On October 3-4 and 7-8 local presidents met at OPSEU"s head office to clarify their roles and responsibilities as well as learn how to communicate effectively with their LEC members. Most of them had been elected in the past year and were eager to find out what they could learn from each other and from OPSEU staff.
This Orientation for Local Presidents provided opportunities for discussions and questions and answers. Resource people, from the different departments of OPSEU, met with the local presidents and briefed them on the resources available. These are the personnel members are referred to for expert advice in dealing with issues ranging from new member orientation, to grievance handling and harassment.
These two sessions used scenarios and tools to develop strategies, strengthen local infrastructure, develop stewards, face management and delegate and share local leadership.
Session 2: (PHOTO ABOVE) Participants take time off for a group photo with President Smokey Thomas and First Vice President/Treasurer, Eduardo Almeida
The local presidents shared these strategies they used to gain management"s respect:
- Do not let anything slide
- Call management on the violations to the collective agreement
- Take a balanced approach to issues
- Go to meetings prepared
- Ask for memos, letters or any documents to verify issues
To pull members together and show solidarity they worked on:
- Wearing the same wrist bands, buttons or T-shirts
- Creating a "common enemy" front by sharing newsletters, information
- Rallying around a leader e.g. a meeting where the President of OPSEU was in attendance
To deal with member to member issues:
- Seek the assistance of their staff representative
- Do more mentoring and conflict resolution training
- Use more than one steward to investigate an issue
For the issue of accommodation:
- Use the resources available on the OPSEU website
- Contact experienced workers for assistance
- Use legislation to back up arguments with the employer
OPSEU"s Executive Assistant to the President, Peggy Maybury administered the oath of office and presented certificates to participants at Session 1
The evaluations indicated that the local presidents, though overwhelmed by the amount of information gathered, enjoyed the sessions and are excited to take on the challenges of their new role.
A proud local president, Audrey Smith of Local 5103 shares her certificate with the class.
