Section B – Minutes from the 2022 OPSEU/SEFPO Convention

Section B – Minutes from the 2022 OPSEU/SEFPO Convention

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April 6-9, 2022

Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto

 

Wednesday, April 6 – Morning Session

 

Frontline -Thank you 2022” video played in both English and French.

President Warren Thomas and First Vice-President/Treasurer Eduardo Almeida were introduced to Convention.

The President welcomed all in person, virtual delegates and alternates to Convention, the highest decision-making body of OPSEU/SEFPO.

 

Call to Order

President Thomas, called the Convention to order at 9:18 a.m.

President Thomas gave acknowledgement of Indigenous Lands and a moment of reflection to acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past and to consider how we can each, in our own way, move forward in a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration was observed.

National anthem – video played. Statement of Respect – video played.

The Harassment and Discrimination Policy was presented in video format. President Thomas referred members to a business card in their Convention bags should an Advisor be needed. For those joining virtually, this information is located on the left- side panel, near the bottom, under OPSEU/SEFPO Support.

A Minute of Silence was observed in memory of all those who have passed away since our last Convention.

President Thomas asked the floor staff to stand if able, or otherwise signify, so that folks know where they are, should assistance be required.

David Elgear from Encore gave short tutorial on the Chime platform and electronic voting process. Video Played.

A Safety video was played with important reminders to keep in mind over the next few days to make sure we all stay safe and healthy during our time at Convention.

President Thomas introduced the head table:

  • Riese Stuber, Backup Recording Secretary
  • Amber Danbrook, Recording Secretary
  • Jamie Corner, Recording Secretary
  • Fridmar Facunda, Rules of Order Advisor
  • Mandy Dumais, Procedural Advisor
  • Eduardo “Eddy” Almeida, First Vice-President/Treasurer
  • Filomena Lofranco, Procedural Advisor
  • Jeff Arbus, Constitution and Rules of Order Advisor

Krista Maracle, Chair of the Indigenous Circle, introduced Elder Ethel Birkett LaValley, who guided our reflections.

“Lost Souls” video by Tom Jackson was played

 

Introduction of Credentials Committee

 

The members of the Committee are:

 

Region 1 Natalie D’Onofrio Local 102
Region 2 Kathryn Richards Local 238
Region 3 Cindy Kraakman Local 302
Region 4 Cynthia Ladoucer Local 439
Region 5 Angela Lockhurst Local 590
Region 6 Johanne Bourgeois Local 669
Region 7 Phillip Cooze Local 711
EBM Tara Langford Local 435
Staff Advisor Gord Longhi
Secretary Jayme Giles

 

Credentials Committee Report

Moved: Kathryn Richard L238 / Seconded: Johanne Bourgeois L669

  • Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as of 9:03 m.
Delegates in Person 697
Delegates Virtual 171
Alternates 294
EBMs 21
Guests 1
Total 1184

 

Vote on Adoption of Credentials Report                                                                       CARRIED

 

Section A – Convention Agenda

 

Moved: Warren (Smokey) Thomas / Seconded: Eduardo (Eddy) Almeida

  • Adoption of the Convention Agenda as

 

Moved: Tracey MacMaster, L561 / Seconded: Laura Thompson L503

  • Amendment to Page 5, Thursday Q & A session for the President and Treasurer be amended as follows:

o    3pm start time will remain unchanged.4 pm will be changed to 4:20pm. The 5pm Equity Start time will remain the same.

 

Vote on adoption of the Agenda as amended                                                                   CARRIED

 

A motion was made on the floor and ruled out of order by the Chair.

 

Moved: Eric Davies L642 / Seconded: Mike McMeekin L665

  • Therefore be it resolved that masks become voluntary at the OPSEU/SEFPO 2022 Convention

 

Moved: Melanie Powers L228 / Seconded: Betty Palmieri L206

  • Motion to move CLOSURE

 

Vote on Closure:                                                                     CARRIED

 

Vote on Motion: Mask are Voluntary                                                                   AGAINST

 

 

Section B – Minutes of Last Convention 2019

 

Moved: Shawn Spencer L499 / Seconded: Adam Ly L499

  • Adoption of the Minutes of Convention 2019 as printed in Section

 

Vote on adoption of 2019 Convention Minutes                                                                     CARRIED

 

 

 

President’s Address

 

President Thomas addressed Convention with an overview of the last two years, the impact of the pandemic, organizing efforts, fight against privatization and the fight ahead.

Convention recessed at 12:00 p.m.

 

Wednesday, April 6 – Afternoon Session

 

Report: Financials-Auditors

Section C – Audited Financial Statements and Notes Section F – Report on Remuneration

 

President Thomas introduced Terri McKinnon, our external auditor from PricewaterhouseCoopers. Terri McKinnon, via Chime, referred the delegates to Section C and gave a brief overview of the financial statements.

 

Questions were taken from the floor and virtual platform.

 

President Thomas thanked Terri McKinnon on behalf of the Convention.

 

President Thomas spoke on the procedure regarding speaking at microphones during a hybrid event.

 

President Thomas invited the Resolutions Committee on to the stage. Mary Cator, L245, Chair, Resolutions Committee, introduced the Resolutions Committee

 

Resolutions Committee

Introduction of Resolutions Committee

 

Region 1 Gino Franche Local 130
Region 2 Mary Cator Local 245
Region 3 Elaine Bagnall Local 362
Region 4 Veronica Attard Local 416
Region 5 Joseph Healy Local 571
Region 6 Kimberly Kazur Local 665
Region 7 Jody Tsubouchi Local 710
EBM Laurie Nancekivell Local 116
Staff Advisor Lori Davis
Secretary Enrico De Matteo

 

Statutory Resolution A1

Submitted by: Executive Board

Resolutions Committee’s Recommendation: ACCEPTANCE Moved: Elaine Bagnall, L362 / Seconded: Gino Franche, L130

  • Therefore 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 A1                                                                              CARRIED

 

Statutory Resolution A2

Submitted by: Executive Board

Resolutions Committee’s Recommendation: ACCEPTANCE

 

Moved: Elaine Bagnall, L362 / Seconded: Gino Franche, L130

  • Therefore be it resolved that in compliance with Articles 26.2 and

28.4 of the Constitution and Section 94 of the Corporations Act, PWC, PricewaterhouseCoopers, be Auditors of OPSEU/SEFPO for the fiscal year January1, 2022 through to December 31, 2022 and the Executive Board fix the Auditors’ remuneration.

Vote on Statutory Resolution A2                                                                              CARRIED

 

Statutory Resolution A3

Submitted by: Executive Board

Resolutions Committee’s Recommendation: ACCEPTANCE Moved: Elaine Bagnall, L362 / Seconded: Gino Franche, L130

  • Therefore 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 2021, 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 A3                                                                              CARRIED

 

Executive Board Report – Section E

 

Moved: Warren Thomas / Seconded: Eduardo Almeida

Vote on Executive Board Report                                                                       CARRIED

 

Credentials Committee Report

Moved: Cindy Ladouceur, L439 / Seconded: Cindy Kraakman, L302

Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as of 2:04 pm. Delegates in Person                                                             773

Delegates Virtual                          179

Alternates                                    351

EBMs                                            21

Guests                                            1

Total                                         1325

Vote on Adoption of Credentials Report                                                                       CARRIED

 

Moved: Rasho Donchev, L559 / Seconded: David Pearce, L559

  • Therefore be it resolved that observers for Local 559 that are here at Convention can be on the floor and sit in the Alternate section

 

Moved: Nils Anderson, L500 / Seconded By: Tony Ivanoff, L500

  • Amendment- for “all observers” that are here at Convention be able to attend and sit in the Alternate section

 

Moved: Chantal Breton, L642 / Eric Davies, L642

  • Motion to move CLOSURE

Vote on Closure:                                                                     CARRIED

 

Vote on Amendment to the motion:                                                                   DEFEATED

 

Moved: Shawn Pentecost, L415 / Seconded by: Oliver Obagil, L446

  • Motion to move CLOSURE

Vote on Closure:                                                                     CARRIED

 

Vote on the main motion:                                                                   DEFEATED

 

Equity Update

A video was presented on the Equity report outlining the year’s activities.

 

President Thomas, on behalf of the Executive Board and the 180,000 members of OPSEU/SEFPO’s incredibly diverse union, thanked all the equity groups for the outstanding work they do. They help ensure human rights and diversity are respected and upheld in our workplaces, our communities and in our province.

 

Social Mapping Update

 

EBM Laurie Nancekivell, gave a report on the work of the Social Mapping Committee and introduced the committee; Peter Thompson, Tara McIntosh, Tina Stevens, Bonnie Eddy, Eddie Strachan, Sara Labelle, Ed Arvelin, Janet Billy.

 

Laurie invites Celina Caesar-Chavannes to talk virtually to OPSEU/SEFPO Convention about Equity Diversity and ways to create safe spaces in Celina’s presentation on the Future of Equitable Leadership: Leading with Empathy

 

Peter Thompson, Chair of the committee gave a report on Equity Seats to the OPSEU/SEFPO Convention. Peter spoke on the history of the constitutional amendment of Equity Seats on the board and the Equity Seats amendment before the Convention 2022.

 

 

Section D – Budget 2022

 

Eduardo Almeida, First Vice-President/Treasurer, presented the budget on behalf of the Executive Board.

 

Moved: Eduardo Almeida / Seconded: Warren Thomas

  • Adoption of the 2022 Budget as printed in Section

Orders of the Day

President Thomas deferred the debate and vote on the 2022 Budget to first thing Thursday April 7, 2022.                                                                          

 

Awards Presentation

 

Fred Upshaw Social Justice Award of Merit

Recipient: Kola Iluyomade, L5117

 

Kola’s sudden illness and untimely passing in June 2021 was a shock, but the legacy will live on. Kola moved the union forward – to a place of serious reflection on OPSEU/SEFPO’s common purpose and responsibility in challenging anti-Black racism and discrimination, not just in our workplaces and province, but within our own union and its structures.

 

The Award was accepted by Kola’s wife Funke and son Ore in Kola’s honour.

 

Young Worker of the Year Award

Recipient: Kaylee Heath, L329

 

Joseanne Job-Chair of the Provincial Young Worker Committee presented the award.

 

Kaylee has been actively engaged in helping Locals, continuously showing initiative to support its members, the labour movement, and the community. After a COVID-19 outbreak in the workplace that resulted in dozens of members being isolated in hotels away from their families, Kaylee showed support to members by organizing gift bags for the one-hundred-plus staff working on the outbreak program.

 

Health and Safety – All Locals

Recipient: All Locals in OPSEU/SEFPO

 

OPSEU/SEFPO’s Executive Board voted that this year’s Local Health and Safety Award winner should be every Local in our union. The work done on Health and Safety during this pandemic was one of the greatest achievements that has ever happened in our union and one that everyone should be proud of.

 

Leah Casselman Award – Individual

Recipient: Tischa Forster, L133

 

This award is given to the individual who excels in mobilizing members. This year’s recipient is Tischa Forster, President of Local 133 at the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Elgin/Oxford. Under Tischa’s leadership, the bargaining unit has achieved one of the best CMHA contracts in the entire province. These solid gains have been used as comparators across Ontario.

 

Convention adjourned at 4:51 p.m.

 

Thursday April 7, 2022 – Morning Session

 

Call to Order

President Thomas, called the Convention to order at 9:14 a.m.

 

“We are OPSEU/SEFPO” video played.

 

Donations Policy

 

Every year delegates can make an appeal for donations. The money collected will be distributed to the various causes after the appeals are reviewed by the Executive Committee.

 

OPSEU/SEFPO matches the donation up to a maximum of $5,000. Staff collected donations from floor.

 

Credentials Committee Report

Moved: Kathryn Richards, L238 / Seconded: Philip Cooze, L711 Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as of 8:32 a.m.

 

Delegates in Person 781
Delegates Virtual 183
Alternates 349
EBMs 21
Guests 1
Total 1335

Vote on Adoption of Credentials Report                                                                       CARRIED

 

 

Nominations for the Office of President and First Vice-President/Treasurer

 

The Nominations for Office of President and First Vice-President/Treasurer commenced on Thursday April 7, 2022 at 9:00am

 

The chair was turned over to Bert Blundon, Secretary-Treasurer of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) who explained the nomination procedures to be followed.

 

Nominations for the Office of President

 

Bert Blundon, Secretary-Treasurer, NUPGE, chaired the election process. Four written nominations, properly signed by the nominees and nominators were completed with the Chair of the Credentials Committee.

 

 

Nominees                                             Nominators

Sara Labelle                                           Neil Martin, L.546

JP Hornick                                             Annette Bouzi, L415

Ed Arvelin                                              Dianne Clarabut, L497

Tara Maszczakiewicz                             Neal Moss, L.613

 

There being no further nominations, nominations for the Office of President closed.

 

Neil Martin was given up to two minutes to introduce Sara Labelle, as their nominee for the Office of President of OPSEU/SEFPO

 

Sara Labelle accepted the nomination for the Office of President.

 

Annette Bouzi was given up to two minutes to introduce JP Hornick as their nominee for the Office of President of OPSEU/SEFPO.

 

JP Hornick accepted the nomination for the Office of the President.

 

Dianne Clarabut was given up to two minutes to introduce Ed Arvelin as their nominee for the Office of President of OPSEU/SEFPO.

 

Ed Arvelin accepted the nomination for the Office of the President.

 

Neal Moss was given up to two minutes to introduce Tara Maszczakiewicz as their nominee for the Office of President of OPSEU/SEFPO.

 

Tara Maszczakiewicz accepted the nomination for the Office of the President.

 

 

Nominations for the Office of First Vice-President/Treasurer

 

Bert Blundon, Secretary-Treasurer, NUPGE, chaired the election process and stated that the same rules and procedures apply to the nomination process for the Office of the First Vice-President/Treasurer. Two written nomination properly signed by the nominee and nominators was filed with the Chair of the Credentials Committee.

 

Nominees                                               Nominators

 

Eduardo Almeida                                    Taryn Persaud, L548

Laurie Nancekivell                                  Janel Perron, L303

There being no further nominations, nominations for the Office of First Vice- President/Treasurer closed.

 

Taryn Persaud was given up to two minutes to introduce Eduardo Almeida as their nominee for the Office of First-Vice-President/Treasurer of OPSEU/SEFPO.

 

Eduardo Almeida accepted the nomination for the Office of the First-Vice- President/Treasurer.

 

Janel Perron was given up to two minutes to introduce Laurie Nancekivell as their nominee for the Office of First-Vice-President/Treasurer of OPSEU/SEFPO.

 

Laurie Nancekivell accepted the nomination for the Office of the First-Vice- President/Treasurer.

 

 

Section D – Budget 2022 (cont.)

 

Moved: Warren Thomas / Seconded: Eduardo Almeida

  • Adoption of the 2022 Budget as printed in Section

 

Questions were taken on the floor and the virtual platform.

Vote on Budget                                                                       CARRIED

 

Moved: Shawn Pentecost, L415 / Seconded: Neil Martin, L546

  • Therefore it be resolved that OPSEU/SEFPO suspends regular orders of the day and reconvene at 1:30pm to attend the Wet’suwet’en protest outside the Convention Hall.

 

Moved by: Oliver Obagi, L446 / Seconded: Paul Lahaise, L416

  • Motion to move CLOSURE

Vote on Closure                                                                      CARRIED

 

Vote on Motion to suspend regular orders of the day                                                                          DEFEATED

 

Constitution Committee

 

Introduction of Constitution Committee

Naz Binck                                    Region 1

Dave Wakely (Chair)                    Region 2

Tim Hannah (Vice Chair)              Region 3

Adam Ly                                      Region 4

Janice Hagan                               Region 5

Arlene Proulx                               Region 6

Stacy Grieve                                Region 7

Ken Steinbrunner                         EBM, Region 6

Pat Honsberger                            Staff Advisor

Hasnain Abid                               Secretary

 

 

Article 27.1 The Constitution may be amended only by a two-thirds vote of delegates at any Convention.

 

OPSEU Name Change- H1, Article 1 Submitted by the Executive Board Committee Recommends: ACCEPTANCE

 

Moved: Adam Ly / Seconded: Arlene Proulx

  • Amend Article 1.1 to read as follows: (changes in bold)

 

  • The Union shall be known in the English and French languages as “Ontario Public Service Employees Union/Syndicat des employées et employés de la fonction publique de l’Ontario” as the “Ontario Public Service Employees Union and in the French language as “Syndicat des employées et employés de la fonction publique de l’Ontario.”

Vote on Constitutional Amendment H1                                                                              CARRIED

 

 

Order of Business – Addition of Land Acknowledgement – H4, Article 29

Submitted by Local 102, and Region 1 Area Council Committee Recommends: ACCEPTANCE

Moved: Naz Binck / Seconded: Dave Wakely

  • Amend Article 29.7.2 to read as follows: (changes in bold)

The Order of Business at a general membership meeting shall be:

  1. Call to order.
  2. Land Acknowledgement.
  3. Statement of
  4. Adoption of
  5. Minutes of previous
  6. Business
  7. Treasurer’s
  8. Initiation of new

 

 

A motion was made on the floor and ruled out of order by the Chair.

 

Vote on Constitutional Amendment H4                                                                              CARRIED

 

Gender Neutral Language- H12, Articles 1 through 31

Submitted by the Executive Board Committee Recommends: ACCEPTANCE

Moved: Naz Binck / Seconded: Adam Ly

  • Amend Article 1 through 31 to use gender neutral language throughout the entire document.

Vote on Constitutional Amendment H12                                                                             CARRIED

 

Convention Agenda- H8, Article 13 Submitted by Region 1 Area Council Committee Recommends: ACCEPTANCE

Moved: Dave Wakely / Seconded: Tim Hannah

 

  • Therefore be it resolved that Article 13 of the Constitution be amended to require that Convention agendas shall include an allocation of one and a half (1.5) hours per full day, or 45 minutes per half day, to the Resolution Committee and an equal amount of time to the Constitution Committee, for their

 

A Referral Motion was made on the floor and ruled out of order by the Chair. The Chair was challenged.

 

First Vice President / Treasurer, Eduardo Almeida is in the Chair

Challenge the Chair-Vote(for: uphold / against: not uphold)                                                                       CARRIED

 

The Chair was upheld.

President Thomas is back in the Chair.

 

The question was called on Constitutional Amendment H8

Vote on Constitutional Amendment H8                                                                              CARRIED

 

President made an announcement on the Q & A session and how virtual members can make donations for the OPSEU/SEFPO Convention.

 

Video played: “Who is OPSEU/SEFPO”

 

Convention recessed at 12:00 p.m.

 

Thursday April 7, 2022 – Afternoon Session

 

Credentials Committee Report

 

Moved: Natalie D’Onofrio, L102 / Seconded: Kathryn Richards, L238 Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as of 1:45 p.m.

 

Delegates in Person 783
Delegates Virtual 182
Alternates 356
EBMs 21
Guests 1
Solidarity Guest 15
Total 1358

 

Vote on adoption of Credentials Report                                                                       CARRIED

 

 

Award Presentation

 

Stanley H. Knowles Humanitarian Award

Recipient: Buffy Sainte Marie

 

Buffy’s nominator Dana Copeland, from OPSEU/SEFPO Local 109 along with Tina Stevens, Local 102 are here to accept the award on Buffy’s behalf.

 

A beloved folk hero, iconic songwriter, tireless advocate for Indigenous rights and freedoms, and a disruptor of the status quo. Established among the ranks of folk greats, Buffy has released more than twenty albums, survived being blacklisted by two

U.S. presidents, and received countless accolades – including the only Academy Award ever to be won by a First Nations artist.

 

Constitution Committee

 

Provincial Committees (addition of Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel) – H3, Articles 13, 14, and 19

 

Submitted by: Local 102, Local 228, Local 454, Local 446, Local 503, Local 571, Local

608, Local 649, Local 669, Local 4106, Ottawa Area Council, Region 1 Area Council, Thunder Bay & District Area Council, Greater Toronto Area Council, Kingston Area Council, Indigenous Circle, Provincial Francophone Committee and the Executive Board

Committee Recommends: ACCEPTANCE

 

  • Amend the below sections of Article 13, 14 and 19 to read as follows:

 

19.6 There shall be a Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel Committee composed of two (2) members from each Region where they are represented within the Region. The Members of the Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel Committee shall be selected by the Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel Committee from interested members who apply to fill vacancies within their Region. The full membership of the Alliance will be renewed on a biennial basis. The function of the Alliance shall be to assist in creating networks within the Regions, to develop and promote programs to encourage TBLGIAPQQ2S (trans, bisexual, lesbian, gay, intersex, asexual, pansexual, queer, questioning, two spirited) members to participate in Union activities, and to increase the awareness and understanding of TBLGIAPQQ2S issues throughout the membership.

 

Therefore be it further resolved that Articles 13.4, 13.8, and 14.5.4 be amended as follows (changes noted in bold and underlined):

 

Article 13.4 (4)

The Members of the Provincial Women’s Committee and the Provincial Human Rights Committee and the Provincial Young Workers Committee and the Provincial Francophone Committee, and one Member of the Indigenous Circle per Region, and one Member of the Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel Committee per Region, shall be entitled to be delegates.

 

Article 13.8

13.8 Resolutions and constitutional amendments may be submitted by any Local, Area Council or Division, by the Executive Board, by the Provincial Women’s Committee, by the Provincial Human Rights Committee, by the Provincial Young Workers Committee, by the executive of the Retired Members’ Division, by the Provincial Francophone Committee, and by the Indigenous Circle and by the Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel Committee.

 

Article 14.5.4

14.5.4 Delegates to Regional election meetings shall be provided with a financial statement showing the expenses incurred during the previous fiscal year by the regional Board Members, the Provincial Women’s Committee, the Provincial Human Rights Committee, the Provincial Young Workers Committee and the Indigenous Circle and the Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel Committee.

 

Vote on Constitutional Amendment H3                                                                              CARRIED

 

President Thomas turned the Chair over to Bert Blundon, Secretary-Treasurer of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) to conduct the Q & A.

 

President – Questions and answer session was conducted with the four candidates, Sara Labelle, 2nd VP, Ed Arvelin, 5th VP, Tara Maszczakiewicz, 7th VP and JP Hornick.

 

The candidates had 3 minutes each to give a speech.

 

First Vice President/Treasurer – Questions and answer session was conducted with the two candidates, First Vice President/Treasurer, Eduardo Almeida and Laurie Nancekivell, 8th VP.

 

Equity – Questions and answer session was conducted with the six candidates, Sara Labelle, 2nd VP, Ed Arvelin, 5th VP, Tara Maszczakiewicz, 7th VP, JP Hornick, Eduardo Almeida, 1st VP and Laurie Nancekivell, 8th VP.

 

President Thomas returned the Chair.

 

Convention adjourned at 5:15 p.m.

 

Friday, April 8 – Morning Session

 

President Thomas welcomed the Convention to order at 9:15 a.m.

 

Donations

$9,711.65 in donations were collected from the floor.

The OPSEU/SEFPO Executive Committee to match this amount

Executive Committee Vote: to match the donations of $9,711.65                                                                   CARRIED

 

Credentials Committee Report

Moved: Kathryn Richards, L238 / Seconded: Angela Lockhurst, L590 Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as of 8:40 a.m.

 

Delegates in Person 827
Delegates Virtual 193
Alternates 357
EBMs 21
Guests 1
Solidarity Guests 15
Total 1399

Vote on adoption of Credentials Report                                                                       CARRIED

 

President Thomas turned the Chair over to Bert Blundon, Secretary-Treasurer of NUPGE to run our elections for President and First Vice-President/Treasurer.

 

Candidates for President of OPSEU/SEFPO – Presentations

Draw for first speaker

 

  • Ed Arvelin, 5th Vice-President, addressed Convention
  • Tara Maszczakiewicz, 4th Vice-President, addressed Convention
  • JP Hornick, EBM, addressed Convention
  • Sara Labelle, 2nd Vice-President, addressed Convention

 

Each candidate named their scrutineers. The Ballots were casted.

 

Total Eligible to vote: 1,020

Ballots cast-985 Invalid-0

Need 493 (majority at 50% + 1)

  • Sara Labelle:333
  • Ed Arvelin:100
  • Tara Maszczakiewicz: 58
  • JP Hornick: 494

JP Hornick is declared President

 

Candidates for Vice President/Treasurer of OPSEU/SEFPO – Presentations

Draw for first speaker

 

  • Laurie Nancekivell, 8th Vice President, addressed Convention
  • Eduardo Almeida, First Vice-President/Treasurer, addressed Convention Each candidate named their scrutineers. The Ballots were casted.

Total Eligible to vote: 1,020

Ballots cast-976 Invalid – 0

Need 489 (majority at 50% + 1)

  • Laurie Nancekivell: 504
  • Eduardo (Eddy) Almeida: 472

 

Laurie Nancekivell is declared First Vice President/Treasurer Bert Blundon thanked delegates of Convention.

Convention recessed at 12:00 p.m.

 

Friday April 8, 2022 – Afternoon Session

 

Credentials Committee Report

Moved: Angela Lockhurst, L590 / Seconded: Kathryn Richards, L238 Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as of 1:52 pm

 

Delegates in Person 822
Delegates Virtual 193
Alternates 357
EBMs 21
Guests 1
Solidarity Guests 15
Total 1409

Vote on adoption of Credentials Report                                                                       CARRIED

 

Ranking of RVP’s

 

Newly elected RVP’s came to stage.

Each RVP addressed Convention in order from region 7 to 1 and given one minute to speak.

 

The ballots were cast..

 

Bert Blundon runs the elections to rank Regional Vice-Presidents. Members are advised to vote for one individual, votes will be ranked in order

 

Sara Labelle, Region 3 (2nd RVP) Coleen Houlder, Region 5 (3rd RVP)

Tara Maszczakiewicz, Region 6 (4th RVP) Ed Arvelin, Region 7 (5th RVP)

Jennifer Van Zetten, Region 1 (6th RVP) Lucy Morton, Region 2 (7th RVP) Melissa Coenraad, Region 4 (8th RVP)

 

Bert Blundon congratulates all the candidate and returns the Chair to President Thomas.

 

 

OPSEU/SEFPO retired staff (May 2019 – April 2022) and deceased staff members

Retirements – June 2019 to April 2022 (in alphabetical order)

Staff Name                                            Position at OPSEU/SEFPO

Sherry Bader                                                   Assistant to Administrator

Andrea Bowden                                              Supervisor

Peggy Bowman                                               Senior Claims Clerk (Accounting)

Frances Chung                                               Supervisor

Cynthia Clayton                                              Website Designer

Jacqueline Crawford                                       Grievance Officer

MaryAnn Di Adamo                                         Administrative Assistant

Sonia Domville                                                Secretary

Robert Eaton                                                   Executive Assistant to the President

Ronald Elliot                                                    Administrator

Cathy Guppy                                                   Regional Office Secretary

Douglas Heath                                                Staff Representative

Connie Huziak                                                Organizing Representative

Geetha Iyer                                                     Secretary

Richard Janson                                               Staff Representative

Gwen Jenkins                                                 Research Officer

Ronald Johnson                                              Staff Representative

David Jones                                                    Assistant Supervisor

Allison Kabayama                                           Secretary

Scott Kennedy                                                Education Officer

Vanda Klumper                                               Staff Representative

Filomena Lofranco                                          Executive Assistant to the President

Ann Ledwidge                                                 Staff Representative

Twila Marston                                                  Supervisor

Leonard Mason                                               Staff Representative

Mary Lou McCartney                                       Staff Representative

Denise Near                                                    Staff Representative

Lynn Orzel                                                       Staff Representative

Brenda Overholt                                              Mail Clerk

Lee Robinson                                                  Offset Printer

Stephen Saysell                                              Administrator

George Simms                                                Assistant Supervisor

Deborah Smith                                                Regional Office Secretary

Marisa Stagliano                                             Assistant to Administrator

Teresa Szymanski                                          Health & Safety Officer

Tim Takacs                                                     Offset Printer

Marie Thomson                                               Staff Representative

Ann Wallace                                                    Senior Negotiator

Eleanor Woodroffe                                          Clerk Typist

Anastasios Zafiriadis                                       Supervisor

 

 

 

Deceased Staff Members May 2019 – April 2022

 

Julie McGuffin: January 30, 2020                               Staff Representative

Denis Boyer: December 26, 2020                               Supervisor

 

Deceased Retired Staff Members                            Position & Date of Retirement

Patrick Rooney: May 1, 2019                                      Staff Representative: December 1, 1992

Bernadine Robinson: Sept 10, 2019                           Reg. Office Secretary: March 1, 2009

Brian Gould: Feb 11, 2020                                          Administrator: December 1, 2018

Gerald Griffin: March 9, 2020                                      Staff Representative: December 1, 1994

Marion Spalding: March 13, 2020                               Local Service & Collective Bargaining

Maria Wysocki: May 28, 2020                                     Excluded Supervisor: January 1, 2010

Pamela Hrycyk: June 29, 2020                                   Accounting Clerk: June 1, 1989

Gayle Lebans: July 3, 2020                                        Organizing Representative: Feb 1, 2015

Peter Brand: December 28, 2020                               Computer Programmer: July 1, 1990

Cindy Cross: January 13, 2021                                  PPT Secretary: February 22, 2014

Veda Watson: March 9, 2021                                     Staff Representative: October 1, 1996

Thomas Tangie: April 28, 2021                                   Staff Representative: Sept 1, 2017

Kulli Milles: July 1, 2021                                             Librarian: March 1, 2001

Martin Sarra: Sept 21, 2021                                        Staff Representative: June 1, 2016

Pauline Hyman: Feb 18, 2022                                    Secretary: November 29, 1996

 

Constitution Committee

 

Provincial Committees (addition of Coalition of Racialized Workers Committee) – H10, Articles 13, 14, and 19

Submitted by the Executive Board Committee Recommends: ACCEPTANCE

 

Moved: Adam Ly / Seconded: Tim Hannah

  • Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU/SEFPO recognizes the Coalition of Racialized Workers (CoRW) within the Constitution as a constituted body and that Article 19 of the OPSEU Constitution be amended with the addition of Section 19.7 to read as follows:

 

19.7 There shall be a Coalition of Racialized Workers Committee composed of two (2) members from each Region where they are represented within the Region. The Members of the Coalition of Racialized Workers Committee shall be selected by the Coalition of Racialized Workers Committee from interested members who apply to fill vacancies within their Region. The full membership of the Coalition of Racialized Workers Committee will be renewed on a biannual basis. The function of the Coalition of Racialized Workers Committee shall be to assist in creating networks within the Regions, to develop and promote programs Black and racialized members to

 

participate in Union activities, and to increase the awareness and understanding of issues that impact Black and racialized members throughout the membership; and

 

  • Therefore be it further resolved that Articles 4, 13.8, and 14.5.4 be amended as follows (changes noted in bold and underlined):

 

Article 13.4 (4)

The Members of the Provincial Women’s Committee and the Provincial Human Rights Committee and the Provincial Young Workers Committee and the Provincial Francophone Committee, and one Member of the Indigenous Circle per Region, and one Member of the Coalition of Racialized Workers Committee per Region, shall be entitled to be delegates.

 

Article 13.8

13.8 Resolutions and constitutional amendments may be submitted by any Local, Area Council or Division, by the Executive Board, by the Provincial Women’s Committee, by the Provincial Human Rights Committee, by the Provincial Young Workers Committee, by the executive of the Retired Members’ Division, by the Provincial Francophone Committee, and by the Indigenous Circle and by the Coalition of Racialized Workers Committee.

 

Article 14.5.4

14.5.4 Delegates to Regional election meetings shall be provided with a financial statement showing the expenses incurred during the previous fiscal year by the regional Board Members, the Provincial Women’s Committee, the Provincial Human Rights Committee, the Provincial Young Workers Committee, the Indigenous Circle and the Coalition of Racialized Workers Committee.

 

Vote on Constitutional Amendment H10                                                                             CARRIED

 

 

Commitment to Dismantling Racism- H11, Articles 4, 7, 14, 15, 21, 24, and 29

Submitted by the Executive Board Committee Recommends: ACCEPTANCE

 

Moved: Adam Ly / Seconded: Tim Hannah

  • Be it further resolved that the applicable Articles in the OPSEU/SEFPO Constitution be amended as follows with changes outlined in bold.

 

Article 4 Aims and Purposes

  • The aims and purposes of the Union shall be:
    1. To regulate labour relations between the Members and their employers and managers, said labour relations to include the scope of negotiation, collective bargaining, the enforcement of collective agreements and health and safety standards, and the safeguarding of human rights;

 

  1. To organize, sign to membership, and represent employees in Ontario;
  2. To advance the common interests, economic, social and political, of the Members and of all public employees, wherever possible, by all appropriate means;
  3. To bring about improvements in the wages and working conditions of the membership, including the right of equal pay for work of equal value;
  4. To work for and defend members to ensure that our workplaces are safe and free from harassment and discrimination;
  5. To actively identify and dismantle anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous racism, and all forms of racism and discrimination within its systems and structures so that all members have full access to services and can fully participate in the union;
  6. To promote and defend the right to strike;
  7. To promote full employment and an equitable distribution of wealth within Canadian and international society;
  8. To co-operate with labour unions and other organizations with similar objectives in strengthening the Canadian labour union movement as a means towards advancing the interests and improving the well-being of workers generally in Canada and internationally;
  9. To promote justice, equality, and efficiency in services to the public;
  10. To strengthen, by precept and example, democratic principles and practices both in the Canadian labour union movement and in all manner of institutions, organizations, and government in Canada and internationally.

Article 7 Membership Rights

7.2.2 A member may be removed from office and/or barred from running for office for a specified term by a two-thirds majority vote of the Executive Board after a finding of a breach of OPSEU/SEFPO’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy (HDPP).

Upon release of the final investigation report that details the finding of a breach of OPSEU/SEFPO’s HDPP, the Executive Board will meet within two weeks of the release of the final report and make a determination on the member’s status.

 

Article 14 Election and Removal of Executive Board

14.7.2 The Member-elect shall take the following oath during the Convention immediately following his/ her election:

  • I, , promise that I will uphold and obey the Constitution and duly-authorized policies of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union, fulfil the obligations and responsibilities of my office to the best of my ability, and

 

promptly deliver to my successor all monies, records, and other property of the Union in my possession at the close of my term in office.

I further promise to uphold the union’s commitment to dismantling anti- Black racism, anti-Indigenous and all forms of racism and discrimination, and will actively participate in all OPSEU/SEFPO approved trainings and/or initiatives that are made available to the membership.”

 

Where any Member-elect is not able to take the oath at the Convention, it may be administered by the President at a Board meeting, but such Member-elect shall not be, or act as, a Member of the Board until the oath has been taken. Each Member- elect of the Board shall be required to take the oath, regardless of whether s/he has previously served on the Board.

 

Article 14.10 Upon every election to any of the above mentioned bodies (Executive Board, the Provincial Women’s Committee, the Provincial Human Rights Committee, the Provincial Young Workers Committee, the Provincial Francophone Committee, and the Indigenous Circle), all elected officials are required to participate in mandatory, OPSEU/SEFPO approved dismantling anti- Black racism, anti-Indigenous trainings within 60 days of assuming office.

 

Article 15 Vacancies

Article 15.7 Upon assuming an office declared a vacancy, the newly elected representative is required to take mandatory OPSEU/SEFPO approved dismantling anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous trainings within 60 days unless already taken in this election cycle.

 

Article 21 Divisions

  • Elections
    • Upon election to the above noted divisions (Occupational Divisions, Ministry and Sector Divisions, Retired Members’ Division, Divisional Councils) all elected officials are required to participate in mandatory, OPSEU/SEFPO approved dismantling anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous trainings within 60 days of assuming office unless already taken in this election cycle.
    • Where there is a vacancy, the newly elected representative is required to participate in mandatory, OPSEU/SEFPO approved dismantling anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous trainings within 60 days unless already taken in this election cycle.

 

Article 24 Negotiation and Ratification Procedures

24.1.4 Upon election to a bargaining team, all members are required to participate in mandatory, OPSEU/SEFPO approved dismantling anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous trainings as part of their bargaining team training. This must be completed prior to any work being done by the bargaining team.

 

Article 29 Bylaws for Local Unions

29.4 Elections

Article 29.4.4 Upon election to any position within the local, all local elected representatives are required to participate in mandatory, OPSEU/SEFPO approved dismantling anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous trainings within 60 days of assuming office.

Where there is a vacancy, the newly elected representative is also required to participate in mandatory, OPSEU/SEFPO approved trainings within 60 days of assuming office unless already taken in this election cycle.

 

  • Oaths
    • All Officers elected at the Local or Unit level shall take the Oath of Office prescribed in Article 14.7 before being allowed to take office. The oath shall be administered at a general membership meeting or at a meeting of the 29.9 Oaths
    • All Shop and Unit Stewards shall take the following oath before being allowed to take The oath shall be administered at a general membership meeting or at a meeting of the LEC, or by submitting a signed copy, to be read aloud at a general membership meeting:
      • “I, , promise that I will uphold and obey the Constitution and policies of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union and the Bylaws of my Local, work with the Officers of the Local to represent the members, and fulfil the obligations and responsibilities of my elected position as Steward to the best of my ability.”

I further promise to uphold the union’s commitment to dismantling anti- Black racism, anti-Indigenous racism, and all forms of racism and discrimination, and will actively participate in any OPSEU/SEFPO approved trainings and/or initiatives that are made available to the membership

 

  • Every new Member shall, as part of his/her application for membership in the Union, be required to sign a declaration containing the following words:
    • “I, , solemnly promise to uphold and obey the Constitution and Bylaws of this Union, to assist my fellow members to improve their economic, political, and social conditions, to uphold the principles of democracy and fair play, and to do no deliberate wrong or harm to any other member of this Union.”

I further promise to uphold the union’s commitment to dismantling anti- Black racism, anti-Indigenous racism and all forms of racism and discrimination, and will actively participate in any OPSEU/SEFPO approved trainings and/or initiatives that are made available to the membership.

 

Every such declaration must be witnessed by a person who may be a member of the Local, an employee of the Union, or any other representative of the Union duly authorized by it.

 

  • It shall be the duty of all Officers and Members to uphold their respective oaths and failure to act in accordance with them shall be deemed to be contrary to the

Vote on Constitutional Amendment H11                                                                             CARRIED

 

Bylaws for Local Unions- H9, Article 29 Submitted by the Region 1 Area Council Committee Recommends: ACCEPTANCE

 

Moved: Adam Ly / Seconded: Tim Hannah

 

  • Therefore be it resolved that Article 29 of the Constitution be amended to allow Sectors/Divisions to remove the structural difference between Single-Unit, Multi-Unit and Composite locals, allowing them to elect a Chief Steward, as defined in local bylaws; and,

 

Be it further resolved that the creation of the Unit Steward positions be allowed (but not be required) should Locals establish them in local bylaws, and that all elected Stewards be full members of the LEC and eligible to run for officer positions.

 

Vote on Constitutional Amendment H9                                                                              CARRIED

 

 

Orders of the Day Award Presentation

 

President Thomas presents the Awards to the OPSEU/SEFPO Convention.

 

Human Rights Award Individual

Recipient: Elizabeth Ha, Local 154

 

Elizabeth is long-time activist who works as a Property Valuation Analyst with the MPAC and she serves as First Vice-President of Local 154. Elizabeth is the Chair of OPSEU/SEFPO’s Provincial Human Rights Committee (PHRC) and Vice-Chair for People of Asian Decent on OPSEU/SEFPO’s Coalition of Racialized Workers (CoRW). Recently re-elected as Vice-President of the Ontario Federation of Labour’s Workers of Colour Committee.

Elizabeth accepts the award.

 

Resolutions

C1 – Collective Bargaining

 

Submitted by Local 571 and the Greater Toronto Area Council Resolutions Committee Recommends: ACCEPTANCE

 

Moved: Elaine Bagnall, L362 / Seconded: Gino Franche, L130

 

  • Therefore be it resolved that where part time, seasonal, temporary, casual, or otherwise precarious employed members are elected to a bargaining team, and they donot have wages to replace during days scheduled for bargaining or caucus meetings, that OPSEU pay them for the equivalent of a full day’s pay at their regular hourly rate.

Vote on Resolution C1                                                                              CARRIED

 

 

EB13

Submitted by the Executive Board

Resolutions Committee Recommends: ACCEPTANCE

 

Moved: Elaine Bagnall, L362 / Seconded: Veronica Attard, L416

Whereas OPSEU/SEFPO has a long term commitment to dismantling anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous racism, and all forms of racism in all of its systems and structures; and

Whereas the creation of equity seats on the OPSEU/SEFPO Executive Board will address the lack of representation that Black, racialized and Indigenous members have identified as missing from their union leadership; and

Whereas OPSEU/SEFPO’s Social Mapping Project has identified gaps and barriers by providing the necessary information to ensure services meet the needs of the membership; and

Whereas significant changes to the OPSEU/SEFPO Constitution, such as equity seats on the OPSEU/SEFPO Executive Board, would be subject to provisions governed under the Corporations Act and the Not-for-Profit Corporations Act; and Whereas an ad hoc committee was created to carry out this work and propose changes, is made up of members from the OPSEU/SEFPO Executive Board and members from the SMP Implementation Task Force; and

Whereas this ad hoc committee continues proceed with this consultative and investigative work in order to meet the requirements as stipulated by the aforementioned pieces of legislation;

Therefore be it resolved that for continuity purposes, the existing members of the ad hoc committee be allowed to continue with this consultative and investigative work on proposed changes of equity seats on the OPSEU/SEFPO Executive Board which would require changes to the OPSEU/SEFPO Constitution; and

Be it further resolved that this work from the ad hoc committee be done in

 

 

 

Vote on Resolution EB13                                                                          CARRIED

 

 

World Issues I1 (Emergency)

Submitted by Local 684 and 669

Resolutions Committee’s Recommendation: ACCEPTANCE

Vote on Resolution I1                                                                             DEFEATED

 

 

M5

Submitted by Region 1 Area Council

Resolutions Committee’s Recommendation: ACCEPTANCE Moved: Kimberly Kazur, L665 / Seconded: Jody Tsubouchi, L710

Whereas family status is a protected ground of discrimination under the Ontario

Human Rights Code; and

Whereas OPSEU/SEFPO is a social justice union that encourages full and equal participation; and

Whereas families within OPSEU/SEFPO have identified barriers to participation in their union as a result of having children; and

Whereas families have identified barriers and deficiencies within current OPSEU policies which have become a barrier to OPSEU/SEFPO’s provision of safe and effective childcare;

Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU/SEFPO form an ad hoc committee comprised of one (1) board member, staff, OPSEU/SEFPO childcare provider(s), and a minimum of four OPSEU/SEFPO members who currently utilize OPSEU/SEFPO childcare. The purpose of the committee will be to formulate a comprehensive policy on childcare and troubleshoot issues that target barriers to participation of OPSEU/SEFPO members as well as ensuring safe, effective care for our children using OPSEU/SEFPO childcare; and

Therefore be it further resolved that this committee meet within 3 months of the resolution being passed; and

Therefore be it further resolved that the Committee report back to the Executive Board within one (1) year.

 

 

Moved: Dave Wakely, L277 / Seconded: Jody Tsubouchi, L710

REFERRAL: to go back to the committee with instructions: That the committee include at least 2 members who have children and don’t use OPSEU/SEFPO childcare and the committee return immediately with the above instructions.

Vote on REFERRAL on M5                                                                              CARRIED

 

911 in crisis video played

 

Convention adjourned at 4:45 p.m.

Saturday, April 9, 2022

 

President Thomas called Convention to order at 9:21 a.m.

 

Announcement: PHRC had a raffle for a gift basket: Sandra Snider won the raffle draw Video played: OPSEU/SEFPO History.

 

Daycare Parade

 

Children from Convention childcare, “Kids Kamp” paraded onto Convention floor and up to the stage to the song “Wavin’ Flag by K’naan.

 

Credentials Committee Report

Moved: Johanne Bourgeois L669/ Seconded: Philip Cooze L711 Adoption of Credentials Committee Report as of 8:56 a.m.

Delegates in Person 822
Delegates Virtual 193
Alternates 354
EBMs 21
Guests 1
Solidarity Guests 15
Total 1406

 

Vote on Adoption of Credentials Report                                                                       CARRIED

 

Oath of Office for Executive Board

 

President Thomas turned Chair over to Jason MacLean of Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union (NSGEU) to administer the Oath of Office for the 2022- 2024 Executive Board.

 

Region 1 – Laurie Nancekivell, Jennifer Van Zetten, Geoff Cain, Region 2 –Lucy Morton, Drew Finucane, Eduardo Almeida, Region 3 –Sara Labelle, Janel Perron, Joel Usher

Region 4 – Melissa Coenraad, Chrisy Tremblay, Veronica Attard Region 5 – Coleen Houlder, JP Hornick, Julius Arscott

Region 6 – Tara Maszczakiewicz, Kenneth Steinbrunner, Rob Boulet Region 7 – Ed Arvelin, Kenneth Maclam, Erin Smith-Rice

 

 

Constitution 14.7.2

 

The Member-elect shall take the following oath during the Convention immediately following his/her election:

 

“I,                               , promise that I will uphold and obey the Constitution and duly- authorized policies of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union, fulfill the obligations and responsibilities of my office to the best of my ability, and promptly deliver to my successor all monies, records, and other property of the Union in my possession at the close of my term in office.”

 

Jason turned Chair back to President Thomas, who welcomed the new Executive Board

 

 

Orders of the Day Award Presentations

 

Honorary Lifetime Membership Awards

 

The Honorary Lifetime Membership Awards were presented by President Thomas

 

Enzo Bruni, Local 353

 

Enzo is remembered fondly as someone who fought tirelessly for the members and supported the Local’s Executive, mentoring and helping everyone from new Stewards to new Presidents. Enzo built strong friendships with many members both locally and provincially.

 

 

John Conley, Local 110

J.C. is remembered by their Local as the activist’s activist – taking every opportunity to support their fellow workers. The first to visit a picket line with a ukulele in hand to try and inject some positivity. J.C. played and sang “Solidarity Forever” on the ukulele for Convention.

 

Al Donaldson, Local 329

As a longstanding RPN at the Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Al held nearly every position in the Local, including President. Remembered for their strength in leadership, including leading the first mental health hospital to walk out in the 1996 OPS Strike.

 

 

 

 

Outgoing Board Members Recognition

 

President Thomas offered sincere thanks to the nine outgoing Executive Board Members.

The Board came to the stage to accept their plaques and each addressed Convention. Len Elliot    Region 1

Anna Ainsworth                            Region 5

Dave Doran                                 Region 4

Nathalie Rondeau                         Region 6

Kingsley Kwok                             Region 5

Edie Strachan                              Region 5

Maggie Wakeford                         Region 6

Tara Langford                                      Region 4 Warren (Smokey) Thomas                                       Region 4

 

First Vice President Treasurer, Eddy Almeida introduced Smokey Thomas’ retirement video.

 

President Thomas gave an outgoing speech to the OPSEU/SEFPO Convention floor. He thanked the members for letting him serve them for the past 15 years.

 

 

RESOLUTIONS

 

M5 as amended

Referred back from the Resolutions Committee

 

 

Moved: Veronica Attard, L416 / Seconded: Jody Tsubouchi, L710

Whereas family status is a protected ground of discrimination under the Ontario Human Rights Code; and

Whereas OPSEU SEFPO is a social justice union that encourages full and equal participation; and

Whereas families within OPSEU SEFPO have identified barriers to participation in their union as a result of having children; and

Whereas families have identified barriers and deficiencies within current OPSEU policies which have become a barrier to OPSEU SEFPO’s provision of safe and effective childcare.

Therefore be it resolved that OPSEU SEFPO form an ad hoc committee comprised of one (1) board member, staff, OPSEU SEFPO childcare provider(s), and a minimum of four OPSEU SEFPO members who currently utilize OPSEU SEFPO childcare and at least 2 members who have children and don’t use OPSEU/SEFPO childcare. The purpose of the committee will be to formulate a comprehensive policy on childcare and troubleshoot issues that target barriers to participation of OPSEU SEFPO members as well as ensuring safe, effective care for our children using OPSEU SEFPO childcare.

Therefore be it further resolved that this committee meet within 3 months of the resolution being passed

Therefore be it further resolved that the Committee report back to the Executive Board within one (1) year

 

 

Moved: Michael Kaminski, L568 / Seconder: Julius Arscott, L532

  • Motion to move CLOSURE

Vote on Closure:                                                                     CARRIED

 

Vote on Resolution M5                                                                              CARRIED

 

EB12

Submitted by: The Executive Board

Resolution Committee Recommends: AGAINST

 

Moved: Mary Cator, L254/ Seconded: Elaine Bagnall, L362

 

Whereas the responsibilities of Local representatives are drastically increased in proportion to the number of members in a Local; and

Whereas OPSEU/SEFPO continues to increase its membership and size of locals; and

Whereas OPSEU/SEFPO has 3 single locals with more than 1,300 members and 3 composite locals with more than 1,500 members; and

Whereas many locals under the 650/750 fulltime book off also require more time off to assist their members; and

Whereas the Union works to support all Locals and their leadership, regardless of size;

Therefore be it resolved that all relevant portions of Section 17.1 of the OPSEU/SEFPO Policy Manual be amended to reflect language that provides for a second member to be granted “Local Union Leave”, in the same manner as currently defined in 17.1, where the membership of a local has 1,500 or more signed members for a single local and 1,300 members for a composite local; and

Be it further resolved that Local time off (80/20) will be increased as follows: “A maximum of $40 per member in good standing per year. OPSEU/SEFPO will

contribute $32 per member per year and the Local will contribute $8 per member per year.”; and

Be it further resolved that the funding come from the contingency fund.

 

Moved: Adam Cigger, L229 / Seconded: Drew Finucane L219

  • REFFERAL: back to the committee to look into a more fulsome referral to ensure all Local can benefit.

Vote on REFERRAL on EB12                                                                          CARRIED

 

K1

Submitted by the Region 1 Area Council

Whereas communication between OPSEU SEFPO Equity Caucuses and Committees in the Regions is challenging, creating a lack of awareness and support of issues and concerns amongst these groups; and

Whereas people who require French language services are often racialized and from immigrant communities; and

Whereas a high percentage of women who seek assistance in shelters are lndigenous, persons with disabilities, persons with a mental health diagnosis and addictions or from other equity seeking groups; and

Whereas quarterly one-day cost-effective meetings that would include regional representation from each Equity group would enhance communication, engagement, and participation.

Resolutions Committee Recommend: NO Recommendations Moved: Jody Tsubouchi, L710 / Seconded: Veronica Attard, L416

 

 

 

Vote on Resolution K1                                                                              CARRIED

 

Raffle Draw

 

Joseanne Job, Chair of the Social Justice Fund Committee, helped President Thomas with the draw.

 

All the money raised from the raffle will benefit the Live and Let Live Fund.

 

  1. Theta 360 Degree Camera, donated by Richo Canada – Connie Caldwell L124

 

  1. Play Station 4, donated by OPSEU/SEFPO Local 277 – Jessica Dunn

 

  1. Scandinave Spa gift card redeemable for massage and access to the Scandinavian baths for two people, donated by OPSEU/SEFPO L347 – Jessica Dunn

 

  1. Two-night stay at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto, valid until December 31, 2022, donated by the Fairmont Royal York – Sophia Ambrose L736

 

  1. Two one-hundred level seats at the upcoming Toronto Maple Leafs versus New York Islanders game on Sunday, April 17th at the Scotiabank Arena, donated by TD Commercial Banking – Cory Schepers, L303

 

President Thomas thanked everyone who donated the prizes.

 

 

Orders of the Day

Sister Ethel addressed convention and preformed an indigenous closing. Krista Marclae and others joined onstage and preformed the “Welcome Song” for our journey home.

President Smokey Thomas declared Convention adjourned at 12 noon

President Thomas thanked everyone for a great Convention and bid them a safe trip home.

As per OPSEU/SEFPO/ 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 brought to the first regularly scheduled Executive Board meeting after Convention, for debate.

 Warren (Smokey) Thomas, President

Jamie Corner, Recording Secretary