Public Service Alliance of Canada BC

Union Bargaining Team Brings Student Work Issue to the Table - PSAC bargaining team proposes union wages for students doing union work

In the workplace and by submitting contract demands, union members across the country have expressed concerns about Parks Canada practices regarding student employment at our worksites.

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In response to these concerns, and as an important part of PSAC’s Defending Quality Public Services campaign, this past spring your elected bargaining team submitted proposals in nego-tiations with Parks Canada concerning student workers.

Your bargaining team has taken the following positions at the bargaining table:

1. We recognize the importance of providing students with the opportunity to gain work experience and skills. There is a place for students at Parks Canada.
2. Students doing union work must be paid a union wage.
3. Students not hired under legitimate Federal Student programs should be members of the bargaining unit and therefore members of the union.
4. The employer must discuss with the union the assignment of bargaining unit work to students. It is union work and should not be assigned to students without the agreement of the union.
5. Parks Canada must ensure that students receive adequate training and supervision.

Defending quality public services is not only in the interest of union members and students working at Parks Canada, but in the interest of all Canadians.

If you have any questions, contact your local union representative or a member of your bargaining team: Carrie Docken, Jack Norris, Kimberlee Trainor, Mike Leblanc, and Kevin King.

Bargaining resumes in the fall

Your bargaining team will be back at the table in the fall during the week of October 22 and the week of November 19, 2007, as well as the week of January 28, 2008.