In 2021, Canada’s Governor General proclaimed September 30 a federal holiday in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a day to commemorate and reflect on the history and legacy of Canada’s residential schools and our ongoing responsibilities as settlers, in the pursuit of truth and reconciliation.
The time for solemn reflection that this day provides was one of the 94 recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee and continues to be a vital component of the reconciliation process.
On August 30, 2022, OPSEU/SEFPO was notified by the Government of Ontario that they would not consider this year’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a holiday for employees in the Ontario Public Service (OPS).
OPSEU/SEFPO vehemently disputes the employer’s position, as it relates specifically (but not exclusively) to:
OPS Unified Collective Agreement
- Article 2 (Management Rights)
- Articles 47, 31A.5 and 32.14 (Holidays)
- Article UN 13 and 73 (Holiday Payment)
OPS Correctional Bargaining Unit Agreement
- Article 2 (Management Rights)
- Article 3 (No Discrimination/Employment Equity)
- Articles COR 13 and 73 (Holiday Payment)
- Articles 31A.5, 32.14, 47 (Holidays)
Special holidays proclaimed by the Governor General or Lieutenant Governor, such as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, are to be recognized as paid holidays for OPSEU/SEFPO members in the OPS.
OPSEU/SEFPO has filed Union grievances on behalf of all of our members in the OPS to have this day recognized as a holiday. OPSEU/SEFPO believes that the holiday provisions of the OPS Unified and Corrections Collective Agreements entitles all our members to this holiday.
Linked here is the language for members from both OPS Unified and OPS Corrections who believe they have been aggrieved by the employer’s decision. Local presidents and stewards can contact their Staff Representatives for further assistance if necessary.