Public Service Alliance of Canada BC

PSAC Southern Vancouver Island District Area Council meeting minutes – April 9th, 2008, PSAC Victoria Regional Office

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
• Ian Wiggs – UNDE 21008
• Ches Bennett - DCL 20500
• Alexandra Ripco – UEW 20076
• Graeme Goodmanson – UEW 20169
• Brenda Esplen – UTE 20028
• Sylvaine Boudreault – AGR 20064
• Jack Gale – GSU 20001
• Mandi Schubert – CEIU 20975
• Deborah Gruben – National 20140
• Sharon Hazelwood – National 20140
• Fabian DeGuire– UNDE 21008
• Hettie Wheeler – USGE 20012
• Peter Neelands – NRU 20088
• David Ramalho – UNDE 21011
• James Little – H & S Rep
• Dave Jackson – Regional Rep
• Susan Jardine - JLP Field Coordinator
• Julie Balantes - JLP Field Coordinator

Continue reading below, or download the SVIDAC meeting minutes - April 9th (pdf)

Sister Cindy Little, President

Virginia Vaillancourt, Recording Secretary

Minutes – Vancouver Area Council meeting, April 8, 2008

The meeting was called to order at 5:14 PM

In attendance (*delegate designation below means voting delegate for the Area Council):

• Sharon Tieman, UPCE 20101 (delegate)
• Jazz Nagra, UVAE 20045 (delegate)
• S. Marie Lygo, UVAE 20045 (delegate)
• Megan Adam, UEW 20147 (delegate)
• Rob Hellenius, DCL 20501 (guest)
• Rhonda Johns, UPCE 20095 (delegate)
• Sam Wiese, CEIU 20949 (delegate)
• Jamey Mills, UTE 20027 (guest)
• Teri Lee, AGR 20044 (delegate)

Download the Vancouver Area Council meeting minutes, April 8 2008 (pdf), or continue reading below

1. Introductions

• meeting began with a quick round of introductions. The group welcomed Rob to his first Area Council meeting.
• all shared that they have delegate status to Regional Convention, except for Rob who may come as an observer.

2. Resolutions to Convention

• The Area Council had lively discussion on the resolutions and noted in particular the resolutions they have authored.
• By-Laws resolutions: Sam, a member of this Committee, walked the Area Council through the by-laws resolutions and noted typos for correction. Sam will forward these corrections to the committee.
• General resolutions: it was explained that if no or only some general resolutions are addressed at convention, they can still be referred to the Regional Council, but those that need to go to national convention would have to be submitted by a constitutionally recognized body. Megan, the chair of this Committee, walked through the resolutions.
• Finance: Sam presented the resolutions for this Committee.

3. Regional Convention

• Motion: to have the Vancouver & District Area Council pay the Leave Without Pay of its Regional Convention delegate, Jazz Nagra, for Friday, April 18, 2008 and to also cover the convention delegate fee. (m/s Sam, Megan, CARRIED).

4. May Day Organizing Committee (MDOC)

• Monica updated the Area Council on upcoming events of the MDOC:
• “International Workers Day” Cultural Solidarity Evening on Saturday, April 26, 2008, at 7:00 pm. Rhizome Cafe, Vancouver, 317 East Broadway at Kingsway and Broadway
• Reclaim May 1st, International Worker’s Day! March for workers’ rights! May Day March & Rally on Thursday, May 1, 2008 - 5:30 pm || Gather at Clark Park at Commercial Drive and East 14th then 6:00 pm || May Day March
• Motion: to continue to endorse and participate in the May Day Organizing Committee; to provide $100 support; and to send out donation info to affiliated locals to encourage them to also support. (m/s Sam, Megan, CARRIED)

5. Round

• UVAE 20045 (Veterans Affairs) – lack of official languages training is really stunting the members professional development as no one can get a job above PM-03 without being bilingual. Jazz has been team leading (other side of the fence) but has been educating other team leaders who are PSAC members to know their rights, take their breaks. AGM went well, has a representative going to UVAE Convention.
• DCL 20501 (Commissionaires) – they have H&S issues, particularly a lack of a MRSA protocol. There were 8,000 MRSA deaths last year in Canada (the SARS crisis only had 42), yet, little is being done to address this issue. Some info can be found on the PSAC-BC BRUSH forum on-line.
• UPCE 20095 (Purolator) – two new facilities (one in Langley) so the local is gaining members. Have a planning meeting this weekend.
• UPCE 20101 (Canada Post) – holding bargaining demands ratification votes this weekend, Notice to Bargain will be served on May 1st, contract ends in March. Some of their work is going to other bargaining units outside of the UPCE/PSAC: such as APOC, CUPW
• UEW 20147 (Fisheries & Oceans) – no update in particular from Local, but Megan, as PA member negotiator shared the PA group will be tabling their wage package on April 21. SV group is getting apprenticeship language, which is a first in the Public Service.
• AGR 20044 (CFIA/Grain) – Grain campaign is going quite well nationally. Lobbying lots of Members of Parliament, to try and put a stop to Bill C-39 that could force 200 members to lose their jobs. On CFIA side, there’s a big demand for Inspectors, can’t hire them fast enough. This is the biggest they’ve ever been, about 9,000 members now.

Meeting adjourned at 7:24 PM

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

Minutes: Fraser Valley Area Council General Meeting March 8, 2008

In Attendance:

• James Little PSAC
• Mel Dureen USGE Local 20054
• Jayne Johns CEIU 20903
• Anne Marie McCully CEIU Local 20903
• Edi Martin USGE Local 20141

Continue reading below, or download the  Fraser Valley AC minutes - March 8 2008 (pdf)

Meeting called to order at 7 pm. A quorum has been reached.

1. Education

we just completed the PSAC Staffing course today (9am to 4pm). This course was very well attended. There were 15 registered participants with one no show and one who sent regrets for a total of 13 members in attendance. Four were first time participants in a PSAC event.

Amal sent out a draft outline for an Aboriginal Awareness Course (Turtle Island?) this week. So far the feedback has been very positive and there is a sense that the members will be very interested in attending this course.

Action-the executive members should provide their feedback to Edi who will respond to Amal on behalf of the executive by Friday March 14, 2008.

2. Pre-Convention Meeting

It is our custom to have a meeting prior to the BC Regional Convention so that the FVAC members can meet the Fraser Valley delegates and review the resolutions to determine our priorities.

Meeting tentatively scheduled for Thursday April 10, 2008 at Jayne’s house 6pm (dinner provided).

3. Post-Convention Meeting

Again, it is our custom to have a meeting after the BC Regional Convention so that the Fraser Valley delegates for their post convention reports.

Meeting time and date to be announced.

Minutes: Fraser Valley Area Council General Meeting, January 17, 2008

In Attendance:

• James Little PSAC
• Jayne Johns CEIU 20903
• Keith Glover  BC RVP USGE
• Anne Marie McCully CEIU Local 20903
• Edi Martin USGE Local 20141
• Chuck Leech USGE Local 20054
• Mel Dureen USGE Local 20054

Meeting called to order at 7 pm. A quorum has been reached.

Continue reading below, or download the Fraser Valley AC minutes - January 17 2008 (pdf)

Education

We reviewed the respective roles and responsibilities in regard to selecting, scheduling and recruiting for courses being held in the Fraser Valley.

The local executive members-review the education needs of the members and bring forward suggestions for course offerings that are relevant to our members, promote the courses and recruit members to attend.

Edi-coordinates the education related activities of the FVAC executive by scheduling meetings to discuss education, communicating the executives decisions regarding course content to James and Amal.

James-sends out notices of training to locals and officers. He also sends out reminders closer to the course deadlines. He relies on them to actively recruit members to attend courses. James asks that we provide up to date contact information to him for new/existing members and he will expand the contact lists.

Suggestion-have a member take leave without pay, to be reimbursed by the Union, to do a phone recruitment two weeks prior to the courses.

Reminders

• if there are not a minimum of number of participants registered for a course one week prior (the number depends on the course but is usually 10) then the course will be officially postponed.
• Selection of participants is in accordance with the Regional Education Committee guidelines. As a result members of the Fraser Valley may not be selected to attend courses offered in other geographic regions.

We discussed potential course offerings for 2008

• March 8 Staffing (this course was postponed from fall 2007)
• May 2008 a one-day aboriginal awareness course. Jayne will consult with Amal on course content.
• September 2008 a political awareness course. Anne Marie and Edi will consult with each other and with Amal on course concept and content
• late October 2008 a two day TUB course.

The Fraser Valley Labour Council (FVLC) also offers union courses twice per year. We encourage all PSAC members to attend.

Motion-that the Fraser Valley Area Council will pay the $75.00 registration fee for FVAC delegates to attend a FVLC course. M/s-Jayne/Edi, Carried.

Adjourned 8 pm.

Minutes - BRUSH Committee Meeting - January 23, 2008 (amended)

Chair

• Joy Hennen CEIU

In Attendance

• Floyd Knelsen CRA
• Chuck Leech ALTERNATE - USGE
• Gail Jewsbury - UEW
• Tom Gallager GSU
• Gordon Law WESTERN ECONOMICS
• Melvin Dureen - USGE
• Stephen Chessor CUDA
• James Little BC PSAC, Regional Representative
• Robert Hellenius Commissionaire
• Raheman nur Mohamed CIUE
• Ray King
• Neil MacKay
• Kelly Legacy - Vernon - CEIU
• Carolyn McGillivray - White Rock CBSA
• Gwen Williams - SSO, NAT
• Sam Weise - CEIU
• Monique Bakker

Regrets

• Wayne Little UTE

Agenda Items:

1. BC PSAC Health and Safety webpage and forum.
2. New COSH Regulation XX Violence update.
3. New COSH Hazard Prevention Regulation XIX amendments (Ergonomics).
4. Report from the PSAC National H&S Rep’s Meeting.
5. Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) Infections.
6. Work Reorganization and Call Centres.
7. Succession Planning.
8. H&S Logo Contest
9. PIPS participation in the PSAC BRUSH Committee.
10. Lancaster House Audio Conference - Benefits for Disabled Workers Navigating the Maze

Roundtable of introductions

Agenda Item #1 was moved to the end of agenda

Acceptance of previous minutes - m/s/c chuck/ floyd

1. COSH Regulation XX, Violence - The COSH has created a new Regulation to address Violence in the workplace. Violence Prevention in the Work Place forms Part XX of the Canada Occupational Health and Safety (COHS) Regulations, which are made pursuant to Part II of the Canada Labour Code (Code), the purpose of which is: to prevent accidents and injury to health arising out of, linked with, or occurring in the course of employment in the federal jurisdiction. The regulations appear in the December 15, 2007, edition of the Canada Gazette Part I (see volume 141, no 50, pages 3455 to 3459).

2. New Ergonomic Regulation Update - The COSH Regulation XIX Hazard Prevention has been amended to include Ergonomics. The brand new regulation is now law, the PSAC provided input into the regulation however much of our input was not included in the final document. The new regulation is available on the BC PSAC Website and Forum page.

3. Report from the PSAC National H & S rep’s meeting - The PSAC Regional H&S Rep’s have been meeting twice a year to discuss issues related to H&S. We have two national officers who, among other things review regulatory amendments negotiate the NJC agreements on H&S.

NJC covers broad based issues of concern to all employees in the government - all unions, not just PSAC. NJC is conducting a cyclical review of the H&S directives. We have the opportunity to provide input into the process. They have just completed directive A and are now working on B, C and D. These directives are very specific in nature and deal with things like Elevated Work Structures, Motor Vehicle Operations, Materials Handleing, PPE’s and Electrical Safety. The PSAC National H&S Officers would like us to look at the directives and see if we have any concerns about them or the language in them. The information will be provided on the BC PSAC H&S Website and Forum Page. We have until the end of summer 2008 to complete the task at which time Denis St. Jean, the national officer responsible for this, will do the final write up.

4. Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) Infections - The Commissionairs in Vancouver had a serious problem with MRSA’s and some immigrant detainees. The Commissionairs currently run the detention cells for CBSA dealing with immigrant detainees. Rob Hellenius is familiar with MRSA via other sources. Gloves and hand washing do not enough protection against the spread of infection as suggested by the health nurse at the jail. There appears to be lots of misinformation about MRSA. Management thought that they had a spider infestation. There are two types of MRSA, facility acquired and community acquired. This can cause loss of limb, skin facetious, lung facetious. In Canada we do not have any protocols. Rob has asked PSAC for help. Initially we were close to a Section 128 “right to refuse” situation - but there were some protocols introduced and there probably was not imminent danger.. We needed to bring this to the attention of the employer, the commissionaires, and CBSA and ensure the safe transfer individuals. We have decided to follow the Section 127 “internal complaint resolution process” at this time.

Rob advises that a1/3 of the Canadian population carries MRSA and surfaces can remain infectious for up to two weeks.

CL has gone through this a couple of times at Matsqui. Senior management was notified by the hospital, health team called, and the person was isolated.

MD - currently CSC is coming up with a draft of a pandemic response paper. Generally it is after the fact, rather than preventative. They are dealing with infectious diseases such as Hep C, Hep B,

The H&S Rep for BC PSAC contacted Health Canada, and spoke with occupational health nurse (Ruth Nicholson). She does a lot of training for customs people at the airports around this issue. She would be willing to do some training around this issue for other concerned employees

There was a general discussion around the need for protocols and the proper use of PPE’s in relation to MRSA’s

5. Work Reorganization and Call centres - CEIU - Neil and Rahmen work as EI call centre agents in harbour centre. They raise the issue of work conditions in call centres and the impact that it has on call centre workers. Characterized by stress, burn out, and absenteeism. The PSAC has raised the issue of poor work conditions with management but with no success. Most issues are best addressed via H&S. The CEIU (Service Canada) members want to draw attention to the following issues (work environment, tethered to a desk, monitoring and surveillance of the work force, high call volumes, non stop, on phones 6.5 hours out of 7 hours. 2 sec break, etc). The employers emphasis is on quantity not quality. The results are burn out, frustration, hi turn over rate, hi absenteeism, managements insistence on doctor’s notes, low morale and intense work environment.

CBSA has a large call centre in Winnipeg and CRA have several call centres across the country. In the most recent minutes of the National Board of Directors (NBoD) meeting the PSAC President reported on Work Reorganization and Call Centres was one of his top issues. He indicated that the PSAC has one of the two seats representing the House of Labour on the Board of Govenors for Contact Centre Canada the sector council for organizations the are involved in the contact centre industries. The BC PSAC H&S Rep talked to Howie West the National Rep responsible for Work Reorganization, who informed us that there is a National PSAC working group on call centres. They have conducted a survey and the results are near completion. The PSAC Components are well represented in the working groups however; they have not met in quite some time.

The BC PSAC H&S Rep will contact Howie again to determine the names of the representatives on the call centre working group. Joy indicated that CEIU is looking for a new building to house 500 - 700 people as a call centre with processing. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available for members.

ACTION:

Joy - will get in touch with the CEIU group involved with call centres.
James - will contact Howie for names of members on the working groups.
Rahmen - will again raise the issue at his local H&S committee and raise the issue to the regional and national level.

6. Succession Planning - Joy is not running for a second term and any candidate for the BC Regional Council seat for H&S must be a member of the BRUSH.

7. BC PSAC H&S LOGO Contest - The canary in the cage is a good H&S symbol and it must be incorporated into all Logo Contest entries. The contest should conclude prior to the BC Regional Convention in April so that the wining entry can be revealed at the Convention.

8. PIPSC Participation - We have received a request from PIPS members in BC who wish to participate in our BRUSH meetings. Some thoughts were our need to be cautious and that we should contact PIPSC to determine if they have any objections. The REVP BC PSAC was informed and she wants the committee to decide. Some members would like to be inclusive and others are opposed.

Action: James - will contact Denis St. Jean to see if they have any concerns.

9. Lancaster House Audio Conference - Benefits for Disabled Workers Navigating the Maze - We purchased the audio tape of some of this conferences. This subject matter deals with WCB, DI and other benefits (EAP, fit to work) and is about 1 hr to 1.25 hours. We would like to schedule a time and place for airing the audio conference and we would like to hold the meeting in conjunction with the Human Rights Committee. Try something new for people who cannot get to the office. It will be broadcast on the DVD player and then will go over the conference call via the speakers.

10. BC PSAC Health and Safety Website and Forum - www.psacbc.com - We introduced the new BC PSAC Website and Forum page and explained how to access and register for the Forum. We feel that a lot of our current issues can be addressed in this new format and we will be inviting the rest of the PSAC members to also join in the discussions.

Meeting Adjourned

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)

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.

Minutes - BC Regional Union Safety & Health meeting

Attending:

• Bob Jackson
• Monique Bakker
• Mel Dureen
• Jason Komaromi
• Wayne Little
• Floyd Knelson
• Chuck Leach
• Bill Pleming
• Thomas Gallagher
• Steven Chesser
• Mandi Schubert
• Gail Jewsbury
• Sam Weiss
• Kelly Megasi
• Joy Hennen (Chair)
• James Little (Staff H&S Rep)

Previous minutes accepted as reviewed. Bob Jackson, Jason Komaromi M/S.

(more…)

Human Rights Committee Meeting, November 6th

In attendance:

• Chair - Sargy Chima
• by phone – Floyd Knelson
• Food - Wanda Mundy and Sharon Tieman
• Alexander Bishop
• Tracy Shudo
• Carol Pegura
• Rhonda Brain
• Kim Forster
• staff resource person - Regina Brennan

Regrets from Todd Harding, Carolyn McGillivray, and Valerie Hargreaves

Agenda

1. Chair and minute taker
2. Planning for the Human Rights Day dinner
3. Poster contest
4. Announcements
5. Conferences and Conventions
6. Planning for next year

Continue reading below or download the BC Human Rights Committee meeting minutes - Nov 6 2007

(more…)

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

VAC AGM 16 October 2007

Present: Tom Gallagher, Megan Adam, Sam Wiese, Sharon Tieman, Deanna Wilson, Colbey Peters, David Saba, Kay Sinclair, Rhonda Johns, Terri Lee, Monica Urrutia (staff)

Continue reading below, or download the  Vancouver Area Council AGM minutes - October 16 2007 (pdf)

1. Meeting called to order at 6:07 pm

2. Intros

• 3 guests, Dave & Colbey and Deanna
• rest in attendance are delegates or officers

3. REVP‘s message (Kay)

• BC Regional Council coming up April 18-20. Each Area Council (AC) is entitled to 1 delegate and can submit resolutions.
• Suggest election should be at next AC meeting and identify draft resolutions
• Might have workshops at Convention – e.g. get AC’s involved in municipal elections; via District Labour Council affiliation
• Kay distributed some recent resolutions passed at NBoD – land claims, PSAC funding national women’s groups (both pdf); on support and solidarity with Colombia and the Philippines (see attached)
• there was some discussion on the resolutions
• Terri gave a back ground of the Equal Opportunities committee which raised the resolutions on Colombia and the Philippines – largest standing committee, 1 from each component (17), 2 from each group (8), 2 co-chair, Ed & Robyn. Meets twice a year to discuss equity issues. Terri reviewed/explained the report. Download the EOC report to the NBoD (pdf)
  
• NBoD still needs to implement the 2nd & 3rd Be it resolved on the Philippines issues – it has been passed by the board
• Discussed Discipline Review Committee at the Board – how PSAC deals with disciplining people who cross picket lines – looking at making recommendations

4. President’s Report (Sam)

• Sam provided a verbal report which highlighted the following:
• Nov ’06 – attended BC Fed Convention
• Dec – participated in action against religious & political persecution of the Falun Gong; also participated in the PSAC Human Rights dinner
• Feb – attended IAMAW rally, supported BC Fed Youth Group on the $10 minimum wage campaign
• March: at the BC Fed Community and Social Action meeting – recommended the Temporary Foreign Workers Working Group come under this committee
• April – presentation about April 28 Day of Mourning to Burnaby City Council who unanimously voted to officially recognize April 28 as an official day in Burnaby. ; attended Empty Bowls Gala – Burnaby – fundraiser for schools which no longer have hot lunch programs
• May – attended the May Day Rally – well attended, made a presentation to Burnaby City Council to recognize May Day as an important day in the history of labour and human rights
• June – elected on to exec of Burnaby Citizens Association, this is the association that supports union endorsed Burnaby civic candidates
• July – participated in Defending Quality Public Services (DQPS) Campaign kick-off various sites in Burnaby, New Westminster and Port Moody
• Aug – attend BC Day NDP picnic, distributed DQPS stuff; Merritt Mountain Music Festival – outside the gates distributed DQPS info
• September – Labour Day Picnic – happy with turn-out from AC; Thanks to all who supported; Highest # of PSAC members probably in last 10 years.
• Talked about needing to get involved Political Action Committee

5. Treasurer’s Report (Sharon)

• Sharon presented her Treasurers report (pdf).
• Community Savings, the new bank of the VAC is a unionized credit union that is endorsed by the BC Fed
• Report was m/s/CARRIED (Sharon, Rhonda)

6. TB – Bargaining (Megan)

• PA (Table I) – have been meeting with the employer since the spring. One meeting so far this Fall.
• Basic, sign-offs (changes under new legislation; housekeeping and untouched clauses)
• changes to grievance procedure, union leave, official language training
• $ is at the end so majority of demands are $
• delays because of pay studies, Dec round called off because of (Essential Service Agreements) ESAs & Pay studies are incomplete
• Nov = finish all non-monetary = Dec no bargaining to keep coordinating with all tables
• Discussion – suggest pressuring local management at UMCCs or components regarding ESAs – put something on web

5. Youth Report

• Sam gave on behalf of Jamey
• A –$10 Now campaign is still underway. Some municipalities have supported voted to support, while prior to the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) meeting some had not supported notably Vancouver, Pitt Meadows and Port Coquitlam. While Pitt Meadows and Vancouver were not too much of a shock, we were very saddened by the result of the initial vote by Port Coquitlam City Council as there is a high number of Union endorsed members on that city council. The resolution to Port Coquitlam failed by one vote, interestingly, a union endorsed city councilor was not in attendance at the meeting the night NWDLC gave the $10 Now presentation. Thankfully, the majority of delegates at the UBCM passed the $10 Now resolution at the conference last month.
• B –“ Grant’s” Law – working alone law, was passed by WCB after much work and support from the De Patie family and the labour community
• C – Youth Committee within PSAC faces some challenges; encourages locals to get youth in touch with Jamey

6. Motion

• For the VAC to pay $180 towards dues for the New West District Labour Council for CEIU 20949 – which pays the other 50%. Rationale: This is done annually as the VAC receives a subsidy from the PSAC to help it affiliate to District Labour Councils within its jurisdiction. If anyone is interested, Sam sits as a delegate but we are entitled to two. Rhonda may be interested. m/s/CARRIED (Sam, Megan)
• The VAC is also affiliated to the Vancouver District Labour Council via AGR 20044 but we believe that VAC does not contribute towards the dues because AGR 20044 gets its dues reimbursed to them already. CEUDA 20040 is also affiliated and UEW 20147 may soon be affiliated and will be requesting funds from the VAC to assist.

7. Elections

• Kay Sinclair conducted the elections with the following results:
• President – Sam Wiese (Rhonda nominated, Megan seconded)
• 1st VP – Megan Adam (Sam/Sharon)
• 2nd VP – Rhonda Johns (Sam/Sharon)
• Sec - VACANT
• Treasurer – Sharon Tieman (Megan/Sam)
• Members at large
• (1) Tom Gallagher (Sam/Megan)
• (2) Terri Lee (Rhonda, Sharon)
• (3) VACANT
• Kay conducted the oath.

8. Other

• Oct 27 – Bring Our Troops Home Rally
• Nov 2-3 BC Law Teach-in on Afghanistan
• Nov 3 – Chili Cook Off
• Pivot Calendars are available to fundraise for Pivot Legal Society, they will also be having a Christmas Auction Dec 8th
• Sam made a special mention about the passing of trade unionist Tom Kozar. There will be a United Way Labour Appreciation Dinner on December 3rd where Tom will be posthumously given an award.

9. Stand Up/Speak Out

• The following people took part in the Stand Up/Speak out pledge against world poverty. (Monica, Megan, Deanna, Terri, Tom, Rhonda, Sharon, Dave, Colbey, Sam)

10. Meeting adjourned 7:55 pm.

11. Addendum: Addendum to Financial Statement for Vancouver Area Council (pdf).

PSAC SOUTHERN VANCOUVER ISLAND DISTRICT AREA COUNCIL MINUTES

August 28, 2007, Regular General Meeting - PSAC Victoria Regional Office

Members Present:

• Nick Humphreys – UEW 20169
• Ian Wiggs – UNDE 21008
• John Rumsby- UTE 20028
• Todd Genereux – UNDE 21011
• Cindy Little – UTE 20028
• Ken Waldron – UNDE 21013
• Mandi Schubert – CEIU 20975

Regrets:

• Jim Sidel
• Ches Bennett
• VirginiaVaillancourt
• Peter Neelands
• Randy Sanderson
• Renée Young
• Brian Port
• James Little
• Rosemary MacKenzie

Continue reading below or Southern Vancouver Island Area Council minutes - August 28th (pdf).

1. Call to order: President Sister Little called the meeting to order at 5:45 p.m.
2. Proposed Agenda : Nothing further to add
3. Adoption of Minutes May 22, 2007 M/S/C I. Wiggs/J. Rumsby
4. Discussion re: Legion Donations – no further donations
5. Old Business: None at this time
6. New Business: None at this time
7. Political Action:
   • Nick spoke about Political Action –Defending Quality Public Services/Conference Calls/Need for follow up letters to MP’s.
   • We have done the follow up letters what we need now is for follow up phone calls from the specific constituents to the MP’s and candidates.
   • PIPSC Campaign against Privatization of Federal Laboratories SVIDAC to put out a letter to Kay/Janet/Patty and to BC national officers.
   • October 4 – Pre Budget Finance Committee Meeting in Victoria. D.P.Q.S & DFO Campaign.
   • Victoria Labour Council –The revitalization of the VLC has been going on over the summer with 7-8 meetings. Nick was tasked with reporting on improving communications and increasing affiliations. Nick’s report circulated at meeting. This fall Nick plans to contact and encourage Victoria PSAC locals to affiliate with the VLC. One recommendation is to look at reducing affiliation dues. Resolutions to our various conventions concerning subsidizing locals that affiliate are being considered. VLC meets the 3rd Wednesday of each month.
   • P. Bragg (Van RO) might be loaned from Van RO to work on website for VLC.
8. Labour Day Picnic: All Welcome. PSAC will have a booth set up. Esquimalt/Gorge Park. 1070 Tillicum Road. 11:00 – 4:00 Nick/DaveJ/James/Cindy/Rosemary/DaveT to bring supplies for raffles
9. AGM: Annual General Meeting – September 26, 2007 AGM Sept 26, 2007
10. Other Business: Need for new banners. Discussion about colors for banners – what is most visible Todd to look at costs
11. Adjournment / Next Meeting: M/S/C K. Waldron/I. Wiggs to adjourn 6:40 PM

Northwest B.C. Area Council Meeting September 8, 2007

Attendance:

• Phyllis Bortignon USGE 20071
• Barry Cunningham UCTE 20213
• Penny Dickson CEIU 20926
• Benilde Gomes USGE 20071
• Scott MacPhee UCTE 20213
• Nikki McVey CEIU 20926
• Colette Savarie PSAC BC Regional Representative

Call to Order: Benilde opened meeting at 11:15am

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

Continue reading below or download the NorthWest Area Council meeting minutes - Sept 8 2007 (pdf)

(more…)

Human Rights Committee Minutes September 12th, 2007

*In attendance: Members: Wandy, Tracy (chair of meeting), Carol (minute taker), Kim, Sargy, Craig Staff: Janelle*

Continue reading below or download the Human Rights Committee meeting minutes - Sept 12 2007 (pdf)

(more…)

Minutes of the Regional Council Meeting

October 28 & 29, 2006

Continue reading below or download the BC Regional Council meeting minutes (pdf)