Here is a quick recap of UNE 2026 Triennial Convention first days:
Sunday — Getting started
Delegate training, the first regional caucuses, and the presentation of the 2025 financial statements got convention off to a great start during the pre-convention day.
Monday — Day 1
Registration, welcome remarks from the trustee, a moment of silence, and the official kickoff of convention! Sharon’s speech got everyone in great spirits. In the afternoon, delegates headed to the demonstration by Sir George-Étienne Cartier House, a Park Canada site — the rain didn’t hold back, and it turned into a powerful moment of solidarity for all our bargaining tables. Back in the room, delegates got to work on resolutions.
Tuesday — Day 2
Delegates adopted the budget proposed by the pre-convention finance committee, then dove into bylaw resolutions — tough work, but work that will pay off. The room was also energized by an inspiring speech from our special guest, Larry Rousseau. Later in the day, the chair acknowledged the passing of Dolly Parton, and the whole room came together to sing 9 to 5 in her honour.
Wednesday — Day 3
The last day devoted to resolutions, and a lot got done! UNE now has 12 regions:
- Atlantic: the provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Quebec: the province of Quebec, except Gatineau.
- Ontario: the province of Ontario, except Ottawa.
- National Capital Region (Separate Employers): all non Treasury Board employer locals in the NCR.
- Manitoba: the province of Manitoba.
- Saskatchewan: the province of Saskatchewan.
- Alberta, Northwest Territories and Nunavut: the province of Alberta, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, including Kootenay and Yoho National Parks.
- British Columbia and Yukon: the province of British Columbia and Yukon Territory, except Kootenay and Yoho National Parks.
- National Capital Region – Gatineau South (Treasury Board): Locals 70044, 70125, 70172. 70263, and 71200
- National Capital Region – Gatineau Centre (Treasury Board): Locals 70027, 70101, 70148, 70312, 70404, and 70410
- National Capital Region – Ottawa Centre (Treasury Board): Locals 70059, 70160, 70176, and 70380
- National Capital Region – Ottawa North (Treasury Board): Locals 70151, 70130, 70181, 70342, and 70381
A round table featuring Craig Reynolds, Mary-Anne Walker, Doug Marshall, and Ruth Lau MacDonald sparked great discussion among delegates, who worked through all the resolutions — including the young workers’ resolution, confirming the UNE Young Workers Committee. The day wrapped up with Dolly Parton songs filling the room.
Looking ahead to Thursday!
All delegates had the opportunity to hear from the candidates for the national positions on Wednesday evening.
Election day is here: president, vice-presidents, vice-president human rights, vice-president health and safety, plus all alternate, assistant, and regional VP positions. We can’t wait!