Public Service Alliance of Canada BC

via New Westminster & District Labour Council

We are inviting the community to discuss local and regional issues on March 26th as part of our 2008 Municipal Election Program. We encourage you to broadcast this forum widely to citizens in the communities served by the New Westminster & District Labour Council. Our communities include all communities from Burnaby and Delta east to Langley and Maple Ridge. There is no pre-registration or cost attached to attending this forum. We want to attract the broadest cross-section of people and encourage you to invite neighbours, family, friends, work colleagues etc. etc.

We hope for a stimulating and thought provoking discussion that helps shape the debate for this Fall’s Municipal and School Board elections.

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Minutes of the Prince George Regional Women’s Committee,January 16, 2008

In attendance:

• Diane Beaulieu – Chair
• Patt Holmes
• Val Bergey
• Barb Mazur
• Sandy Stephens
• Narinder Minhas
• Colette Savarie
• Regina Brennan

Regrets:

• Lucy Fildes

Continue reading below, or download the Prince George Regional Women’s Committee meeting minutes - Jan 16 2008 (pdf)

1. Call to order and welcome introductory round

2. Election

• agreed to hold the next meeting with the election of officers on March 8, right after the breakfast. Agreed to book a room at the Ramada Hotel if possible, otherwise use HEU or BCGEU Hall.
• This committee will have no delegate to the PSAC - BC Regional Convention because they were deemed inactive.

3. International Women’s Day.

• Check with other unions about what they are doing, and look for posters and theme ideas. Colette and Regina to check with Jim Sinclair about what the BC Fed is doing. Patt suggested that the Sharon McIver case is a possible group in need of funding assistance. UNBC does an IWD event. HEU and BCGEU do events as well. CEIU is doing a Loonie auction. Currently doing a survey to choose who to donate proceeds to.
• Women from the committee will attend the breakfast at the Ramada Hotel on March 8th. Colette is invited to attend. Patt has the Women in Motion information.

4. Financial Report.

• $394.81 in the bank. Some discussion about the state of the books and the work that needs to be done to get more funding. Books to be handed off to the new Treasurer on March 8th.
• That the Prince George Regional Women’s Committee purchase a table of 10 seats, to be divided equitably among the 5 affiliated locals, to the March 8 International Women’s Day breakfast organized by the Prince George and District Labour Council. Tickets to be purchased by Sandy. M/S/C Patt Holmes/Narinder Minhas. Carried

5. Defending Public Services

• Review of handouts and activities. Letter from John Gordon (see attached) asking to work across Component lines to ensure co-ordination. Questionnaire from National Women’s Conference on re-organizations and what is happening in the workplace. Interesting statistics in the last National Board of Directors minutes. Patt will share all this information with the new Regional Women’s Committee executive. Colette will forward the Saskatchewan questionnaire.

6. PSAC Regional Council Rep for Women report

• Patt gave a verbal report.

7. Goals for the Regional Women’s Committee

• The planning and setting of goals was tabled to be dealt with by the new executive. Colette proposed using the remaining funds from the Regional Women’s Conference cycle to hold meetings with each committee to do some planning and goal setting.

8. Training and Building Capacity

• Sandy has sent out a questionnaire on education. She needs the completed forms back by January 21.

9. Round table

• Barb – Is working on her CRA women’s committee. They are holding a women’s self defense course. Contact Barb if you are on an employer committee.
• Colette – pass
• Regina – Is on the board for her Women’s Center now and also put together a woman’s self defense course.
• Sandy – She will get the IWD breakfast tickets and will email when she has them.
• Val – pass
• Patt – showed us her beautiful PSAC quilt.
• Narinder – pass
• Diane – handed out bargaining stickers.
• We had a brief discussion on improving the communications network for this committee, to ensure notices of meetings are sent out on a timely basis to all concerned.

Adjourned at 6:55pm

Here are a few photos of PSAC events & activities over the last month …

Members at the Service Canada office in Nelson supported their TB bargaining teams last week, click the thumbnails for a larger view. Cheers to Sheila Pearce, Treasury Board Area Strike Coordinator for the South Kootenays, for the photos. Visit this webpage to find out how to keep up to date with TB bargaining, or send a message to your TB strike coordinator.

Members of CEIU Local 20975 - the Victoria Service Canada office - held their AGM, and re-elected Mandi Schubert as the President. Congratulations Mandi, and thanks for the photos!

The PSAC Regional Staff conference took place last week in Victoria. The Director of the Regional Offices Branch, Penny Bertrand (in black) presented Dave Jackson and Janet Routledge with their long service pins - 20 and 30 years respectively!

Minutes – Vancouver Area Council meeting January 23, 2008

The meeting was called to order at 5:55PM

In attendance:

• Megan Adam, UEW 20147 (delegate)
• Tom Gallagher, GSU 20008 (delegate)
• Jamey Mills, UTE 20027 (guest)
• Marie Lygo, UVAE 20045 (delegate)
• Jessica Chia, GSU 20008 (delegate)
• Teri Lee, AGR 20044 (delegate)
• Sharon Tieman, UPCE 20101 (delegate)
• Rhonda Johns, UPCE 20095 (delegate)
• Sam Wiese, CEIU 20949 (delegate)

Continue reading below or download the Vancouver Area Council meeting minutes - January 23 2008 (pdf)

1. Affiliated Locals (dues paid)

• UPCE 20101
• GSU 20008
• UEW 20147
• AGR 20044
• CEIU 20949
• UVAE 20045

m/s (Megan/Marie) that UPCE 20095 be given temporary official status, dues cheque will be received this week.

The 2007 dues cheque for UPCE 20101 was cashed, all others were stale dated and needed to be re-issued.

2. Round of introductions

3. BC Regional Convention delegate election.

Discussion on purpose of convention and role of delegate

Nominations

• Jasvir Nagra – UVAE 20045 m/s (Marie/Megan)
• Tracy Shudo – CEIU 20949 m/s (Sam/Teri)
• Jasvir was elected
• Tracy to be alternate m/s (Sam/Marie)

4. Resolution discussions (resolutions to follow)

• Temporary Foreign Workers (Sam/Megan, carried)
• Status of Women Canada (Sam/Megan, carried)
• Colombia (Megan/Sam, carried)
• May Day (Sam/Megan, carried)
• Security & Prosperity Partnership (Sam/Megan, carried)
• Amendment of BC Regional Council Regulation #3, to add “one youth delegate” (Sam/Marie, carried)

5. Political Action

• Sam: Canadian Grain Act amendment – letters to MP were distributed
• Sharon: Canada Post amendment, originated at BC Fed, CUPW lead – letters to MP were distributed
• Monica shared that the Garry and the Political Action Committee are still setting up meetings with MPs if people were interested and available to attend.

6. New Items

• Megan, as the PA rep for TB bargaining has been speaking at several AGMs and meetings and is open to further invitations
• Funding for BC Regional Convention – some discussion and questions on this issue.
• Young Workers Unite! – Feb 7th forum that Jamey will be speaking at organized by the May Day Organizing Committee
• Eight bucks sucks rally – February 16th
• Information on the above are on the regional website.

Meeting adjourned at 7:10PM m/s (Sharon/Sam)

With the assistance of a Conciliation Officer, the Prince Rupert Airport and the Public Service Alliance of Canada reached a tentative agreement on January 25, 2008. The three (3) year agreement was ratified by the membership on February 6, 2008.

The agreement provides for economic increases of 2.25% in each year of the agreement. It also contains many improvements to the benefits and insurance plans and the vacation leave provisions.

The revised collective agreement has an expiry date of November 30, 2009.

PSAC SOUTHERN VANCOUVER ISLAND DISTRICT AREA COUNCIL GENERAL MEETING MINUTES – January 29th, 2008, PSAC Victoria Regional Office

Members Present:

• Nick Humphreys – UEW 20169
• Virginia Vaillancourt – UVAE 20030
• John Rumsby – UTE 20028
• Cindy Little – UTE 20028
• Scott Parker – UTE 20028
• Jim Sidel – DCL 20500
• Ken Waldron – UNDE 21013
• Peter Neelands – NRU 20088
• Ches Bennett - DCL 20500
• Wayne Little – UTE 20028
• Eric Nygaard – USGE 20018

PSAC Victoria RO Staff Present:

• James Little – H & S Rep
• Rosemary MacKenzie – Admin Assistant

Regrets:

• Dave Jackson – Regional Rep
• Mandi Schubert – CEIU 20975
• Dave Ramalho – UNDE 21011

Download the Southern Vancouver Island Area Council minutes - January 29th 2008 (pdf) or continue reading below.

1. Call to order

• Chairperson Sister Little called the meeting to order at 5:35pm

2. Introductions

• Roundtable introductions of members present

3. Proposed Agenda

• Amendments to the Agenda
• Change in order of business
• Addition of:
  • Defending Quality Public Service – OurFish.ca campaign
  • H & S Forum on Website
  • Resignation from Executive
• m/s/c J Rumsby/W Little

4. Adoption of Minutes from Nov 20, 2007

• m/s/c W Little/ J Sidel

5. Resolutions for Convention:

• February 15, 2008 is the deadline for Resolution submissions to the BC Regional Convention. Resolution being submitted by N Humphreys who will send it out to affiliated locals to get a yes or no on the resolution.
• Resolution: Where PSAC encourages all locals to affiliate with the labour councils across the country. (There are 135 labour councils)
• That PSAC reimburse 50% to locals who affiliate to labour councils.

6. Update on the Victoria Labour Council

• There are pamphlets available which describe what Labour Councils do. The VLC went through a reconstruction last year. New By-laws were written and passed in November. 15 people were elected to the executive.
• There were 90 voting delegates at their last meeting. BCGEU has rejoined the VLC. There is $600.00 available to assist a local with affiliation to the VLC.
• The cost is $4.00/member/year to affiliate. The year begins the day you affiliate.
• Next meeting for VLC is February 20, 2008 at the Cedar Hill Golf Club at 7pm. Members who are not affiliated yet can attend as observers. Arrive at 6:30pm to sign in.
• VLC meets every 3rd Wednesday of the month.

7. Bargaining Update

• TB groups are back in bargaining at the end of January beginning of February.
• Ships crew are back in bargaining the week of Feb 18th.
• Table 3 is awaiting Pay Study.

8. Education 2008

• PSAC Education Schedule is out.
• Follow ups for previous members who have signed up for courses but were unable to attend is being done by Rosemary.
• C Little attended a Fraser Valley Area Council Executive meeting. If members have any thoughts/ ideas on other education courses ie., Political Activitsts; Please advise the Area Council

9. Logo Contest

• Reminder to members to make submissions to our “Create a Logo” Contest.
• Deadline for submissions is February 29, 2008. The winner will receive a bomber style jacket with either the new SVIDAC or the PSAC BC logos.
• You can enter electronically to jacksod@psac.com or by mail Att: SVIDAC Logo Contest, 210 – 1497 Admirals Road, Victoria, BC V9A 2P8.
• Please contact PSAC at 953-1050 if you would like a copy of the guidelines emailed to you.

10. Requests for affiliation to VLC

• SVIDAC has $600.00 to assist locals with affiliation to the VLC if locals are affiliated with the SVIDAC.
• SVIDAC wants a commitment by locals who chose to be affiliate to the VLC

11. Defending Quality Public Service – www.OurFish.ca

• New campaign has been started www.OurFish.ca or www.nospoissons.ca
• Sustainable funding=sustainable fisheries=sustainable communities
• Campaign is about resources not jobs.
• 90% of fish stocks around the work are under threat. There is an information folder available and when Nick receives these he will email AC to see who would like a folder.
• Request that members review the folder and postcards and discuss the campaign with your fellow members. Sign and send in the postcards to Ottawa, no postage required. Atlantic Canada has bought into the campaign.
• Nick will be talking to Jim Sinclair (CLC President), to sports fisherman and to the VLC. Folders have been sent to MP’s, MLA’s across Canada including senators across the country.
• Discuss the campaign at your AGM’s/GM, Nick can attend the meetings to talk about the campaign.
• Component Presidents will be receiving a presentation at next weeks Board meeting.
• Some Native Bands have bought into the campaign.
• PSAC assisted with the funding for the campaign but the majority of funding came from UEW Component.

12. OH & S Forum on Website

• BRUSH now has an interactive website to discuss H & S concerns. Visit www.psacbc.com . Click on Health & Safety link on the right hand side. Then click on the orange guy with megaphone. You will need to create a user id and password.
• In order to add comments you must be logged in but you can still view all of the info. Samples of current forums are: * MSRA * Ergonomics * Disability Insurance. You can add links, pictures etc in to the forum.
• There was a discussion regarding housing the locals H & S minutes on the website. Not all locals submit their minutes to PSAC.
• There was an email notification sent out to advise members of the website. James Little advised that he will be meeting with the National H & S Reps and will be seeking broad distribution of the website Nationally. You can also go to: www.psacbc.com/hs-forum/

13. Resignation from Executive Member

• The SVIDAC Executive received a resignation notice from the Vice- President Todd Genereux.

14. Election of delegate to BC PSAC Regional Convention

• There is no loss of salary covered by PSAC for Friday April 18th.
• Motion to have SVIDAC cover loss of salary for the delegate who attends the BC Regional Convention including the registration fee of $50.00.
• m/s/c N Humphreys/ J Sidel

• Elections conducted by Brother James Little and votes counted by Sister Rosemary MacKenzie and Brother James Little.

• Delegate

• John Rumsby Nominated by W Little, Seconded by S Parker
• Virginia Vaillancourt Nominated by J Sidel, Seconded by E. Nygaard
• Ken Waldron Nominated by N. Humphreys, Seconded by C Bennett

• There were 2 votes held.

• Ken Waldron will be the AC Delegate
• John Rumsby will be the Alternate Delegate

• Motion to destroy ballots.
• m/s/c J Sidel/K Waldron

15. Adjournment

• Motion to adjourn meeting. Meeting adjourned at 7:10pm
• m/s/c W Little/J Sidel

Sister Cindy Little, President and Virginia Vaillancourt, Recording Secretary

Fraser Valley Area Council Annual General Meeting 2007-12-05

In Attendance:

• Kay Sinclair PSAC-REVP BC
• Keith Glover RVP USGE
• James Little PSAC
• Jayne Johns CEIU Local 20903
• Anne Marie McCully CEIU Local 20903
• Edi Martin USGE Local 20141
• Chuck Leech USGE Local 20054
• Mel Dureen USGE Local 20054
• Bea Burke Local 20147
• Griselda Schmidtke Local 20140
• Diane McArthur Local 20140
• Heather Warner USGE Local 20040
• Patti Victor Local 20903

Meeting called to order at 1830 hours.

Continue reading below, or download the Fraser Valley AC minutes - December 5 2007 (pdf)

Introductions were made.

A quorum has been reached.

It was announced that E. Martin would be the Education Co-ordinator for the Fraser Valley.

1. Previous Minutes

• A motion to adopt the previous minutes was made by A. M. McCully and seconded by P. Victor. Motion carried

2. By-Law Amendments

• Changes were made to the By-Laws adopted in June 2001.

• Proposed change: J. Johns read the proposed changes to our bylaws in Section I, Subsection I - Change to geographical areas. The proposed change in geographical areas to amalgamate the Fraser Valley in one are and the Metro Vancouver and surrounding area to their own Area Council was moved by M. Dureen and seconded by E. Martin. After much discussion the decision was carried. It is to be noted that P. Victor and K. Glover chose to abstain.

3. Financial Report - A. McCully

• Our current balance is $1691.54 and dues are payable in January. There are currently six locals in good standing and permitted to vote.
• Motion to accept the financial report - C. Leech, Seconded - P. Victor. Carried - unanimously.

4. Election of Executive

• The call for nominations went out.

• President - Jayne Johns - nominated by C. Leech, seconded by D. McArthur. - Acclamation
• First Vice President - Mel Dureen - nominated by H. Warner, seconded by C. Leech - Acclamation
• Second Vice President - Chuck Leech - nominated by E. Martin, seconded by D. McArthur - Acclamation
• Treasurer - Anne Marie McCully - nominated by P. Victor, seconded by H. Warner - Acclamation
• Secretary
  • Heather Warner - nominated by C. Leech, seconded by K. Glover (incumbent refused)
  • Edi Martin - nominated by M Dureen, seconded by H. Warner - Acclamation

• The executive was sworn in by K. Sinclair, PSAC.

5. Election of Delegates to PSAC Convention 2008

• Jayne Johns is a delegate as the Geographic Coordinator for the BC PSAC Regional Council. Keith Glover will attend as a National Officer delegate. Heather Warner will attend for USGE
• A delegate was voted in for the Fraser Valley Area Council

1. Anne Marie McCully - nominated by M. Dureen and seconded by P. Victor - Acclimation
2. 1st Alternate - M. Dureen - nominated by J. Johns and seconded by K. Glover - Acclimation
3. 2nd Alternate - Edi Martin - nominated by J. Johns and seconded by M. Dureen - Acclimation

6. Resolutions

• There were no resolutions presented at this meeting.

7. District Labour Council Report - J. Johns

• J. Johns provided information on the activities of the Fraser Valley District Labour Council. It began last year in the Fraser Valley with 16000 members and 30-80 people attending the meetings on the third Wednesday of each month. Their work groups include a Political Action group, an Organizing group and an Education group. The Education group currently has courses on WCB, How to Organize an Effective Campaign and Retirement. They are planning more courses after April 2008. We were providing $300 per year for three delegates and 3 alternates. We have increased to $600 for six delegates and three alternates.
• It was moved by J. Johns and seconded by E. Martin that Matsqui USGE Local 20054 is supported to affiliate with the Fraser Valley District Labour Council under the Fraser Valley Area Council. That would then provide us with six delegates and 6 alternates. The motion was carried, with K. Glover abstaining.

8. Fraser Valley Coordinators Report

• Attached.

9. Bargaining Information - M. Dureen

• Two pay studies have been completed and the essential services agreement is being considered during December. No job action is allowed at this time.

10. Education - J. Little

• The staffing course has been postponed until the new year. Edi Martin will be working with Amal Rana at PSAC to identify the training needs for the Fraser Valley and to recruit people to attend, set up dates, etc. A meeting will be held in January to review our requirements.
• A new course on staffing is developed to educate members on the new rules in staffing. CSC is constantly changing how staffing is completed. Everyone needs to learn how things should be done and review redress.
• A USGE Strike Mobilization course will be held in Vancouver and Kelowna. Additional strike training for all PSAC members will also be provided later in the Valley. Monika Urita is developing this area.

11. Political Action - A M McCully

• There have been numerous meetings and e-mails regarding the minimum wage campaign.
• Bill C-14 has had it’s third reading. This affects Canada Post’s exclusivity.
• There has been a problem with contracting out of laboratories. We have a lab here in the Cultus Lake area that is being affected.

12. PSAC-REVP Report - Kay Sinclair

• Regulation 15 has established our rules for bargaining.
• Pension surplus decision - we have lost the court case and currently have our lawyers reviewing everything to see if we can appeal this. PSAC is also reviewing the decision. We also do not want to jointly issue the pension plan.
• Bill C-14 would affect our members (UPCE are non male members). We would likely see very uneven services. People in the rural areas would not receive very good service at all.
• The CRA agreement has been ratified.

The meeting concluded at 2000 Hr.

FRASER VALLEY REGIONAL COORDINATOR REPORT, For October 2007

Jayne Johns-Fraser Valley West Coordinator Activities since the last Regional Council Meeting

• May 16, 2007 Fraser Valley Labour Council Executive Meeting and General Meeting in Abbotsford
• June 1-3, 2007 CEIU Presidents Conference in Richmond
• June 11-13, 2007 Facilitated JLP Collective Agreement Interpretation Workshop in Victoria and visited the Victoria PSAC office
• Jun 18, 2007 JLP Open House in Abbotsford BC
• June 20, 2007 Fraser Valley Labour Council Executive Meeting and General Meeting in Abbotsford
• June 25, 2007 BC PSAC Political Action conference call
• July 1, 2007 Participated in the Abbotsford Canada Parade with other Labour Council affiliates (see picture)
• July 18, 2007 BC PSAC Political Action conference call
• Sept 4, 2007 CEIU/Service Canada Passport Offerings conference call with Kay Sinclair
• Sept 12, 2007 Participated in JLP Anti-Harassment Workshop
• Sept 12, 2007 PSAC Education Open House in Abbotsford
• Sept 12, 2007 Fraser Valley Area Council meeting
• Sept 18 & 19, 2007 Participated in JLP UMCC Workshop
• Sept 26, 2007 BC PSAC Political Action Conference call
• October 18-20, 2007 BC PSAC Regional Exective Council meeting in Vancouver. I was selected as Chair of the REC By-law Committee
• October 21-23, 2007 PSAC Leadership Training phase II. This training was provided for Regional and National leaders and is a follow up to part 1 provided prior to the 2006 National Convention.

FVAC Minutes Dec 2007

Monday, February 11th at 5:00 at the PSAC office, #210 - 1497 Admirals Road.

The agenda for this meeting will include

• Election of Chairperson/Secretary/Treasurer
• Election of Delegate to the BC PSAC Regional Convention
• Budget for the 2008 fiscal year
• Event for International Women’s Day
• Information on Oxfam Canada

The Vancouver District Labour Council Young Workers Committee (VDLC) is having a rally in front of Gordon Campbell’s office on Saturday February 16th at 1:00pm to promote the increase of minimum wage. Currently the minimum wage is $8.00 an hour (below the poverty level.) and there is a bogus training wage for new workers where employers are paying as little as $6.00 an hour for the 1 st 500 hours to young and immigrant workers.

Many of the other provinces have already legislated an increase to Minimum wage, BC is falling behind and we have some of the highest costs of living in all of Canada. The labour movement is calling for the abolishment of the $6 training wage and an increase to the minimum wage to $10.00 an hour.

Come out and support some of our provinces most vulnerable workers and the VDLC Young workers. Let’s make this rally a success!

• February 16th /08
• 3615 W. 4th Ave. (In Front Of Gordon Campbell’s Office.)
• 1:00pm
• 8 Bucks Sucks!

You can also show your support by signing the petition on the BC Federation of Labour website.

Negotiations between the Prince Rupert Airport Authority and the Public Service Alliance of Canada are scheduled to resume on January 22 and 23, 2008, with the assistance of a Conciliation Officer. The parties had met on three (3) separate occasions in 2007 but were unable to reach a tentative agreement. The major outstanding issues include wages, benefits, and duration. The collective agreement expired November 30, 2006.

The next North Central Area Council meeting will be held …

• Saturday February 16, 2008, 10AM
• HEU Hall (corner of 3rd and Dominion), Prince George

Agenda:

1. Elections for the positions of President, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Vice-Presidents,Secretary,and Treasurer.
2. Election of a delegate to the BC Region convention in Vancouver–April 18-20, 2008
3. Bargaining Update

For more information, please email Colette Savarie.

Upcoming courses put on by the BC Federation of Labour Health & Safety Centre. For more information, course descriptions or registration call the Fed @ 604-430-1421, 1-888-BCFL NOW or visit www.bcfed.ca. There is an $85 registration fee for most courses.

• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Cranbrook - Feb 21
• Workplace Ergonomics OHS Course Fernie - Feb 22
• Basic OHS Course Greater Vancouver - Feb 26
• Basic OHS Course Nanaimo - Feb 27
• Prevention of Violence in the Workplace OHS Course Victoria - Feb 28
• Workplace Ergonomics OHS Course Parksville - Mar 4
• Basic OHS Course Campbell River - Mar 5
• Basic OHS Course Salmon Arm - Mar 6
• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Revelstoke - Mar 7
• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Surrey - Mar 7
• Prevention of Violence in the Workplace OHS Course Greater Vancouver - Mar 11
• Workplace Toxins OHS Course Greater Vancouver - Mar 12
• Basic OHS Course Powell River - Mar 13
• Basic OHS Course Kimberley - Mar 14
• Stress in the Workplace OHS Course Victoria - Mar 25
• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Duncan - Mar 26
• Advanced OHS Course Greater Vancouver - Mar 28
• Workplace Ergonomics OHS Course Chilliwack - Mar 31
• Whole Body Vibration OHS Course Greater Vancouver - Apr 2
• Workplace Ergonomics OHS Course Greater Vancouver - Apr 3
• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Nanaimo - Apr 8
• Stress in the Workplace OHS Course Surrey - Apr 14
• Basic OHS Course Abbotsford - Apr 17
• Advanced OHS Course Victoria - Apr 21
• Basic OHS Course Courtenay - Apr 23
• Advanced OHS Course Parksville - Apr 24
• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Creston - Apr 29
• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Prince George - May 1
• Basic OHS Course Prince George - May 1
• Advanced OHS Course Prince George - May 1
• Workplace Ergonomics OHS Course Prince George - May 1
• Whole Body Vibration OHS Course Victoria - May 6
• Workplace Ergonomics OHS Course Surrey - May 9
• Stress in the Workplace OHS Course Greater Vancouver - May 12
• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Powell River - May 15
• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Chilliwack - May 20
• Prevention of Violence in the Workplace OHS Course Nanaimo - May 22
• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Greater Vancouver - Jun 4
• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Campbell River - Jun 5
• Accident/Incident Investigations OHS Course Abbotsford - Jun 9

• Date: Tuesday, January 29, 2008
• Time: 7-9 PM
• Location: The Richmond Caring Place,
• 7000 Minoru Blvd @ Granville
• Cost: minimum donation of $5 but no one will be turned away

Since Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo assumed power in the Philippines in January 2001, there are now more than 830 reported cases of extra-judicial killings and almost 200 cases of forcible disappearances in the Philippines. Despite this terror, the Filipino peoples resistance continues. The killings, mostly carried out by unidentified men often wearing face masks who shoot the victims before escaping on motorcycles, have rarely led to the arrest, prosecution and punishment of those responsible.

Come to a forum at the Richmond Women’s Resource Centre and learn more about the situation of women in the Philippines and how you can be a Sister In Solidarity.

For more information contact Philippine Women Centre of BC (604) 215-1103, pwc@kalayaancentre.net, www.kalayaancentre.net/pwcofbc or Richmond Women’s Resource Centre (604) 279-7060, www.richmondwomenscentre.bc.ca

Endorsed by the PSAC Vancouver Regional Women’s Committee

PSAC Regional Council Youth Representative and co-chair of the BC Fed Young Workers’ Committee, Jamey Mills, will be speaking at this event. The PSAC Vancouver & District Area Council is a member of the May Day Organizing Committee.

MAY DAY 2008: May Day Organizing Committee presents ‘Young Workers Unite!’ a community Forum & Discussion on the present issues and struggles of young workers in Vancouver and how they are organizing themselves

• Thursday, 7 February 2008, 6:30 PM
• Organizing Centre for Economic & Social Justice
• 672 E. Broadway, Vancouver BC (Take the #8 or #9 and get off at Broadway and Fraser)
• Speakers: IWW-Vancouver, Filipino-Canadian Youth Alliance-Vancouver, Bus Riders’ Union, B.C. Federation Young Workers’ Committee
• With feature film: “Eyes on the Fries”

more info: ilps_canada@shawcable.com

Northwest B.C. Area Council General Meeting November 21, 2007

Attendance:

• Phyllis Bortignon USGE 20071
• Penny Dickson CEIU 20926
• Benilde Gomes USGE 20071
• Dale Gueret UEW 20147
• Helen Hill CEUDA 20042
• Scott MacPhee UCTE 20213
• Gail Moore CEUDA 20042
• Rachael Mosley CEUDA 20042
• Nikki McVey CEIU 20926
• Amal Rana PSAC BC Regional Education Representative
• Colette Savarie PSAC BC Regional Representative
• Dave Thompson PSAC BC Regional Organizer Representative

Download the NorthWest Area Council meeting minutes - Nov 21 2007 (pdf) or continue reading below.Call to Order: Benilde opened meeting at 7:20pm. Harvey Russell of AGR 20042, Prince Rupert submits his regrets for not being able to attend this meeting.

Adoption of Agenda: Motion made to accept Agenda as read and carried.

Previous Meetings Minutes: Motion made to accept Minutes from September 8, 2007, as read and carried.

Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer, Barry Cunningham read the balance of $1,367.04 plus $27.57 in shares for the bank account. Barry is still actively collecting dues from locals and he will report on these at the next meeting. Motion made to accept report as read and carried.

VIP Guest Speaker: Dave Thompson, PSAC BC Regional Organizer Representative is introduced by Benilde. Dave gives a brief history of his work history as being an electrician by trade; having moved from Yellowknife this past June, where he participated in 8/9 successful unifications. Since his arrival in Vancouver region in June, he has organized 2 unifications for commissionaires. Organizing has been very successful in Quebec, East Coast and Ontario, with Regional Police on Reserves and Casino workers in gambling dens on race tracks.

Dave is the contact in this region for organizing any group(s) interested, more specifically commissionaires, call centers and universities. His mandate is to organize for PSAC.

Update on Bargaining – Colette Savarie: Colette provides a brief recap of the negotiations at the Prince Rupert Airport, at the end of October 2007. Talks have broken off and the employer has applied for conciliation. Members are very disappointed at this turn of events and Benilde encourages other locals’ members to show support whenever travelling through the airport.

Colette reports that the Women’s Regional Conference, whose theme this year was Environmental, was very successful. Though still busy getting to know the region, Colette will be getting this report out soon.

TB Bargaining has been postponed due to extensive discussions on Essential Services and delays in completion of the Pay Study. Should resume in late January, early February of 2008. Updates will be sent through Benilde.

Supporting our Bargaining Units: Benilde gave out stickers and information sheets for distribution among locals to bring awareness and support to the bargaining teams. Updates can be found at psacbc.com.

PSAC BC Regional Education Representative – Amal Rana: Benilde introduces Amal and takes the opportunity to thank the Regional Office for accommodating members by extending dead lines and modifying courses.

Amal commends Benilde on getting members out and developing interest in union education.

Amal speaks of there being 6 members on the Education Committee and Education Open Houses, where it is a good forum to find out what’s wanted for education, what’s working – formats.

Education is offered in every region to facilitate, advance and organize union courses.

• Handouts distributed for Basic and Advanced courses.
• Union School is held usually every November. 80-100 members from across the region participate.
• Education forums are held on Bargaining
• Special Interest Evenings – i.e. Black History in Canada

Amal encourages members to think about what kind of courses they are looking for. Brainstorming results in the time of year that works best for this area is February – June. Suggestions for courses noted by Amal who will be researching and getting information back to members of this area council, for distribution.

Further discussion result in requests for more JLP sessions to be facilitated by the Union and Management. The 4 topics covered by the JLP are:

• Understanding the Collective Agreement
• Anti-Harassment
• Union-Management Consultation
• Respecting Differences and Anti-discrimination

Amal emphasizes how important it is to encourage managers to attend the JLP sessions. And encourages members to consider opportunities to become facilitators for JLP.

Nikki reminds members that CEIU is hosting the Anti-harassment session in Terrace, February 18, 2008.

District Labour Councils: Discussion on who this council is affiliated to. Benilde responds that we are affiliated to Kitimat-Terrace Labour Council who meets every 4th Thursday and Prince Rupert Labour Council who meets the last Thursday of every month. Barry says that he has been voted into the Prince Rupert LC as the Sergeant of Arms.

PSAC Regional Convention: Benilde reads out an email from Kay Sinclair, regarding delegate selection from this council. This council can nominate 3 members, one each for geographical, equity status and member of council. Clarification given by Benilde regarding the definition of geographical and equity delegates. There has been no call out letter – it is anticipated later this month. Motion made and carried to pay for the registration of 3 delegates from this council, should they be accepted by regional.

Nominations to be made by email to Benilde with a deadline of December 14, 2007

Calendar of Events:

• November 29, 2007 Kitimat-Terrace Labour Council is hosting a Municipal Coffee House at BCGEU office in Terrace and in Kitimat on December 12, 2007 at the CAW Hall.
• December 1, 2007 Retirement Seminar being hosted by Kitimat-Terrace Labour Council
• December 6, 2007 Take Back the Night in Terrace
• December 10, 2007 International Human Rights Day

Discussion on council supporting events taking place on December 6 for Violence Against Women. Benilde suggests that $50 be contributed towards events in both Prince Rupert and Terrace. Dale will find out from the Prince Rupert Transition House if they are planning anything for that date.

Amendments to the bylaws: Tabled to next meeting.

Other Business: Discussion on the progress of the Regional Women’s Committee. Benilde has received the acceptance letter for USGE component.

Next Meeting: Scheduled for January 19, 2008 @ 1:00pm in Terrace at the Carpenters Hall. If weather prevents travel, there will be a conference call set up at the hall for members unable to attend.

Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 10:10pm

Tuesday, January 29, 2008, 5:30 p.m.
PSAC Regional Office, 210-1497 Admirals Road

Agenda:
Election of Delegate to BC Regional Convention

Please RSVP to Rosemary at the Victoria Regional Office no later than January 28, 2008 at 953-1050 or mackenr@psac.com

Food will be served

The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 29/08, starting at 5:30 p.m., at the Knight & Day Restaurant located at 9677 King George Highway.  On the Agenda is choosing the delegate to the Regional PSAC Convention.

The next Vancouver Regional Women’s Committee meeting will be held on
Tuesday, January 22 @ 5:30PM
At the PSAC Satellite Office, 5128 Joyce Street
½ block south of the Joyce Street Skytrain Station (note different venue).

The agenda includes holding an election to send a delegate to the 2008 BC PSAC Regional Convention.
More agenda items to follow…

Please RSVP to the Vancouver RO - 604 430 5631 - if you plan on attending.

Date:
Tuesday, January 22, 2008.
Time:
Dinner at 5:30, Meeting to Start at 6 pm
Location:
Vancouver RO Boardroom, #200 – 5238 Joyce Street, Vancouver, (1 ½ blocks south of the Joyce Street Skytrain Station)
Agenda:
- election of VAC delegate to the BC Regional Convention
- discussion on resolutions to be submitted to BC Regional Convention

If your local/branch has not yet paid its 2008 dues, please ensure it does so at this meeting, in order to have full voice and vote during the election and discussions on resolutions. Dues are .50 per member, per year, and calculated only for the number of members who are in the area of Vancouver & District catchment area.

For more information: www.psacbc.com or call 604-430-5631. Please RSVP to urrutim@psac-afpc.com as a light dinner will be served!

See Meeting Notice.