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Welcome to the 2023 OPSEU/SEFPO Annual Convention!

The following documents are available on the website and at Registration.

Section A – General information and Agenda

Section B – Minutes of the 2022 Convention

Section C – Audited financial statements and notes

Section D  – 2023 Budget

Section E – Executive Board Report

Section F – Report on remunerations

• Executive Board members’ expenses
• Negotiating Team members’ expenses (also includes committee members’ expenses)

Section G – Resolutions and committee report

Section H – Constitutional amendments

 

Convention Office

The Convention Office is located in Room 204 on Level 200 of the MTCC.

Wednesday, April 19 – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thursday, April 20  –  8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Friday, April 21 – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, April 22 – 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Registration, Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC)

Wednesday, April 19 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., Room 205/206AB (street level)

Thursday, April 20 7 a.m. to noon, Room 205/206AB (street level)

Friday, April 21 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Convention Office (room 204)

Saturday, April 22 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon, Convention Office (room 204)

Please note that you must register and obtain your badge before you can attend Convention.

 

2023 OPSEU/SEFPO Annual Convention

Agenda

Thursday, April 20, 2023

9:00 a.m.

• Call to order
• Land Acknowledgement
• Indigenous Welcome
• Statement of Respect
• Minute of Silence
• Opening Ceremonies
• Credentials Committee
• Adoption of Agenda
• Adoption of 2022 Convention Minutes
• President’s Address
• Report: Financials
• Report: Auditors
• Statutory Orders
• Executive Board Report

11:30 a.m.

• Keynote Speaker

11:45 a.m.

• Reports
• Resolutions Committee
• Constitution Report

12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m.

• Lunch

1:30 p.m.

• Report: Budget

2:15 p.m.

• Reports
• Resolutions Committee
• Constitution Report

5:00 p.m.

• Recess General Session

7:30-9:30 p.m.

• Awards Night, John W.H. Bassett Theatre

 

Friday, April 21, 2023

9:00 a.m.

• Call to order
• Credentials Committee
• Equity Report
• Social Mapping Project Update

9:45 a.m.

• Reports
• Resolutions Committee
• Constitution Report

11:00 a.m.

• Keynote Speaker

11:30 a.m.

• Introduction of Solidarity Guests

12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m.

• Lunch
• 1:30 p.m.
• Reports
• Resolutions Committee
• Constitution Committee

2:00 p.m.

• Keynote Speaker

2:30 p.m.

• Reports Continue
• Resolutions Committee
• Constitution Committee

5:00 p.m.

Recess General Session

Saturday, April 22, 2023

9:00 a.m.

• Call to order
• Keynote Speaker

9:30 a.m.

• Reports
• Constitution Committee
• Resolutions Committee

12:00 noon

Adjournment

Announcements

• Credentials Committee report will be presented as
• Resolutions and Constitution Committees are allotted 1½ hours each daily for their reports

OPSEU/SEFPO Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy

1.0 Introduction

1.1 OPSEU/SEFPO has a long tradition of struggle to end harassment and discrimination. The Union recognizes that equity issues are central to representing and defending members’ rights in the workplace, Union and community. Harassment and discrimination create a climate of intolerance and division among the membership. By eroding our unity and strength, they can weaken our effectiveness at the bargaining table, in the workplace, on the picket line and in the community. Our ability as Union activists and representatives to respond effectively to situations of harassment and discrimination is essential to building OPSEU/SEFPO’s strength.

1.2 OPSEU/SEFPO will not tolerate discrimination and harassment. To this end, the Union will promote human rights and make every effort to prevent violations within the scope of this Policy. This Policy is one step in our fight to eliminate personal harassment, harassment and discrimination contrary to the Ontario Human Rights Code (“Code”) and OPSEU/SEFPO’s Constitution which affirms that every member has the right to be treated with dignity and respect.

2. Scope and Application

2.1 The Policy applies to all OPSEU/SEFPO members, including retired members and elected leaders during any Union-related duties, activities and functions. This includes, but is not limited to, local meetings, conferences, Conventions, educationals, social functions, picketing and demonstrations. It also applies to union-related interactions between members and elected Union leaders in the workplace.

2.2 Nothing in this Policy is intended to preclude a member from accessing a complaint procedure under a Collective Agreement, the Code or other legislation.

2.3 In certain circumstances, it may be necessary for the Union to initiate an investigation of an incident(s) in the absence of a complaint from a member. In order to promote respect for human rights, the Union has an obligation to take action to prevent and discourage behaviour, which contravenes this Policy.

2.4 The recommendation(s) for remedy, corrective action or sanction could include, but are not limited to a warning, reprimand, apology, education, removal from office, bar on running for office for a specified time.

2.5 This Policy addresses all forms of harassment and discrimination, including systemic discrimination. Where the term “systemic” discrimination is used in the Policy and/or Procedures Manual, it refers to patterns of behavior, policies, or practices that are part of OPSEU/SEFPO’s structures, and which create or perpetuate disadvantage based on a prohibited ground.

3.0 OPSEU/SEFPO Members – Roles & Responsibilities

3.1 All members of OPSEU/SEFPO are responsible for maintaining and promoting an environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.

4.0 Elected Leadership – Roles & Responsibilities

4.1 The elected leadership of OPSEU/SEFPO is responsible for enforcing this Policy. Local Executives, Executive Board Members. Elected Teams and Committees shall:

• establish and maintain an environment free of harassment and discrimination;
• ensure accommodation needs of members are met;
• take appropriate action when they have knowledge of harassment or discrimination;
• treat complaints seriously and refer complainants and respondents to Advisors or an Equity Unit Officer

4.2 The President, First Vice-President/Treasurer, Regional Vice-Presidents, and the Executive Board, as appropriate, shall implement all recommendations for remedy as determined through a mediation settlement, investigation or appeal of a complaint unless the recommended remedy contravenes the constitution or OPSEU/SEFPO policies, or other factors outweigh the general interest. If recommendations are not implemented, then, where possible, written reasons will be provided.

5.0 Harassment and Discrimination Contrary to the Code

5.1 OPSEU/SEFPO adopts the language and principles of the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of the following prohibited grounds:

• race;
• ancestry;
• place of origin;
• colour;
• ethnic origin;
• citizenship;
• creed;
• sex (includes pregnancy);
• sexual orientation;
• gender identity;
• gender expression;
• age;
• marital status;
• family status;
• disability

5.2 violations may include:

1. reprisal, which means being targeted on the basis of having:
   1. filed a complaint under this Policy;
   2. participated in any proceeding in accordance with this Policy
   3. been associated with a person who has filed a complaint or participated in any proceeding in accordance with this Policy.
2. condonation, where a Union leader does not take appropriate action to address harassment or discrimination;
3. where a party believes that a complaint itself is a form of harassment and/or discrimination;
4. breach of a settlement;
5. discrimination because of relationship, association or dealings with a person or persons identified by a prohibited

6.0 Personal Harassment

6.1. OPSEU/SEFPO strives to have an environment free from personal harassment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome and that is not related to a prohibited ground identified in the Code.

6.2 Personal harassment includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Examples of harassment covered under this Policy may include, but is not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of:

• slurs, insults and name-calling;
• circulating or posting offensive or derogatory pictures or documents;
• public humiliation;
• exclusion from union activities or functions.

7.0 Confidentiality and Privacy

7.1 The Union understands that it is in the interests of all parties to keep matters arising under this Policy confidential. Rumours and innuendo destroy the integrity of the fact-finding process and the principles of early resolution.

7.2 The Equity Unit, Advisors, Mediators, Investigators and Appeal Chairs will maintain confidentiality, wherever possible, subject to the requirements of a fair process or as otherwise required by law.

7.3 It is understood that written reports or decisions of Investigators and Appeal Chairs and Appeal Hearings may be made available for the purposes of implementation, education or reporting to the membership.

8. Education

8.1 The Union is committed to a preventive strategy that is based in education. To that end, the Union shall:

1. provide courses based on harassment and discrimination in each region at least once a year;
2. incorporate a training component on the Policy and prevention into orientation sessions for Executive Board Members, Chairs of Equity Committees and Caucuses, Local Presidents, and Stewards;
3. offer orientation to the Policy to all regional/local equity committees/ representatives;
4. provide a ‘lunch ‘n learn’ on the Policy

9.0 Administration

9.1 The Equity Unit shall be responsible for the implementation of this Policy and the development of a Procedures Manual for it. Such procedures shall be developed in consultation with a subcommittee of three (3) members Advisors and Investigators, the Chairs of the Provincial Equity Committees and Equity Caucuses and shall be reviewed every three (3) years.

9.2 Both complainants and respondents have a right to an Advisor under this Policy. Such Advisors shall be members selected by a process outlined in the abovementioned Procedures Manual. Advisors shall be provided with appropriate training to carry out their role and shall be supported by the Equity Unit.

9.3 All costs related to the processing of complaints will be borne by the Union and shall be consistent with OPSEU/SEFPO policies and practices. If members choose to seek representation or advice from persons not appointed under this Policy such costs will not be covered or be recoverable.

9.4 Every effort shall be made to encourage resolution at every stage of the complaint process, where appropriate, including prior to the filing of a formal complaint.

9.5 It is recognized that external mediators, investigators and hearing Chairs will be needed from time to time, according to the nature of a complaint.

9.6 This Policy, including the Statement of Respect, is to be posted in a visible location in all OPSEU/SEFPO buildings, as well as advertised through the website, newsletters and bulletins, locally, regionally and provincially. In addition, the list of approved Advisors, as well as any forms, will be available through regional offices and on the website.

Statement of Respect

Harassment or discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated at OPSEU/SEFPO functions.

Whenever OPSEU/SEFPO members gather, we welcome all peoples of the world. We will not accept any unwelcoming words, actions or behaviours against our union members.

We accord respect to all persons, regardless of age, creed, political affiliation and racialization including and not limited to People of African descent, Black, Caribbean, South Asian, Asian, women, men, First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, members of ethno-racial groups, people with disabilities, gays, lesbians, bisexual, trans, two-spirit, and gender diverse persons, Francophones and all persons whose first language is not English.

In our diversity we will build solidarity as union members.

If you believe that you are being harassed or discriminated against, contact any of the staff who are located at the back of the hall for immediate assistance or by calling the one of the numbers listed below.

Convention 2023 harassment and discrimination advisers

• Adviser 1: (416) 795-0657
• Adviser 2: (416) 795-0684

Allergy alert:

Scent-free, vape-free, nut-free and pet-free policies

Workers are increasingly becoming sensitive to chemicals, scented products and certain foods, such as peanuts, peanut butter, pecans, walnuts, many chocolate bars and energy/nutrition bars.

For many individuals, attending conferences and meetings, and being exposed to perfumes, other strong scents and certain foods, can pose serious health risks, such as asthma attacks, respiratory problems and/or migraine headaches.

In the interests of the health and safety of the sisters and brothers whose health may suffer from any of these exposures, we ask you not to wear scented products or to consume nut products at any OPSEU/SEFPO events or OPSEU/SEFPO locations.

Also due to these allergy concerns, OPSEU/SEFPO allows only service animals in any meetings, caucuses and hospitality suites, and on the Convention floor.

Environment – water policy

“To adequately safeguard the drinking water and the environment in Ontario, government laboratories must do all testing, and it is mandatory that all results be forwarded to the appropriate authorities.” (OPSEU/SEFPO Convention 2002)

“OPSEU/SEFPO will support and continue to promote efforts to bring privately-controlled water facilities under public control and promote increased transparency and public accountability of waterworks already under public control.” (OPSEU/SEFPO Convention 2002)

Please note: containers of ice water and metal water bottles and compostable cups are provided for your use at Convention.

No Coca-Cola products policy

At the 2008 Convention, delegates passed a resolution to join the Coca-Cola boycott supported by several other unions, NGOs and social organizations from all over the world.

This resolution also instructs us to lobby the federal government to stop the negotiation of the Canadian-Colombia free-trade agreement based on the horrendous human and social rights violations record in Colombia, as well as on the negative effects it will have on job security here in Canada and on labour conditions in Colombia.

This policy is being implemented at OPSEU/SEFPO by banning all Coca-Cola products from all OPSEU/SEFPO offices and by ending the provision and sale of all Coca-Cola products at all OPSEU/SEFPO functions.

The following is a list of the most popular trademarks owned or used under licence by the Coca-Cola company and its related affiliates:

• A & W
• Bacardi Mixers
• Barq’s
• Big Crush
• Bimbo
• Canada Dry
• Chinotto
• Dasani Water
• Fanta
• Five Alive
• Full Trottle
• Fruitopia
• Inca Kola
• Mello Yello
• Minute Maid
• Nestea
• Odwalla
• Powerade
• Schweppes
• Sprite
• Swerve Daily Drink
• Tab

OPSEU/SEFPO green policy

This year, OPSEU/SEFPO is proud to make significant efforts towards reducing our carbon footprint. By working together, we have implemented several eco-friendly measures to reduce waste, minimise our carbon footprint and make convention more sustainable than ever before.

Some of the highlights of our efforts to “green” convention:

• We have reduced the amount of paper printed by half, as attendees had an option to let us know they no longer require hard copies as part of the registration process.
• Our reusable lanyards not only save resources, but also make great keychains.
• We have removed the year from our promotional items, ensuring that they can be used for future events, rallies, and campaigns.
• We are proud to introduce biodegradable name badge holders for the first time ever for our union.
• All of the items used at the convention are high-quality, union-made, and built to last beyond the event, reducing waste.
• We have also eliminated cover stock from printed materials, which not only saves resources but also lowers production costs.
• OPSEU/SEFPO water bottles are now made of metal, and the plastic lids are made from recycled materials.

We all have a responsibility to the environment, our communities, and the future of our planet to take action to reduce our environmental impact in everything we do. Please join us in making an effort to make this convention as sustainable as possible and let’s all continue to work towards a cleaner, greener union.

Common abbreviations used in OPSEU/SEFPO

ACL – Association for Community Living
ASU – Administrative Staff Union
AGM – Annual General Meeting

BPL – Building Powerful Locals

BPS – Broader Public Service

CAS – Children’s Aid Society

CAAT – College of Applied Arts and Technology

CCAC – Community Care Access Centre

CCBA – Colleges Collective Bargaining Act

CECBA – Crown Employees Collective Bargaining Act

CERC – Central Enforcement and Renewal Committee

CFSA – Child and Family Services Act

CBS – Canadian Blood Services

CLC – Canadian Labour Congress

COLA – Cost of Living Allowance

CSAO – Civil Service Association of Ontario

CSC – Community Services Council

CTC – Children’s Treatment Centre

CWWA – Compressed Work Week Agreement

DivEx – Divisional Executive

EBM – Executive Board Member

(E)ERC – Employer/Employee Enforcement and Renewal Committee

EI – Employment Insurance

ESA – Employment Standards Act

GSB – Grievance Settlement Board

HCDC – Health Care Divisional Council

HLDAA – Hospital Labour Disputes Arbitration Act

HOODIP – Hospitals of Ontario Disability Income Plan

HOOPP – Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan

HPD – Hospital Professionals Division

HSTAP – Hospital Sector Training and Adjustment Program

LBED – Liquor Board Employees Division

LEC – Local Executive Committee

LERC – Local Enforcement and Renewal Committee

LHIN – Local Health Integration Network

LMC – Labour-Management Committee

LTIP – Long Term Income Protection

MDT – Membership Development Trainee

MERC – Ministry Enforcement and Renewal Committee

MPAC – Municipal Property Assessment Corporation

NUPGE – National Union of Public and General Employees

ODSP – Ontario Disability Support Program

OFL – Ontario Federation of Labour

OHRC – Ontario Human Rights Code

OHSA – Occupational Health and Safety Act

OLBEU – Ontario Liquor Boards Employees Union

OLRA – Ontario Labour Relations Act

OLRB – Ontario Labour Relations Board

OJTBF – OPSEU Joint Trusteed Benefit Fund

OPS – Ontario Public Service

OPSEU – Ontario Public Service Employees Union

OPSSU – Ontario Public Service Staff Union

OPT – OPSEU Pension Trust

PHRC – Provincial Human Rights Committee

PSLRTA – Public Sector Labour Relations Transition Act

PWC – Provincial Women’s Committee

PYWC – Provincial Young Workers’ Committee PSA Public Service Act

RVP – Regional Vice-President

SAROC – Systemic and Anti-Racism Organizational Change Program

SEFPO – Syndicat des employés de la fonction publique de l’Ontario

SUB – Supplementary Unemployment Benefit

TQM – Total Quality Management

UMC – Union-Management Committee

VEO – Voluntary Exit Option

WSIA – Workplace Safety and Insurance Act

WSIB – Workplace Safety and Insurance Board

 

Activities at a Glance

Tuesday, April 18

Indigenous Circle (Smudging will occur in the meeting space), 9:00 am – 5:00pm, 201F

Wednesday, April 19

Coalition of Racialized Workers (CoRW), 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, 201F

Provincial Women’s Committee (PWC), 9:30 am – 4:30 pm, 201D

Provincial Francophone Committee (PFC), 9:30 am – 4:30 pm, 201E

Retired Members Division Meeting, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, 202A

Provincial Human Rights Committee (PHRC), 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, 202B

Provincial Young Workers Committee, 9:30 am – 4:00 pm, 201B

Hospital Professionals Division (Sector 10), 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, 206CDEF

Indigenous Circle Gathering Smudging will occur in the meeting space, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Halls AB

New Delegates Seminar, 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm, 203AB

Budget Q & A , 9:00 pm – 10:00 pm, 203AB

Thursday, April 20

CAAT Support Part Time, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 202A

Sector 19 – CBS & Diagnostics, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm, 201F

Probation/Probation & Parole, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 201E

Sector 26 – LBED, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 203AB

MTO MAC, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 201B

CAAT Academic, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm, 206CDEF

PWC – Self Defense Seminar, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 201D

Sector 2 – Developmental Services, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 202CD

Sector 4 – Childrens Aid Society, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm, 202B

Sector 18 – Mental Health Division, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm, 201E

Sector 13 – Municipalities, 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm, 201F

CERC-OPS Unified Caucus, 5:00 pm –  6:00 pm, 202CD

RAA Queer Social, 5:00 pm –  7:00 pm, 201B

Correctional Bargaining Unit, 6:00pm –    9:00pm, 206CDEF

Prayer Room, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, 201A

Wellness Lounge, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, 203DC

Solidarity Fund Silent Auction,  8:00 am –  6:00 pm, Hall C

OPSEU/SEFPO Shop, 8:00 am –  6:00 pm, Hall C

MarketPlace, 8:00 am –  6:00 pm, Hall C

Friday, April 21

Provincial Women’s Breakfast, 7:00 am – 8:30 am, 205/206AB

CAAT Support Full Time, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 205/206AB

Sector 15 – Child Treatment, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 202A

Sector 3 – Boards of Education, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 202D

Sector 1 – Ambulance & ACO Caucus, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm, 203AB

Sector 16 – Property Assessment, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm, 202B

Sector 11 – Hospital Support, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 201F

MCCSS Youth Justice, 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 201E

Public Business Service Delivery (MPBSD), 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 201B

Sector 9 – Universities,  12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, 206CDEF

Ministry of Northern Development (MND), 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm, 202C

Coalition of Racialized Workers (CoRW) Forum, 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, 205/206AB

MCCSS Unified, 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm, 206CDEF

Provincial Young Workers (PYC) Trivia Night, 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm, 202D

Prayer Room, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, 201A

Wellness Lounge, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, 203DC

Solidarity Fund Silent Auction,  8:00 am –  6:00 pm, Hall C

OPSEU/SEFPO Shop, 8:00 am –  6:00 pm, Hall C

Saturday, April 22

Indigenous Circle Smudging Ceremony, 7:00am – Simcoe Park (located directly across the street from MTCC North Building)

Last chance to bid on Silent Auction items and purchase raffle tickets!  9:00 am – 11:00am

Simultaneous interpretation of Convention proceedings (French/English)

Simultaneous interpretation is provided for our Convention proceedings.

Receivers can be picked up from the simultaneous interpretation desk. If you are not bilingual, you will need to keep you receivers handy during Convention sessions, since both official languages will be used.

These are battery operated receivers, and the batteries need recharging every night. Members are required to sign the receivers out each morning and return them to the simultaneous interpretation desk each evening for recharging.

The receiver must be returned to the simultaneous interpretation desk at the end of Convention.

Shuttle service

Drop off and pick up locations are as follows;

MTCC North- Front Street Entrance

Marriott City Centre – Blue Jays Way Entrance

Sheraton Centre – York St

Fairmont Royal York- York Street

Westin Harbour Castle – Street Level

Wednesday, April 19

1 pm – 10:30 pm

Thursday, April 20

8 am – 9 am

5pm – 6 pm

7pm – 10 pm

Friday, April 21                                         

8 am – 9 am

5 pm – 6 pm

9 pm – 10 pm

Saturday, April 22

8 am – 9 am

12 pm – 1 pm

Rules of procedure for use of microphones

1. There will be 16 microphones for the exclusive use of delegates, eight “pro” and eight “con.” These microphones will be distributed across the Convention floor and will be designated for use only by delegates from the region in which they have been placed.
2. There will be four microphones in the roped-off section for the exclusive use of alternates and observers: two “pro” and two “con.”
3. All microphones will be consecutively numbered 1 to 20, except that Region 5 will have four microphones, two “pro” and two “con,” but not numbered consecutively with the original set. The Region 5 microphones will be numbered: 1 (“pro”) and 2 (“con”), and 15 (“pro) and 16 (“con”). They will be available for hearing-impaired delegates from any region for use in the regular manner of speaking order.
4. On points for discussion open to the delegates on the floor, the chair will start at microphone 1 and work through subsequent microphones until closure/final vote on the point. Note that this procedure will mean speakers will be automatically alternating between pro and con arguments.
5. On subsequent points open for discussion, the chair will open at the next following microphone. For example, if a previous discussion ended at microphone 7 (“pro”), the next discussion will start at microphone number 8 (“con”).
6. The chair or designate will control microphone numbers so that appropriate direction can be given to delegates.
7. Delegates wishing to raise a procedural point, in accordance with the rules of order, may use either pro or con microphones in their section or region.

Process for delegates who cannot get to a mic due to mobility devices, such as wheelchairs, crutches, walkers

1. The delegate with a mobility device has someone hold their place in line at the appropriate microphone (holder). When the holder reaches the mike, they identify themselves using name, local number and who they are holding the microphone (e.g., “My name is Jack Black, Local 999, and I am holding this spot for Jean Green, Local 999”).
2. The holder at the microphone then removes the microphone from the stand and walks it to the aisle adjacent to the mic area and gives it to the person who is to speak.
3. The speaker identifies themselves by giving their name and local number. They then speak to their issue.
4. At the conclusion of their remarks, they hand the microphone back to the holder, who brings it back and replaces the microphone in the stand.

Motion forms

Copies of motion forms for delegates are available from staff at the back of the hall. When making motions, please make sure you write legibly.

Before speaking on your issue, identify yourself by name and local number or committee affiliation.

Completed motion forms must be handed to the recording secretary at the front of the room as soon as you have finished speaking.

Role of staff

1. Staff assigned to work at Convention are easily identified by their staff badge. Each staff person assigned to Convention has a specific role and responsibility either on the Convention Floor, or in an administrative capacity, i.e., registration, convention office, etc.
2. The primary role of assigned staff is to facilitate the smooth running of Convention and your cooperation in assisting staff in carrying out their duties will be appreciated.
3. If you need any assistance or information, please go to the Convention Office. If you need assistance on the Convention Floor, please see the staff at the back of the Convention Hall identified with a yellow name badge holder and red ‘staff’ ribbon.
4. If you need approval for a notice to go on the digital screens, please see the Assistant Floor Manager, who is located at the rear of the Convention Hall.

 

Credentials Committee

Terms of reference

1. To receive and rule on complaints and/or irregularities regarding delegate
2. To allow, or refuse entry to the Convention floor, to any persons whose delegate credentials are in dispute.
3. To rule on and supervise the transfer of credentials from alternate to delegates at conventions, in accordance with Article 13 of the Constitution.
4. The committee reserves the right to review its terms of reference as circumstances dictate, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee.

 

Guidelines for operation

1. Duties of the Credentials Committee:

The duties of the Credentials Committee of the Convention are to scrutinize the credentials of Delegates, Alternates and Observers (referred to as D/A/O), verify their entitlement to attend in the capacity sought, ensure that the Constitution is followed in respect to credentials, rule on disputed credentials (subject to any appeal to the Convention), and make reports to the Convention, as required, as to the number of registered Delegates, Alternates, Observers and Guests.

2. Irregularities in credentials:

If an irregularity is noted at the Convention Registration Desk, the potential Delegate/ Alternate/ Observer (D/A/O) is referred to a member of the Committee, who identifies the D/A/O by OPSEU card and Local number, and checks the Convention registration database for Local and name. If verified, the Committee member makes a note in the registration data base, escorts the D/A/O to the registration desk. The registration staff will then issue the required credential.

3. If there is no documentation in the Convention registration database and the potential D/A/O has a photocopy, the Committee member makes a note in the database, escorts the D/A/O to the registration desk. The staff will then issue the required credential.

4. If there is neither documentation nor photocopy, the potential D/A/O must be verified as duly elected by reviewing the Local Credential or by an affirmation form signed by an EBM from the region and/or staff representative and/or the Local President. The Committee member makes a note in the registration database and escorts the D/A/O to the registration desk. The staff will then issue the required credential.

5. Where a D/A/O presents all copies of the credential form, the Committee member keeps the file copy and makes a note in the registration database. The Committee member escorts the D/A/O to the registration desk. A credential is then issued.

6. Escorts/aides for disabled Delegates/Alternates/Observers are issued guest badges at the registration desk. The escort/aid is entered in the database as a guest. The D/A/O is escorted by the escort/aide to a staff member at the door of the Convention, to be taken to the appropriate area of the floor. The escort/aide remains in the Guest section.

7. Lost Delegate/Alternate badges:

No replacement badge will be issued. The member may be issued an observer or guest badge only.

All accredited delegates must wear their badge on the Convention floor at all times.

Credentials Committee

Region 1 – Natalie D’Onofrio, Local 102

Region 2 – Michele Morrison, Local 222

Region 3 – Amanda Usher, Local 302

Region 4 – Cynthia Ladoucer, Local 439

Region 5 – Angela Lockhurst, Local 590

Region 6 – Jeremy Walton, Local 665

Region 7 – Phillip Cooze, Local 711

EBM – Tara Maszczakiewicz, Local 684

Staff Adviser – Mandy Dumais

Secretary – Amber Danbrook

 

Constitution Committee

Region 1 – Chad Croteau, Local 110

Region 2 – Dave Wakely, Local 277

Region 3 – Michael Hamilton, Local 376

Region 4 – Janet Heyman, Local 4104

Region 5 – Jonathan Singer, Local 580

Region 6 – Arlene Proulx, Local 607

Region 7 – Stacy Grieve, Local 736

EBM – Ken Steinbrunner, Local 642

Staff Adviser – Pat Honsberger

Secretary – Hasnain Abid

 

Resolutions Committee

Region 1 – Darryl Bedford, Local 110

Region 2 – Julie Chambo, Local 291

Region 3 – John Shirk, Local 362

Region 4 – Christine Kelsey, Local 416

Region 5 – Rod Bemister, Local 561

Region 6 – Kimberly Kazur, Local 665

Region 7 – Jody Tsubouchi, Local 710

EBM – Joel Usher, Local 381

Staff Adviser – Mary Kalliontzis

Secretary – Enrico De Matteo

General information

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)

For information on meetings in the area, please call 416-487-5591 (staffed 24/7)

Appeals for donations

The one-time Convention Donations Appeal takes place on Friday after lunch. Donation forms will be placed on the tables for delegates during the lunch break. Donations will be distributed among the various bona fide causes, and OPSEU/SEFPO will match all the donations collected up to a maximum of $5,000.

Marketplace, Silent Auction and OPSEU/SEFPO Store in Hall C, Level 300

Don’t miss the displays in the Marketplace and don’t forget to bid on an item in the Silent Auction. Merchandise is also available in the OPSEU/SEFPO store. The marketplace is open on Thursday and Friday. Please note that the draws for prizes will be held Saturday morning.

Escalators and elevators

As a safety precaution, all handout material must be distributed a minimum of 10 feet away from any escalator or 10 feet away from the front of elevator doors.

Fire exits

In case of emergency, please take note of the nearest fire exits on the Convention floor. The exits are clearly marked throughout MTCC.

Food court

The Simcoe Place food court is across the street. Accessible access to the food court is available from the CBC building.

Hotel checkout information for Saturday, April 22

Hotel checkout is 12 noon (no exceptions). You may bring your luggage to the bell captain’s desk in the main lobby of the hotel, where it can be stored until your departure.

Human rights accommodation

If you have mobility issues, please identify your evacuation needs with the hotel and the Convention floor regional staff assigned to your section.

Large-print material

For the visually impaired, please visit the Convention office for assistance.

Medical assistance throughout Convention

Ambulance paramedics are on duty on the Convention floor for emergency medical assistance.

Meeting announcements

Announcements of meetings of OPSEU/SEFPO groups during Convention may be shown on the digital screens. Please see the Assistant Floor Manager at the back of the room if you need a meeting announced.

Noise and electronic devices

Please note that all devices must be switched to “mute.” If you are outside the main doors to the Convention floor, please keep the noise down in the hallways.

No posting of advertising material

The Metro Toronto Convention Centre, the InterContinental Centre, Sheraton Centre, Marriott City Center, Westin Harbour Castle and the Fairmont Royal York prohibit posting of signs or any other promotional materials. Do not post anything on the walls in these buildings. Items posted will be removed immediately.

Security/lost and found at MTCC

The Security Unit and Lost and Found Services can be reached by calling 416-585-8160. Please do not leave any personal items on the Convention floor. Remember to take all your materials with you at the end of each day, as the tables will be cleared.

Sign-language interpretation (If requested)

Sign-language interpretation services are provided for those with hearing impairment on Convention floor in the area to the left of the podium. No matter what region you come from, please come to this area if you need to see the sign-language interpreters.

 

Solidarity Forever

(Tune: Battle Hymn of the Republic; words: Ralph Chaplin)

When the union’s inspiration

through the workers’ blood shall run There can be no power greater

anywhere beneath the sun.

Yet what force on earth is weaker

than the feeble strength of one?

But the union makes us strong.

CHORUS: Solidarity forever

Solidarity forever Solidarity forever

For the union makes us strong.

They have taken untold millions that they never toiled to earn,

But without our brain and muscle, not a single wheel could turn.

We can break their haughty power, gain our freedom when we learn

That the union makes us strong.

(CHORUS)

In our hands is placed a power greater than their hoarded gold;

Greater than the might of atoms magnified a thousand fold,

We can bring to birth a new world from the ashes of the old,

For the union makes us strong.