional Human Rights Representative
  • 1st Alternate Regional Human Rights Representative
  • 2nd Alternate Regional Human Rights Representative
  • Delegates to the PSAC Convention (based on PSAC delegate allocation for the region)
  • Alternates to the PSAC Convention (regions may elect as many alternates as they wish)

These caucuses ensure strong, representative leadership across all UNE regions and help shape UNE’s voice at the PSAC Convention. The agenda of the week of Convention including caucus will be shared soon.

Call out for Nominations and Submitting Nomination Forms

An email will be sent to all locals shortly. If you are running for any elected office, you are encouraged to familiarize yourself with the following Policies and Bylaws to ensure democratic and fair elections:

A Meaningful Step Forward for UNE 

This year’s elections carry special significance. The decision to proceed with elections was not taken lightly by the UNE Trustee, it reflects the progress UNE has made in rebuilding its democratic structures and strengthening the organization. 

Over the past months, UNE has seen increased engagement and confidence from members and locals. More local are in conformance thanks to hard work of Deputy Trustees and UNE staff, who worked together to make improvements and support locals in their rebuilding efforts. UNE staff processes have strengthened, and important work in areas such as representation services has continued to move forward. 

These positive developments have contributed to renewed confidence in UNE and establishing positive conditions to conduct a full and fair electoral process. The upcoming elections mark an important milestone in the union’s ongoing renewal and demonstrate continued progress toward a strong, accountable, and member-driven Union of National Employees. 

Delegates will play a central role in choosing the leaders who will guide UNE through its next chapter and build on the momentum achieved to date. 

While there is still work ahead, the return to a full electoral process is a strong sign of momentum and confidence in UNE’s future. 

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Pre-Convention Committee Meetings: A Week of Collaboration and Momentum

Last week, UNE delegates from across the country gathered in Gatineau for the pre‑Convention committee meetings. From the first morning, delegates rolled up their sleeves and got straight to work, engaging in discussions that will shape Convention 2026.

Across all three committees, members reviewed the resolutions submitted by UNE members nationwide and examined the budget for the next three years. They debated concurrence and non‑concurrence, analyzed impacts, and began the important work of preparing recommendations for Convention. While delegates at Convention will have the final say in August, the groundwork being laid last week was essential.

Throughout the week, delegates focused on how each resolution would strengthen our union, support members, and position UNE for the future. They considered whether proposals would help build a more effective organization and ensure UNE remains strong, stable, and member‑driven for years to come.

Unity in Diversity

One of the strengths of the process is the diversity of voices at the table. Delegates were chosen because they bring perspectives from every region, equity group, and workplace. When all those experiences come together in one room, our union becomes stronger, more balanced, and more representative of the membership we serve.

Solidarity in Action

The week also included a moment of solidarity as delegates visited Bank Street to support our union siblings — the Bank of Canada Security Guards. Standing together is what defines us. Our presence was a reminder that solidarity extends beyond the meeting room and that our strength lies in supporting one another.

Looking Ahead to Convention 2026

The debates have begun, the groundwork has been laid, and the momentum is building. Delegates at Convention will have the final say in August, but the thoughtful, collaborative work completed last week has helped set the decisions ahead.

The future of our union starts here — and it is already taking shape.

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Convention Resolutions: How to Write and Submit Them

Resolutions: Your voice. Your ideas. Your union.

Resolutions are one of the main ways members bring issues forward and propose changes, improvements, or new directions at UNE Convention.

If you want the union to act on an issue that matters to you — a resolution is how you make it happen.

What Is a Resolution?
A resolution is a short and structured proposal that identifies an issue or concern, explains why that issue matters to members, and proposes a clear action for the union to take in response.

How to Write a Strong Resolution

The most effective resolutions are clear, focusing on one issue at a time; action‑oriented, stating exactly what you want the union to do; and concise, keeping the proposal short and to the point.

Most resolutions follow a simple format:

  • “The Union of National Employees will” — states what action should be taken
  • “Because” — explains the context or problem

Example:

The Union of National Employees will encourage unions to submit resolutions to convention in a clear language format.

Because the actions proposed will be better understood by convention delegates.

Because clear language is a valuable way to help union members feel included by the labour movement.

Because the clear language format makes sense: we start with what we want, then we back it up with our reasons.

Click here for tips on writing clear resolutions

Where Do Resolutions Come From?

Resolutions start with you — the members.

Typically, the process begins at the Local level, where you bring your idea to a meeting, discuss and refine it with fellow members, and then participate in a vote to decide whether the Local will submit the resolution to Convention.

This helps ensure resolutions reflect the priorities of the membership.

Even a rough idea is a great starting point, so do not limit yourself. Your Local can help you:

  • Develop your idea
  • Draft the resolution
  • Ensure your resolution meets submission requirements

Submitting a Resolution

Resolutions are submitted before the main deadline, allowing time for review by the Pre-Convention Committees (Finance, General, or By-Laws & Policies).

Submitting early ensures your resolution can be fully reviewed and discussed.

For Convention 2026, the deadline to send your resolutions is May 29th, 2026.

Late Resolutions
Resolutions received after May 29th, will be considered late resolutions.
They will be considered only after all other resolutions have been reviewed and debated, with discussion time often more limited as a result.

Emergency Resolutions
Emergency resolutions are introduced during Convention.

They must address issues that:

  • Could not have been anticipated earlier
  • Require immediate attention

Because of their nature, they must clearly demonstrate why they meet these criteria.

How to Submit a Resolution

You should submit your resolutions electronically on our website. Completing this process significantly reduces the time required to prepare resolutions for our committees’ review. If you do not have internet access, you can submit your resolutions by mail or fax.

Submit Supporting Documentation

Resolutions submitted online must be supported by signed minutes confirming that the resolution was adopted at a general local meeting.

Scanned copies must be sent to Ateau Zola at resolutions@une-sen.org.

You may also submit supporting documents by mail or fax.

Submission Deadline

Please send your resolution before May 29th, 2026. Any resolution received after this date will be classified as a late resolution and will only be reviewed and debated after all other resolutions, with more limited time for discussion.

Have an idea? Bring it forward.

Resolutions are one of the most powerful ways members shape the future of UNE.

Your voice matters — and Convention is where it’s heard.

#1 Convention: Purpose, What Happens, and Why Your Participation Matters
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Convention 2026: Registration

Good news, UNE members!

Registration for the 2026 UNE Triennial Convention has been extended until July 15, 2026.

We’ve extended registration to give you the time and support you need to participate.

Local representatives, Deputy Trustees and UNE staff are here to support you. Please do not hesitate to contact us.

Click here to see how to get to convention.
Click here to register online now!

If you have any questions about 2026 Triennial Convention contact us at events@une-sen.org.

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Convention: Purpose, What Happens, and Why Your Participation Matters

Convention is the highest decision‑making body of our union. Every three years, delegates from across the country come together to review our By‑Laws and Policies, debate resolutions, and approve the budget that guides UNE’s work. In a regular cycle, Convention is also when delegates elect the National Executive.

This year, delegates will carry out the same important Convention work. Because UNE is currently placed under Trusteeship, the election for the National Executive may take place at a later date. If that happens, only members who are accredited as delegates for the 2026 Convention will be able to vote — even if the vote occurs on a different day. This Convention is especially important. The decisions we make in August 2026 will help set the foundation for how we rebuild and move forward as a strong, member‑focused union. Your involvement — whether as a delegate, a resolution writer, or an engaged member — truly makes a difference.

Union of National Employees: A Union Like No Other

We represent over 23,000 members working in 73 different workplaces, with as many collective agreements. Our members work in the public sector, the private sector, and the non‑profit sector. They work in every region of this country — and even around the world.

This diversity is one of our greatest strengths. But it also means that democracy is essential to how we function. We need voices from every workplace, every region, and every type of job to help shape the decisions that affect all of us.

That’s why your participation matters so much.

And that’s also why we extended the registration deadline — because not all Locals have sent someone yet, and we don’t want anyone to miss the opportunity to take part in the Convention that represents you.

What Happens at Convention

In August, delegates work together to make decisions that guide UNE for the next three years. They will:

  • Debate and vote on resolutions submitted by group of members
  • Approve the budget that sets our priorities and supports our activities

These decisions shape how we support members, how we grow, and how we continue building a strong, inclusive union.

Why Your Resolutions Matter

Resolutions are one of the most important tools members have to influence the direction of UNE.

A resolution is simply an idea or proposal for change. It can be something you want to improve, something you want to add, or something you want the union to do differently.

Every resolution submitted is reviewed by the appropriate Convention Committee before the Convention:

  • Finance Committee
  • General Committee
  • By‑Laws and Policies Committee

Each resolution is evaluated, discussed, and prioritized for debate at Convention.
If you have ideas for improving our union, this is your moment to share them.
 Click here to learn how to write and submit a resolution.

Deadline Update

You haven’t registered yet — you still can.

You haven’t sent a resolution yet – you still can.

We want you there. Your voice, your experience, and your perspective matter.

Convention is stronger when all members are represented, and we want every Local to have the chance to participate.
Click here to see the requirements for a Local to send at least two members to Convention.

You can register until May 29th 2026.

Thank You for Being Part of This Journey

Convention is where we come together to make decisions that shape the future of UNE, and an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow activists and build lasting relationships. Whether you’re attending as a delegate, submitting a resolution, or simply learning more about the process, your involvement strengthens our union.

Click here to go back to the list of articles.

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2026 UNE Triennial Convention: Registration Deadline Extended

Good news, UNE members.
The registration deadline for the 2026 UNE Triennial Convention has been extended.

New registration deadline: May 29, 2026

This extension gives more UNE members the opportunity to vote for their delegates. Delegates will register and take part in the Convention, where important discussions and decisions about the future of our union will take place.

Click here to register online now!

Click here to see how to get to convention.

If you have any questions about 2026 Triennial Convention contact us at events@une-sen.org.

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Union of National Employees elects first Black Women to National Executive

September 8, 2023

For the first time in its history, the Union of National Employees (UNE) – representing nearly 24,000 workers in workplaces across the country – has elected two Black women to its national leadership team.

Alisha Campbell, a Parks Canada member, was elected National President, and Hayley Millington, from Employment and Social Development Canada’s Learning Branch, was elected National Executive Vice-President at UNE’s National Triennial Convention, held August 21-25 in Toronto.

“This is the dawn of a new era for UNE members and the Labour movement at large,” said Campbell. “The future is bright, and our members led the charge. I am a Black and Cherokee francophone woman, and a proud member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. I am pansexual and a person with disabilities, and I’m here to represent all members.”

Campbell and Millington bring a lot of activist experience to their roles on the UNE’s National Executive. Millington was the National Equity Representative for Women, National Equity Representative for racialized persons, Assistant Human Rights Vice-President and held numerous terms in her Local as a Local Human Rights representative.

“What we have achieved here today is truly historic,” said Millington. “Members voted for this, and together, workers made history.”

“I am a black, single mother of a son, Malachi, and I know all too well that sense of being excluded, of not being able to have a voice in spaces where decisions are made. We are ready to place the needs of all our members at the centre of our decision-making.”

Campbell and Millington will connect with as many members as possible to build a strong base. As agents of change, we foresee new ways forward through a review of our structure as voted in by members. We have a clear mandate to invest in our young workers and all members, and this aligns with UNE’s core belief of unity in diversity.

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Media inquiries:

UNE media relations team
613-298-7892

The Union of National Employees is a component union of the Public Service Alliance of Canada, representing members working in 70 different workplaces in the public, private and non-profit sectors, in all corners of our great country and around the world.

We are teachers and mechanics, librarians and foreign service officers, plumbers and researchers, clerical workers and program administrators, passport officers and investigators —and more.

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Convention Day Three – Human Rights at the forefront on the Convention Floor!

August 24, 2023

After the first Credentials Committee report, delegates got right back to business with the Finance Committee. The following resolutions were presented, debated and voted on:

  • FIN 1 – Removal of UNE Local Financial Review or Audit for calendar year end
  • FIN 2 – Modification to Policy FIN 1

    Delegates listened to a fantastic panel monitored by the 2023 Convention Chair Sharon De Sousa on health and safety in the workplace with panelists Uppala Chandresekara, Director of Public Health at Toronto Public Health, Fatima Gardaad, National Coordinator on Anti-Racism and Human Rights at the Canadian Labour Congress, and Andrea Peart, National Health and Safety Officer with the Public Service Alliance of Canada.

It was back to Convention proceedings for the first part of the afternoon with the Bylaws & Constitution Resolutions Committee and the General Resolutions Committee. Four resolutions were debated and voted on:

  • CS 10 – Relocation of Full Time National President and Vice-President
  • CS 4 – Increase Number of Allotted Delegates to UNE Triennial Conventions
  • Amended CS 7 – Structural Review of UNE
  • GEN 17 – Search the Landfill

    GEN 17 was an emergency resolution about launching national Search the Landfill campaign by the UNE Human Rights Committee. As stated in the resolution’s rationale, “[i]ndigenous women and girls are not disposable and deserve dignity, and the families deserve closure.” The resolution passed unanimously.

The all-candidates debate took place in the second part of the afternoon to allow delegates to discover the respective candidates’ platforms for tomorrow’s national elections.