UNE Human Rights Conference
November 14 – 17, 2019
Hilton Lac Leamy Hotel
Stay up to date with us as the Conference begins!
SSO Bargaining Conference Readies the Issues for Intense Round of Bargaining
Ottawa, ON – The Statistical Survey Operations (SSO) Regional Office and Field Interviewer teams met for three days to discuss the good, the bad and the ugly as they prepare to head to the bargaining table in (MONTH). Their current agreement expired in 2018 and UNE members are eager to get back to the table and negotiate a fair deal.
UNE National President Kevin King addressed the members:
“Our members at SSO do important, not-for-profit work that is a benefit to all Canadians. And yet, they remain underappreciated by the employer. This needs to change. We are proud to support these two bargaining units and hope that UNE can enforce a fair and just agreement.”
The SSO National Bargaining Conference was an opportunity for members to discuss the intent and prioritize demands submitted by workers from across the country.
Congratulations to the following delegates, elected to the SSO (RO & FI) Bargaining Teams:
| Regional Offices | |
| Edmonton | Yun-Csang Ghimn |
| Winnipeg | Donna Fidelak |
| Sturgeon Falls | Michelle Rivet |
| Sherbrooke | Alice Vallée |
| Halifax | Neville David |
| Alternate #1 | Anna Goldfeld |
| Alternate #2 | Imane Meddah |
| Alternate #3 | Helen Anderson |
| Field Interviewers | |
| At Large #1 | Phyllis Allen |
| At Large #2 | Elyse Jones |
| Western | Linda Woods |
| Central (ON & NCR) | Shelly Daudlin |
| Eastern (QC & ATL) | Claude-André Leduc |
| Alternate #1 | Kelly Marshall |
| Alternate #2 | Joanne Bekker |
| Alternate #3 | Nilesh Patel |
Labour Board sides with Parks Canada workers, moves forward with Public Interest Commission
The Federal Public Sector Labour Relations Board has upheld PSAC’s decision to declare impasse in Parks Canada bargaining. In August, the employer disputed PSAC’s determination that both parties had reached an impasse in bargaining. They sent a request to the Labour Board arguing that declaring impasse was “premature” and that both parties had not sufficiently bargained.
The Labour Board disagreed with the employer and denied their request to delay the establishment of a Public Interest Commission (PIC). In a letter outlining the verdict, the Labour Board stated that PSAC’s Parks Canada bargaining team had “negotiated sufficiently and seriously” and therefore they would be recommending the establishment of a PIC.
Employer backs out of mediation
Both PSAC and the employer indicated that they would be open to mediation. Therefore, in August, the Labour Board assigned a federal labour mediator so that both parties could engage in mediation while waiting for the establishment of the PIC. PSAC told the Labour Board that it expected the employer to come to mediation with a complete monetary proposal and with a response to the union’s pay and workforce adjustment (WFA) proposals. In September, the employer responded that they were no longer willing to move forward with scheduled mediation because they have no mandate, despite initially requesting continued negotiations and mediation.
The Labour Board has scheduled a Public Interest Commission for Parks Canada bargaining January 27 to 30, 2020.
What is a Public Interest Commission (PIC)?
Under the law that governs contract negotiations in the federal public service, once impasse is reached, a PIC is established to help the parties reach an agreement. The PIC is a panel of three people – a chairperson appointed by the Labour Board and nominees appointed by the union and the employer. The union and the employer submit briefs and explain their positions on the outstanding issues at a hearing with the PIC. The PIC then issues a report with recommendations for settlement. The recommendations are not binding.
Once the PIC releases its report on Parks bargaining, PSAC’s bargaining team will meet to discuss the recommendations. Traditionally, following this, PSAC’s negotiating team and government representatives return to the table to resume negotiations.
Will we strike?
Regardless of which party forms government after the fall federal election, PSAC will continue pressing for a fair deal that addresses Parks members’ demands. However, if PSAC and the government are still unable to reach an agreement after the PIC report is issued, Parks members will have the legal right to strike. All members impacted will have the opportunity to vote in favour or against strike action. In preparation for this possible situation, PSAC will ensure that strike training is offered to members in the coming months.
Source: PSAC
October 4, Sisters in Spirit
Sisters in Spirit Vigils celebrate, honour and support Indigenous women, girls and their families. The Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls has been shared online.
Indigenous women and girls suffer higher rates of violence and homicide than non-Indigenous women and girls. There are many personal and systemic changes we need to make in this country. Can we join the Native Women’s Association of Canada to enhance, promote and foster the well-being of Indigenous women?
I am grateful for the recent learnings I have received from Colleen Hele-Cardinal, in Algonquin territory, and Hummingbirds Rising Consulting, in Musqueam, Squamish, Tsleil waututh territory. I am encouraged by my worker union’s initiation of a Reconciliation paper. There is much to learn.
All my relations,
Ruby Langan
UNE National Equity Representative for Aboriginal Peoples
Join the Global Climate Strike!
People around the world will be hitting the streets on September 27 to draw attention to the growing climate crisis. PSAC encourages any members who are able, to show support for and join the Global Climate Strike.
Download the PSAC For Climate Justice poster!
With the environment emerging as a top concern for Canadians in the upcoming federal election, this strike provides us with an opportunity to drive home the call for urgent action to all political party leaders. Visit the Global Climate Strike website to find out when and where your city’s demonstration or march is taking place.
What is the Global Climate Strike?
Young people around the word have been leading the fight against climate change. They are now asking everyone to join them in the fight for their future. The strikes have been set to bookend the meeting of global leaders at the United Nations Climate Action Summit taking place September 23. Actions have been planned in 150 countries around the globe and everyone is encouraged to participate. A worldwide show of solidarity will make it clear to all leaders that we expect ambitious action against climate change, and we expect it now.
I can’t skip work, but I want to support the movement. What can I do?
We understand that not everyone has the ability to take a day off of work to join the strike, but it doesn’t mean you can’t participate and make your voice heard. Here are some ideas of how you can support the movement while on the job:
- Share the Global Climate Strike messages on social media on your breaks. You can post selfies or group photos using the #ClimateStrike hashtag.
- Host a presentation or lunchtime discussion to share information about the Global Climate Strike.
- Put forward a proposal to your employer outlining how and why your workplace should join the Global Climate Strike.
- If you have a number of colleagues who want to participate, organize a workplace action.
- If you are able to request formal leave at your workplace, let your employer know why you are taking leave to ensure that your action builds awareness. Encourage other employees to do the same.
Visit the Global Climate Strike website to get other ideas on how you can support the movement.
Attachments:
Source: www.psacunion.ca
UNE Human Rights Conference
UNE Human Rights Conference
November 14 – 17, 2019
Hilton Lac Leamy Hotel
Dear members,
The UNE Human Rights Conference is quickly approaching. We invite you to submit your application to join us in Gatineau, QC from November 14 – 17, 2019 for an exciting chance to meet with fellow Human Rights activists and discuss the many issues facing our union.
The Conference, held every three years, will feature guest speakers, educational sessions and networking opportunities for those in attendance.
In addition, elections will be held for the following:
- National Equity Representative for Aboriginal Peoples
- National Equity Representative for Persons with Disabilities
- National Equity Representative for Racially Visible People
- National Equity Representative for LGBTQ2+
- National Equity Representative for Women
- Four (4) Equity Group Delegates to the 2020 Triennial Convention from each group
Members must self-identify during the application process and will not be able to change or modify their equity group status at the Conference.
For a sneak-peek at what else we have in store for you, check out the Conference agenda.
During online registration, you will be asked to complete a questionnaire. Your answers will be used in the Conference selection process. Here are the questions so that you can prepare and then copy/paste your answers during registration.
Describe your experiences as a human rights activist within the union, your community and/or share your personal story (use the following guidelines as a basis for your description):
- How will your participation impact your Local, your Union and your community?
- Have you had any formal training or exposure to Human Rights issues?
- Describe community organization, Local or any other experience you feel is pertinent (e.g. community activism in Human Rights or social justice, Union positions held, etc.)
- Why are Human Rights important to you?
We ask that you register by Friday, October 4th, 2019.
If you are unable to register please contact our UNE events staff at events@une-sen.org.
Ontario Regional Seminar
The Ontario Regional Team invites you to participate in their Regional Seminar scheduled to take place at the Sheraton Hamilton Hotel, Ontario on October 25-27, 2019.
This event will offer presentations and workshop training that will give you the knowledge and confidence to help your members. It’s also a great place to meet active members just like you and forge long-lasting friendships.
For a sneak-peek at what else we have in store for you, check out the Seminar agenda.
The UNE will fund the following delegates per Local:
- A Local President or designate should be one of the delegates;
- A member who has not previously attended a seminar should be given priority;
- Locals will elect a youth delegate to attend the Regional Seminar (age 35 or younger as of December 31, 2020).
Locals are required to encourage the participation of equity members. Locals may send additional members at their own expense.
You must register by Friday, September 27, 2019. Unfortunately, we will not consider late registrations.
Should you have any questions about the Seminar please contact Suzanne Boucher at events@une-sen.org.
Delegates to the Regional Seminar should arrive for registration at 7:00p.m. Friday evening, October 25, 2019. Accommodations will be arranged for delegates to spend two nights at the Sheraton Hotel for the Friday and Saturday night of the Seminar as activities are scheduled to take place into the evenings. The Seminar ends on Sunday, October 27 at 12:00p.m.
In solidarity,
Diane Levola, Regional Vice-President, Ontario
Craig Reynolds, Assistant Regional Vice-President, Ontario
Sandy Bello, Assistant Regional Vice-President, Ontario
Prabir Roy, Regional Representative for Human Rights, Ontario
Click here to register online.
UNE 2019 Women’s Conference
The UNE 2019 Women’s Conference is underway!
Click here for the full Conference Program.
Follow the action on social media:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/Union.NE.Syndicat.EN
In solidarity,
Your co-chairs for the Steering Committee for the Women’s Conference:
Hayley Millington, National Equity Representative for Women
Kate Hart, Assistant National Vice-President for Human Rights
Isabelle Beaudoin, Assistant Regional Vice-President, Outside Canada
Treasury Board Walks
Despite the efforts of PSAC and the PA and Common Issues negotiating teams, the employer made a choice to walk away from negotiations.
The employer did not even book translation for Saturday, September 7, and chose not to inform the PSAC lead negotiator. PSAC and our bargaining team representatives were totally disrespected by Treasury Board negotiators, management representatives and the Privy Council Office.
With an election due to be called, the parties will not be able to resume negotiations until a new government is elected.
We will remember this.
Regional Seminar – Alberta, Northwest Territories & Nunavut
The Alberta, N.W.T. and Nunavut Regional Team invites you to participate in the Regional Seminar scheduled to take place at the Chateau Lacombe in Edmonton, AB on October 4-6, 2019.
Click here to register online.
This event will offer presentations and workshop training that will give you the knowledge and confidence to help your members. It’s also a great place to meet active members just like you and forge long-lasting friendships.
For a sneak-peek at what else we have in store for you, check out the Seminar agenda.
The UNE will fund the following delegates per Local:
- A Local President or designate should be one of the delegates;
- A member who has not previously attended a seminar should be given priority;
- Locals will elect a youth delegate to attend the Regional Seminar (age 35 or younger as of December 31, 2020).
Locals are required to encourage the participation of equity members. Locals may send additional members at their own expense.
You must register by Friday, August 30, 2019. Unfortunately, we will not consider late registrations.
Should you have any questions about the Seminar please contact Suzanne Boucher at events@une-sen.org.
Delegates to the Regional Seminar should arrive for registration at 7:00p.m. Friday evening, October 4, 2019. Accommodations will be arranged for delegates to spend two nights at the Chateau Lacombe for the Friday and Saturday night of the Seminar as activities are scheduled to take place into the evenings. The Seminar ends on Sunday, October 6 at 12:00p.m.
In solidarity,
Jaison Van Tine, Regional Vice-President, Alberta, N.W.T. and Nunavut
Geoff Ryan, Assistant Regional Vice-President, Alberta, N.W.T. and Nunavut
Drew Davidson, Assistant Regional Vice-President, Alberta, N.W.T. and Nunavut
Danielle Palmer, Regional Representative for Human Rights, Alberta, N.W.T. and Nunavut