2006 Archives
December 21, 2006
Anti-scab legislation: Keep meeting with your MPs!
The PSAC, along with the Canadian Labour Congress, the Canadian Auto Workers and the Canadian Union of Public Employees, appeared before the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities on December 5, 2006, to ask MPs to listen to the voices of Canadian workers and adopt Bill C-257, the anti-scab legislation. Details.
December 19, 2006
Technical Services – Dispute Settlement Vote
The votes have been counted and the results are in; members of the Technical Services Group have chosen arbitration as their dispute resolution mechanism for the upcoming round of collective bargaining with Treasury Board. Read the details.
December 18, 2006
Treasury Board and Parks Canada
National Bargaining Conference
The National Bargaining Conference for Treasury Board and Parks Canada units will be held in Ottawa from February 1 to 4, 2007. More details will be provided shortly. You can read the updates on the Eastern and Western Regional Conferences.
December 15, 2006
Cuts at Status of Women Canada
PSAC is speaking out on how the cuts at Status of Women Canada will affect both jobs and the government's internal capacity to achieve women's equality. Read the union's submission to the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women.
December 14, 2006
Public Service Dental Care Plan (PSDCP) revisions for 2006, 2007 and 2008
December 10, 2006
PSAC Statement on International Human Rights Day
December 10 is a day to reflect on the status of human rights in Canada, our world and within our Union. Read the details.
December 8, 2006
Cuts at Status of Women Canada - The fight is on
Women are going to fight the cuts at Status of Women Canada. They are starting with a demonstration Sunday, in front of the Supreme Court in Ottawa.
- Read the invitation to the demonstration
- Send a Email today to Stephen Harper, Bev Oda and your MP to protest these cuts
December 7, 2006
According to the Conservative Government, women's equality has been achieved. We disagree!
Harper's government believes that they have done more for women equality in 8 months than the previous governement in years! We disagree. We need a government that works for, and with women. We need a government that can work on more than five priorities at a time... and on priorities that matter to women.
To learn more, visit our section on the cuts at Status of Women Canada.
All eyes are now on the National Bargaining Conference
As soon as the Western Regional Bargaining Conference came to an end in Vancouver on December 3, the PSAC began to focus its efforts on the National Conference to be held in Ottawa in February 2007. Details and pictures.
December 6, 2006
Scholarships
The 2006 Award Winners. The PSAC Scholarship Awards Committee has chosen the recipients of this year scholarshhips. To see the list of the winners in 2006.
End violence against women in Canada
December 6 is National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. The PSAC commemorates this day by calling for more federal funding for women's groups across Canada which advocate for equality and to end violence against women. Support this call by sending a postcard to your Member of Parliament.
December 1st, 2006
December 3, International Day for Persons with Disabilities
Public services better at ensuring accessibility
The Harper government has been delivering on its philosophy of smaller government and dominance of the “free” market in the past year. The Conservatives have made deeper cuts to government services and reduced federal revenues by introducing more tax cuts. Read the details.
World AIDS Day
This December 1, World AIDS Day, the PSAC, along with Canadian workers and other unions call on the federal government to end its long silence on HIV/AIDS and make some much-needed commitments to fight the disease at home and abroad. Read the Canadian Labour Congress' press release.
November 29, 2006
PSAC Calls on Status of Women Minister to Resign
Ottawa- Canadians are outraged at the $5M cuts to Status of Women Canada (SWC) and the changes in the guidelines which saw the elimination of funding for research and advocacy for women's equality rights. Read the press release.
November 28, 2006
Eastern Regional Bargaining Conference
Faced with new challenges, about 200 PSAC members working for Treasury Board and Parks Canada geared up for the upcoming round of negotiations at the Eastern Regional Bargaining Conference in Montreal this past weekend. Details, photo.
November 24, 2006
If you work for the federal government, Parks Canada, the Canada Revenue Agency or the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, here is: Your guide to the Public Service Modernization Act
The Public Service Modernization Act (PSMA) is now fully implemented and has an impact on 130,000 PSAC members. Because this is 'omnibus' legislation, it creates or amends a number of pieces of legislation. Under the PSMA, there are four pieces of legislation that are either significantly amended or newly created. Two, the Public Service Labour Relations Act (PSLRA) and the Public Service Employment Act (PSEA), are of particular interest to PSAC members.
Visit our new section on the modernization Act
Advisory Committee on the Public Service
Reacting to the creation this week of an Advisory Committee on the Public Service, PSAC National President John Gordon wrote to Prime Minister Stephen Harper that "what the public sector needs is leadership at both the political and senior management levels, and not yet another advisory committee."
November 20, 2006
2007 PSAC National Pride Conference “Include and be Included”
We are pleased to be sending you this Registration package for the 2007 PSAC National Pride Conference, which will be held March 30, 2007 to April 1, 2007 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Vancouver under the theme “INCLUDE AND BE INCLUDED.”
Pay equity case pre-trial motions get their first day in Court
The most recent pre-trial motions in PSAC's pay equity case against a number of separate employers had their first day in court on October 27. Read the latest bulletin.
November 16, 2006
JLP Workshop Requests
We are pleased to announce that the PSAC-PSHRMAC Joint Learning Program (JLP) is now accepting workshop requests online. If you are interested in organizing a workshop in your workplace, you can go to the JLP Web site and click on New Workshop request. For more information about the JLP workshops go to http://www.jlp-pam.ca/ or call (613) 560-2595.
November 14, 2006
Treasury Board and government agency workers are entitled to compensation if they work on a Designated Paid Holiday
Many Departments and separate agencies continue to violate our collective agreement articles that set out the compensation to be paid to members who work variable hours and work on a designated paid holiday. Collective agreements of are clear: PSAC members working for Treasury Board and separate agencies are entitled to be compensated on a designated paid holiday. Learn how you can claim money that might be owed to you.
November 9, 2006
CFIA bargaining update: Notice to Bargain
The PSAC-CFIA negotiating team has served Notice to Bargain to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Read the details.
November 3, 2006
Retroactive payments of the kilometric Rate for Treasury Board employees
If you are a PSAC member working for Treasury Board or for an agency who has chosen to remain part of the National Joint Council (NJC), please note that you might be entitled to claim retroactive payment. Read all the details.
November 2, 2006
Treasury Board Technical Services (Table 3) Group
- Vote to determine the dispute settlement route
More than 10,000 members of the Technical Services Group at Treasury Board will vote over the next few weeks to determine whether they will choose the conciliation/strike or the arbitration route for their next round of bargaining. Read the details.
October 30, 2006
Regional Bargaining Conferences
The Treasury Board Bargaining Units PA (Table 1), SV (Table 2), TC (Table 3), EB (Table 5), FB and Parks Regional Bargaining Conferences will be held on November 25 and 26 in Montréal (Eastern Conference) and on December 2 and 3, 2006, in Vancouver (Western Conference). Details.
October 26, 2006
The anti-scab Bill has been adopted. Now what?
Spirits were high on Parliament Hill after 167 MPs voted in favour of Bill C-257 on October 25 and sent it to a committee of the House of Commons. However, there is still a huge amount of work in front of us. Details.
Statement on the Canadian Labour Business Centre
As part of its recent, arbitrary program cuts the federal government cut the funding to the Canadian Labour and Business Centre. Successive PSAC Presidents have worked with other Labour leaders and business leaders as members of the Board which directed the CLBC's research. Read the details.
Did you know that October is Women's History Month in Canada?
Women's History Month represents an opportunity to highlight women's contributions and to recognize the achievements of diverse women as a vital part of our Canadian history. This year's theme is "Aboriginal Women". We will be posting a series of fact sheets (one every week) highlighting the realities of Aboriginal women as well as their contributions to their communities and families and the unique challenges they face. To read the first fact sheet.
Medicare Works: Keep it public, keep it fair
Join the cross-country campaign to defend and strengthen our public health care system. Read more.
October 25, 2006
PSAC applauds the adoption of the anti-scab Bill
The PSAC applauds the adoption on October 25, in second reading, of Bill C-257, the anti-scab legislation introduced by the Bloc Québécois. Read the press release.
October 23, 2006
Canadian Labour Congress Anti-scab legislation Lobby
Fifteen members of the PSAC along with more than one hundred other union members are in Ottawa to take part in the CLC's Anti-Scab Legislation Lobby. Union members are meeting with Members of Parliament October to secure their support for the vote which is scheduled for Wednesday, October 25, 2006. Details, photo.
Do your own lobby. Send a fax to your MP now!
Union Update
Read the latest news about your union in the Union Update for the period of September 5 - 29, 2006
October 18, 2006
Treasury Board once again blocks collective agreement at the Office of the Auditor General
Treasury Board Secretariat officials have interfered once again in the collective bargaining process between the PSAC and the Office of the Auditor General by rejecting an item agreed to at the table. Read the press release.
October 13, 2006
USGE wins battle over danger pay.
As victories go, this was a big one. A memorandum of agreement signed October 5th with Correctional Service Canada will see the Penological Factor Allowance restored to the roughly 2,000 USGE members who have been denied the longstanding allowance since the summer of 2005. Details, photo.
Support the Canadian literacy programming
Join with other PSAC members and literacy advocates across Canada, and support for Canadian literacy programming. On September 25, the Federal Government announced it will cut $17.7 Million from its funding in support of regional literacy programs. Help us reversing that decision by faxing your Member of Parliament.
PSAC Booklet on Staffing in the Federal Public Service
The PSAC has just produced a booklet which offers information on staffing in the Federal Public Service. The booklet includes suggested questions to help Locals intervene effectively in their workplace staffing regime.
Read the booklet, 422 kb.
October 12, 2006
You can play a role in the campaign to fight the cancellation of the Court Challenges Program
Here is how. Over 180 organizations signed a letter that was sent on October 4 to Prime Minister Stephen Harper. The coalition has created a website with the background documents regarding the history of this program. There are links that will help you participate actively in this campaign.
Get involved in the campaign now!
Another campaign, another proof of PSAC members' generosity
The Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign (GCWCC) was launched on September 16 all across the country. PSAC members are the backbone of this campaign, the largest workplace campaign in Canada. Donations given by PSAC members will change the lives of thousands of men, women and children in communities across the country. When you are asked to make a donation, please give generously. Check what your donation can do.
October 5, 2006
Take action to improve EI for workers!
Bill C-269 was debated at second reading in the House on September 21st. It will be debated again in the coming weeks. Members of Parliament will have a chance to vote in favour of sending Bill C-269 to a Committee for public debate. Tell your MP you support Bill C-269, and that you want them to support it too. Send them a Fax today to ask them to vote for this important Bill.
October 4, 2006
Reinstate the Court Challenges Program
The PSAC, and more than 170 unions, social and community organizations across Canada, are asking the Canadian government to reinstate the Court Challenges Program abolished last week. The letter, written to Prime Minister Stephen Harper, states that the only way for the Canadian government to demonstrate that it intends to respect the human rights of Canada's people is by reinstating the Program.
PSAC members at Communications Security Establishment ratify collective agreement
OTTAWA – The first collective agreement negotiated under new legislation governing labour relations with federal public service workers was ratified by about 1,500 workers at the Communications Security Establishment yesterday. Read the details.
October 3, 2006
Regional pay zones: Only one goal, eliminate them!
The members of the National Pay Zone Committee met in Ottawa on September 14 to discuss how to achieve the goal set by the PSAC Triennial Convention in May 2006, which made the elimination of the pay zones a top collective bargaining priority of the union.
September 27, 2006
Conservatives cut even with a huge surplus
The Conservative government is showing its true colours and cutting or eliminating programs and services. Read the initial PSAC response.
The latest version of PSAC Negotiations Section publication TRENDS and appendix A looking at Regional Trends.
The purpose of this document is to present current economic and labour market trends in Canada and PSAC's regions to give PSAC members and staff a good idea of the current state of the Canadian economy. In this edition, we will describe how the Canadian and the regional economies performed since the start of 2006, and update some projections for 2007.
September 22, 2006
PSAC Members Working at Service Canada - Component Allocation Vote Update
The PSAC Alliance Executive Committee has voted to create as external impartial committee to investigate allegations that CEIU and NH&WU have violated the PSAC Constitution. This investigation will be required before any membership allocation vote takes place; therefore, the vote is suspended until further notice. To read the background document and AEC motion to the NBoD made on September 21, 2006.
September 21, 2006
Women: don’t look for economic equality from a Conservative government
OTTAWA – The Harper government has once again shown that it has little interest in women’s equality in the workforce, says the Public Service Alliance of Canada.
Read the details.
September 15, 2006
Day 2 and 3 of the CFIA National Bargaining Conference
The participants at the CFIA National Bargaining Conference elected the members of their Negotiation Team.
Read the details.
September 14, 2006
Union Update
Read the latest news about your union in the Union Update for the period of August 7 to September 1st, 2006
September 13, 2006
CFIA National Bargaining Conference 2006 - Day 1
Determination and optimism were on the agenda during the first day of the CFIA National Bargaining Conference in Ottawa on September 12.
Read the details.
September 7, 2006
Program of Demands for Parks Canada, Treasury Board bargaining units
PSAC has developed a new tool to help Locals/Branches prepare their bargaining demand proposals for the next round of negotiations. Read the details.
September 1st, 2006
PSAC adds its voice in protest regarding Columbian government decision
PSAC adds its voice in protest on the Columbian government's decision to liquidate ADPOSTAL, provider of Postal Services in Colombia.
Read more in French, English or Spanish, PDF
Pension surplus litigation:
No out-of-court settlement, trial to resume in February 2007. Read the details.
August 31, 2006
Labour Day Message: Defend Quality Public Services
This Labour Day, PSAC reaffirms its commitment to helping build a just, inclusive, secure and prosperous society for workers and their families by defending quality public services. Read the details.
August 29, 2006
The struggle against BHP Billiton continues.
The PSAC recently negotiated a collective agreement with BHP Billition at the Ekati Mine. The PSAC now pledges its supports for the workers at another Billiton mine, in Chile. Read the letter from John Gordon, PSAC President, to Luis Troncoso, President of the Escondida Mine workers' union.
View the message French, English or Spanish, PDF
August 28, 2006
Union Update
Read the latest news about your union in the Union Update for the period of July 10 to August 4, 2006
August 24, 2006
Report highlights issues facing compensation and benefits advisors
Problems in recruitment, retention, training and classification are some of the issues affecting members classified as AS (Administrative Services), particularly those working as Compensation and Benefits Advisors in the federal public sector. Read the details.
August 23, 2006
PSAC 2006 Scholarship Program
The deadline for the receipt of applications for the PSAC 2006 Scholarship Program has passed and applications are no longer being accepted for this year's awards. The applications will be reviewed and the15 scholarships granted this fall.
Information about the 2007 Scholarship Program will be posted later this year when applications will be available including the 2007 essay question.
August 18, 2006
Stop the use of scabs!
We have another occasion to push for the adoption of anti-scab legislation. Act now!.
NYU Student Strike
August 17, 2006
PSAC calling!
You could be one of the members called in a telephone survey being conducted by Environics Research Group for your union. Read the details.
PSAC endorses action plan to combat the AIDS pandemic
On the occasion of Canada's hosting the International Aids Conference, PSAC endorses the Global Treatment Access Group's plan of action. Read the details.
August 11, 2006
PSAC waiting for Court dates in pay equity complaint against Canada Post
PSAC won its pay equity complaint against Canada Post but almost a year later our members are still waiting for their money. Read about the latest developments.
Treasury Board trying again to derail PSAC's pay equity claim against separate employers
Treasury Board is continuing to fight PSAC’s pay equity claim against separate employers. Read the latest bulletin.
August 9, 2006
2007 PSAC National Health and Safety Conference
Registration package for the 2007 PSAC National Health and Safety Conference, which will be held January 19 to 21, 2007 at the Ottawa Marriott Hotel in the National Capital Region under the theme “Regulation Works!” is now available.
August 4, 2006
Pay zones: it's time for them to go!
The upcoming round of Treasury Board and Agency bargaining will provide us with an opportunity to eliminate this antiquated and unfair pay zone system. PSAC members must make this a priority in the next round of bargaining. Read the details.
August 2, 2006
Union Update
Read the latest news about your union in the Union Update for the period of June 19 to July 7, 2006
Important information for PSAC members who have received Sun Life rehabilitation income benefits
Disabled members who have participated in an approved rehabilitation program and who have worked less than full-time and received rehabilitation income benefits from Sun Life are eligible to have their cases reviewed if they were penalized when they received retroactive pay as a result of wage increases negotiated by their union. Read the details.
August 1st, 2006
Standing Up for Public Health Care
The PSAC is part of a coalition of unions and other groups committed to protecting and fighting to improve the public health care system in Canada. Read the coalition's solidarity statement.
July 31, 2006
National Gallery of Canada: Bargaining, classification and equal pay update
Negotiations for the renewal of the collective agreement have begun between the PSAC and the National Gallery for the benefits of the 235 members. Bargaining proposals were exchanged on July 17, 2006 . Bargaining will resume on August 2, 3, 18, 30 and 31. The bargaining team is optimistic about this round; the willingness of the employer to come forward with many dates bodes well for the future. Read the details.
July 27, 2006
Labour Movement welcomes workers to Workers Out! 3rd Global Conference brings lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans workers together
Between two and three hundred gay, lesbian, bisexual and trans workers from around the world have converged on Montreal to attend Workers Out!, an international worker and human rights conference being held in advance of the first World Outgames, which open this weekend.
July 26, 2006
Without peace and security there is no possible means of building a future for the people of Middle-East
In a letter sent to Prime Minister Stephen Harper on the current situation in Lebanon, PSAC National President is asking that Canada supports a ceasefire to prevent more loss of life. Read the letter.
Bill 107 - Amendments to the Ontario Human Rights Code
Read the letter sent to the Premier and the Attorney General of Ontario as well as to the Justice Policy Committee to express our concerns about the proposed amendments to the Ontario Human Rights Code ("Code") under Bill 107. Read the details.
July 19, 2006
PSAC/Treasury Board and Agency bargaining - It's just around the corner!
The PSAC/Treasury Board and Agency collective agreements expire between December 2006 and October, 2007 and PSAC is committed to getting to the bargaining table before the expiry of these agreements. Read the details.
July 12, 2006
A physical test imposed on PSAC members at National Defence is found to be discriminatory
The Public Service Labour Relations Board has ruled that a firefighter fitness test adopted and implemented by the Department of National Defence is discriminatory and should be withdrawn immediately. Read the details.
When the phone rings, it could be your union calling!
PSAC is going to be surveying members in preparation for the next round of bargaining with Treasury Board, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Parks Canada and the Canada Revenue Agency. Read the details, (PDF, 75 kb).
July 7, 2006
Federal Public Service Employee Survey
The Federal Public Service Employee Survey was released on June 23 of this year. The results of the responses given to the survey by PSAC members can be found here.
July 5, 2006
Treasury Board - PSAC National Pay Zone Committee advocates conciliation-strike route
The National Pay Zone Committee has taken the position that conciliation with the right to strike is our best chance at eliminating pay zones. Read the details.
Union Update
Read the latest news about your union in the Union Update for the period of June 5 to 16, 2006
June 30, 2006
Collective agreement ratified at Ekati diamond mine
Yellowknife – PSAC members at Ekati diamond mine vote to ratify tentative agreement with Ekati owner BHP Billiton; ending a strike that began April 7 ends with first-ever union contract at a Canadian diamond mine and significant improvements for workers. Read the details.
June 23, 2006
PS workers committed to high quality service, face some barriers to doing their jobs: survey
OTTAWA – Despite feeling that they are overworked and have had no improvement in working conditions, public service workers are still strongly committed to their job of providing quality services to Canadians, according to the latest results of the federal government's Public Service Employees Survey. Read the details.
Tentative agreement at the Ekati diamond mine
Yellowknife – The Public Service Alliance of Canada has reached a tentative agreement for striking Ekati diamond mine workers with Ekati owner BHP Billiton and will be recommending acceptance to end the strike that began April 7. Read the details.
June 21, 2006
Aboriginal Solidarity Day
The PSAC and the First Nations have created new ways to better protect the workers rights, salaries and working conditions. Read PSAC statement on Aboriginal Solidarity Day.
June 16, 2006
University of Montreal
From June 19th to July 21st Student research assistants and teaching assistants are voting to establish their right to unionization with the PSAC-FTQ. For more information, (in french only).
Union members at Canada Post want answers, not slogans
OTTAWA – Due to the lack of transparency by Canada Post in refusing to reveal its development plans for this public service, members of the Union of Postal Communications Employees (UPCE) of the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) will support a citizens' action against the Crown Corporation on Monday, June 19, at noon. Read the details.
June 15, 2006
Diamond customers asked to boycott dirty diamonds produced by BHP Billiton
OTTAWA – On Saturday, June 17, diamond customers in several Canadian cities will be invited to join the boycott campaign launched by the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) against Ekati to win a fair first contract. Read the details.
Statement to the Standing Committee on Finance of the House of Commons on the Statutory review of Canada Revenue Act by John Gordon National President of the Public Service Alliance of Canada and Betty Bannon National President of the Union of Taxation Employees on June 14, 2006
New Information on NJC Directives and Public Service Health Care Plan
Updates have been posted on a number of NJC Directives. As well, there is a new report - "Important Changes to the Public Service Health Care Plan" posted. Read the details.
June 14, 2006
Union Update
Read the latest news about your union in the Union Update for the period of May 15 to June 2, 2006
June 13, 2006
PSAC launches campaign to boycott Ekati dirty diamonds
Union launches “Dirty Diamonds” campaign against owner BHP Billiton with major ads in New York Times and Wall Street Journal. PSAC says don’t buy trademarked Aurias and CanadaMark diamonds produced by strikebreakers.
- Read the release.
- See the ad, PDF
- Support the campaign, by sending an e-mail to BHP.
- More information on the Ekati strike.
June 12, 2006
Summer of Pride
The PSAC, along with our gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender sisters and brothers invite you to celebrate the various "Pride" events happening in cities and communities across Canada in June or August. Read the details.
June 8, 2006
PSAC budget 2007-2009, dues increase and special strike fund dues
The Convention adopted a progressive budget and resolutions with dues increase that will allow the PSAC to better represent the interests of members, as well as all Canadians, at work and in their communities. Read the details.
Ekati diamond mine strike - CLC President in Yellowknife on June 9
The President of the Canadian Labour Congress, Ken Georgetti, will visit the picket line set up by PSAC members at the Ekati diamond mine on June 9 in Yellowknife. He has already taken up the defence of PSAC members and promised when he came to the PSAC Convention in Toronto in May that he would be visiting the strikers.
Ken Georgetti believes that this conflict with multinational BHP Billiton shows that there is an urgent need for anti-scab legislation in Canada to restore balance between workers and employers.
You can help ending this conflict by putting pressure on BHP. Send an e-mail to the Labour Minister of Canada and to the company, to ask that the workers of the Ekati diamond mine be treated fairly. Visit the LabourStart website to participate in this international campaign.
June 7, 2006
Taking sides - Are fines for crossing the picket line fair?
Some unions are fining members who cross the picket line during a strike, and the courts are getting involved. Read the details.
June 6, 2006
PSAC asking Court to ensure health and safety protection for Parliament Hill workers
OTTAWA - The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) will ask the Federal Court to ensure that the Canadian government provides Parliament Hill workers with the same health and safety protection granted to workers across Canada. Read the details.
June 2nd, 2006
Collective agreement ratified at MDS Nordion
PSAC members working at MDS Nordion in Ottawa ratified a collective agreement. The 3 year contract is retroactive to April 2005 and will expire on March 31, 2008. It provides pay increases of 2.75% each year of the contract and a $500 signing bonus. Other improvements to the collective agreement include better dental and health care. The negotiations lasted over 9 months with 9 days of conciliation..
Taxation of pay equity interest payments
Individual appeals of tax assessments on pay equity interest have little chance of success. Read pay equity bulletin #64.
May 31, 2006
Negotiations broke off at Ekati diamond mine
BHP Billiton tables "final" offer Public Service Alliance of Canada calls illegal and refuses to compromise to end Ekati diamond mine strike despite union counterproposal accepting almost all employer proposals; PSAC will now step up pressure and target Ekati Aurias diamond sales. Read the details.
The Public Service Modernization Act
Would you like to understand the new staffing regime in the Federal Public Service? Take a few minutes to follow Jean as she decides to seek a new job in the FPS. For the details.
May 24, 2006
Nishnawbe-Aski Police Officers choose PSAC
Toronto - On May 24, 2006 Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service (NAPS) Officers voted overwhelmingly, by a margin of 61 to 11 to join the PSAC. Read the details.
PSAC to stay at Ekati diamond mine
YELLOWKNIFE - The Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) has issued a decision clearly confirming that the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) remains the bargaining agent for almost 400 workers at the Ekati diamond mine in the Northwest Territories. Read the news release.
Strike at the Ekati diamond mine
The PSAC and BHP Billion resume negotiations in Edmonton. Read the news release.
Further Submission to the House of Commons Legislative Committee on Bill C -2 by the Public Service Alliance of Canada May 19, 2006
May 23, 2006
Awareness dims over Aboriginal issues
Aboriginal Awareness Week was introduced in 1992 to increase awareness of Aboriginal peoples among federal public service workers. It is held annually on the four days following the Victoria Day long weekend. Read the details.
May 19, 2006
BHP Billiton must respect its workers
Yellowknife - By using scabs at its Ekati diamond mine and by refusing to bargain in good faith with its 400 unionized workers, BHP Billiton is showing its contempt for Canadian workers. Read the news release.
May 18, 2006
Working families want withdrawal from Afghanistan
OTTAWA - The Canadian Labour Congress calls for the withdrawal of Canada's troops in Afghanistan and an increase of our commitment to the reconstruction and development of that country. Read the details.
May 17, 2006
Our first issue of Our Union Voice
Welcome to our first issue of Our Union Voice . PSAC is proud to launch our latest publication that is mailed directly to all of our members. Our Union Voice will be published quarterly.
Vol. 1 N° 1 | Spring 2006
What do you think of our new publication?
Take this quick survey.
Fighting homophobia in the workplace
The PSAC is proud to commemorate May 17th as the National Day Against Homophobia with the broader labour movement and our partners in the community, coalitions such as EGALE, Canadians for Equal Marriage (CEM) and la Fondation Émergence. Read the details.
May 16, 2006
Statement to the House of Commons Legislative Committee on Bill C-2
John Gordon, National President of the PSAC says Bill C-2 falls seriously short in delivering on the key areas such as protection against reprisals. Read the details.
May 15, 2006
PSAC Stands in Solidarity with Six Nations Protesters
The recent standoff in Caledonia, Ontario is merely a symptom of a much greater problem - the disdainful manner by which elected governments address Aboriginal land claims. Read the details.
May 12, 2006
We want more than just flowers!
PSAC has joined a coalition of labour and community organizations in signing the Mothers' Day Statement issued by the National Association of Women and the Law. According to the Statement, mothers need more government support and better income replacement, so they are not forced to depend on other family members for basic income security. Read the Statement.
May 10, 2006
Federal budget proposes changes to pensions
The federal budget plan tabled in Parliament last week contains proposals on pensions that are of interest to PSAC members. Read the details.
Union Update
Read the latest news about your union in the Union Update for the period of March 27 to April 14, 2006
May 9, 2006
Defending Quality Public Services
Whistleblower legislation
Why the PSAC does not want the government to proclaim Bill C-11. Read the details.
Student Employment
May 8, 2006
The latest version of PSAC Negotiations Section publication TRENDS and appendices looking at National and Regional economic Trends are now available.
Trends presents current economic and labour market data in Canada to give PSAC members and staff an overview of the current state of the Canadian economy. In this edition, we describe the Canadian economic performance in 2005 and for the first three months (1st quarter) of 2006, and we present some projections for 2006 and 2007. We provide this information nationally and for each of the PSAC's seven regions.
May 5, 2006
PSAC has a new National President
John Gordon has been elected National President of the PSAC this morning.
Patty Ducharme has been elected National Executive Vice-President of the PSAC.
Richard Des Lauriers was elected alternate National Executive Vice-President.
Read the details.
May 4, 2006
PSAC will work to see Bloc Québécois anti-scab bill enacted
TORONTO - While 400 of its members at the Ekati diamond mine north of Yellowknife suffer the consequences of having scabs in the workplace, the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) applauds the anti-scab Bill introduced today by the Bloc Québécois aimed at stopping this practice. Read the news release.
$55,000 for Ekati mine workers from PSAC delegates in Toronto
Delegates at the PSAC National Triennial Convention in Toronto pledged in excess of $55,000 to help members of PSAC Local X3050 on strike against BHP Billiton at the Ekati diamond mine, 300 kilometers north-east of Yellowknife. This amount comes in addition to the $100,000.00 already pledged by the Union of Northern Workers for its hardship fund. Read the details.
PSAC to elect new National President
TORONTO - The Public Service Alliance of Canada is set to elect a new National President to replace retiring leader Nycole Turmel.
Read the media advisory.
May 3, 2006
New PA classification standard in the works
The PSAC has signed an agreement to develop new classification standard for the Program and Administration Group. Read the details.
CLC President at PSAC Convention
Delegates to honour outgoing PSAC President Turmel
TORONTO - Nycole Turmel is stepping down after six years as the National President of the Public Service Alliance of Canada. Turmel was the first woman to be elected to the union's highest office. The union's triennial national convention will honour her legacy. Read the media advisory.
PSAC Statement on the Environment
We are accountable to future generations for the environment we will leave them. That makes cleaning up our environment an urgent priority. Read the details.
May 2nd, 2006
Federal budget spells bad news for federal public services
TORONTO - The Harper government’s first federal budget provides more questions than answers about its impact on services to Canadians, according to the Public Service Alliance of Canada. Read the details.
Child Care Statement
The PSAC has been intensifying its involvement in the broader child care campaign led by the Child Care Advocacy Association of Canada. Read the details.
Negotiations are under way at the Bank of Canada
Collective bargaining for a first collective agreement between the PSAC and the Security Officers at the Bank of Canada started on January 17, 2006. The objective of the first meeting was to present the union proposals to the employer. Issues related to process were also discussed. Read the details.
PSAC convention delegates rally in support of striking BHP Billiton mine workers
TORONTO - PSAC members employed at the Ekati diamond mine in the Northwest Territory have been on strike against BHP Billiton for a first collective agreement since early April. Read the media advisory.
May 1st, 2006
PSAC convention forum links human rights and environment
TORONTO - The Public Service Alliance of Canada's 14th triennial national convention is making the link between human rights and the environment. The union is also waiting to see what the federal budget has in store for Canadian workers and federal public sector workers in particular. Read the media advisory.
May Day Statement
PSAC Triennial National Convention 2006
Workers are fighting to protect their hard-won rights to organize, to bargain collectively and to strike. Read the details.
April 30, 2006
PSAC president, Toronto mayor to address union's national convention
TORONTO - The Public Service Alliance of Canada's 14th triennial national convention officially opens on May Day, celebrating the union's 40 years of achievement and change. Read the media advisory.
April 28, 2006
Day of Mourning
On this year's Day of Mourning , PSAC is asking that all members send a letter to your Member of Parliament urging the government to proclaim Part III (Occupational Health and Safety) of the Parliamentary Employment Staff Relations Act. Read the PSAC statement.
Strike at the Ekati diamond mine
400 PSAC members on strike against BHP Billiton are standing strong as the strike approaches its fourth week. Read the details.
April 27, 2006
14th PSAC Convention begins May 1
OTTAWA - The PSAC Convention officially begins on Monday, May 1, in Toronto, but there will be a pre-convention forum on political action and social justice on the previous day. Read the media advisory.
April 26, 2006
Child Care. Kids Are Worth It. - The Canadian Labour Congress to Focus on Child Care on May Day
OTTAWA - "With two-thirds of mothers with children under the age of three working outside the home to support their families; [...]" Read the details.
Federal budget: PSAC recommends the Government rebuild and strengthen public services and upgrade its infrastructure
A significant number of PSAC members are the people behind the services that government provides and should provide to the Canadian people. We have a strong understanding of what working people want and need from their governments. Read the union's pre-budget submission to the federal government.
April 25, 2006
Compensation and benefits advisors talk problems, solutions at roundtable
PSAC National President Nycole Turmel convened a roundtable on issues affecting members classified as AS (Admistrative Services), particularly those working as compensation and benefits advisors in the federal public sector. Read the details.
Pension surplus trial scheduled for February 2007
The trial has been scheduled to resume on February 27, 2007. The Court has reserved six weeks for opening arguments and presentation of evidence and expert testimony. This stage of the trial will be followed by a three-week recess. After the recess, the Court has reserved a further three weeks for closing arguments. Once the trial has concluded, the Court will work on its judgement.
April 24, 2006
PSAC 14th Triennial National Convention
Call for nominations. Read the details.
April 20, 2006
PSAC wins pay equity for workers at Museum of Nature
OTTAWA - The Public Service Alliance of Canada has won another pay equity victory, this time at the Canadian Museum of Nature. Read the news release.
April 19, 2006
Federal Budget Consultations - PSAC Statement
- Nycole Turmel, National President. Read the details.
April 18, 2006
MDS Nordion Bargaining Update.
- PSAC members at MDS Nordion continued the negotiations with the help of a federally appointed conciliator. Read the details.
PSAC Financial Statements December 31, 2005
April 11, 2006
Real protection for whistleblowers still an issue in proposed Accountability Act
OTTAWA - After pressuring past governments for decades to provide real protection for whistleblowers, the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) is concerned the government's new Accountability Act may not go far enough. Read the details.
April 7, 2006
PSAC to fight decertification application at Ekati
Yellowknife - The union representing 400 workers at the Ekati diamond mine will vigorously attack a decertification petition filed with the Canada Industrial Relations Board as a strike began today with nearly 100% support of its members. Read the details.
EKATI diamond mine on strike!
Yellowknife - Workers at Canada 's first diamond mine are on strike Friday, April 7 after BHP Billiton refused to negotiate a fair first collective agreement, says the Public Service Alliance of Canada, the union representing 400 workers at the Ekati diamond mine. Read the details. Photos of this event.
April 6, 2006
Ekati Mine: Another Reason Workers Demand Anti-Scab Legislation
Some four hundred workers at the Ekati mine in the Northwest Territories are the latest to suffer the lack of anti-scab legislation to protect the rights of those whose employment is regulated by the Canada Labour Code. Read the details (PDF).
PSAC 14th Triennial National Convention - The Westin Harbour Castle Hotel, Toronto, May 1 - May 5, 2006.
OTTAWA - Over 1,000 trade unionists from across Canada will gather in Toronto for the 14 th Triennial Convention of the Public Service Alliance of Canada, the sixth largest union in the country. Read the media advisory.
Union Update
Read the latest news about your union in the Union Update for the period of February 27 to March 24, 2006
April 5, 2006
Integrating immigrant workers
A long road ahead
The harmonious integration of immigrants in workplaces will only be achieved when proactive measures are adopted at both the political and corporate levels, according to PSAC National President Nycole Turmel. Read the details.
April 4, 2006
Throne Speech fails the transparency test
OTTAWA - The Conservatives may talk about transparency but the Speech from the Throne was far from clear on the details of the government's plans for the upcoming session of Parliament according to the Public Service Alliance of Canada. Read the news release.
April 3, 2006
Students employed by the Université de Montréal show their willingness to unionize
After several months of effort, an application for certification has been filed with the Labour Relations Board for the purpose of forming the Syndicat des étudiant-e-s employés de lUniversité de Montréal, which is affiliated with the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC-FTQ). Read the details.
Joint Career Transition Committee (JCTC)
As of March 31, 2006, the Joint Career Transition Committee (JCTC) will cease its operations. Read the details.
PSAC files complaint of unfair labour practice against BHP Billiton
Yellowknife- The PSAC/ Diamond Workers Local X3050, representing 400 workers at the Ekati diamond mine, filed a complaint for unfair labour practice against BHP Billiton for their refusal to allow union officials to access the mine site. Read the press release.
March 31, 2006
Yellowknife and Toronto: 2 cities, one demonstration for Ekati workers
Almost one hundred people met for a demonstration in front of BHP Billiton's offices in downtown Yellowknife . The boisterous crowd danced and sang solidarity songs waving placards urging BHP Billiton to negotiate a fair collective agreement for PSAC members working at the Ekati mine, 300 kilometres north-east of Yellowknife. Check it out.
March 30, 2006
Support Equal Marriage
In July 2005, the PSAC stood proud along side the majority of Canadians when Parliament proclaimed that same-sex couples are equal in value and equal in law. Read the details.
March 29, 2006
PSAC 2006 National Triennial Convention
The countdown has begun!
In a month's time, delegates, observers, guests and staff will be gathering in Toronto during the 14 th National Triennial Convention. To find out more about the agenda and what delegates will be debating, read the following documents:
- Convention agenda
- Resolutions Book
- Collective Bargaining Committee Report
- Constitution Committee Report
- Finance Committee Report
- General Resolutions Committee Report
March 28, 2006
Important changes to the Public Service Health Care Plan
After two years of discussion and negotiation, some important changes are being made to the Public Service Health Care Plan effective April 1, 2006 including:
- new benefits
- benefit upgrades
- new pay direct drug cards.
March 27, 2006
Yellowknife , NWT
PSAC National President, Nycole Turmel, went to Yellowknife and told Ekati diamond Mine owner, BHP Billiton, that the time has come to show some respect for the 400 PSAC members working at the mine. Read the details.
March 24, 2006
Nishnawbe-Aski police officers to join one of Canada 's largest unions
The Canada Industrial Relations Board is giving the Nishnawbe-Aski Police Services (NAPS) Board officers an opportunity to join one of Canada’s largest and most progressive unions, the Public Service Alliance of Canada. Read the press release.
March 23, 2006
The PSAC warns BHP Billiton: Don’t use scab labour at the Ekati diamond mine.
YELLOWKNIFE - The union representing almost 400 diamond workers at the Ekati diamond mine in the Northwest Territories is warning owners BHP Billiton against using replacement workers in the event of a strike next week. Read the press release.
Have you signed the Open Letter calling for universal Child Care yet?
The Federal government needs to hear you say that Canadians want a quality, universal child care system in this country.
Since February 24, thousands of Canadians have signed an open letter calling on the Prime Minister and the Premiers to honour the child care agreements the federal and provincial governments reached last year.
Go to www.buildchildcare.ca
March 22, 2006
March 22, World Water Day – Resist water privatization
The PSAC believes it is a basic human right that all of the world's citizens have equal access to clean and safe drinking water. Details.
March 21, 2006
United Nations Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Because of the globalized economy, the labour movement and social justice groups in Canada and around the world face a more difficult challenge in the fight for equality. Details.
BHP Billiton workers give notice to strike
PSAC members working at BHP Billiton diamond mine may be on strike as early as March 29, if the company doesn’t return to the bargaining table immediately. Read the details.
March 16, 2006
PSAC Scholarship Program
The PSAC Scholarship Program is offering the following 15 scholarships to PSAC members and their children:
- one $4,000 Groulx-PSAC National scholarship;
- one $4,000 Coughlin-PSAC National scholarship;
- two $3,000 Groulx-PSAC National scholarships;
- two $3,000 Coughlin-PSAC National scholarships;
- the J.R. (Joe) Power $2,000 Scholarship;
- one $1,000 PSAC National Scholarship;
- one $1,000 scholarship for each region ( Atlantic , Quebec , National Capital Region, Ontario , Prairies, British Columbia and the North). Details.
March 13, 2006
Important Changes to the Public Service Health Care Plan.
The National Joint Council is pleased to announce that an agreement on the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP) has been reached between representatives of the bargaining agents of the National Joint Council, the Federal Superannuates National Association and the Treasury Board Secretariat. The Public Service Health Care Plan is an important program providing health care benefits and services to over 500,000 members and their dependants. Read the details.
March 9, 2006
MDS Nordion Bargaining Update.
On Monday March 6, the company cancelled negotiations without given any notice to the PSAC bargaining team and applied for conciliation. Read the details.
March 8, 2006
Joint Learning Program Update
Over the past year, a lot of 'behind the scenes' work has been done to re-establish the renamed PSAC-PSHRMAC JLP (formerly the PSAC-TBS JLP). Read the article.
March 8, 2006 - International Women's Day
It's time to rise again - we all need a universal child care program
International Women's Day represents nearly a century of struggle for the equality of women world-wide.
This March 8th women in the PSAC are not only celebrating the gains we have achieved over the last century, we are also actively participating in a campaign to ensure that child care is publicly (and not for profit) delivered, universal and affordable.
- Read the PSAC’s Statement.
- Send a letter to PM Harper
- Sign the Child Care Advocacy Association of Canada petition
March 7, 2006
PSAC's pay equity claim against separate employers has moved to the pre-trial conference phase. Read about what's involved at this stage of the process.Read the details.
February 28, 2006
The child care struggle continues
Women will soon be celebrating International Women's Day. In addition to celebrating, women across the country once again are engaged in fighting for high quality, publicly delivered, universal and affordable child care.
This task hasn't been made any easier by the election of a Conservative government, intent on dismantling federal child care agreements with the provinces. Don't wait for March 8 th , join the campaign and send a letter to Prime Minister Harper.
February 22, 2006
MDS Nordion Bargaining Update
Bargaining continues at a slow pace. Read the details.
February 22, 2006
The Coalition of Black Trade Unionists
To many Black workers, participation in the labour movement is a significant and effective way to struggle for economic, social and political equality in North America . However, Black workers realize that, to be really effective in this endeavour, the labour movement also has to change from within. Read the details.
February 16, 2006
Turmel meets with TB President and NDP critic
PSAC National President Nycole Turmel has been busy meeting with the new Treasury Board President John Baird and with the NDP's critic for Treasury Board and Crown Corporations Paul Dewar. Read more about the meetings with Baird and Dewar.
February 14, 2006
Black porters and the labour movement
Black workers were a pool of cheap and docile labour… or so the Canadian railway companies thought. Read the article.
Supreme Court rejects Air Canada’s attempt to derail pay equity complaint
The Supreme Court of Canada has made an important ruling in a pay equity case involving Air Canada flight attendants that has an impact on all current pay equity complaints. Read about the decision.
February 2, 2006
Library of Parliament - Bargaining Update
January / February 2006
Because management is insisting on a change to hours of work for the bargaining unit, we will take this issue, along with a number of others, to arbitration. Read the details.
Gomery: good report, but whistleblowing still falls short
For the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), the largest union representing federal public sector workers, the Gomery report, if implemented, would represent a fundamental shift in the way government works. Read the News Release.
February 1, 2006
Black History Month: Labour history must include contributions of Black labour activists
Black History Month is celebrated in Canada to recognize the contributions of Black peoples to the growth and development of this country and their importance to its history. Read the article.
January 31, 2006
Taxation of pay equity interest payments
PSAC has had a chance to review and Tax Court decision on the taxation of pay equity interest payments and has come to a decision about filing an appeal. Read the latest bulletin.
January 30, 2006
PSAC begins post-election strategy
Now that the election is over and PSAC members and all Canadians are waiting to see what the new Conservative minority government’s first actions will be, National President Nycole Turmel has written to the incoming Prime Minister and the leaders of the opposition parties to put some of our members’ concerns before them and to ask for an early meeting to discuss these concerns.
January 22, 2006
Election Countdown
Think, Ask, Vote
Before you cast your vote, ask yourself if the candidate and party you support are committed to:
- promoting human rights and workers’ rights;
- protecting and improving federal public services;
- enacting pay equity law;
- taking steps to ensure quality child care is available when parents need it;
- making sure that medicare is equally available to all Canadians, regardless of their income;
- working to end poverty.
Then cast your vote.
January 20, 2006
New maternity and parental allowance language
To read the new collective agreement language on maternity and parental leave negotiated to address the implementation of the Quebec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP), click on your employerMs name.
JOINT CAREER TRANSITION COMMITTEES
The Joint Career Transition Committees are important committees that were set up by the employer and the union as adjustment committees in the mid 1990’s. Read the details
Election Countdown
Think, Ask, Vote
This election is about making better choices. Governments can choose to give tax breaks that benefit the richest Canadians or use our tax dollars to provide high quality public services to all who live in Canada. Think about these better choices. Then cast your vote.
January 19, 2006
Election Countdown
Think, Ask, Vote
PSAC members are the people behind our public services. We inspect food, help seniors and the unemployed, protect our national parks, operate search and rescue and provide hundreds of federal services everyday to Canadians across the country.This election, think about how federal public services affect you and what the political parties will do to protect and improve them for working people and their families. Then cast your vote.
January 16, 2006
PSAC signs new maternity and parental leave language with Parks Canada
The PSAC has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Parks Canada Agency to amend the maternity and parental leave language of the collective agreement so that it is compatible with the provisions of the new Quebec Parental Insurance Plan (QPIP), which came into effect January 1, 2006. For further information see our December 22 bulletin on QPIP.
January 10, 2006
Northgate Group report recommends enhanced officer safety and improved border security
A report was issued today following a six-month study by the Northgate Group into the risks faced by Canadian Border Service Agency (CBSA) workers. The study was co-sponsored by the
Customs Excise Union Douanes Accise and the Public Service Alliance of Canada. The Northgate Group report, A View from the Front Lines, contains 31 recommendations and has been sent to the leaders of all political parties, as well as to the Minister of Public Security and the CBSA President. CEUDA has also asked the Auditor General of Canada to conduct an audit of CBSA actions related to these issues.Read the CEUDA news release.
A View from the Front Lines:
Check the CEUDA web site for more information
Federal election campaign update
Ask the candidates running in your riding if they pledge to support Make Poverty History.
January 9, 2006
PSAC Social Justice Fund
Do Unions have a role in Global Social Justice? The answer is a resounding, "Yes!" Read the article.
January 6, 2006
Federal Election campaign update
The PSAC is just one of many unions and progressive groups putting their issues forward to the candidates during the federal election. Click here for links and for information from Elections Canada.
Check out the latest PSAC election issue sheet on privatization and put your questions to the candidates.
January 4, 2006
NISHNAWBE-ASKI Civilian Staff Ratify First Contract
The Civilian Employees of the Nishnawbe-Aski Police Services Board have ratified their first Collective Agreement after a successful round of bargaining. Read the News Release
Judge says yes to written documents in pension surplus case
The judge hearing the case against the federal government’s pension surplus grab has ruled that 128 government documents are admissable as evidence at the trial. Lawyers for the government had tried to block this written evidence as they wanted the unions to have to call the authors of all the documents during the trial, which would have created serious delays in the already six-year old case. The trial is expected to continue in the spring.
Previous years
Date Modified : 2010/07/29
