Public Service Alliance of Canada BC

PSAC Regional Women’s Committee, Minutes of Meeting January 16, 2010, Summerland Research Station, Summerland

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Joy Harrison APSAR
• Kelly Megyesi (phone) CEIU 20915
• Annette Hale USGE 20153
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915
• Carolyn McGillivray CIU 20045
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Martha Johnson UVA 20035
• Gaby Villecourt USGE 20153
• Grace MacIver NHU 20031
• Andrea Johnson USGE 20153

The meeting was called to order at 11:15a.m. with Kelly Megyesi in the chair via teleconference.

Continue reading below, or download the January 16 2010 Okanagan RWC meeting minutes (pdf)

Minutes: Minutes from September 14, 2009 were reviewed. m/s/c

Roberta distributed copies of Kelly’s report for year ending December 31, 2009, year-end financial statement, transaction breakdown, bank statement ending December 31, 2009, and a 2010 budget.

Treasurer’s Report:

• The year-end financial statement was reviewed. $2108.00 balance.
• Donations were lower last year than year previous due to anticipated funding for observer attendance at PSAC Convention. Observer became delegate so $600 funding returned.
• Motion: Kelly moved, Susan seconded THAT 2009 Treasurer’s Report be accepted as distributed. Carried
• Motion: Darrell-Lee moved, Susan seconded THAT 2010 Budget be accepted as distributed. Carried.

Old Business:

1) Andrée Coté Event: Andrée unable to attend meeting so event cancelled as previously notified via e-mails.

New Business:

1) International Women’s Day:

• Suggestions requested by Kelly regarding IWD activities and/or recognition. Unanimous agreement to use Gaby’s logo that was on the sticky notes last year, on a different product this year.
• Motion : Roberta Gourlie moved, Susan Yaciw seconded THAT up to $500 be budgeted for creation and purchase of promotional item endorsed with Gaby’s logo. Carried
• Action: Kelly will check into items such as safety carabineer or other item and send e-mail with options to vote on.

2) BC Regional Women’s Conference:

• Conference being held in June 2010.
• Kelly on organizing committee and Annette Hale volunteered to help when able, including participating in up-coming conference call.

3) Elections:

Elections were held for all positions with the following results:

• Chair – Kelly Megyesi acclaimed.
• Vice-Chair – Maria-Luiza Romano acclaimed.
• Secretary – Roberta Gourlie acclaimed (assistance later in year from others depending upon results of formation of South Okanagan Area Council
• Treasurer – Kelly Megyesi acclaimed.

Round Table:

• Kelly suggested the Okanagan establish a PSAC Human Rights Committee. Support from remaining members present to support and pursue this option.
• Action: Kelly will obtain further information on what’s involved in establishing a local committee and sent out via e-mail.

Next Meeting: TBA, Adjourned at 11:50 a.m. m/s/c

PSAC Okanagan Area Council, Minutes of Meeting January 16, 2010, Summerland Research Station, Summerland

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Joy Harrison APSAR
• Kelly Megyesi (phone) CEIU 20915
• Annette Hale USGE 20153
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915
• Carolyn McGillivray CIU 20045
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Martha Johnson UVA 20035
• Gaby Villecourt USGE 20153
• Grace MacIver NHU 20031
• Andrea Johnson USGE 20153

The meeting was called to order at 10:00a.m. with Susan Yaciw in the chair.

Continue reading below, or download the January 16 2010 Okanagan Area Council meeting minutes (pdf)

Minutes: Minutes from September 14, 2009 were distributed. Corrections were made to Education section…spelling correction under JLP action item, s/b “….advise d Darrell-Lee” m/s/c

Treasurer’s Report:

• The year-end financial statement was reviewed. $3861.42 balance.
• CEIU local 20917 dues are two years past due and rep(s) have not been attending so considered as no longer interested in membership so written off.
• $225.00 cheque to PSAC for Susan Yaciw’s Convention fee, still outstanding.
• Action: Darrell-Lee will follow up with PSAC again. m/s/c
  Dues for 2010 ($1 per local Okanagan member) are now due.
• Action: Please forward cheques payable to OAC, and mail to: Darrell-Lee McKenzie

SPECIAL ITEM: Formation of South Okanagan Area Council

• Susan handed out Area Council pamphlet and provided brief description of what Area Councils are and what they did. Some comments:
• politics from some components regarding duplication of services
• distance to commute to meetings
• setting dues (currently $1/local member/yr in OAC) and splitting dues if overlap by new Area Council.
• naming of new and renaming of existing area councils.
• If members from 3 add’l components in South, such as USGE, UVA, CIU, CEIU committed to form area council, AGR local in Summerland committing to join South for support/experience.
• Interest was shown from all in attendance to move forward.
• Action: Gaby (USGE), Martha (UVA), Carolyn (CIU) will approach locals first to obtain commitment to affiliate and report back to SusanYaciw (syaciw@shaw.ca).
  Action: Roberta will contact Rosie Settle (CEIU Penticton) to explore interest.
  Action: Susan to contact UTE Penticton to explore interest.

Temporary Adjournment: 11:15am, Re-start: 11:50am

Old Business:

1) APSAR:

• stands for Association of Public Service Alliance Retirees
• Joy reports that the Federal and Provincial Finance Ministers met in May ’09 and reviewed e-mail previously sent to Area Council members for review and comments. Changes to CPP being proposed and supported by all finance ministers.
• Joy handed out a Supplemental Death Benefit document that members can record their pension # on and keep with their will. She advises that $11M SDB has been collected for survivors by APSAR.
• Action: All Area Council to copy and distribute document to members in their locals.

Standing Items:

1) Regional Council Update:

• Regina Brennan will be returning from her assignment with National PSAC on February 1, 2010. Susan reports that Regina will be attending Kelowna UTE’s AGM on Feb 17 so may be able to attend other meetings while in the area.
• Next Regional Council meeting Mar 5 and 6 and a conference call on Thursday, Jan 21.
• E-mail from Kay Sinclair (attached to minutes) requesting feedback and/or suggestions for changes to Section 9 of Reg’l Bylaws pertaining to delegate entitlement to the B.C. Reg’l Convention.
• Action: Forward any comments/feedback/suggestions to Roberta (drgourlie@shaw.ca) by Jan 29who will forward to Bylaw Committee.

2) Regional Office Update:

• Carol Pegura, Assistant to the REVP (Kay’s Assistant), has been extended until the end of June 2011.
• Regina Brennan returning from her assignment with National PSAC office, on February 1, 2010.
• Patricia Mullen was successful candidate for the Vancouver Regional Office Administrative Assistant.

3) Education: The following courses were held since our last meeting:

• LOAT (Local Officer Advance Training) in Vancouver in October 2009. Roberta, Susan, Annette, and Grace attended.
• TUB (Talking Union Basics) in Kamloops and Nelson in October 2009. Roberta attended the Nelson course.
• UDP (Union Development Program) in Vancouver commenced in December 2009 with follow-up sessions at the end of January and in April. Susan, Annette, and
  Martha attended.
• - Discussions surrounding desired courses for Okanagan. One day/weekend course combining ½ day mini Steward and/or Grievance Handling, and/or Facing
  Management.
• Action: All Area Council members to canvas own local members for needs and advise Susan (syaciw@shaw.ca) by February 15, 2010.

4) Labour Council Meetings:

• Next North Okanagan District meeting is February 3, 2010 in Kelowna at 7 p.m. Website for North Okanagan Labour Council: http://members.shaw.ca/nolc/
• Next South Okanagan District meeting is February 9, 2010.
• Action: Area Council members in Kelowna and Penticton to attend respective meetings where possible.

New Business:

1) Human Rights Committee:

• Roberta read e-mail from Maria-Luiza but members unclear as to which committees may qualify as “equivalent” and which names were requested.
• Maria-Luiza provided clarification. Different components may have different names but would committees that deal with equal opportunities and human rights issues.
• Action: Area Council members to provide Maria-Luiza (romanom@inspection.gc.ca) with names of Reg’lComponent Human Rights Committee Chair if available and/or local rep if a local committee exists.

2) Pension Reform:

• Darrell-Lee reviewed an e-mail regarding a Globe & Mail article regarding possible changes to the Federal Superannuation Plan mainly affection new hires. Article also refers to not only a financial deficit but also a knowledge deficit caused by large number of current employees who are scheduled to retire in 2012 with 30 years of service.
• Possible up-coming pension battle.

3) Elections: Elections were held for all positions with the following results:

• President – Susan Yaciw acclaimed.
• Vice-President – Annette Hale acclaimed.
• Secretary – Roberta Gourlie acclaimed (assistance later in year from others depending upon results of formation of South Okanagan Area Council)
• Treasurer – Darrell-Lee McKenzie acclaimed.

Round Table:

• Martha – Long gun Registry Repeal petition passed around.
• Darrell-Lee – Watch for upcoming rallies in your areas organized by Canadians Against Proroguing Parliament, including Saturday, January 23 in Penticton.
• Joy – Locals can join APSAR via membership vote, $20/yr. Is willing to be guest speaker on behalf of APSAR at any Component/Local meeting. A “Retiring from the Public Service Alliance of Canada” Booklet is available online, containing valuable information. A membership application form is on last page. http://www.psac.com/documents/what/retiring_from_ps_usefultips-e.pdf

Next Meeting: TBA, Adjourned at 12:30 a.m. m/s/c

PSAC Okanagan Regional Women�s Committee
Minutes of Meeting November 15, 2008
ABC Restaurant, Harvey Avenue, Kelowna

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Nicole Jefferies USGE 20153
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915
• Linda Woods NAT 20140
• Kelly Megyesi CEIU 20915
• Gabrielle Villecourt USGE 20153

Continue reading below or download the Okanagan RWC minutes, November 15 2008 (pdf)

The meeting was called to order at 11:10a.m. with Kelly Megyesi in the chair.

Minutes: Minutes from October 4 were distributed and accepted. m/s/c

Treasurer�s Report: Kelly advises there has been $1300 in revenue and $40 in expenses
leaving a balance of $2536.31. m/s/c

Old Business:

• Susan provided copy of J. Leenhout�s report of June 2008 CEIU BC/AB/Terr Women�s Training and Conference (copy attached). A short training segment about media communication was presented by Koraliey Little. An update of Bountiful was provided and four working groups produced letters to the editors of major newspapers.
• Lee Lakeman of the Vancouver Rape Relief and Crisis Center gave an insightful presentation regarding the movement to legalize prostitution prior to the 2010 Olympics. An idea of a newsletter to all members was discussed with a goal to issue quarterly or semi-annually. Title to be �WOMBATS.�

New Business:

2009 National Convention:

• S. Yaciw elected as Area Council delegate. R. Gourlie elected as 1st alternate. R. Gourlie presented approximate costs to attend convention ($300 airfare, accommodation unknown, $510 meals/incidentals @$85/day, $1000 Lost Wages @ $200/day, $225 registration fee, $125 ground transportation = $2160 + accommodation.
• Motion (Kelly, seconded by Susan) THAT $500 from OAC + $500 from ORWC be
  provided to assist alternate to attend convention.
• Amended Motion (Kelly, seconded by Gabrielle) THAT $200/per convention day to a maximum of $1200/convention, split between OAC and ORWC, be provided to assist alternate to attend convention
• Carried
• Discussion surrounding amount of money in account and desire to utilize meaningfully.
• Motion: (Kelly, seconded by Susan) moved THAT $500 be given to local womens� organizations throughout Penticton, Kelowna, Vernon, Armstrong. Carried

December 6:

• Motion: (Kelly, seconded by Nicole) moved THAT for Dec 6 National Violence Against Women Day, ads in newspaper be taken out throughout the Okanagan with this theme. Carried
• Ad to contain similar to ORWC honours National Day of Remembrance of Violence Against Women.
• Action: Kelly to contact Patrick at Reg�l office for suggestions for ad.

March 6:

• Lots of ideas put forward on how to celebrate International Women�s Day next March. Best suggestion was a card and package of stickies to every members.
• Action: Gabrielle to design log for card.
• Action: Susan to provide short paragraphs on OAC and ORWC.
• Action: Kelly to obtain cost of stickies.

Next Meeting: January 24, 2009 (Tentative)

Adjourned at 11:45 a.m. m/s/c

PSAC Okanagan Area Council
Minutes of Meeting November 15, 2008
ABC Restaurant, Harvey Avenue, Kelowna

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Nicole Jefferies USGE 20153
• Kelly Megyesi CEIU 20915
• Linda Woods NAT 20140
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915
• Gabrielle Villecourt USGE 20153

Continue reading below, or download the Okanagan Area Council minutes, November 15 2008 (pdf)

The meeting was called to order at 10:15a.m. with Susan Yaciw in the chair.

Minutes: Minutes from October 4 were distributed and accepted. m/s/c

Treasurer�s Report: Current ytd financial statement presented (see attached). m/s/c

Old Business:

District Labour Council Meetings:

• Susan was unable to attend November meeting in Kelowna. Next meeting is December 10 in Kelowna at 7 p.m., NOLC office, 201A 1358 St. Paul St, Kelowna and affiliate as PSAC for $300. Website for North Okanagan Labour Council: http://members.shaw.ca/nolc/
• Action: Someone needed from Kelowna area to attend December meeting.

BC Regional Convention April 18-20, 2008:

• CEIU has been reimbursed $50 for R Gourlie�s delegate registration fee.

Regional Office Update:

• Janet Routledge�s position is currently staffed temporarily by Luc� Guevremont.
• Patrick Bragg taking on part-time communication officer in addition to his other position.
• Position open still for assistant to Kay (Dellie�s contract ended in April �08). Carol is acting temporarily.

Municipal Elections:

• Election is today. District Labour Council initiated the �labour friendly� candidate information for PSAC�s mail out to all members. Unfortunately the notification to Okanagan members only indicated recommended candidates in Kelowna.
• Action: Susan to provide feedback to PSAC that mail out was a great idea but needs to be riding specific.

New Business:

• Affiliated Locals are reminded that any o/s 2008 dues are now payable ($1 per member located in the Okanagan) and should be sent to: Darrell-Lee McKenzie, 15-799 Creekside, Penticton, BC,V2A 1C5.

BC Regional Council:

• S. Yaciw reports that members are being solicited for Regional Strike Hardship Committee. Debrief from April �08 Convention recommends an ongoing standing committee for Regional Conventions instead of just instituting one for each convention.
• USGE 20153 voting member: Agreed to among component members present at today�s meeting�Gabrielle Villecourt.

2009 National Convention:

• S. Yaciw elected as Area Council delegate. R. Gourlie elected as 1st alternate. R. Gourlie presented approximate costs to attend convention ($300 airfare, accommodation unknown, $510 meals/incidentals @$85/day, $1000 Lost Wages @ $200/day, $225 registration fee, $125 ground transportation = $2160 + accommodation.
• Motion (Kelly, seconded by Susan) THAT $500 from OAC + $500 from ORWC be provided to assist alternate to attend convention.
• Amended Motion (Kelly, seconded by Gabrielle) THAT $200/per convention day to a maximum of $1200/convention, split between OAC and ORWC, be provided to assist alternate to attend convention
• Carried
• Suggestion that alternate approach local to reimburse registration fee and vacation or other leave be taken for time off.
• Motion (Kelly, seconded by Roberta) THAT delegate registration fee by paid by OAC.
• Carried

Service Canada Work Descriptions:

• New work descriptions issued to reduce from 300 to 30. Many groups may be submitting grievances.

National Component:

• New directive that no passengers in members own car because of liability issues. Members concerned that this is a safety issue while driving. They are expected to look at house #s and writing down information, all while driving.

Next Meeting: January 24, 2009 (Tentative only)

Adjourned at 11:10 a.m. m/s/c

PSAC Okanagan Regional Women�s Committee
Minutes of Meeting January 24, 2009
ABC Restaurant, Harvey Avenue, Kelowna

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Maria-Luiza Romano AGR 20027
• Kelly Megyesi CEIU 20915
• Linda Woods NAT 20140
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915
• Annette Hale USGE 20153
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Joy Harrison Retired

Continue reading below, or download the Okanagan RWC minutes, January 24th 2009 (pdf)

The meeting was called to order at 11:45a.m. with Kelly Megyesi in the chair.

Minutes: Minutes from November 15 �08 were distributed and accepted. m/s/c

Treasurer�s Report:

• Additional expenses since last meeting totaled 758.41, leaving a balance of $1777.90. The audited financial statement for 2008 was circulated to members present. m/s/c
• 2009 Budget: Proposed budget was discussed and accepted as presented. m/s/c

Old Business:

1) Violence Against Women:

• K. Megyesi distributed copies of ad she inserted in several Okanagan area newspapers on December 6 �08. A half page Letter to the Editor was also published in the Vernon Morning Star giving more details and explanation surrounding the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

2) Donations:

• K. Megyesi reports that $100.00 was donated to each of the following organizations in December:
  1. Shepard Society in Kelowna
  2. South Okanagan Women in Need Society in Penticton
  3. Women�s Centre in Vernon
  4. Children Who Witness Abuse Program in Armstrong.

3) International Women�s Day:

• Decision to purchase 500 sticky note pads and distribute with a letter about this event to Okanagan PSAC members.
• Action: Annette to e-mail Gabrielle regarding a design for the sticky note pads.
• Action: Everyone to e-mail K Megyesi (twofish@bcgrizzly.com) asap with number of pads they need for their local and an address to mail them to.

New Business:

1) Strategic Planning:

• Suggestions � Road trip to Kootenays after road construction complete.
• Alternate meetings between Penticton, Kelowna, and Vernon
• S. Yaciw had copy of Oct �08 Political Action Report from Vancouver Island AC and read a few excerpts.
• Action: S. Yaciw to forward whole report to be added to minutes (see attached).

3) ORWC Elections:

• An election for Chair and Alternate were held. The positions of Secretary and Treasurer were acclaimed. Positions resulted as follows:
• Kelly Megyesi � Chair
• Maria-Luiza Romano � Alternate
• Roberta Gourlie � Secretary
• Kelly Megyesi � Treasurer

Next Meeting: TBA (Tentative end March/early April �09)

Adjourned at 12:05 a.m. m/s/c

PSAC Okanagan Regional Women�s Committee, Minutes of Meeting October 4, 2008, ABC Restaurant, Harvey Avenue, Kelowna

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Jennifer Leenhouts CEIU 20972
• Ruth Abercrombie CEIU 20972
• Linda Woods NAT 20140
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Nicole Jefferies USGE 20153
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915

The meeting was called to order at 11:15a.m. with Jennifer Leenhouts in the chair.

Continue reading below or download the Okanagan Regional Women’s Committee meeting minutes – October 4 2008 (pdf)

Minutes: Minutes from September 6 were distributed and accepted. m/s/c

Treasurer�s Report: Tabled to next meeting.

Old Business:

Federal Election:

Members encouraged to attend all-candidates meetings in all ridings.

E-mail sent by K. Stanich to Area Council members pertaining to Food Safety First campaign. Area council members encouraged to check website www.foodsafetyfirst.ca and take action.

District Labour Council:

Report regarding CEIU�s objections to CLC and BCFed�s support for legalizing prostitution during 2010 Olympics not yet ready.

Action: J. Leenhouts will forward report when it is complete.

Regional Office Update:

Janet Routledge�s position�What�s happening? Regina Brennan planning trip to Okanagan next week.

Education:

Duty to Accommodate September 28 was cancelled. Only 1 registrant who was briefed by Regina following Local Officer Trg September 27.

New Business:

D-L McKenzie read e-mail received from Cheryl Oenema, newly elected Regional Council Women�s Coordinator, introducing herself and providing an update on her activities and objectives. She�s also soliciting �questions, comments, or constructive criticism� and provides e-mail address: cheryloenema@gmail.com and phone # (604) 219- 7943.

Joy�s List:

D-L McKenzie provided information on �Joy�s List� website that helps finds ways to encourage and support more women in politics.

Website: http://www.gifttool.com/athon/AthonDetails?ID=176&AID=222

Bargaining Update:

CFIA and Border group and Tbl 2 � meeting this week.
PA and TB 3 � next week

Agriculture � TC Group is only group that PSAC has not yet put in wage demand. If arbitration route taken, 5 � 6 mos to set up.

Service Canada � Employer has submitted Essential Service list (very high numbers) but unclear if union has signed off on it yet.

Outstanding issues�SV � Eliminate discrepancies in zone payments
PA � Wages and leave provisions
TC � Wages and �captive time� improvements

Next Meeting: tba
Delegate and Resolutions for National Convention to be on agenda

Adjourned at 11:30 a.m. m/s/c

PSAC Okanagan Regional Women�s Committee Minutes of Meeting September 6, 2008, ABC Restaurant, Harvey Avenue, Kelowna

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Jennifer Leenhouts CEIU 20972
• Maria-Luiza Romano AGR 20027
• Linda Woods NAT 20140
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Joy Harrison Retired

The meeting was called to order at 11:50a.m. with Jennifer Leenhouts in the chair.

Continue reading below or download the Okanagan RWC meeting minutes, Sept 6 2008 (pdf).

Minutes: Minutes from February 9 were accepted. m/s/c

Old Business:

BC Regional Convention April 18-20, 2008:

Elected delegate J. Leenhouts unable to attend and alternate L. Woods attended as delegate from NAT Component.

New Business:

District Labour Council:

CEIU Women�s Committee has issues with CLC and BCFed around issues of their support for legalizing prostitution at the time of the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. CEIU is producing some info regarding this issues. CEIU has been in touch with Kay Sinclair (REVP BC) regarding these concerns.

Action: J. Leenhouts will forward report when it is complete.

Cookbooks for Women�s Equality:

Some were distributed but still have some available.

Regional Office Update:

Regina Brennan still Okanagan rep.

Kelowna Women�s Resource Center:

Offering a Gentle Yoga Series.

Next Meeting: October 4, 2008 @ 10:00am at ABC Restaurant in Kelowna

Adjourned at 12:10 p.m. m/s/c

PSAC Okanagan Area Council, Minutes of Meeting October 4, 2008, ABC Restaurant, Harvey Avenue, Kelowna

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Jennifer Leenhouts CEIU 20972
• Ruth Abercrombie CEIU 20972
• Linda Woods NAT 20140
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Nicole Jefferies USGE 20153
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915

The meeting was called to order at 10:15a.m. with Susan Yaciw in the chair.

Continue reading below or download the Okanagan Area Council meeting minutes – Oct 4 2008 (pdf)

Minutes: Minutes from September 6 were distributed and accepted. m/s/c

Treasurer�s Report: Current ytd financial statement presented (see attached). m/s/c

Old Business:

District Labour Council Meetings:

Next meeting is October 8 in Vernon and November meeting in Kelowna on November 5 and affiliate as PSAC for $300. Website for North Okanagan Labour Council: http://members.shaw.ca/nolc/

Action: R. Gourlie to attend North OK meeting in October. (Note: Was unable attend due to injury morning of meeting).
Action: Kelowna Area Council Member to attend November meeting in Kelowna.

BC Regional Convention April 18-20, 2008:

Motion: R. Gourlie moved to reimburse BCYT CEIU the registration fee for OK Area Council delegate (R. Gourlie) to attend PSAC Regional Convention in April 2008.
Seconded by R Abercrombie, Carried

Action: R. Gourlie to advise D-L McKenzie of amount and where to send cheque.

Federal Election:

Members encouraged to attend all-candidates meetings in all ridings.

E-mail sent by K. Stanich to Area Council members pertaining to Food Safety First campaign. Area council members encouraged to check website www.foodsafetyfirst.ca and take action.

Regional Office Update:

Janet Routledge�s position�What�s happening? Regina Brennan planning trip to Okanagan next week.

Education:

Duty to Accommodate September 28 was cancelled. Only 1 registrant who was briefed by Regina following Local Officer Trg September 27.

New Business:

Affiliated Locals are reminded that any o/s 2008 dues are now payable ($1 per member located in the Okanagan) and should be sent to: Darrell-Lee McKenzie, 15-799 Creekside, Penticton, BC,V2A 1C5.

BC Regional Council:

S. Yaciw advises that there is a meeting scheduled for next week. Report at next meeting.

Federal Labs:

D-L McKenzie explained affect on non-regulatory labs (ie. Summerland) if majority conservative government attained.

Bargaining Update:

CFIA and Border group and Tbl 2 � meeting this week.
PA and TB 3 � next week

Agriculture � TC Group is only group that PSAC has not yet put in wage demand. If arbitration route taken, 5 � 6 mos to set up.

Service Canada � Employer has submitted Essential Service list (very high numbers) but unclear if union has signed off on it yet.

Outstanding issues�SV � Eliminate discrepancies in zone payments
PA � Wages and leave provisions
TC � Wages and �captive time� improvements

Next Meeting: tba
Delegate and Resolutions for National Convention to be on agenda

Adjourned at 11:15 a.m. m/s/c

PSAC Okanagan Area Council, Minutes of Meeting September 6, 2008, ABC Restaurant, Harvey Avenue, Kelowna

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Jennifer Leenhouts CEIU 20972
• Maria-Luiza Romano AGR 20027
• Linda Woods NAT 20140
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Joy Harrison Retired

The meeting was called to order at 10:40a.m. with Susan Yaciw in the chair.

Continue reading below or download the minutes of the Okanagan Area Council meeting, September 6 2008 (pdf).

Minutes: Minutes from February 9 and April 19, 2008 were accepted. m/s/c

Treasurer�s Report: Current ytd financial statement presented (see attached). m/s/c

Old Business:

District Labour Council Meetings:

M-L Romano attended April 2008 meeting in Vernon but main meetings are in Kelowna (2/yr held in Vernon). Next meeting is Sept 10 in Kelowna and October meeting in Vernon in Oct. Website for North Okanagan Labour Council: http://members.shaw.ca/nolc/

Action: D-L McKenzie to attend South OK meeting that PSAC is affiliated.

BC Regional Convention April 18-20, 2008:

R.Gourlie attended as delegate. Report attached (pdf).

New Business:

Affiliated Locals are reminded that 2008 dues are now payable ($1 per member located in the Okanagan) and should be sent to: Darrell-Lee McKenzie, 15-799 Creekside, Penticton, BC,V2A 1C5.

BC Regional Council:

S. Yaciw�s reports that there was a preliminary meeting after the convention of the newly elected executive. There is a desire to standardize financial reporting. The role of alternates was discussed and suggestion of allowing alternates to attend 1 mtg in their 3 year term of office. Concern raise about council members input not being heard. Hoping to have a standing convention committee during this cycle. Also updating by-laws and standard format for Area Councils.

Regional Office Update:

Janet Routledge has retired and her position has yet to be staffed. The Executive Assistant position for the REVP is also still open. Regina Brennan still Okanagan rep.

Education:

One day Local Officers course scheduled in Kelowna September 27 and one day Duty to Accommodate September 28. Union School in October.

General discussion surrounding Duty to Accommodate and issues being dealt wit, involvement of Health Canada, etc. This is be becoming a bigger issue for many of the locals.

Federal Election:

AGR 7 PSAC looking to make Food Safety an issue in campaign. Looking to get candidates to sign a pledge to uphold Food Safety.

Action: D-L McKenzie to get info out
Action: M-L Romano to draft letter.

Next Meeting: October 4, 2008 @ 10:00am at ABC Restaurant in Kelowna

Adjourned at 11:45 a.m. m/s/c

PSAC Okanagan Regional Women’s Committee, Minutes of Meeting February 9, 2008, ABC Restaurant, Harvey Avenue, Kelowna

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915
• Kelly Megyesi CEIU 20915
• Linda Woods NAT 20140
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Jennifer Leenhouts CEIU 20972
• Kareen Stanich AGR 20043

The meeting was called to order at 11:35 a.m. with Jennifer Leenhouts in the chair.

Continue reading below or download the Okanagan RWC meeting minutes – Feb 9 2008 (pdf)

Minutes: Minutes from September 21, 2007 were accepted. m/s/c

Treasurer’s Report: The balance is $1276.31. The audited financial statement for 2007 was circulated to members present. m/s/c

2008 Budget:Proposed budget was discussed and accepted as presented. m/s/c

BC Regional Women’s Conference September 28-30, 2007: K. Megyesi reported that the conference was very interesting, had excellent speakers, and a theme of the environment. The Okanagan was well represented.

National Women’s Conference November 23-25, 2007: J. Leenhouts and K. Megyesi reported that this was also a good conference with the most resolution passed in history. Top issues for resolutions regarded childcare. There was much discussion about the inability to send observers to the conference.

BRUSH Committee: K. Megyesi reported on the BRUSH Committee which meets regularly. For more information on health and safety initiatives through the BC Regional office visit: http://www.psacbc.com/categories/health-safety/

Designation of Voting Members at Women’s Committee: As per the Regional Women’s Committee Handbook, there is one vote per affiliated Component. The following members have voting rights:

• AGR D-L McKenzie (alternate M-L. Romano)
• CEIU K. Megyesi (alternate J. Leenhouts)
• UTE S. Yaciw
• NAT L. Woods

Election of Officers:

• Co-Chair: J. Leenhouts was nominated by S. Yaciw, seconded by L. Woods, carried.
• Co-Chair: K. Megyesi was nominated by S. Yaciw, seconded by L. Woods, carried.
• Treasurer: K. Megyesi was nominated by S. Yaciw, seconded by L. Woods, carried.
• Secretary: R. Gourlie was nominated by D-L McKenzie, seconded by S. Yaciw, carried.

Next Meeting: TBA (possibly April 12th in Kelowna)

Adjourned at 12:30 p.m. m/s/c

PSAC Okanagan Area Council, Minutes of Meeting February 9, 2008 – ABC Restaurant, Harvey Avenue, Kelowna

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915
• Kelly Megyesi CEIU 20915
• Linda Woods NAT 20140
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Jennifer Leenhouts CEIU 20972
• Kareen Stanich AGR 20043

The meeting was called to order at 10:15a.m. with Susan Yaciw in the chair.

Continue reading below, or download Okanagan Area Council meeting minutes – Feb 8 2008 (pdf).

Minutes: Minutes from September 21, 2007 were accepted. m/s/c

Old Business:

• Audited Financial Report: Action: D-L. McKenzie to have books audited and send copy to REVP.
• Affiliating to District Labour Council: D-L. McKenzie reported that AGR 20043 has been affiliated with the SOBLC and that any PSAC member can attend meetings. S. Yaciw reported that there is an increased subsidy available to affiliate to District Labour Councils (maximum $600).
• Action: D-L McKenzie to request subsidy for 2008.
• Action: R. Gourlie to look into affiliating to Labour Council in Vernon.
• Action: J. Leenhouts to look into affiliating to Labour Council in Kelowna.

PSAC Education Forum: S. Yaciw distributed the summary to members.

BC Regional Convention April 18-20, 2008: Delegate selection through Components is presently occurring. RVP’s participated in a conference call with K. Sinclair to discuss delegate selection. There have been some issues for small Locals (<100 members) particularly when there are not other Locals to be grouped with to get delegate status. Deadline for submitting resolutions is February 15th. S. Yaciw reported that she did raise the issue of delegates being made aware of the requirements to be elected / hold office at Regional Council.

New Business:

• Treasurer’s Report: The 2007 financial statement and the current Treasurer’s report were presented (see attached). m/s/c
• Affiliated Locals are reminded that 2008 dues are now payable ($1 per member located in the Okanagan) and should be sent to: Darrell-Lee McKenzie, 15-799 Creekside, Penticton, BC,V2A 1C5.
• S. Yaciw reported that UTE 20026 has decided to not affiliate with Area Council in 2008. Minutes and notices still to be sent to the Local.
• Action: S. Yaciw to respond to letter.

BC Regional Council: S. Yaciw’s report to council was circulated by email. There was much discussion about regional convention at the last council meeting (re/ committees, funding). There will not be salary loss compensation for the Friday.

Designation of Voting Members at Area Council:

As per the bylaws, there is one vote per affiliated Local. The following members have voting rights:

• AGR 20043 D-L McKenzie (alternate K. Stanich)
• AGR 20027 M-L Romano
• CEIU 20915 K. Megyesi (alternate R. Gourlie)
• UTE 20003 S. Yaciw
• CEIU 20972 J. Leenhouts
• NAT 20140 L. Woods

BC Regional Convention, April 18-20 Delegate Election:

• Delegate: J. Leenhouts nominated by S. Yaciw, seconded by D-L. McKenzie, carried.
• Alternate Delegate: L. Woods nominated by S. Yaciw, seconded by D-l. McKenzie, carried.

Bargaining: Deferred until next meeting.

Education: A combined TUB / Grievance Handling course is scheduled for Feb 16th in Kelowna. At the request of AGR Local 20043, TUB will be delivered April 4th and Grievance Handling on April 5th in Penticton. Action: S. Yaciw to contact A. Rana about need for TUB; Grievance Handling; and Local Officers Training in Kelowna or Vernon. Action: S. Yaciw to follow up with R. Brennan and A. Rana regarding the issue of alternate delivery of education (ie/ lunchtime video conference, etc).

Election of Officers:

• President: S. Yaciw was nominated by D-L McKenzie, seconded by J. Leenhouts, carried.
• Vice President: J. Leenhouts was nominated by D-L. McKenzie, seconded by S. Yaciw, carried.
• Secretary: Roberta Gourlie was nominated by S. Yaciw, seconded by D-L McKenzie, carried.
• Treasurer: D-L McKenzie was nominated by J. Leenhouts, seconded by S. Yaciw, carried.

Affiliation with BC Federation of Labour: Locals are reminded to affiliate with the BC Federation of Labour at: http://www.bcfed.ca/

“The B.C. Federation of Labour brings together the majority of unions in BC to provide a single voice on workers’ rights. As well, the Federation provides support to affiliated unions during labour disputes and co-ordinates cross-union campaigns from health and safety to political action and women’s rights.”

Bill C39: Agriculture Union presently has a campaign under way to stop bill C39 which would make changes to the Grain Act, impacting farmers, and members at the Canadian Grain Commission. For more information see:

http://www.agrunion.com/en/currentmonthsnews.html#Lobbying

Next Meeting: TBA (possibly April 12th in Kelowna)

Adjourned at 11:35 a.m. m/s/c

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!

They have been dubbed “the Millennials,” the most socially conscious generation since the sixties, the most tech savvy, and a force to be reckoned with in the work place.

Generation Y are the youths of today born anytime between 1978 and 1998 and provide a significant chunk of the global workforce.

However, a common disconnect is felt between Generation Y and the three other generations which make up the workforce — the veterans, the boomers and Generation X — which is resulting in the inability for employers to both understand and retain their young employees.

In a reaction to a report released on these issues in 2005 called The Skilled Force Initiative, groups across the province have been encouraged to create workshops for employers and Generation Y potential employees, to help bridge the gap between them and create an understanding that will benefit both groups.

Community Futures in Nelson will be hosting a two-day workshop that will run on November 16 and 26 between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., specifically for employers who feel they are having similar problems and would like to learn more about this upcoming generation and how to understand and work with it.

The workshops are being sponsored by the federal government and so will be free to those that register.
“The workshops are not meant to reflect negatively on the youths of today — that’s not what it is about. We are simply trying to explain some of the misconceptions and the misperceptions that employers have of Generation Y and how to work with them,” said Pamela Clausen, a self-employment counsellor at Community Futures.

The 2005 report highlighted the issues faced by today’s employers by Generation Y. For example employers felt that the workers attitude towards work is not appropriate for the workplace, they don’t dress appropriately or have respect, they lack pride in their work, and they lack people skills.

“They are raised in an era where they were given lots of things to do on timely schedules. They are offered a lot of choices and are allowed to negotiate; they are encouraged to talk about their feelings and voice their opinions; and so now they are going into the workplace and some managers and owners are having difficulty dealing with these kind of things,” Clausen said.

At a time when the unemployment rate is at a 30 year low, employers are turning to Generation Y for numbers, but with the lack of understanding between past and present generations, employers are finding it increasingly difficult to retain young employees.

“It is such a high cost to deal with employee turnover. When an employer loses an employee, they have to go through the process of hiring again which cost money — it is much better and cheaper to retain staff,” said Clausen.

“The workshops will explain where the youths are coming from, and why they are the way they are. We will also be working to help employers in attracting youths, hiring them, retaining them, working with them, and managing them.”

Clausen commented that Generation Y would have witnessed their parents in recession and resultantly are less likely to be loyal to a company or business and more likely to be loyal to a person like a manager who gets on well with them and understands them.

“In previous generations we did what we were told to, it was hierarchical, it was commander control, and you did your job. Kids today see work as something to do between weekends off, whereas in previous generations you lived to work,” she said.

The workshops will contain a number of presentations by Clausen, who is the sole facilitator of the event, and there will also be a number of problem solving activities and opportunities to get in groups and come up with ideas to help each other out.

“Any manager or business owner who is working with Generation Y staff can benefit from the two upcoming workshops – they’ll be interactive, fun and they’ll take away a lot of tools and resources to help their business,” she said.

A further work shop will be organized before the end of the year that will be aimed at generation Y and helping them understand some of the issues that older generations have and how to deal with them.

Source: Nelson Daily News, Nov 16 2007

Northwest B.C. Area Council Meeting: November 17th, 7PM, Coast Hotel, Prince Rupert

Agenda

• Guests: Collette Savarie, PSAC Regional Representative and Amal Rana, Education Officer
• BARGAINING UPDATES: Supporting our bargaining units
• District Labour Councils
• PSAC-BC Regional Convention – nominations for delegates to Convention & resolutions
• Calendar of Events
• Education
• Amendments to the bylaws (if any)
• Days of Recognition
• Joint Learning Program

Okanagan Area Council AGM: December 1st, Kelowna. Time and Location TBA.

Fraser Valley Area Council meeting: December 5th, 6PM, Mandarin Gardens Restaurant, Abbotsford

Agenda

• Guest-Kay Sinclair, PSAC REVP for BC
• By-Law Amendments (see attached proposed Fraser Valley Area Council Bylaw changes)
• Financial Report-Anne Marie
• Election of Executive
• Election of Delegate to PSAC Convention
• Resolutions to BC PSAC Convention
• District Labour Council Report-Jayne
• Other Business

PSAC Okanagan Area Council Minutes of Meeting September 21, 2007, Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre, Summerland

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Linda Woods NAT 20140
• Kelly Megyesi CEIU 20915
• Jennifer Leenhouts CEIU 20972
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Rowena Santo UTE 20026
• Kareen Stanich AGR 20043
• Brenda Williams UTE 20026
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915

The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. with Susan Yaciw in the chair.

Continue reading below or download the Okanagan Area Council meeting minutes – Sept 21 (pdf)

Minutes: Minutes from June 22, 2007 were accepted. m/s/c

Area Council Treasurer’s Report: The report was presented (see attached) m/s/c

Old Business:

Audited Financial Report – Books to be audited.

Action: D-L. McKenzie to have books audited at end of December for AGM in January and send copy to REVP.

Affiliating to District Labour Council – One local will affiliate with the South Okanagan Boundry Labour Council at a cost of $0.25 per member per month. The cost to affiliate AGRU 20043 is approximately $240, however there will be a rebate from the REVP. Any PSAC member in the area can attend the meetings which are the 1st Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. (unless the 1st day of the month is a Tuesday, then the meeting is the 2nd Tuesday). Meetings are held at the Penticton Teachers Union office on Ellis Street.

Action: D-L. McKenzie to affiliate AGR 20043 with SOBLC.

Action: Anyone interested in attending meetings should provide contact information (snail and email) to D-L. McKenzie for the mailing list.

PSAC Forum – Was well attended in Penticton and there were new faces in Kelowna and Vernon. It would be nice to see this type of forum on an annual basis.

Action: S. Yaciw to ask Amal Rana for a summary and distribute to Area Council members.

New Business:

BC Regional Council: The next meeting is October 21-22. There will also be leadership training October 17-20, and a meeting with regional office staff on the 23rd. S. yaciw expressed concern about the regions outside the lower mainland and island not having an opportunity for input.

Action: Any items should be forwarded to S. Yaciw.

Political Action: S. Yaciw reported that the committee met by conference call on September 5th (minutes attached). She has written to MP’s and candidates regarding defending public services.

D-L. McKenzie reported that the Labour Picnic in Penticton was excellent. S. Yaciw and K. Megyesi reported that Public Services Are Cool flyers were distributed in Westbank, Kelowna and Vernon.

The transfer of federal non-regulatory laboratories to universities or private sector was discussed as this could potentially affect many members and would also impact the public as federal labs do research that is for public good. Locals and Components are actively working on this issue.

J. Leenhouts reported that at HRSDC jobs are being devolved to the provinces. BC is one of the last provinces to see this happen. Approximately 500 members were affected in Ontario and we would expect 200-250 members in BC affected by this.

BC Regional Convention April 18-20, 2008: Discussed concern about the delegate selection process for Locals with <100 members. How will the process work for affiliating these small Locals and selecting delegates? Also discussed potential resolutions such as one that would allow the REVP to reside outside the lower mainland.

Action: S. Yaciw to inquire how delegate selection will occur.
Action: S. Yaciw to find out deadline for resolution submission.
Action : S. Yaciw to raise at next Regional Council meeting the importance of delegates being made aware of the requirements to be elected / hold office.

PSAC BC Union School: Scheduled November 2-4, 2007 with the theme Public and Proud. Deadline for applications is September 28, 2007. For more information see:

http://www.psacbc.com/education/2007-union-school/

Next Meeting: Saturday December 1, 2007, Kelowna

Action: K. Megyesi to investigate suitable location in Kelowna.

Adjourned at 7:25 p.m. m/s/c

The PSAC BC Regional Education Program is coming to your neighborhood!

• Penticton: August 21st, 2007, 5pm to 8pm – Lakeside Resort, 21 Lakeshore Drive West, Merlot Room
• Kelowna: August 22nd, 2007, 5pm to 8pm – Coast Capri Hotel, 1171 Harvey Avenue, Shiraz Room
• Vernon: August 23rd, 2007, 5pm to 8pm – Best Western, 3914 32nd Street, Okanagan Room

We want to hear from you: share your thoughts and feedback on union education and courses for your area!

• Help shape the future of the regional education program!
• Join us for some great food, company and conversation!
• Meet other PSAC members and staff!
• Refreshments will be served.

For more information, please contact Amal Rana (Regional Education Officer) at the Vancouver Regional Office @ 1.800.663.1655 or ranaa@psac.com

PSAC Okanagan Regional Women’s Committee Minutes of Meeting April 13, 2007

The Library, Mickie’s Pub, Kelowna

In Attendance:

The meeting was called to order at 7:35 p.m. with Jennifer Leenhouts in the chair.

Minutes: Minutes from January 27, 2007 were accepted. m/s/c

Continue reading below, or download the Okanagan RWC minutes April 13 2007 (pdf)

|inline

PSAC Okanagan Area Council Minutes of Meeting April 13, 2007

The Library, Mickie’s Pub, Kelowna
In Attendance:

The meeting was called to order at 5:40 p.m. with Susan Yaciw in the chair.

Continue reading below or download the Okanagan Area Council minutes April 13 2007 (pdf)

|inline

PSAC – Okanagan Regional Women’s Committee, Minutes of Meeting – January 27, 2007, The Library, Mickie’s Pub, Kelowna

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Maria-Luiza Romano AGR 20027
• Kareen Stanich AGR 20043
• Ruth Eisworth UTE 20026
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Joy Harrison Retired
• Kelly Megyesi CEIU 20915
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915

The meeting was called to order at 1:00 p.m. with Susan Yaciw in the chair.

Download the Okanagan RWC minutes January 27 2007 (pdf) or continue reading below

|inline

PSAC – Okanagan Area Council, Minutes of Meeting – January 27, 2007, The Library, Mickie’s Pub, Kelowna

In Attendance:

• Susan Yaciw UTE 20003
• Maria-Luiza Romano AGR 20027
• Kareen Stanich AGR 20043
• Ruth Eisworth UTE 20026
• Darrell-Lee McKenzie AGR 20043
• Joy Harrison Retired
• Kelly Megyesi CEIU 20915
• Roberta Gourlie CEIU 20915

The meeting was called to order at 11:30 a.m. with Susan Yaciw in the chair.

Download the Okanagan AC minutes January 27 2007 (pdf) or continue reading below

|inline