Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto
Thursday, April 19, 2018 – Morning Session
President Thomas, called the Convention to order at 9:14 a.m.
The President welcomed all Delegates, Alternates, Observers and Guests to the 42nd Annual Convention, the highest decision-making body of OPSEU.
National Anthem played
Krista Maracle and Chief Stacey Laforme brought greetings and acknowledged Indigenous Lands
Statement of Respect – video played
President Thomas called attention to cards provided in pouch of Convention bag with phone numbers to contact if members feel harassed or discriminated against.
Moment of Silence
A Minute of Silence was observed in memory of all those who have passed away since our last Convention.
Floor Staff were introduced – identified this year by yellow name badges
General announcements were made on events and services available at Convention. (Video)
Announced OPSEU’s Got Talent, Thursday night at 8 p.m. and Comedy Night, on Friday at 8:30
Electronic Voting
Michael O’Shea demonstrated via video the “how to’s” of electronic voting.
President Thomas introduced the head table:
- Nicole Glass, Corporate Secretary/Backup Recording Secretary
- Sherry Bader, Recording Secretary
- Jeff Arbus, Constitution and Rules of Order Advisor in Training
- Michael Grimaldi, Constitution and Rules of Order Advisor
- Maria Wysocki, Procedural Advisor
Credentials Committee Report
Introduction of Credentials Committee
Region 1 Ian Magcale, L. 105
Region 2 Denise Sidsworth, L. 263
Region 3 Bill Carson, L. 369 (Vice-Chair)
Region 4 Tara Langford, L. 435 (Chair)
Region 5 Anthony Marinucci, L. 549
Region 6 Kimberley Kazur, L. 665
Region 7 Terri Morris, L. 714
EBM Janel Perron
Staff Advisor Fran Borsellino
Secretary Richard Meagher
Moved: Langford, Credentials Committee, L. 614/ Carson, Credentials Committee, L. 369
Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as at 9:05 a.m.
Delegates 881
Alternates 453
Observers 187
Retirees 7
EBMs 21
Committees 52
Solidarity Guests 9
Guests 5
Total 1,615
Vote on Adoption of Credentials Report Carried
Section A – Convention Agenda
Moved: Lahaise, L. 416 / Kelsey, L. 416
Adoption of the Convention Agenda as distributed.
Vote on the Agenda Carried
Section B – Minutes of Last Convention (2017)
Moved: Attard, L. 416 / Linkletter, L. 416
Adoption of the Minutes of Convention 2017 as printed in Section B.
Vote on Minutes of Convention 2017 Carried
John Cartwright, President of the Toronto and York Region Labour Council, which represents 205,000 union members in Toronto, addressed Convention.
Hassan Yusseff, President, Canadian Labour Congress, addressed Convention and showed video
President’s Address
President Thomas addressed Convention about a wide range of topics during his address to the 2018 Convention ranging from pensions to the upcoming provincial election to sexual harassment.
He was joined by board members Gareth Jones and Len Elliott to discuss the expansion of the Broader Public Service sector pension plan (OPTrust Select). Document was signed by President Thomas at Convention.
Auditor’s Report
Terri McKinnon gave Auditor’s report
Introduction of Resolutions Committee
Elaine Bagnall, Resolutions Committee Chair, introduced members of the Resolutions Committee
Region 1 Gino Franche, L. 130 (Vice-Chair)
Region 2 Karen Clark, L. 212
Region 3 Elaine Bagnall, L. 362 (Chair)
Region 4 Daryl O’Grady, L. 456
Region 5 Joe Healy, L. 557
Region 6 Ron Lavigne, L. 633
Region 7 Mike Lundy, L. 708
Staff Advisor Mandy Dumais
Staff Advisor Bebe DeFreitas
Secretary Karlene Henry
Report on Resolutions: Received – 117; Sent to Constitution Committee – 3; rejected – 4;
Total accepted – 110
Resolutions Committee
Statutory Resolution A1 – Financial Statements
Submitted by: Executive Board
Resolutions Committee’s Recommendation: FOR
Moved: Bagnall, Resolutions Committee L.362 / Franche, Resolutions Committee L.130
Be it resolved that in compliance with Article 26.2 of the Constitution and Section 97 of the Corporations Act, the Financial Statements for the 12-month period ending December 2017, including the Statement of Financial Position, the Statement of Revenue and Expenditures, the Statement of Fund Balances and the Statement of Cash Flows, together with the Auditors’ report thereon, and all transactions reflected thereby be approved and that the President and First Vice-President/Treasurer be authorized to sign the financial statements on behalf of the Executive Board.
Vote on Statutory Resolution A1 – Financial Statements Carried
Resolutions Committee
Statutory Resolution A2 – Section E – Executive Board Report
Submitted by: Executive Board
Resolutions Committee’s Recommendation: FOR
Moved: Bagnall, Credentials Committee, L.362 / Franche, Resolutions Committee, L.130
Be it resolved that in compliance with Section 129 of the Corporations Act, the Convention endorse the actions of the Executive Board from the closing of the last Convention until the closing of this Convention.
Vote on Statutory Resolution A2 – Executive Board Report Carried
Statutory Resolution A3 – Appointment of Auditors
Submitted by: Executive Board
Resolutions Committee’s Recommendation: FOR
Moved: E. Bagnall,Resolutions Committee L. 362/ G. Franche, Resolutions Committee L.130
Be it resolved that in compliance with Article 26.2 and 28.4 of the Constitution and Section 94 of the Corporations Act, PWC, PricewaterhouseCoopers; be Auditors of OPSEU for the fiscal year January 1, 2018 through to December 31, 2018 and the Executive Board fix the Auditors’ remuneration.
Vote on Statutory Resolution A3 – Appointment of Auditors Carried
C1 – Collective Bargaining – Section G
Submitted by Local 575 – also submitted by Local 553, Local 503, Local 559, the Greater Toronto Area Council, Local 532, Local 568 and Local 5110
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: FOR
Moved by: Bagnall, Resolutions Cte, L.362 / Franche, Resolutions Committee, L. 130
Whereas OPSEU is a member-driven union that is founded on the principles of solidarity, union democracy and free collective bargaining; and
Whereas OPSEU’s policy and practice is to conduct collective bargaining, based on democratic principles that provide members with input into the bargaining process through:
- members right to democratically elect their bargaining teams from among the membership
- their right to actively participate in establishing their team’s bargaining objectives and priorities through a democratic demand-setting process
- their ability to affect the outcome of bargaining by participating in workplace mobilization; and
- their exclusive right to ratify or reject a contract offer or tentative agreement through a democratic vote, except where outstanding issues are subject to binding arbitration; and
Whereas under article 24.1.1 of the Constitution, OPSEU’s Executive Board is the only body authorized to establish or modify bargaining procedures, based on prior input and direction from the respective Sector or Divisional conference; and
Whereas bargaining procedures established or modified by the Executive Board constitute OPSEU policy; and
Whereas in 2017, OPSEU negotiated several major province wide “extension” collective agreements, affecting more than 60,000 members, without following existing, Board- approved bargaining procedures that set out specific processes for democratically electing bargaining teams and conducting a democratic demand-setting process, as approved by their respective Divisional Conferences; and
Whereas these procedures were set aside without prior consultation with the full elected divisional leadership, local leaders and/or the division’s membership as a whole, and without authorization by the OPSEU Executive Board , contrary to Article 16.2.1 of the Constitution; and
Whereas the decision to bypass the requirement for an elected bargaining team and a democratic demand-setting process effectively denied members of the affected bargaining units their rights to meaningful input into their own collective bargaining, and failed to engage and mobilize members to maximize their bargaining power and achieve the best possible collective agreements; and
Whereas the experience of other bargaining campaigns, including the recent CAAT-Academic strike, has shown that OPSEU’s normal democratic bargaining procedures, combined with a focus on effective member engagement and mobilization, can generate real bargaining power and result in significant gains for OPSEU members;
Therefore be it resolved that as a member-driven union, OPSEU reaffirm its commitment to the democratic principle that members must have meaningful input into the collective bargaining process, including:
- The right to democratically elect their bargaining teams from among their bargaining unit’s membership,
- The right to actively participate in establishing bargaining objectives and priorities through a democratic demand setting process,
- Member engagement and mobilization to support their bargaining objectives; and
- Members’ exclusive right to ratify or reject a contract offer or tentative agreement through a democratic vote, except where outstanding issues and subject to binding arbitration; and
Be it further resolved that OPSEU will not alter, depart from or set aside existing, Board-approved bargaining procedures without the prior authorization by a majority vote of both the delegates at the Divisional or Sector meeting of the affected bargaining unit and of the Executive Board; and
Be it further resolved that OPSEU will not engage in collective bargaining on behalf of a bargaining unit without first ensuring members’ ability to participate in the democratic election of their bargaining teams from among the membership and the right to participate in a democratic demand-setting process, without first obtaining authorization to do so through a majority vote of the membership of the affected bargaining unit.
Closure was called and ruled Out of Order
Adjourned for lunch – 12 P.M.
Thursday, April 19, 2018 – Afternoon Session
Budget 2018
Eduardo Almeida, First Vice-President/Treasurer, presented the budget on behalf of the Executive Board.
Moved: E. Almeida, First Vice-President/Treasurer / W. Thomas, President
Adoption of the 2018 Budget as printed in Section D.
Credentials Committee Report
Moved: Marinucci, Credentials Committee, L. 549 / Kazur, Credentials Committee, L. 665
Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as of 2:32 p.m.
Delegates 959
Alternates 538
Observers 240
Retirees 7
EBMs 21
Committees 54
Solidarity Guests 18
Guests 21
Total 1,858
Vote on Adoption of Credentials Report Carried
Back on Budget
Moved: Billard, L. 598 / Joseph, L. 551
Closure on Budget – Defeated
Moved: Pechinger L. 103 / Meahan, L. 110
Amend budget to remove the transfer of 1.5 million to the General Fund and to keep it in the Strike Fund
Moved: Billard, L. 598 / Joseph, L. 551
Closure on Amendment to Budget – Carried
Vote on Amendment to Budget Defeated
Moved: Gillies, L. 303 / Mahon, L. 303
Amendment to remove the social mapping project line from the budget
Moved: Caswell, L. 266 / Finucane, L. 219
Closure of Amendment – Carried
Vote on Amendment to Budget Defeated
Moved: Burns, L. 503 / Lockhurst, L. 590
Amendment to increase the Region 5 budget line from $335,000 to $400,000
Moved: Billard, L. 598 / Joseph, L. 551
Closure on Amendment to Budget – Carried
Vote on Amendment to Budget Defeated
Moved: Pentecost, L. 415 / Henderson, L. 415
Closure on Budget – Carried
Vote on Budget Carried
Resolutions Committee
C1 – Collective Bargaining – Section G
Submitted by: Local 575
Also submitted by Local 553, Local 503, Local 559, the Greater Toronto Area Council, Local 532, Local 568 and Local 5110
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: For
Moved: Franche, Resolutions Committee, L. 130 / Clark, Resolutions Committee, L. 212
Whereas OPSEU is a member-driven union that is founded on the principles of solidarity, union democracy and free collective bargaining; and
Whereas OPSEU’s policy and practice is to conduct collective bargaining, based on democratic principles that provide members with input into the bargaining process through:
v) members right to democratically elect their bargaining teams from among the membership
vi) their right to actively participate in establishing their team’s bargaining objectives and priorities through a democratic demand-setting process
vii) their ability to affect the outcome of bargaining by participating in workplace mobilization; and
viii) their exclusive right to ratify or reject a contract offer or tentative agreement through a democratic vote, except where outstanding issues are subject to binding arbitration; and
Whereas under article 24.1.1 of the Constitution, OPSEU’s Executive Board is the only body authorized to establish or modify bargaining procedures, based on prior input and direction from the respective Sector or Divisional conference; and
Whereas bargaining procedures established or modified by the Executive Board constitute OPSEU policy; and
Whereas in 2017, OPSEU negotiated several major province wide “extension” collective agreements, affecting more than 60,000 members, without following existing, Board- approved bargaining procedures that set out specific processes for democratically electing bargaining teams and conducting a democratic demand-setting process, as approved by their respective Divisional Conferences; and
Whereas these procedures were set aside without prior consultation with the full elected divisional leadership, local leaders and/or the division’s membership as a whole, and without authorization by the OPSEU Executive Board , contrary to Article 16.2.1 of the Constitution; and
Whereas the decision to bypass the requirement for an elected bargaining team and a democratic demand-setting process effectively denied members of the affected bargaining units their rights to meaningful input into their own collective bargaining, and failed to engage and mobilize members to maximize their bargaining power and achieve the best possible collective agreements; and
Whereas the experience of other bargaining campaigns, including the recent CAAT-Academic strike, has shown that OPSEU’s normal democratic bargaining procedures, combined with a focus on effective member engagement and mobilization, can generate real bargaining power and result in significant gains for OPSEU members;
Therefore be it resolved that as a member-driven union, OPSEU reaffirm its commitment to the democratic principle that members must have meaningful input into the collective bargaining process, including:
v) The right to democratically elect their bargaining teams from among their bargaining unit’s membership,
vi) The right to actively participate in establishing bargaining objectives and priorities through a democratic demand setting process,
vii) Member engagement and mobilization to support their bargaining objectives; and
viii) Members’ exclusive right to ratify or reject a contract offer or tentative agreement through a democratic vote, except where outstanding issues and subject to binding arbitration; and
Be it further resolved that OPSEU will not alter, depart from or set aside existing, Board-approved bargaining procedures without the prior authorization by a majority vote of both the delegates at the Divisional or Sector meeting of the affected bargaining unit and of the Executive Board; and
Be it further resolved that OPSEU will not engage in collective bargaining on behalf of a bargaining unit without first ensuring members’ ability to participate in the democratic election of their bargaining teams from among the membership and the right to participate in a democratic demand-setting process, without first obtaining authorization to do so through a majority vote of the membership of the affected bargaining unit.
Moved: Billard, L. 551 / Jordan, L. 551
Closure on Resolution C1 – Carried
Vote on Resolution C1 Carried
Executive Board Report
Moved: Almeida, 1st VP/Treasurer / Thomas, President
To adopt Executive Board Report
Vote on Executive Board Report Carried
Resolutions Committee
H1 – Health and Safety – Section G
Submitted by: Local 5110, also submitted by the Greater Toronto Area Council and Local 553
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: FOR (changed to AGAINST)
Moved: Franche, Resolutions Committee, L.130 / Clark, Resolutions Committee, L.212
Objection to Consideration moved – Defeated
Whereas in 2016, a series of allegations regarding incidents of alleged workplace sexual assault against members of OPSEU’s staff resulted in criminal charges against a former OPSEU staff member and critical media coverage regarding OPSEU’s response to the allegations; and
Whereas some members expressed serious concerns that a toxic work environment and systemic problems in its workplace culture may have existed in OPSEU and may have contributed to the alleged incidents of sexual harassment and sexual assault experienced by staff; and
Whereas these concerns were discussed and debated at OPSEU’s 2016 Convention, resulting in the adoption of Emergency Resolution EB-16; and
Whereas Emergency Resolution EB-16 directed:
- OPSEU’s Executive Board to “establish an ad hoc task force consisting of two officers, two Executive Board members, two OPSSU members, one ASU member, and one employee from the excluded staff”; and
- That the task force would “review the Union’s staffing policies related to harassment and discrimination and…engage and direct an external independent consultant to conduct a review of OPSEU’s harassment and discrimination polices, complaint reporting processes, and workplace culture”; and
- That “the consultant will report to the task force and the Executive Board”; and
- That the task force “be established immediately and the external review will be established to ensure that it does not prejudice legal or other processes that [were] currently underway”; and
Whereas in the wake of the Weinstein and other similar allegations, there have been widespread reports of sexual harassment and sexual assault in numerous workplaces, industries and sectors; and
Whereas the resulting public discussion of these alleged incidents has highlighted the ways in which a lack of appropriate workplace policies and practices and/or issues regarding workplace culture may have contributed to these alleged incidents and/or discouraged alleged victims from reporting such incidents; and
Whereas in the current climate – and in light of the growing #metoo and #timesup movements – organizations are recognizing the need for greater transparency and accountability in how they address these kinds of allegations, and the workplace policies and practices they adopt to prevent and respond to future incidents; and
Whereas there has been no formal report to OPSEU’s membership regarding the findings of the external review of OPSEU’s harassment and discrimination policies, complaint reporting processes, or any actions OPSEU has or will be taking as a result;
Therefore be it resolved that the full report of the external consultant stemming from Emergency Resolution EB16 from 2016 Convention will be provided to the OPSEU Executive Board for review, discussion and action as required, unless this has already taken place; and
Be it further resolved that OPSEU will prepare a written report providing a detailed summary of the external consultant’s finding, and including a complete list of the consultant’s recommendations together with the specific actions OPSEU plans to take or has taken to address each recommendation, for review, discussion and adoption by the Executive Board; and
Be it further resolved that OPSEU will provide copies of its final written report to the officers of each Division, Sector and Local and the members of each Provincial Equity Committee or Caucus, by June 30, 2018.
Orders of the Day – 4:19 P.M.
Moved: Shirk, L. 362 / Hannah, L. 308
è to extend discussion on H1 – Carried
Moved: Trevor, L. 732 / Derrick, L. 701
Closure on Resolution H1 – Carried
Vote on Resolution H1 Defeated
Awards Presentation
Health and Safety – Individual
Recipient: Kelly Martin, L. 330
Sister Kelly Martin accepted award and addressed Convention
Health and Safety – Local
Recipient: Mental Health Division
Brother Ed Arvelin accepted award on behalf of the Division and addressed Convention
Leah Casselman Award – Local
Recipient: College Support Part-time locals
Sisters Marilou Martin and Janice Hagan accepted award and addressed Convention
Leah Casselman Award – Individual
Recipient: Jay Jackson, L. 245
Brother Jay Jackson accepted the award and addressed Convention
Convention Adjourned – 5:04 p.m.
Friday, April 20, 2018 – Morning Session
Call to order: 9:10 a.m.
President Thomas introduced Andrea Horwath, leader of the Ontario NDP. Sister Horwath addressed Convention.
Convention Donations Policy was reviewed.
Credentials Committee Report
Moved: Langford, Credentials Committee, L. 435 / McCale, Credentials Committee, L. 105
Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as of 2:00 p.m.
Delegates 969
Alternates 541
Observers 246
Retirees 7
EBMs 21
Committees 55
Solidarity Guests 23
Guests 17
Total 1,879
Vote on Adoption of Credentials Report Carried
Constitution Committee
The members of the Constitution Committee were introduced:
Region 1 Naz Binck
Region 2 Dave Wakely
Region 3 Tim Hannah (Chair)
Region 4 Dave Doran
Region 5 Janice Hagan (Vice-Chair)
Region 6 Ken Steinbrunner
Region 7 Carl Thibodeau, EBM, Region 7
Staff Advisor Ron Elliot
Staff Advisor Pat Honsberger
Secretary Andrea Meunier
Article 27.1 The Constitution may be amended only by a two-thirds vote of those delegates present and voting at any Convention.
Constitutional Amendment A.1, (H3 – Section H) Article 13.8
Submitted by: Local 130
Constitutional Committee’s Recommendation: Defeat
Moved: Hannah, Constitution Committee, L. 308 / Steinbrunner, Constitution Committee, L. 642
Whereas a greater number of Resolutions and Constitutional amendments are submitted by committee members each year; and,
Whereas OPSEU is structured based on a local structure and all members belong to a local; and,
Whereas the strength of our great union comes from the education of our membership and the participation of active locals; and,
Whereas all committee members belong to both a local and an occupational division; and,
Whereas all locals are encouraged to participate in their OPSEU labour council and respective occupational division meetings; and,
Whereas all members are equally represented by their Executive Board members; and,
Whereas not even the President and Vice-President of OPSEU individually or the Executive Committee of OPSEU (the President, the Vice-President and seven Regional Vice-Presidents) have the authority to submit resolutions to the convention without full Executive Board support; and,
Whereas only four out of seven votes for some of our OPSEU committees could potentially have the power to send resolutions and constitutional amendments to the convention floor.
Therefore be it resolved that Article 13.8 of the OPSEU Constitution be amended to limit only locals, Area Councils, Divisions and the Executive Board to have the authority to submit Resolutions and Constitutional Amendments to the annual OPSEU Convention for debate and consideration.
Objection to Consideration moved – Defeated
Vote on Constitutional Amendment A.1 Defeated
Constitutional Amendment A.2, (p/H6 – Section H) Article 29.4.1
Submitted by: Locals 209, 277, 561
Constitutional Committee’s Recommendation: Acceptance
Moved: Binck, Constitution Committee, L. 137 / Doran, Constitution Committee, L. 462
p
Whereas OPSEU is Ontario’s union for changing times; and,
Whereas OPSEU represents shift workers who work across multiple shifts and multiple locations; and,
Whereas voting is essential to democracy; and,
Whereas electronic voting has been used successfully at all levels of government, in other unions and by the OLRB.
Therefore be it resolved that 29.4.1 be amended to read:
Elections shall be conducted at general meetings of the Members concerned. Reasonable notice of the meeting and of the elections to take place must be given. In special circumstances the Local may request that voting be conducted by setting up one or more polling stations or be conducted by secure electronic means rather than at a general meeting and the President of the Union shall have the authority to grant such a request and establish rules to govern such vote.
H6
Whereas many of our members work at workplaces or organizations that offer 24 hour services; and,
Whereas it has been extremely difficult for members to attend General Membership Meetings where elections are held; and,
Whereas it is important that the members have the opportunity to participate in elections, especially to have the right, as a union member to vote on who should represent them as the Local Executive Committee, including stewards; and,
Whereas many members have requested to be able to vote for the LEC by other means, other than in person.
Therefore be it resolved that in order for OPSEU members to be able to fully participate in the elections of their local that OPSEU allow for other means of voting to take place such as telephone voting, email voting etcetera.
Moved: Warman, L. 294/ Costa, L. 283
Closure on Constitutional Amendment A.2 – Carried
Vote on Constitutional Amendment A.2 Carried
Constitutional Amendment A.3, (EB1 – handout) Article 14.8.2
Submitted by: Executive Board
Constitutional Committee’s Recommendation: Acceptance
Moved: Doran, Constitution Committee, L. 462 / Wakely, Constitution Committee, L. 277
Whereas Article 14.8.2 of the Constitution contradicts Article 14.6.1, in that an Alternate Regional Vice-President will have already been elected at a Regional Meeting, and there would be no need for another election, should the Regional Vice-President be elected or First Vice-President.
Therefore be it Resolved that Article 14.8.2 of the Constitution be amended to read:
14.8.2 Should a Regional Vice-President be elected President or First Vice-President/Treasurer, the delegates from the Region(s) concerned shall, immediately following the election to these two offices, meet and elect a new Regional Vice-President from among the remaining Regional Board Members the Region’s Alternate Regional Vice-President will become the new Regional Vice-President, and the third remaining Executive Board Member would become the Alternate Regional Vice-President.
Moved: Nancekivell, EBM Region 1 / Elliott, EBM Region 1
Closure on Constitutional Amendment A.3 – Carried
Vote on Constitutional Amendment A.3 Carried
Constitutional Amendment A.4, (H1, Section H) Article 12.6.1
Submitted by: Local 735 and Thunder Bay Area Council
Constitutional Committee’s Recommendation: Defeat
Moved: Steinbrunner, Constitution Committee, L. 642 / Wakely, Constitution Committee, L. 277
Whereas all OPSEU regions have at least 2 regional office spaces; and,
Whereas OPSEU is a membership driven union; and,
Whereas we pride ourselves on servicing the membership, adhering to social mapping recommendations; and,
Whereas the regional offices are servicing the membership as well; and,
Whereas affordable, reliable and accessible technology is not equally available to all members to conduct and provide membership business and engagement.
Therefore be it resolved that under article 12.6.1 addition of article 12.6.1(a) – For the purpose of administration there will be a minimum of two (2) Regional Offices in each region.
Vote on Constitutional Amendment A.4 Carried
Constitutional Amendment A.5, (H2, Section H) Article 13.4
Submitted by: Locals 735, 740 and Thunder Bay Area Council
Constitutional Committee’s Recommendation: Defeat
Moved: Hagan, Constitution Committee, L. 561 / Ambrose, Constitution Committee, L. 736
Whereas OPSEU is a member driven union; and,
Whereas OPSEU holds an annual convention with elected leadership from across our union; and,
Whereas the Ministry, Sector and CAAT-Academic and CAAT-Support chairs are elected by their members; and,
Whereas OPSEU’s strength is in our membership and their advocacy.
Therefore be it resolved that article 13.4 be amended to add (f) all Ministry, Sector, CAAT-Academic & CAAT-Support Chairs be entitled to be delegates.
Moved: Chambo, L. 291 / Tokarsky, L. 291
Closure on Constitutional Amendment A.5 – Carried
Vote on Constitutional Amendment A.5 Defeated
Constitutional Amendment A.6, (H4, Section H) Articles 14 and 16
Submitted by: Local 553, Greater Toronto Area Council, Provincial Human Rights Committee & Indigenous Circle
Constitutional Committee’s Recommendation: Defeat
Moved: Ambrose, Constitution Committee, L. 736 / Doran, Constitution Committee, L. 462
Whereas nearly two decades ago, the Canadian Labour Movement examined the reality of racial discrimination in our workplace, and society, and recognized an underrepresentation of racialized groups within our union; and,
Whereas many union and federations now have policies that designate seats on leadership bodies for women and other equity groups. In Canada, this process began in 1983 when the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) broke new ground by amending its constitution to create five executive board positions for affirmative action seats; and,
Whereas the OFL continued to build diversity within its leadership structure; in 1987 the membership established a visible minority vice-president and in 1997 vice-presidents’ positions were adopted for persons with disabilities, Indigenous, and LGBTQ persons; and,
Whereas the demographic of union membership continues to shift dramatically to include greater proportions of workers of colour; first nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples, members of ethno-racial groups, people with disabilities, gays, lesbians, bisexual, transgender/transsexual people, and gender diverse persons, and francophone persons; and,
Whereas in 1984 the CLC added six vice-presidential seats for women and in 1992, after pressure from the Black Trade Unionists, two seats were added for visible minorities.
Therefore be it resolved that in keeping with the actions of the OFL and CLC, OPSEU adds two equity seats to the executive board to be filled by members of the Equity Committees or Caucuses.
Therefore be it further resolved that the Equity Committees and Caucuses shall also decide on a selection committee by November 30, 2018 and these two members will then be elected by the Equity Selection Committee.
Therefore be it further resolved that the logistics of the selection committee and election be determined by an ad hoc committee made up of Equity Committees and Caucuses immediately following the 2018 Convention.
Moved: Franche, L. 130 / DeFreitas, L. 154
To refer back to Committee with instructions to amend proposed amendment on the floor to include all Constituted Committees
Moved: Cavanaugh, L. 466 / Attard, L. 416
Closure on Referral – Constitutional Amendment A.6 – Carried
Vote on Referral Defeated
Moved: Breton, L. 642 / Stack, L. 642
Closure on Constitutional Amendment A.6 – Carried
Vote on Constitutional Amendment A.6 Defeated
President Thomas introduced Solidarity Guests
Larry Brown President, NUPGE (National Union of Public and General Employees)
Chris Buckley President, OFL (Ontario Federation of Labour)
Patrick Dillon Business Manager, Provincial Building and Construction
Trades Council of Ontario
Connie Huziak OPSEU staff
Hassan Yussuff President, CLC (Canadian Labour Congress)
Nour Alideeb Chair, CFS (Canadian Federation of Students)
Elisabeth Ballermann Secretary-Treasurer, NUPGE
Lois Boggs President, OPSSU (Ontario Public Service Staff Union)
Earl Burt Treasurer, OSSTF (Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation
Hilary Campbell President, ERFP (Educational Resource Facilitators of Peel)
John Cartwright President, Toronto and York Labour Council
James Coccola Executive VP, BC Government and Service Employees’ Union (part of NUPGE board)
Doug Ferguson Representative, Executive Board, PEI Union of Public Sector Employees (part of NUPGE board)
Michelle Gawronsky President, Manitoba Government and General Employees’Union (part of NUPGE Board)
Wynne Hartviksen Executive Assistant, CUPE (Canadian Union of Public Employees)
Ben Hendry President, PEGO (Professional Engineers, Government of Ontario)
Ethel LaValley Past OPSEU EBM
Kim Liddle Treasurer, ERFP (Educational Resource Facilitators of Peel)
Marilou Martin A/Supervisor Special Project, OPSEU
Sean McKenny President, Ottawa and District Labour Council
Hiona Murray Executive Assistant, PEGO (Professional Engineers, Gov’t of Ont.
Michael Parker President, Health Sciences Association of Alberta
Richard Perron President, Syndicat de professionnelles et professionels du
Government du Quebec
Susie Proulx-Daigle President, New Brunswick Union of Public and Private (part of NUPGE board)
Steve Saysell President, ASU (Administrative Staff Union)
Brian Tropea General Manager, OHHA (Ontario Harness Horse Association)
Emily Visser First VP, OPSSU (Ontario Public Service Staff Union)
Jim Whelan OHHA (Ontario Harness Horse Association)
Kevin Rebeck President, MFL (Manitoba Federation of Labour)
President Thomas introduced Kevin Rebeck, President Manitoba Federation of Labour. Brother Rebeck addressed Convention about the anniversary of the Winnipeg General Strike, in 1919.
Friday, April 20, 2018 – Afternoon Session
Black Lives Matter Group
Convention agreed to provide a space for a black workers matter group to address their concerns.
They asked for a meeting with President Thomas and for campaign funding.
Pledges for donations were made from the floor.
All Together Now Campaign
Sara Labelle and Larry Brown made presentation to Convention about the campaigns that OPSEU and NUPGE are working on.
Credentials Committee Report
Moved: Marinucci, Credentials Committee, L. 549 / Langford, Credentials Committee, L. 435
Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as of 1:00 p.m.
Delegates 970
Alternates 544
Observers 256
Retirees 7
EBMs 21
Committees 55
Solidarity Guests 30
Guests 26
Total 1,896
Vote on Adoption of Credentials Report Carried
Member from Women’s Shelter addressed Convention
Equity Committee Reports
Video played presenting update to Convention on Equity Committees
Social Mapping Report
Laurie Nancekivell, EBM Region 1, gave her report on the work of the Social Mapping Committee.
Slide presentation played.
Stanley H. Knowles Humanitarian Award
Recipient: Dr. Howard McCurdy
Dr. Brenda Lee Wright McCurdy, accepted the award on behalf of her late husband and addressed Convention
Human Rights Award – Individual
Recipient: Albert Salmon, L. 378
Brother Salmon addressed Convention
Tim Brown Award – Individual
Recipient: Geri Kakeeway, L. 731, College Support and Indigenous Circle rep
Sister Kakeeway accepted award and addressed Convention
Staff Retirees
President Thomas announced staff who retired from May 2017 to April 2018:
Michael (Mitch) Bevan, Grievance Officer April 5, 1988 – May 1, 2017
Cameron Walker, Sr. Job Security Officer August 13, 1990 – May 1, 2017
Brenda Guitard, Secretary January 3, 2007 – May 1, 2017
Ruth Hamilton, Supervisor January 5, 1998 – June 1, 2017
Paul Lau, Translator March 22, 1999 – July 1, 2017
Diane Massicotte , Sr. Accounting Clerk March 19, 2007 – August 1, 2017
Heino Nielsen, Administrator Sept. 8, 2003 – August 9, 2018
Thomas (Tom) Tangie, Staff Representative June 13, 1988 – Sept. 1, 2017
Nichola Martin, Research Officer January 22, 2007 – Sept. 1, 2017
Janet Sauvé, Assistant to the President Sept. 17, 1979 – Nov. 1, 2017
Indra Cadawallader, Administrative Assistant, ERU May 25, 1999 – January 1, 2018
Barry Casey, Adminstrator August 27, 1984 – Feb. 1, 2018
Aura Aberback, Assistant to Administrator January 23, 1990 – Feb. 1, 2018
James (Jim) Gilbert, Regional Grievance Officer Feb. 2, 1992 – March 1, 2018
Randy Robinson, Supervisor August 11, 1994 – March 1, 2018
Juliet Feddoes, Regional Secretary August 21, 1978 – April 1, 2018
Deceased retired staff member
We also recognize and honour the memory of staff who have passed away since the last Convention. This year, we remember:
Reginald Barry Collrin, Staff Representative Retired: October 1, 2001 Passed away: March 27, 2018
Resolutions Committee
EB1 – Executive Board – Section G
Submitted by: The Executive Board, also submitted by Local 102, Local 553, Local 137, the Provincial Human Rights Committee, Local 503, Local 575, the Greater Toronto Area Council, Local 532, Local 568, the Region 1 Area Council and the Indigenous Circle
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: For
Moved: Franche, Resolutions Committee, L.130 / Clark, Resolutions Committee, L.212
Charter of Inclusive Workplaces and Communities
Whereas there has been a marked increase in reports of racism, Islamophobia and attacks on immigrants and refugees, including an increase in incidents of racist and far-right violence, fueled by right-wing politicians in both Canada and the United States; and
Whereas the National Council of Muslim Canadians called for action to endorse the NCCM’s Charter for Inclusive Communities and to fight Islamophobia in July 2016; and
Whereas Renu Mandhane, Bernie Farber, Andrea Horvath, Jagmeet Singh, and Peggy Sattler, among others, have endorsed the NCCM Charter for Inclusive Communities; and
Whereas a number of unions and labour councils, area councils and locals have adopted a “Charter of Inclusive Workplaces and Communities ” and called on the labour movement to engage and mobilize our members to combat the rise of racism, Islamophobia and bigotry of all kinds;
Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU endorses the following Charter of Inclusive Workplaces and Communities.
Charter of Inclusive Workplaces and Communities
Discrimination in all its forms, including racism and Islamophobia, threatens our country’s rich social fabric, including the workplaces of OPSEU members and other workers, and the communities in which we live. Dividing people because of race, religion, ancestry or any other difference that undermines human rights serves only to weaken our unions and our society.
By endorsing this Charter, we commit to standing up for the rights and dignity of everyone in order to promote inclusive, just and respectful workplaces and communities.
That is why we affirm that:
- Islamophobia, anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous racism and all other forms of racism, xenophobia, anti-Semitism and bigotry have no place in our workplaces or communities.
- Discrimination and acts of hate against OPSEU members and others in our communities marginalizes individuals and groups and excludes them from participating fully in our unions, workplaces and communities.
- The dignity of every member is essential to a healthy and vibrant union and workplace.
- As a union, we will work with the labour movement, all levels of government, Indigenous peoples, civil society, and communities to develop policies, programs and initiatives to reduce and eliminate racism, hate and bigotry in all its forms.
- By working together, we can nurture inclusive workplaces and strengthen our shared commitment to OPSEU’s values of equality, respect, justice, and dignity for all.
Be it further resolved that OPSEU will communicate our endorsement of the Charter of Inclusive Workplaces and Communities to our locals, area councils, equity committees and caucuses and members, and will encourage their continued engagement in organizing against racism, Islamophobia, bigotry and discrimination of all kinds.
Moved: Partnoy, L. 583 / Mitchell, L. 570
Refer with instructions to report back immediately with the following suggested changes:
Discrimination in all its forms, including racism and Islamophobia, anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous racism, anti-Semitism, and all other forms of racism, xenophobia and bigotry threatens our country’s rich social fabric, including the workplaces of OPSEU members and other workers, and the communities in which we live. Dividing people because of race, religion, ancestry or any other difference that undermines human rights serves only to weaken our unions and our society.
By endorsing this Charter, we commit to standing up for the rights and dignity of everyone in order to promote inclusive, just and respectful workplaces and communities. Continued on next slide…..
That is why we affirm that:
- Islamophobia, anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous racism , anti-Semitism, and all other forms of racism, xenophobia, anti-Semitism and bigotry have no place in our workplaces or communities.
- Discrimination and acts of hate against OPSEU members and others in our communities marginalizes individuals and groups and excludes them from participating fully in our unions, workplaces and communities.
- The dignity of every member is essential to a healthy and vibrant union and workplace.
- As a union, we will work with the labour movement, all levels of government, Indigenous peoples, civil society, and communities to develop policies, programs and initiatives to reduce and eliminate racism, hate and bigotry in all its forms.
By working together, we can nurture inclusive workplaces and strengthen our shared commitment to OPSEU’s values of equality, respect, justice, and dignity for all.
Be it further resolved that OPSEU will communicate our endorsement of the Charter of Inclusive Workplaces and Communities to our locals, area councils, equity committees and caucuses and members, and will encourage their continued engagement in organizing against ,
racism , Islamophobia, anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous racism, anti-Semitism, and all other forms of racism, xenophobia, bigotry and discrimination of all kinds.
Committee discussed referral and still recommends that the delegates vote FOR.
Moved: Billard, L. 598 / Simmons, L. 598
Closure on Referral – Carried
Vote on Resolution EB1 as amended Carried
EB5 – Executive Board – Section G
Submitted by: The Executive Board
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: FOR
Moved: Clark, Resolutions Committee, L. 212 / O’Grady, Resolutions Committee, L.456
Improving access to public long-term care beds
Whereas the number of Ontarians waiting to access long-term care has exceeded 20,000 since the late 1990s; and
Whereas more beds are being cut from our community hospitals – including complex continuing care beds – patients are increasingly offloaded from hospitals and into long-term care homes “sicker and quicker”; and
Whereas Ontario has the lowest standards in all of Canada when it comes to the long-term care sector, and there exist no guidelines for staff-to-resident ratios in Ontario’s long-term care homes, despite the existence of staffing standards in other sectors like daycare; and
Whereas severe cuts to beds and services, combined with an aging population, have meant that staff are increasingly overworked, rushed and expected to do more with less, while patient acuity and complexity of care is growing; and
Whereas nearly 84 percent of those entering long-term care homes today have high or very high needs as a result of cognitive or behavioural problems, resulting in a dramatic spike in violent incidents affecting both staff and residents; and
Whereas these issues are compounded by the proliferation of privately-operated homes where residents are increasingly forced to pay massive out-of-pocket costs or face long wait lists in accessing publicly funded long-term care. These private-sector corporations cut corners by cutting staff, rationing supplies and reducing the quality of food;
Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU call on the Ontario government to provide funding for publicly owned and managed long-term care beds (staffed beds), to a level that meets population need; and
Moved: Burns, L. 503 / Miller, L. 503
Closure on Resolution EB5 – Carried
Vote on Resolution EB5 Carried
K1 – Equity – Section G
Submitted by: The Provincial Human Rights Committee, also by the Indigenous Circle and the Region 1 Area Council
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: FOR
Moved: Clark, Resolutions Committee, L. 212 / O’Grady, Resolutions Committee, L.456
Whereas the Social Mapping Report states in 41 a) to heighten Board awareness of the demographics of the membership; and
Whereas the Social Mapping Report also states in 42 to increase the capacity of all staff to support the equity goals of OPSEU by building an equity perspective; and
Whereas the Joint Leadership Day in the past was a day, in which the Equity Committees and Caucuses were able to communicate their issues and create understanding with the Executive Board, OPSEU Leaders and Staff;
Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU reinstate the Joint Leadership Day on an annual basis; and
Be it further resolved that the Joint Leadership Day will be planned and executed by the OPSEU Equity Chairs and the Equity Unit as it has been done in the past.
Moved: Miller, L. 598 / Simmons, L. 598
Closure on Resolution K1 – Carried
Vote on Resolution K1 Carried
Donations from the floor
President Thomas announced that $7,180 was collected from the Convention floor
(OPSEU matches up to $5,000)
Resolutions Committee
EB8 – Executive Board – Section G
Submitted by: The Executive Board
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: For
Moved: Clark, Resolutions Committee, L. 212 / O’Grady, Resolutions Committee, L.456
Ensuring all OPSEU members vote in the 2018 provincial elections
Whereas the provincial government is the primary influence on the quality of Ontario’s public services and on the working conditions of Ontario’s public service workers; and
Whereas the Ontario provincial election is scheduled to take place on or before June 7, 2018; and
Whereas voter turn-out rates in provincial elections have been very low over the past two decades, sometimes below 50 percent; and
Whereas OPSEU’s 150,000 members could have a meaningful impact on the outcome of the election;
Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU strongly encourage all of its members to vote in the provincial election; and
Be it further resolved that OPSEU provide all of its members with resources and information that will help them make an informed choice about which candidates will be most likely to support strong and effective public services.
Moved: Le Clair, L. 619 / Chantal, L. 615
Closure on Resolution EB8 – Carried
Vote on Resolution EB8 Carried
L8 – Lobby/Campaigns- Section G
Submitted by: North East Area Council
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: For
Moved: O’Grady, Resolutions Committee, L. 456 / Healy, Resolutions Committee, L.557
Whereas the Government announced the closure of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) Angus Seed Plant; and
Whereas the plant is important for Ontario’s Forests to mitigate climate change and maintain tree species diversity;
Therefore be it resolved that the union lobby against the closure of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) Angus Seed Plant and that the Government of Ontario properly fund the facility.
Moved: Attard, L. 416 / Linklater, L. 416
Closure on Resolution L8 – Carried
Vote on Resolution L8 Carried
Adjournment – 4:40 p.m.
Saturday, April 21, 2018
Call to order – 9:20 a.m.
Children from daycare made their way to Convention stage for recognition.
Credentials Committee Report
Moved: Magcale, Credentials Committee, L. 105 / Sidsworth, Credentials Committee, L. 263
Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as of 9:15 a.m
Delegates 970
Alternates 544
Observers 260
Retirees 7
EBMs 21
Committees 55
Solidarity Guests 30
Guests 20
Total 1,907
Vote on Adoption of Credentials Report Carried
Raffle Winners
IPad Kim Gondosch, Local 238
2 night stay Vinesh Singh, Local 534
Royal York
Gift cards for Terry Scratch, Staff
The Keg
Camera Anthony Macgale, Local 312
Samsung
Tablet Chrisy Tremblay, L. 454
Honourary Lifetime Member Awards
Abidh Khan, L. 500
Brother Khan accepted the award and addressed Convention
Sue Brown, L. 662
Sister Brown accepted the award and addressed Convention
Steven Graham, L. 462
Shauna Dunn, President L. 462 accepted the award on Brother Graham’s behalf
Resolutions Committee
L1 – Lobby/Campaigns- Section G
Submitted by: The Retirees Division and the North East Area Council
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: FOR
Moved: O’Grady, Resolutions Committee, L. 456 / Healy, Resolutions Committee, L.557
Whereas Home Care and Long Term Care have steadily deteriorated in the province; and
Whereas getting the proper care through your local CCAC or LHIN’s is presently impossible; and
Whereas studies have shown that having a time allotment of greater than 4 hours per resident per day significantly improves the quality of care; and
Whereas Ontario axed legislative care standards in 1996 while other jurisdictions have been increasing theirs;
Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU actively campaign to amend the Long Term Care Homes Act (2007) to legislate a minimum 4 hours per resident per day; and
Be it further resolved that OPSEU approach the Government of Ontario to change the level of funding for staffing and quality care to be tied to the minimum standard of the legislated 4 hours.
Moved: Henry, L. 546 / Desa, L. 456
Closure on Resolution L1 – Carried
Vote on Resolution L1 Carried
EB3 – Executive Board- Section G
Submitted by: The Retirees Division and the North East Area Council
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: FOR
Moved: O’Grady, Resolutions Committee, L. 456 / Healy, Resolutions Committee, L.557
Sell cannabis through the public system
Whereas the Government of Canada aims to legalize the commercial sale of recreational cannabis by July 1, 2018; and
Whereas the federal government has given responsibility for regulating the sale of cannabis to provincial governments; and
Whereas in Ontario, the provincial government has already recognized the wisdom of selling cannabis through stores overseen by a subsidiary of the LCBO,
and has announced that up to 150 retail stores in Ontario will be overseen by that subsidiary, the new Cannabis Retail Corporation of Ontario; and
Whereas the LCBO has 90 years’ experience in handling a controlled substance and public control is the best way to minimize the social harms caused by the legalization of cannabis; and
Whereas OPSEU has already negotiated contract language that guarantees that the LCBO will voluntarily recognize OPSEU as the bargaining agent for frontline employees who handle cannabis and work for the LCBO, or an LCBO subsidiary; and
Whereas unionization is the surest way to ensure good, stable jobs in the cannabis industry;
Therefore be it resolved that if and when the government expands the recreational sale of cannabis to more locations, OPSEU will support the sale of cannabis through the Cannabis Retail Corporation of Ontario; and
Be it further resolved that OPSEU call on the Government of Ontario to establish the 150 retail stores sooner than 2020 and establish additional stores as needed to provide reasonable, safe and regulated access to cannabis products and undercut the illicit market and its associated harms.
Moved: Reath, L. 163 / Blair, L. 163
è Referral with instructions to add a Therefore Be it Resolved that OPSEU continue to lobby to unionize employees working for the Cannabis Retail Corporation of Ontario to ensure that the employees are OPSEU members.
Resolutions Committee accepted amendment and still recommends FOR
Moved: Pridham, L. 557 / Carter, L. 557
Closure on Resolution EB3 – Carried
Vote on Resolution EB3 Carried
K2 – Equity – Section G
Submitted by: Local 137, also submitted by the Ottawa Area Council, L. 5110, the Greater Area Toronto Area Council, the Kingston Area Council, L. 503, L. 553, the Provincial Human Rights Committee and the Rideau St. Lawrence Area Council
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: FOR
Moved: Healy, Resolutions Committee, L. 557 / Lavigne, Resolutions Committee, L.663
Whereas there have never been as many bilingual Canadians in Canada’s history; proud, conscientious and eager to improve the equity and quality of their services; and
Whereas English and French are recognized in the Canadian Charter of Rights, and since 2016 the province of Ontario is now an observing member within the International French Organization and a delegation of 6 women representative have participated at the Francophone Women’s Conference in Romania; and
Whereas OPSEU is not only a service model union but is a strong voice for social justice that reflects the diversity that exists within both the labour movement and our various communities; and
Whereas OPSEU strives to serve its members in both official languages French and English; and
Whereas OPSEU makes great effort to provide inclusive services to all of its members;
Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU be officially designated as a bilingual union where members can be served in either official language of French or English within the next five (5) years. A budget line be allocated at a sum of $100,000.00 per year to transition materials (forms, websites, member portal, educationals, collective agreements, and printed documentation) to a bilingual format. Where positions become posted that the ability to speak both official languages be considered.
Moved: Martin, L. 330 / Barker, L. 330
Referral back to 1st VP/Treasurer’s office for proper costing and a plan for implementation
Moved: Shirk, L. 362 / Edmonson, L. 315
Closure on Referral – Carried
Vote on referral back to 1st VP/Treasurer’s office Carried
L2 – Lobby/Campaigns – Section G
Submitted by: Region 1 Area Council, also submitted by L. 102, L. 137, the Provincial Human Rights Committee, L. 503, the Greater Toronto Area Council, L. 553, L. 5110 and the Indigenous Circle
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: FOR
Moved: Healy, Resolutions Committee, L. 557 / Lavigne, Resolutions Committee, L.663
Whereas Canada has a proven history of underfunding services and infrastructure for Indigenous peoples, creating injustice and crisis in Indigenous communities; and
Whereas Indigenous people deserve the same quality public services and infrastructure available to others in Canada; and
Whereas Indigenous communities, both on and off reserves and in urban centers, have a right to control the services their people depend on.
Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU will produce tools and materials to educate OPSEU members about the negative effects the privatization of public services and infrastructure has on Indigenous peoples (on-reserve, off reserves and in urban centers); and
Be it further resolved that OPSEU will work with Indigenous peoples, the labour movement, and allies to oppose the commercialization of water, and protect our water from harmful development; and
Be it further resolved that OPSEU will pressure all levels of government through a member mobilization and lobbying campaign, in conjunction with the Indigenous Circle, to protect community-controlled infrastructure including water and wastewater systems and social services in Indigenous communities, and ensure all Indigenous peoples have fair and equal access to public services regardless of where they live; and
Be it further resolved that the cost associated to these campaigns not exceed $100,000.
Moved: Billard, L. 598 / Simmons, L. 598
Closure on Resolution L2 – Carried
Vote on Resolution L2 Carried
EB9 – Executive Board – Section G
Submitted by: Executive Board
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: FOR
Moved: Healy, Resolutions Committee, L. 557 / Lavigne, Resolutions Committee, L.663
Securing voluntary recognition for all part-time Academic college workers
Whereas the Ontario Government has acknowledged that precarious work is at crisis levels and has committed to meaningfully reduce precarious work; and
Whereas a majority of Ontario’s college academic faculty are in precarious part-time and sessional contracts; and
Whereas a significant number of contract academics at Ontario’s colleges have signaled they want to join OPSEU in order to improve their working conditions; and
Whereas the College Employers Council is actively working to stall and block the unionization process for its part-time academic;
Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU demand that the provincial government direct the College Employers Council to immediately voluntarily recognize OPSEU as the official bargaining agent for all part-time academic.
Moved: Billard, L. 598 / Simmons, L. 598
Closure on Resolution EB9 – Carried
Vote on Resolution EB9 Carried
J1 – Expenses – Section G
Submitted by: L. 441
Resolutions Committee Recommendation: AGAINST
Moved: Lavigne, Resolutions Committee, L. 663 / Healy, Resolutions Committee, L.557
Whereas OPSEU is committed to providing educational programs that empower our member’s rights and collective agreements; and
Whereas in Ontario, approximately 22% of jobs could be characterized as precarious work and approximately 33% of part-time workers are in positions with low wages, no benefits, no pension; and
Whereas precarious workers, active in the Union, should not have to make the decision as to whether they will commit to attending educationals to further their activism or remain available to possibly work during that period; and
Whereas Section 6.2 of section 7 of the OPSEU Policy Manual states shift workers will be provided lost wages for attending educationals on regularly scheduled work days (April 8-10, 1999 c. p. 7)
Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU commit to reimburse wage claims for precarious workers, who do not have regularly scheduled shifts and rely on call-ins for work;
Be it further resolved that precarious workers, attending OPSEU educationals, not have to comply with a deadline to submit wage claims prior to the event.
Moved: Gventer, L. 276 / Caswell, L. 266
Referral with instructions for committee to return immediately to include the words after both clauses: where wages are being covered to attend the educational
Moved: Magner, L. 508 / Kwok, L. 575
To amend referral to include revision of first resolve to read: that OPSEU policy be amended to permit reimbursement of wage claims for precarious workers
President Smokey Thomas declared Convention adjourned at 11:56 a.m.
President Thomas thanked everyone for a great Convention and bid them a safe trip home.
As per OPSEU policy, in the event there are resolutions outstanding from Convention, the Resolutions Committee shall be reconvened to make recommendations on the disposition of these; and the Chair of the Committee shall present these to the Executive Board for action at the second meeting of the Board following Convention.