O Canada
O Canada! Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all of us command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise The True North strong and free!
From far and wide, O Canada,
We stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
Ô Canada
(version française)
Ô Canada! Terre de nos aïeux,
Ton front est ceint de fleurons glorieux!
Car ton bras sait porter l’épée,
Il sait porter la croix!
Ton histoire est une épopée
Des plus brillants exploits.
Et ta valeur, de foi trempée,
Protégera nos foyers et nos droits.
Protégera nos foyers et nos droits.
What’s in my kit?
Welcome to the 2022 OPSEU/SEFPO Annual Convention!
Your convention kit contains the following:
- Section A – General information
- Section B – Minutes of the 2019 Convention
- Section C – Audited financial statements and notes
- Section D – 2022 budget
- Section E – Executive Board report
- Section F – Report on remunerations
- Executive Board members’ expenses Negotiating Team members’ expenses
- (also includes committee members’ expenses)
- Section G – Resolutions and committee report
- Section H – Constitutional amendments
Convention Office
The Convention Office is located in Room 204 on Level 200 of the MTCC.
- Tuesday, April 5 – 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
- Wednesday, April 6 – 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Thursday, April 7 – 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Friday, April 8 – 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Saturday, April 9 – 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Registration, Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC)
| Tuesday, April 5 | 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. | Room 205/206AB (street level) |
| Wednesday, April 6 | 7 a.m. to noon | Room 205/206AB (street level) |
| Thursday, April 7 | 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Convention Office (room 204) |
| Friday, April 8 | 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Convention Office (room 204) |
| Saturday, April 9 | 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon | Convention Office (room 204) |
Please note that you must register and obtain your badge before you can attend Convention.
2022 OPSEU/SEFPO ANNUAL CONVENTION AGENDA
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
9:00 a.m.
- Call to order
- Land Acknowledgement
- Statement of Respect
- Minute of Silence
- Opening Ceremonies
- Credentials Committee
- Adoption of Agenda
- Adoption of 2019 Convention Minutes
- President’s Address
- Report: Financials-Auditors
- Statutory Orders
- Executive Board Report
- Resolutions Committee
- Constitution Report
12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m. L U N C H
1:30 p.m.
- Report: Budget
2:30 p.m.
- Reports continue Resolutions Committee
- Constitution Report
3:00 p.m.
- Equity Update
- Social Mapping Update
- Constitution Amendment Discussions
4:30 p.m.
- Award Presentations
Fred Upshaw Social Justice Award of Merit
Young Worker of the Year Award
Health and Safety Award
Leah Casselman Award – Individual
5:00 p.m. RECESS GENERAL SESSION
ANNOUNCEMENTS
- Credentials Committee report will be presented as required
- Resolutions and Constitution Committees are allotted not less than 1½ hours each for their report
Thursday, April 7, 2022
9:00 a.m.
- Call to order
- Credentials Committee
- Nominations: Office of President
- Nominations: Office of First Vice-President/Treasurer
- Constitution Committee
- Resolutions Committee
12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m. L U N C H
(Draw for questions takes place starting at noon. You must be present when your question is picked for it to be considered.)
1:30 p.m.
- Collection for Donations
- Stanley H. Knowles Humanitarian Award :
2:00 p.m.
- Reports Continue
- Constitution Committee
- Resolutions Committee
3:00 p.m.
- President– Question and Answer Session
4:00 p.m.
- First Vice–President/Treasurer – Question and Answer Session
5:00 p.m.
- Equity Question and Answer Sessions (15 minutes each)
5:30 p.m. RECESS GENERAL SESSION
ANNOUNCEMENTS
- Credentials Committee reports will be presented as required
- Resolutions and Constitution Committees are allotted 1½ hours each for their report
Friday, April 8, 2022
9:00 a.m.
- Call to order
- Credentials Committee
- President candidate presentations
- Election à President
- First Vice-President/Treasurer candidate presentations
- Election à Vice-President/Treasurer
- Ranking of Vice-Presidents
12:00 noon to 1:30 p.m. L U N C H
1:30 p.m.
- Reports continue Constitution Committee Resolutions Committee
3:30 p.m.
- Award Presentations
Human Rights Award Individual
5:00 p.m. RECESS GENERAL SESSION
ANNOUNCEMENTS
- Credentials Committee reports will be presented as required
- Resolutions and Constitution Committees are allotted 1½ hours each for their report
Saturday, April 9, 2022
9:00 a.m.
- Call to order
- Oath of Office à Executive Board
- Credentials Committee
- Presentations
Honorary Lifetime Member Awards Outgoing Board Members Recognition
11:00 a.m.
- Reports Continue
Resolutions Committee Constitution Committee
12:00 noon A D J O U R N M E N T
ANNOUNCEMENTS
- Credentials Committee report will be presented as required
- Resolutions and Constitution Committees are allotted 1½ hours each for their report
OPSEU/SEFPO Harassment and Discrimination Prevention Policy
1.0 Introduction
1.1 OPSEU/SEFPO has a long tradition of struggle to end harassment and discrimination. The Union recognizes that equity issues are central to representing and defending members’ rights in the workplace, Union and community. Harassment and discrimination create a climate of intolerance and division among the membership. By eroding our unity and strength, they can weaken our effectiveness at the bargaining table, in the workplace, on the picket line and in the community. Our ability as Union activists and representatives to respond effectively to situations of harassment and discrimination is essential to building OPSEU/SEFPO’s
1.2 OPSEU/SEFPO will not tolerate discrimination and harassment. To this end, the Union will promote human rights and make every effort to prevent violations within the scope of this Policy. This Policy is one step in our fight to eliminate personal harassment, harassment and discrimination contrary to the Ontario Human Rights Code (“Code”) and OPSEU/SEFPO’s Constitution which affirms that every member has the right to be treated with dignity and
2.0 Scope and Application
2.1 The Policy applies to all OPSEU/SEFPO members, including retired members and elected leaders during any Union-related duties, activities and functions. This includes, but is not limited to, local meetings, conferences, Conventions, educationals, social functions, picketing and demonstrations. It also applies to union-related interactions between members and elected Union leaders in the
2.2 Nothing in this Policy is intended to preclude a member from accessing a complaint procedure under a Collective Agreement, the Code or other
2.3 In certain circumstances, it may be necessary for the Union to initiate an investigation of an incident(s) in the absence of a complaint from a member. In order to promote respect for human rights, the Union has an obligation to take action to prevent and discourage behaviour, which contravenes this
2.4 The recommendation(s) for remedy, corrective action or sanction could include, but are not limited to a warning, reprimand, apology, education, removal from office, bar on running for office for a specified
2.5 This Policy addresses all forms of harassment and discrimination, including systemic discrimination. Where the term “systemic” discrimination is used in the Policy and/or Procedures Manual, it refers to patterns of behavior, policies, or practices that are part of OPSEU/SEFPO’s structures, and which create or perpetuate disadvantage based on a prohibited
3.0 OPSEU/SEFPO Members – Roles & Responsibilities
3.1 All members of OPSEU/SEFPO are responsible for maintaining and promoting an environment that is free of discrimination and
4.0 Elected Leadership – Roles & Responsibilities
4.1 The elected leadership of OPSEU/SEFPO is responsible for enforcing this Policy. Local Executives, Executive Board Members. Elected Teams and Committees shall:
a) establish and maintain an environment free of harassment and discrimination;
b) ensure accommodation needs of members are met;
c) take appropriate action when they have knowledge of harassment or discrimination;
d) treat complaints seriously and refer complainants and respondents to Advisors or an Equity Unit
4.2 The President, First Vice-President/Treasurer, Regional Vice-Presidents, and the Executive Board, as appropriate, shall implement all recommendations for remedy as determined through a mediation settlement, investigation or appeal of a complaint unless the recommended remedy contravenes the constitution or OPSEU/SEFPO policies, or other factors outweigh the general interest. If recommendations are not implemented, then, where possible, written reasons will be provided.
5.0 Harassment and Discrimination Contrary to the Code
5.1 OPSEU/SEFPO adopts the language and principles of the Code. Every member has a right to equal treatment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions without discrimination because of the following prohibited grounds:
- race;
- ancestry;
- place of origin;
- colour;
- ethnic origin;
- citizenship;
- creed;
- sex (includes pregnancy);
- sexual orientation;
- gender identity;
- gender expression;
- age;
- marital status;
- family status;
- disability.
5.2 Policy violations may include:
a. reprisal, which means being targeted on the basis of having:
-
- filed a complaint under this Policy;
- participated in any proceeding in accordance with this Policy
- been associated with a person who has filed a complaint or participated in any proceeding in accordance with this
b. condonation, where a Union leader does not take appropriate action to address harassment or discrimination;
c. where a party believes that a complaint itself is a form of harassment and/or discrimination;
d.breach of a settlement;
e. discrimination because of relationship, association or dealings with a person or persons identified by a prohibited
6.0 Personal Harassment
6.1. OPSEU/SEFPO strives to have an environment free from personal harassment with respect to Union-related duties, activities and functions. Personal harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comment or conduct that is known or ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome and that is not related to a prohibited ground identified in the Code.
6.2 Personal harassment includes verbal, physical and psychological forms of harassment. Examples of harassment covered under this Policy may include, but is not limited to, repeated occurrences or use of:
-
- slurs, insults and name-calling;
- circulating or posting offensive or derogatory pictures or documents;
- public humiliation;
- exclusion from union activities or functions.
7.0 Confidentiality and Privacy
7.1 The Union understands that it is in the interests of all parties to keep matters arising under this Policy confidential. Rumours and innuendo destroy the integrity of the fact-finding process and the principles of early
7.2 The Equity Unit, Advisors, Mediators, Investigators and Appeal Chairs will maintain confidentiality, wherever possible, subject to the requirements of a fair process or as otherwise required by
7.3 It is understood that written reports or decisions of Investigators and Appeal Chairs and Appeal Hearings may be made available for the purposes of implementation, education or reporting to the membership.
8.0 Education
8.1 The Union is committed to a preventive strategy that is based in education. To that end, the Union shall:
- provide courses based on harassment and discrimination in each region at least once a year;
- incorporate a training component on the Policy and prevention into orientation sessions for Executive Board Members, Chairs of Equity Committees and Caucuses, Local Presidents, and Stewards;
- offer orientation to the Policy to all regional/local equity committees/ representatives;
- provide a ‘lunch ‘n learn’ on the
9.0 Administration
9.1 The Equity Unit shall be responsible for the implementation of this Policy and the development of a Procedures Manual for it. Such procedures shall be developed in consultation with a subcommittee of three (3) members Advisors and Investigators, the Chairs of the Provincial Equity Committees and Equity Caucuses and shall be reviewed every three (3)
9.2 Both complainants and respondents have a right to an Advisor under this Policy. Such Advisors shall be members selected by a process outlined in the abovementioned Procedures Manual. Advisors shall be provided with appropriate training to carry out their role and shall be supported by the Equity
9.3 All costs related to the processing of complaints will be borne by the Union and shall be consistent with OPSEU/SEFPO policies and practices. If members choose to seek representation or advice from persons not appointed under this Policy such costs will not be covered or be
9.4 Every effort shall be made to encourage resolution at every stage of the complaint process, where appropriate, including prior to the filing of a formal
9.5 It is recognized that external mediators, investigators and hearing Chairs will be needed from time to time, according to the nature of a
9.6 This Policy, including the Statement of Respect, is to be posted in a visible location in all OPSEU/SEFPO buildings, as well as advertised through the website, newsletters and bulletins, locally, regionally and provincially. In addition, the list of approved Advisors, as well as any forms, will be available through regional offices and on the
Statement of Respect
Harassment or discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated at OPSEU/SEFPO functions.
Whenever OPSEU/SEFPO members gather, we welcome all peoples of the world. We will not accept any unwelcoming words, actions or behaviours against our union members.
We accord respect to all persons, regardless of age, creed, political affiliation and racialization including and not limited to People of African descent, Black, Caribbean, South Asian, Asian, women, men, First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples, members of ethno-racial groups, people with disabilities, gays, lesbians, bisexual, transgender/transsexual people, and gender diverse persons, francophones and all persons whose first language is not English.
In our diversity, we will build solidarity as union members.
If you believe that you are being harassed or discriminated against, contact any of the staff who are located at the back of the hall for immediate assistance or by calling the one of the numbers listed below.
Convention 2022 harassment and discrimination advisers
Adviser 1: 416-452-7459
Adviser 2: 416-432-0617
Allergy alert: Scent-free, vape-free, nut-free and pet-free policies
Workers are increasingly becoming sensitive to chemicals, scented products and certain foods, such as peanuts, peanut butter, pecans, walnuts, many chocolate bars and energy/nutrition bars.
For many individuals, attending conferences and meetings, and being exposed to perfumes, other strong scents and certain foods, can pose serious health risks, such as asthma attacks, respiratory problems and/or migraine headaches.
In the interests of the health and safety of the sisters and brothers whose health may suffer from any of these exposures, we ask you not to wear scented products or to consume nut products at any OPSEU/SEFPO events or OPSEU/SEFPO locations.
Also due to these allergy concerns, OPSEU/SEFPO allows only service animals in any meetings, caucuses and hospitality suites, and on the Convention floor.
Environment – water policy
“To adequately safeguard the drinking water and the environment in Ontario, government laboratories must do all testing, and it is mandatory that all results be forwarded to the appropriate authorities.” (OPSEU/SEFPO Convention 2002)
“OPSEU/SEFPO will support and continue to promote efforts to bring privately-controlled water facilities under public control and promote increased transparency and public accountability of waterworks already under public control.” (OPSEU/SEFPO Convention 2002)
Please note: containers of ice water and water bottles/cups are provided for your use at Convention.
No Coca-Cola products policy
At the 2008 Convention, delegates passed a resolution to join the Coca-Cola boycott supported by several other unions, NGOs and social organizations from all over the world.
This resolution also instructs us to lobby the federal government to stop the negotiation of the Canadian-Colombia free-trade agreement based on the horrendous human and social rights violations record in Colombia, as well as on the negative effects it will have on job security here in Canada and on labour conditions in Colombia.
This policy is being implemented at OPSEU/SEFPO by banning all Coca-Cola products from all OPSEU/SEFPO offices and by ending the provision and sale of all Coca-Cola products at all OPSEU/SEFPO functions.
The following is a list of the most popular trademarks owned or used under licence by the Coca-Cola company and its related affiliates:
| A & W | Bacardi Mixers | Barq’s |
| Big Crush | Bimbo | Canada Dry |
| Chinotto | Dasani Water | Fanta |
| Five Alive | Full Trottle | Fruitopia |
| Inca Kola | Mello Yello | Minute Maid |
| Nestea | Odwalla | Powerade |
| Schweppes | Sprite | Swerve Daily Drink |
| Tab |
OPSEU/SEFPO green policy
OPSEU/SEFPO is a green organization by policy and, more importantly, through our ongoing practices. OPSEU/SEFPO supports initiatives that protect the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We also support activities that reduce the human impact on our natural resources. Please use the designated receptacles for waste and recycling materials.
Common abbreviations used in OPSEU/SEFPO
| LTIP | Long Term Income Protection |
| MDT | Membership Development Trainee |
| MERC | Ministry Enforcement and Renewal Committee |
| MPAC | Municipal Property Assessment Corporation |
| NUPGE | National Union of Public and General Employees |
| ODSP | Ontario Disability Support Program |
| OFL | Ontario Federation of Labour |
| OHRC | Ontario Human Rights Code |
| OHSA | Occupational Health and Safety Act |
| OLBEU | Ontario Liquor Boards Employees Union |
| OLRA | Ontario Labour Relations Act |
| OLRB | Ontario Labour Relations Board |
| OJTBF | OPSEU Joint Trusteed Benefit Fund |
| OPS | Ontario Public Service |
| OPSEU | Ontario Public Service Employees Union |
| OPSSU | Ontario Public Service Staff Union |
| OPT | OPSEU Pension Trust |
| PHRC | Provincial Human Rights Committee |
| PSLRTA | Public Sector Labour Relations Transition Act |
| PWC | Provincial Women’s Committee |
| PYWC | Provincial Young Workers’ Committee |
| PSA | Public Service Act |
| RVP | Regional Vice-President |
| SAROC | Systemic and Anti-Racism Organizational Change Program |
| SEFPO | Syndicat des employés de la fonction publique de l’Ontario |
| SUB | Supplementary Unemployment Benefit |
| TQM | Total Quality Management |
| UMC | Union-Management Committee |
| VEO | Voluntary Exit Option |
| WSIA | Workplace Safety and Insurance Act |
| WSIB | Workplace Safety and Insurance Board |
Activities at a Glance
Tuesday, April 5th, 2022
Coalition of Racialized Workers (CoRW) 9:00am – 5:00pm 201F
Provincial Women’s Committee (PWC) 9:00am – 5:00pm 202C
Provincial Francophone Committee (PFC) 9:30am – 4:00pm 201E
Hospital Professionals Division (HPD) 1:00pm – 5:00pm 206CDEF
Indigenous Circle Smudging Ceremony* 5:00 pm – Hall A & B Level 300
New Delegates Seminar 7:00pm – 8:30pm 203AB
Budget Q & A 9:00pm – 10:00pm 203AB
Wednesday, April 6th, 2022
Children’s Aid Societies (Sector 4) 12:00pm –12:30pm 202D
Children’s Treatment Centres (Sector 15) 12:00am – 12:30 202A
CBS & Diagnostics (Sector 19) 12:00pm – 2:00pm 201F
Mental Health Division (Sector18) 12:00pm – 1:00pm 201E
LBED (Sector 26) 12:00pm – 1:00pm 203AB
Probation/Probation & Parole 12:00pm – 1:00pm 202B
Ministry of Attorney General (MERC) 12:00pm – 12:45pm 201B
College Support Caucus (Part Time & Full Time 12:00pm – 1:00pm 206CDEF
Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel (RAA) 4:00pm – 10:00pm 206CDEF
MCCSS – Corrections 5:00pm – 6:30pm 201B
Thursday, April 7th, 2022
Provincial Women’s Committee (PWC) – Meet & Greet 11:30am – 1:30pm 202D
Developmental Services (Sector 2) 12:00pm – 1:00pm 203AB
Universities (Sector 9) 12:00pm – 1:00pm 201D
Hospital Support (Sector 11) 12:00pm – 12:30pm 201F
Provincial Human Rights Committee (PHRC) 12:00pm – 2:00pm 202AB
NDMNRF 12:00pm – 1:00pm 201B
College Faculty 12:00pm – 1:00pm 206CDEF
MLTSD MERC 12:05pm – 12:55pm 202C
Indigenous Circle-Evening Forum* 4:00pm – 10:00pm 202D
CERC-OPS Unified Caucus 5:00pm – 6:00pm 205
Correctional Bargaining Unit 6:00pm – 8:00pm 206CDEF
Friday, April 8th, 2022
Property Assessment (Sector 16) 12:00pm – 1:30pm 202D
Ambulance (Sector 1) 12:00pm – 1:00pm 201D
MTO MAC 12:00pm – 1:00pm 202AB
Coalition of Racialized Workers (CoRW) Evening Forum 4:00pm – 10:00pm 206CDEF
Justice (Sector 7) 5:00pm- 6:00pm 202D
Saturday, April 9th , 2022
Indigenous Circle Smudging Ceremony 7:00am – Simcoe Park
(located directly across the street from MTCC North Building)
Wellness Lounge 9:00am-5:00pm 203DC
Solidarity Fund Silent Auction 8:00am-6:00pm Hall C
OPSEU/SEFPO Shop 8:00am-6:00pm Hall C
MarketPlace 8:00am-6:00pm Hall C
(* indicates Smudging will occur in the meeting space)
Simultaneous interpretation of Convention proceedings (French/English)
Simultaneous interpretation is provided for our Convention proceedings.
Receivers can be picked up from the simultaneous interpretation desk. If you are not bilingual, you will need to keep you receivers handy during Convention sessions, since both official languages will be used.
These are battery operated receivers, and the batteries need recharging every night. Members are required to sign the receivers out each morning and return them to the simultaneous interpretation desk each evening for recharging.
The receiver must be returned to the simultaneous interpretation desk at the end of Convention.
Shuttle service
Drop off and pick up locations are as follows;
MTCC North- Front Street Entrance
Marriott City Centre – Blue Jays Way Entrance
Sheraton Centre – York St
Fairmont Royal York- York Street
Westin Harbour Castle – Street Level
Tuesday, April 5th
1pm – 9pm
Wednesday, April 6th
8 am – 9:30am
4:30 pm – 6:00pm
10 pm – 10:30 pm
Thursday, April 7th
8 am – 9:30am
4:30 pm – 6:00pm
8 pm – 8:30 pm
10: pm – 10:30 pm
Friday, April 8th
8 am – 9:30 am
4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
10 pm – 10:30 pm
Saturday, April 9
8 am – 9:30 am
12 pm – 1 pm
Rules of procedure for use of microphones
1. There will be 16 microphones for the exclusive use of delegates, eight “pro” and eight “con.” These microphones will be distributed across the Convention floor and will be designated for use only by delegates from the particular region in which they have been placed.
2. There will be four microphones in the roped-off section for the exclusive use of alternates and observers: two “pro” and two “con.”
3. All microphones will be consecutively numbered 1 to 20, except that Region 5 will have four microphones, two “pro” and two “con,” but not numbered consecutively with the original set. The Region 5 microphones will be numbered: 1 (“pro”) and 2 (“con”), and 15 (“pro) and 16 (“con”). They will be available for hearing-impaired delegates from any region for use in the regular manner of speaking order.
4. On points for discussion open to the delegates on the floor, the chair will start at microphone 1 and work through subsequent microphones until closure/final vote on the point. Note that this procedure will mean speakers will be automatically alternating between pro and con arguments.
5. On subsequent points open for discussion, the chair will open at the next following microphone. For example, if a previous discussion ended at microphone 7 (“pro”), the next discussion will start at microphone number 8 (“con”).
6. The chair or designate will control microphone numbers so that appropriate direction can be given to delegates.
7. Delegates wishing to raise a procedural point, in accordance with the rules of order, may use either pro or con microphones in their particular section or region.
Process for delegates who cannot get to a mic due to mobility devices, such as wheelchairs, crutches, walkers
1. The delegate with a mobility device has someone hold their place in line at the appropriate microphone (holder). When the holder reaches the mike, they identify themselves using name, local number and who they are holding the microphone for. (e.g., “My name is Jack Black, Local 999, and I am holding this spot for Jean Green, Local 999”).
2. The holder at the microphone then removes the microphone from the stand and walks it to the aisle adjacent to the mic area and gives it to the person who is to speak.
3. The speaker identifies themselves by giving their name and local number. They then speak to their issue.
4. At the conclusion of their remarks, they hand the microphone back to the holder, who brings it back and replaces the microphone in the stand.
Motion forms
Copies of motion forms for delegates are available from staff at the back of the hall. When making motions, please make sure you write legibly.
Before speaking on your issue, identify yourself by name and local number or committee affiliation.
Completed motion forms must be handed to the recording secretary at the front of the room as soon as you have finished speaking.
Role of staff
1. Staff assigned to work at Convention are easily identified by their staff badge. Each staff person assigned to Convention has a specific role and responsibility either on the Convention Floor, or in an administrative capacity, i.e., registration, convention office, etc.
2. The primary role of assigned staff is to facilitate the smooth running of Convention and your cooperation in assisting staff in carrying out their duties will be appreciated.
3. If you need any assistance or information, please go to the Convention Office. If you need assistance on the Convention Floor, please see the staff at the back of the Convention Hall identified with a yellow name badge holder and red ‘staff’ ribbon.
4. If you need approval for a notice to go on the digital screens, please see the Assistant Floor Manager, who is located at the rear of the Convention Hall.
Credentials Committee
Terms of reference
- To receive and rule on complaints and/or irregularities regarding delegate
- To allow, or refuse entry to the Convention floor, to any persons whose delegate credentials are in dispute.
- To rule on and supervise the transfer of credentials from alternate to delegates at conventions, in accordance with Article 13 of the
The committee reserves the right to review its terms of reference as circumstances dictate, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee.
Guidelines for operation
1. Duties of the Credentials Committee:
The duties of the Credentials Committee of the Convention are to scrutinize the credentials of Delegates, Alternates and Observers (referred to as D/A/O), verify their entitlement to attend in the capacity sought, ensure that the Constitution is followed in respect to credentials, rule on disputed credentials (subject to any appeal to the Convention), and make reports to the Convention, as required, as to the number of registered Delegates, Alternates, Observers and Guests.
2. Irregularities in credentials:
If an irregularity is noted at the Convention Registration Desk, the potential Delegate/ Alternate/ Observer (D/A/O) is referred to a member of the Committee, who identifies the D/A/O by OPSEU card and Local number, and checks the Convention registration database for Local and name. If verified, the Committee member makes a note in the registration data base, escorts the D/A/O to the registration desk. The registration staff will then issue the required credential.
3. If there is no documentation in the Convention registration database and the potential D/A/O has a photocopy, the Committee member makes a note in the database, escorts the D/A/O to the registration desk. The staff will then issue the required credential.
4. If there is neither documentation nor photocopy, the potential D/A/O must be verified as duly elected by reviewing the Local Credential or by an affirmation form signed by an EBM from the region and/or staff representative and/or the Local President. The Committee member makes a note in the registration database and escorts the D/A/O to the registration desk. The staff will then issue the required credential.
5. Where a D/A/O presents all copies of the credential form, the Committee member keeps the file copy and makes a note in the registration database. The Committee member escorts the D/A/O to the registration desk. A credential is then issued.
6. Escorts/aides for disabled Delegates/Alternates/Observers are issued guest badges at the registration desk. The escort/aid is entered in the database as a guest. The D/A/O is escorted by the escort/aide to a staff member at the door of the Convention, to be taken to the appropriate area of the floor. The escort/aide remains in the Guest section.
7. Lost Delegate/Alternate badges:
No replacement badge will be issued. The member may be issued an observer or guest badge only.
All accredited delegates must wear their badge on the Convention floor at all times.
Credentials Committee
Region 1 Natalie D’Onofrio Local 102
Region 2 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 Adviser Gord Longhi
Secretary Jayme Giles
Constitution Committee
Region 1 Naz Blinck Local 137
Region 2 Dave Wakely Local 277
Region 3 Tim Hannah Local 308
Region 4 Adam Ly Local 499
Region 5 Janice Hagan Local 561
Region 6 Arlene Proulx Local 607
Region 7 Stacy Grieve Local 736
EBM Ken Steinbrunner Local 642
Staff Adviser Pat Honsberger
Secretary Hasnain Abid
Resolutions Committee
Region 1 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 Adviser Lori Davis
Secretary Enrico De Matteo
General information
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
For information on meetings in the area, please call 416-487-5591 (staffed 24/7)
Appeals for donations
The one-time Convention Donations Appeal takes place on Friday after lunch. Donation forms will be placed on the tables for delegates during the lunch break. Donations will be distributed among the various bona fide causes, and OPSEU/SEFPO will match all the donations collected up to a maximum of $5,000.
Marketplace, Silent Auction and OPSEU/SEFPO Store in Hall C on Level 300
Don’t miss the displays in the Marketplace and don’t forget to bid on an item in the Silent Auction. Merchandise is also available in the OPSEU/SEFPO store. The marketplace is open on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Please note that the draws for prizes will be held Saturday morning.
Escalators and elevators
As a safety precaution, all handout material must be distributed a minimum of 10 feet away from any escalator or 10 feet away from the front of elevator doors.
Fire exits
In case of emergency, please take note of the nearest fire exits on the Convention floor. The exits are clearly marked throughout MTCC.
Food court
The Simcoe Place food court is across the street. Accessible access to the food court is available from the CBC building.
Hotel checkout information for Saturday, April 9th
Hotel checkout is 12 noon (no exceptions). You may bring your luggage to the bell captain’s desk in the main lobby of the hotel, where it can be stored until your departure.
Human rights accommodation
If you have mobility issues, please identify your evacuation needs with the hotel and the Convention floor regional staff assigned to your section.
Large-print material
For the visually impaired, please visit the Convention office for assistance
Medical in Constitution Hall
Ambulance paramedics are on duty on the Convention floor for emergency medical assistance.
Meeting announcements
Announcements of meetings of OPSEU/SEFPO groups during Convention may be shown on the digital screens. Please see the Assistant Floor Manager at the back of the room if you need a meeting announced.
Noise and electronic devices
Please note that all devices must be switched to “mute.” If you are outside the main doors to the Convention floor, please keep the noise down in the hallways.
No posting of advertising material
The Metro Toronto Convention Centre, the InterContinental Centre, Sheraton Centre, Marriott City Center, Westin Harbour Castle and the Fairmont Royal York prohibit posting of signs or any other promotional materials. Do not post anything on the walls in these buildings. Items posted will be removed immediately.
Security/lost and found at MTCC
The Security Unit and Lost and Found Services can be reached by calling
416-585-8160. Please do not leave any personal items on the Convention floor. Remember to take all your materials with you at the end of each day, as the tables will be cleared.
Sign-language interpretation (If requested)
Sign-language interpretation services are provided for those with hearing impairment on Convention floor in the area to the left of the podium. No matter what region you come from, please come to this area if you need to see the sign-language interpreters.
Other convention dates and locations
NUPGE June 17-19, 2022 (St. John’s, NL)
OFL November 20-24, 2023 (Toronto)
CLC May 8 – 12, 2023 (Vancouver)
OPSEU Convention April 20-22, 2023 (Toronto)
Solidarity Forever
(Tune: Battle Hymn of the Republic; words: Ralph Chaplin)
When the union’s inspiration
through the workers’ blood shall run There can be no power greater
anywhere beneath the sun.
Yet what force on earth is weaker
than the feeble strength of one?
But the union makes us strong.
CHORUS: Solidarity forever
Solidarity forever Solidarity forever
For the union makes us strong.
They have taken untold millions that they never toiled to earn,
But without our brain and muscle, not a single wheel could turn.
We can break their haughty power, gain our freedom when we learn
That the union makes us strong. (CHORUS)
In our hands is placed a power greater than their hoarded gold;
Greater than the might of atoms magnified a thousand fold,
We can bring to birth a new world from the ashes of the old,
For the union makes us strong.