Helpful WFA Tools

The Union of National Employees recently created two factsheets on WFA: one for employees who fall under Treasury Board and one for Parks Canada employees. These factsheets are found in the WFA resources for Locals section of our website. This section also houses many links to WFA documents created by the PSAC.

Many locals have already been using our factsheets to assist their members. Anna Roosen-Runge, of Local 00137, said the factsheets came in very handy last week when a large number of members received affected and surplus letters. “I’m finding this new version to be quite helpful for our Local,” said Sister Roosen-Runge.

At the Union of National Employees, we remain committed to helping our members – and the local leaders who assist them – in any way we can. If you are a member in need of assistance, please contact of a member of your Local. Local Executive members who require assistance should contact a member of their regional team.

pdf WFA Factsheet for Parks Employees
pdf WFA Factsheet for Treasury Board Employees

 

Working for you – a message from Eddie Kennedy

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Since taking office six months ago, as the UNE’s National Executive Vice-president, I have been hard at work advocating on behalf of our members. I must say that it’s both a great pleasure and an honour to represent all our members – from all sectors and all corners of the country.

Recently, my employer, Parks Canada, asked me to help them improve labour relations. They have offered to excuse me from my regular work duties, until October 2013, so that I focus solely on helping them resolve labour relations issues. I will perform this work as part of my role as National Executive Vice-President, not as an agent of the employer. During this time, my employer will continue paying my regular salary and benefits.

Given the current political climate, it’s likely that this assignment will include advising the agency on workforce adjustment situations.

With your help, I’ll make every effort to fight back against job cuts. If your employer should decide to move forward with workforce adjustment actions, my work will ensure that they do so in a fair and transparent manner.

While my 9-to-5 job will be mostly focused on members working at Parks Canada, this new assignment will make it easier for me to access leave without pay for union business. In other words, I’ll have more time to dedicate to represent all of you as your National Executive Vice-president.

If you have any questions about this assignment or any other issue (or if you simply wish to send me words of encouragement!), please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Yours in solidarity,

Eddie Kennedy
National Executive Vice-President
Union of National Employees

Remembering their sacrifice

Remembering their sacrifice

The sullen buzz of bagpipes reverberated in Ottawa’s downtown, last Sunday, as police and peace officers gathered on Parliament Hill to remember their fallen comrades.

The memorial service drew hundreds of officers from across the nation, and an equally large number of onlookers who came to show their support. Governor General David Johnston was among those in attendance.

“By ensuring our safety, at times risking your own lives to do so, the members of the extended law enforcement family are helping to maintain harmony in our communities and contributing to Canada’s enviable reputation as a peaceful nation,” Johnston said.

Doug Marshall and Karoline Klüg came to support nine union members who work at Parks Canada as Peace Officers. “Most Canadians probably aren’t aware that four Park Wardens have died in the line of duty since 1980,” said Marshall. “Park Wardens, like all members of the vast law enforcement community, put their lives at risk to protect their fellow Canadian citizens. It’s great that they are being honoured here today,” he added.

Also spotted among the crowd were Jennifer Ho (RVP-BC & Yukon), Marc Danis (HR-Rep-Manitoba), Yvon Beaudoin (A/RVP-Quebec), Angela Decker (RVP-Atlantic), Geoff Ryan (ARVP-AB, NT & Nunavut) and Sandra Bello (ARVP-Ontario) who were in town for a planning committee. Several union staff members also were present: Suzanne Boucher, Susan Phillips, Franco Picciano, and Ben René.

A number of memorials were also held across Canada.

For more pictures from Sunday’s memorial, please visit our Flickr site.