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PSAC BC Regional Newsletter for September 2014
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PSAC BC in the news
- Cuts to CFIA's Consumer Protection Inspectorate risk food safety - REVP Bob Jackson in the Georgia Straight
- Crystal Warner, PSAC BC Regional Council member, stands in solidarity with teachers - her editorial in the Georgia Straight
PBO report confirms that government is making reckless cuts - The Parliamentary Budget Officer released a report on August 14 that confirms PSAC’s assertion that the government is making reckless cuts to public services.
Labour Day
A video message from Bob Jackson ...
And a message from PSAC National President, Robyn Benson - Labour Day is a time to reflect on everything workers and unions have gained in the past and to recommit to fighting for a better future.
PSAC History - we have been posting an ongoing series of PSAC historical events, accomplishments, and victories at our Facebook page. Check it out - there's more to come!
Standing Together, Standing Strong: the report of the 6th B.C. Regional Triennial Convention including resolutions, financial statements, election results, and more is now available at the regional website.
Municipal / Local Government Elections in BC are coming up November 15th. We have heard from several PSAC members who are planning to run and are happy to see members getting involved in politics and the community. If you are a PSAC member planning to run in the election please let us know and also consider seeking the endorsement of your local Labour Council.
Bargaining
- Treasury Board - Nothing new to report - our 5 TB teams are back at the table next week .
- Canada Revenue Agency - Dates for the Public Interest Commission (PIC) have been set for October - more details.
- Parks - Members of PSAC’s Parks bargaining team met in Ottawa the week of July 22, to discuss key issues and prepare to negotiate with their employer. Updates at the national website.
Reminder to Locals: In advance of the upcoming BC Federation of Labour Convention this November, the REVP-B.C. Office is encouraging all locals who have not already affiliated to the BC Federation of Labour to do so. There is no cost for a Local to affiliate as monthly dues are paid by the PSAC nationally. Find out how to affiliate at the regional website.
The PSAC’s Union Development Program (UDP) has been one of the most comprehensive union leadership training programs in Canada for more than 35 years. Building on our rich history, the UDP will provide an advanced learning opportunity for emerging leaders to develop the necessary analysis and skills to identify and support union priorities, and to expand our pool of skilled activists who can inspire others. UDP is an excellent opportunity for PSAC member to prepare to assume leadership roles in our Union and in the broader labour and social justice movements. More information at the website.
Are you an Aboriginal, Inuit or Métis PSAC member who would like to learn more about your union? If yes, we invite you to apply for the PSAC BC National Aboriginal Peoples’ Circle (NAPC) course. Details & online registration here. Deadline to apply is next week.
Weekend Course Schedule
Metro Vancouver
Creating Respectful Workplaces - September 27,28
Health & Safety Activism - November 8
Vancouver Island
Talking Union Basics - Nanaimo - October 4,5
Talking Union Basics - Victoria - October 18,19
Grievance Handling - Courtenay - November 15,16
Representing Members With Mental Illnesses - Victoria - December 13
East Fraser Valley
Grievance Handling - October 4,5
Representing Members With Mental Illnesses - November 1
Health & Safety Activism - November 2
Southern Interior
Talking Union Basics - Kamloops - October 18
Understanding & Interpreting the Collective Agreement - Kamloops - October 19
Northern BC
Local Officers Course - Prince Rupert - November 29,30
More information on all these courses and online registration at the regional website.
Meetings and Events
Support teachers and public education! The BCFED is organizing a series of solidarity rallies around the province. These rallies will give teachers, parents and supporters a chance to demonstrate their support for teachers and send a message to government to negotiate a fair deal for teachers and better supports for kids. Join us at the rally in Vancouver - Friday Sept 5th, 5PM at Canada Place. Visit the BCTF website for other events and ongoing actions around the province.
Regularly Scheduled Meetings
Vancouver Regional Womens Committee - September 4
PSAC BC Mainland Young Workers Committee - September 9
Victoria Regional Womens Committee AGM - September 16
Victoria Area Council AGM - September 17
Vancouver Island Human Rights Committee AGM - September 25
More information on all of these events at the calendar.
Thanks for reading, !
Patrick Bragg
PSAC Vancouver Regional Office
604 430 5631 | 1 800 663 1655
psacbc.com | facebook.com/psacbc | twitter.com/psacbc
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