Convention Proceedings

Government Services Union, PSAC

Third Triennial National Convention

September 23, 24 and 25, 2008, Fairmont Palliser Hotel, Calgary, AB

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

A.M. Session

Convention Opening Event

Brother Brunell welcomed the delegates to his home town of Calgary. He informed the delegates that ceremonial celebrations would take place in the morning and this was organized by the Host Committee.

Brother Brunell introduced Aboriginal Performers (Paskwa Enuwak - "People of the Plains") to open Convention with a native dance. He then introduced the Calgary Boys Choir who sang O Canada and Solidarity Forever.

Brother Brunell welcomed and introduced the Host Committee Members:  Martine Mongeon, Trevor Sitter, and Mitch Sylvestre. They welcomed all of the delegates to Calgary. They indicated that should delegates need information, the Host Committee Members would be available to assist them.

Other Members of the Host Committee are:

Ed Janis, Larry Murray, Troy Hoebee, Don Wilkie, Kevin Ingram, Sheldon Jacobs, Bert Leger, Don Jones, Terry Sperling (Later resigned as RVP), Margaret Hawkins (Retired member of Local 30401)

Brother Brunell reminded delegates to sign the ‘Convention Book'. This book was launched in Quebec City and it is to be passed on to all future Conventions. Brother Laberge and Carole Desjardins Host Committee in Quebec City presented to Sister Martine Mongeon, Regional Vice-President, and Host Committee Member of this Convention the ‘Convention Book'.

Call to Order

Brother Brunell called the Third GSU Convention to order at 9:10 a.m. on

September 23, 2008.

Introductions

Brother Brunell introduced the National Council Members, the GSU Staff Members, Life Members and Guests.

GSU National Council

• Mark Brunell, National President
• Randy Ford, National Vice-President
• Alex Sauvé, National Vice-President
• Daniel Charron, National Vice-President
• Wilma Findlay, National Equity Officer
• Bill Walsh, Atlantic Regional Vice-President
• Bob Cameron, Atlantic Regional Vice-President
• Russel Carter, Atlantic Regional Vice-President
• Sylvie Harrisson, Quebec Regional Vice-President
• Pierre Laberge, Quebec Regional Vice-President
• Bob Boileau, National Capital Regional Vice-President
• Bill Dennis, Ontario Regional Vice-President
• Dave Thomson, Ontario Regional Vice-President
• Ed Janis, Western Regional Vice-President
• Martine Mongeon, Western Regional Vice-President
• Phil Robinson, Pacific Regional Vice-President
• Elizabeth McCormick, Pacific Regional Vice-President

Present at Convention

• Bob Kipper, Executive Assistant to the National Council
• Laura Griffin, Communications and Special Projects Officer
• Gail Peck, Finance and Administration Officer
• Monique Boyer, Administrative Assistant to the National President
• Maria Thomas, Administrative Assistant to the National Office
• Danielle Laprade, Term Membership and Administrative Assistant

GSU Staff not present at Convention

• Paulette Michon Hamelin, Union Representative
• Chantal Wilson, (On secondment)

Life Members

Daryl Bean, Charles Bailey, Colette Gervais, Valerie Denesiuk, Nadine Lethbridge, Bonnie Robichaud, Mike Lavery.

Brother Bédard acknowledged Brother Hans Meyer, Life Member, who was sick.

Guests

• John Gordon, PSAC National President (Also a Life Member)
• Patti Ducharme, PSAC National Executive Vice-President
• Robyn Benson, Regional Executive Vice-President - Prairies
• Todd Parsons, President Union of Northern Workers
• Ken Woodley, Director, Finance and Administration, UNW

Announcements

Brother Brunell explained to the delegates how Convention would proceed. He then read the PSAC Harassment Policy.

PSAC Statement on Harassment

This statement is to be read out and distributed at all Alliance events.

Our union is made strong by Sisters and Brothers working together to improve our working lives and to preserve the rights that we have struggled to achieve. Mutual respect is the cornerstone of this cooperation. The Alliance Constitution states that every member is entitled to be free from discrimination and harassment, both in the union and at the workplace, on the basis of age, sex, colour, national or ethnic origin, race, religion, marital status, criminal record, disability, sexual orientation, language, class, or political belief. Members are also entitled to be free from personal harassment.

If you experience harassment at this event, contact the identified Harassment Complaint Coordinator to discuss the situation and possible responses. Our initial approach is to encourage early and informal resolution and to facilitate our members speaking directly with one another to resolve the matter. If this is not successful or possible, the Constitutional and policy mandates on the issue of harassment will be fully and quickly enforced.

Harassment in all its forms detracts from our common purpose and weakens our union. Let each one of us, as we work together on the important task at hand; treat each other with dignity and respect.

He then introduced Brother Jean-Paul Fortin and Sister Bonnie Robichaud as the Harassment Complaint Coordinators. A copy of the PSAC Statement on Harassment was provided in the Convention kits. (Page 9 in the ‘Everything Book')

PSAC Scent Policy

Brother Brunell informed the Convention delegates about the PSAC Scent Policy. A copy of the PSAC Scent Policy was provided in the Convention kits. (Page 11 in the ‘Everything Book'')

Guest Speaker, Robyn Benson

Brother Brunell introduced Sister Robyn Benson, PSAC REVP Prairies Region. She was re-elected as REVP in 2008 at the Prairies Regional Convention.

Sister Robyn Benson greeted the delegates and welcomed them to Calgary. She indicated that it is always a pleasure to spend time with members across the country and to share experiences. She strongly feels that together, we can move the union forward. At the end of the address, she wished the delegates success during the Convention.

Brother Brunell thanked Sister Robyn Benson for her contribution to the Convention and presented her with a commemorative coin set from the Royal Canadian Mint.

Guest Speaker, Gil McGowan

Brother Brunell introduced Brother Gil McGowan, President, Alberta Federation of Labour. He is a long time political and labour movement activist with a committed track record of standing up for working people. He was elected President of the AFL in 2005, following 10 years as AFL Communications Director.

He addressed the delegates and wished them success during the Convention.

Brother Brunell thanked Brother Gil McGowan for his contribution to the Convention and presented him with a commemorative coin set from the Royal Canadian Mint.

Report of the Credentials Committee

M/S    Kevin Bassett / Shannon Doucet

THAT the first report of the Credential Committee be adopted:

65      Accredited Delegates

13      Observers

17      Guests

3        Late Delegates

MOTION CARRIED.

(Attached as Appendix "A" - List of Delegates/Observers/Alternates)

Adoption of the Rules of Order

M/S              Phil Robinson / Robert Spencer

THAT the Rules of Order be adopted as presented.

MOTION CARRIED.

Point of Privilege

Brother Jedrasik requested assistance from the Chairperson on how to amend the Convention Programme. He asked that GSU covers the cost for the registration fee. He was advised by the Chair to submit a resolution in writing.

Adoption of the Convention Programme

M/S              Martine Mongeon / Raye Warring

THAT the Convention Programme be adopted as presented.

(Attached as Appendix "B")

MOTION CARRIED.

GSU Honour Call

Brother Brunell proceeded with the honour call for the following individuals who have passed away.

Jack Brawn, Donna Laronde, Cindy Sadiwnyk, Wade McWhither, Regis Dowser, Laurence Smith, Darlene Bradley, Donna Alison, Lyne Johnson, Morgan Enright, Patrick Raye, Margaret Mohart, Glen Roald, Dave Swaine, Donna Ellison, Don Deernsted, Micheline St. Amand, and Loli Murnaghan.

A moment of silence was then observed.

Reports of the GSU National Officers

M/S              Elizabeth McCormick / Martine Mongeon

THAT the reports of the GSU National Officers be accepted.

(Attached as Appendix "C")

MOTION CARRIED.

Ratification of Appointments to Convention Committees

M/S              Ed Janis / Dave Thomson

THAT this Convention ratifies the appointments to committees:

• By-laws Resolutions Committee
• Finance Resolutions Committee
• General Resolutions Committee
• Credentials Committee
• Nominations Committee

(Attached as Appendix "D")

MOTION CARRIED.

Brother Brunell introduced John Gordon, Chairperson of the Elections, who assumed the Chair (11:00 a.m.) and explained the procedure of the election. He introduced the Nominations Committee Members:  Dana Bailey, Lyne Desjardins, and Suzanne Lambert.

He also reminded the delegates that an All-Candidates' Debate will be held on September 23, 2008 at 7:00 p.m.

Brother Brunell resumed the Chair (11:10 a.m.) and requested Convention to deal with the Emergency Resolution.

M/S              Jean-Paul Fortin / Bill Walsh

Number:       08/Emergency Resolution 01

Subject:       Mobilization

Originator:   NC/8/E

WHEREAS GSU is committed to fighting the Harper government's attempt, through their below-inflation offer, to reduce the real wages of PSAC members employed by Treasury Board; and,

WHEREAS an engaged and active membership is essential for us to force the government to table a fair wage increase and address our members' other concerns during this round of collective bargaining; and,

WHEREAS Local activities will help us succeed in mobilizing the membership; and,

WHEREAS bargaining is now at a critical stage:

BE IT RESOLVED THAT GSU allocate $20,000 for local mobilization assistance, and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT GSU locals that develop plans to mobilize their membership be provided with financial assistance from this allocation.

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

Brother Brunell informed the Convention delegates that there is a cost attached to this resolution, and was reviewed by the Finance Committee.

M/S              Alex Sauvé / Sylvie Harrisson

THAT this Convention endorses the Emergency Resolution.

MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

Demonstration

The Convention recessed for lunch at which time a demonstration was held in front of Harry Hayes building to protest their expired collective agreement. Brother Gordon and Sister Ducharme were guest speakers. Drum Café Drummers were also part of the demonstration. This was organized by the PSAC Regional Office and it was followed with a BBQ lunch.

Convention reconvened at 1:30 p.m.

P.M. Session

Announcements

As requested by Brother John Gordon, PSAC National President, Brother Brunell circulated a ‘Health Card Petition' for the Delegates to sign and asked Brother Sauvé to coordinate.

He reminded all delegates about the All-Candidates' Debate this evening and that Sister Ducharme will be the Chairperson. Sister Ducharme explained the process.

Guest Speaker, Brian Mason

Brother Brunell introduced Brian Mason, Leader of the Alberta's NDP Opposition. Brian Mason was first elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood in a 2000 by-election. He was re-elected in the provincial general election of March 12, 2001, and was subsequently appointed House leader of the New Democrat caucus and critic responsible for Human Resources, Finance, and Agriculture. On September 18, 2004, Mr. Mason became leader of the New Democrat party. Mr. Mason was elected to his third term as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood on November 22, 2004, and to his fourth term on March 3, 2008.

He greeted the delegates and wished them success during the Convention.

Brother Brunell thanked Brother Brian Mason for his contribution to the Convention and presented him with a commemorative coin set from the Royal Canadian Mint.

Ratification of Regulations and Policies adopted by the National Council

M/S              Randy Ford / Bob Cameron

To postpone until Convention has dealt with resolution 08/10.

MOTION CARRIED.

Brother Charron National Vice-President assumed the Chair. (2:05 p.m.)

Address of the GSU National President

Brother Brunell gave an inspirational speech that was well received. The main thrust of his talk acknowledged that the union is facing many challenges, but that it must take action to defend and promote the work that is done. He emphasised that this would not be successful without the support of the delegates. Brother Brunell ended by asserting that working together and supporting each other will make for a strong and effective union.

Brother Brunell resumed the Chair. (2:45 p.m.)

Committee Reports

Finance Resolutions Committee

The Convention Chairperson asked the Finance Resolutions Committee to come to the front where he introduced Brother Alex Sauvé and Sister Sylvie Harrisson, Co-Chairpersons of the Finance Committee. Brother Sauvé introduced the members of the Committee.

M/S              Alex Sauvé / Sylvie Harrisson

To adopt the proposed Budget as presented.

MOTION CARRIED.

(Attached as Appendix "E")

Recognition of Members

Brother Brunell recognized the following Life Members:  Brothers Jean-Paul Fortin, John Jedrasik, Pierre Laberge, and Sister Robichaud.

They all addressed Convention and thanked everyone.

The Convention adjourned at 5:10 p.m. until 9:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 24, 2008.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

A.M. Session

Convention started with a rousing performance from the ‘Drum Café Drummers'.

Call to Order

Brother Brunell called the Convention to order at 9:10 a.m. on Wednesday, September 24, 2008.

He introduced Sister Verna Williams, who is a worker at the hotel and Vice-President of CAW Local 4273.

Reply to Brother Jedrasik's resolution

Brother Brunell ruled out of order Brother John Jedrasik's resolution regarding registration fees.

Committee Reports

By-laws Resolutions Committee

The Convention Chairperson asked the Finance Resolutions Committee to come to the front where he introduced Brother Randy Ford and Sister Elizabeth McCormick, Co-Chairpersons of the Finance Committee. Brother Ford introduced the members of the Committee.

M/S              Randy Ford / Elizabeth McCormick

Number:  08/01, Subject:  GSU Structure, Originator:  NC/2/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT GSU National Council be mandated to examine and recommend necessary changes to GSU's 2011 Convention,

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT Council's mandate include a smaller National Council, revised duties of National Officers, a larger role for Local Presidents in the governance of GSU, and  associated changes to GSU By-laws, Regulations and Policies, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT Council's recommendations be finalized for presentation to the 2010 National/Local President's Council meeting.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Randy Ford / Elizabeth McCormick

The committee divided the resolution into two parts. The first part is the first two ‘Be It Resolved' sections. The second part is the last ‘Be It Resolved' section.

Number:  08/11, Subject:    Alternate National Equity Officer, Originator: 70013/40/E

Part 1

BE IT RESOLVED THAT By-law 8 be amended to allow for an Alternate National Equity Officer position be established to fill the position of the National Equity Officer when the position becomes vacant; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT By-law 8 be amended to incorporate the voting process of the Alternate National Equity Officer position to read;

"The Alternate National Equity Officer shall be nominated and elected by the delegates in attendance at each regular Triennial National Convention of this union."

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    CARRIED WITH A 2/3 MAJORITY.

M/S              Randy Ford / Elizabeth McCormick

Number:  08/10, Subject:  Accountability Accord, Originator:  NC/5/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the GSU By-law 8 be amended to include the following new section.

"Prior to the start of elections at any GSU meeting, the officer conducting the elections shall read aloud the GSU Elected Officer Accountability Accord found in GSU Regulation 13."

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT GSU Regulation 2 - Framework Local By-law 10, be amended to include the following new section:

"Prior to the start of elections at any GSU meeting, the officer conducting the elections shall read aloud the GSU Elected Officer Accountability Accord found in GSU Regulation 13."

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    CARRIED WITH A 2/3 MAJORITY.

M/S              Randy Ford / Elizabeth McCormick

Number:  08/26, Subject:  GSU By-law 15, Originator:  NC/6/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT GSU By-law 15 - be amended by adding a new Section 2 and the remaining section be renumbered accordingly.

"Section 2 (new)

GSU members in good standing shall have the right to file a complaint against another member or Officer of GSU for contravening any provision of the Constitution of the Public Service Alliance of Canada or of the By-laws of this Union, or for cause as listed in Section 5 of this By-law."

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT GSU By-law 15 section 3) be amended to read as follows:

"A member dealt with as provided in Section 1 of this By-law shall have the right to appeal in accordance with Section 25 of the Constitution of the Public Service Alliance of Canada and PSAC Regulation 19.

A member dealt with as provided in Section 2 of this By-law shall have the right to appeal such decision to the National Council."

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    CARRIED WITH A 2/3 MAJORITY.

M/S Randy Ford / Elizabeth McCormick

Number:  08/30, Subject:  GSU Regulation 9,    Originator, NC/7/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT GSU Regulation 9 - Discipline Procedures be amended to include the following: 

• how allegations of misconduct are made
• to whom the complaint is submitted
• the timeframes to be followed
• how frivolous complaints will be dealt with
• the rights of all members involved
• the format of Investigation Committee reports
• the appropriate body to receive an allegation of misconduct
• the proper procedure at the Local level and at the National Council level
• Create a GSU Standing Discipline Committee
• clarify Appeal Procedures

The amended Regulation shall read as follows:

Regulation 9 - Discipline Procedures

General

This regulation shall be known as the Discipline Procedures Regulation and is issued under the authority of GSU By-law 15.

Part 1 - General Procedures

Allegations of misconduct made at any level of the union shall be dealt with following the procedures described in Part 1 and either Part 2 or Part 3 of this Regulation.

Allegations of misconduct against any member shall be in writing, signed by the complainant, and shall indicate the section of the Local or GSU By-laws or Alliance Constitution under which the complaint is being filed. The action related to the misconduct shall be clearly stated and proof or evidence of the misconduct shall be included with the complaint.

The complaint shall be submitted to the appropriate body and, at the same time, a copy of the complaint shall be provided to the member against whom the complaint is made.

Timeframes

In the case of discipline resulting from a strike, allegations must be filed within one year of the end of the strike.

In the case of discipline relating to any other kind of misconduct, allegations must be filed within 30 calendar days of the incident.

Any complaint or accusation found to be frivolous and intended to harass, embarrass, or discredit a member or members may result in a recommendation of disciplinary action against the complainant being included in the investigation committee's report.

Both the member charged and the member making the allegation shall have the right to appear before the investigation committee.

Witnesses may appear before the committee if invited by the committee. A witness is an individual who witnessed the alleged misconduct or who has some other type of relevant information that will assist in determining whether a contravention occurred.

Reports of the Investigation Committee shall consist of one or two parts depending on whether the allegation is upheld by the Committee.

Part I will include a finding of fact that either confirms or not that the members have violated the PSAC Constitution, GSU By-laws or Local By-laws. This part of the report may also include information on the committee's method of investigation, the committee composition, and the committee's opinion as to whether the complaint was frivolous. Part 1 of the report cannot be amended and is subject to a simple majority vote to receive it.

Part II would recommend the specific disciplinary action in the event that the Committee finds that the member or members have violated the PSAC Constitution, GSU By-laws, or Local By-Laws. Part II of the report may be amended and is subject to a two-thirds majority vote.

Appropriate Receiving Body - Allegations of misconduct should be submitted to the appropriate receiving body.

At the Local Level, the appropriate receiving body is the Local President.

A complaint at the Local level may also be submitted to the Regional Vice-president or the National President, if there is appropriate reason to do so.

At the national level the appropriate receiving body is the National President.

Allegations against the National President shall be submitted to the National Vice-president delegated to act for the President in accordance with Part 1 of GSU Regulation 10.

The receiving body in each case will ensure that the complaints meet the criteria stated in Part 1, paragraphs a) b) and c) of this regulation have been met before submitting the complaint to the investigation committee.

Part 2 - Local Procedure

Allegations of misconduct made at the Local level of the union shall be dealt with following the procedures described in Part 1 and Part 2 of this Regulation.

The Local shall establish an internal or external impartial review committee consisting of three (3) people to investigate and assess the charges, including the receipt of oral and written evidence.

The Committee shall present a report to the Local Executive in the format described in Part 1 c) and if disciplinary action is recommended, it shall be subject to approval by a two-thirds majority of members in attendance at a general meeting of the Local except only that the member(s) initiating disciplinary action against another member(s), and the accused member(s) shall be denied voice and vote during the decision-making process.

The disciplined member or members may appeal the decision of the Local to the GSU National Council.

The results of all complaints and investigations shall be submitted to the National President by the Local Executive, who, in the case of a recommendation for suspension of membership, shall refer the recommendation to the PSAC National Board of Directors.

Part 3 - National Council Procedure

Allegations of misconduct made at the National Council level of the union shall be dealt with following the procedures described in Part 1 and Part 3 of this Regulation.

A complaint filed against a member or members of the National Council, will be forwarded to the GSU Standing Disciplinary Investigation Committee by the National President, as described in Part 4 below.

The Standing Discipline Investigation Committee shall investigate the complaint in accordance with this Regulation and present a report to the GSU National Council in the format described in Part 1 c).

If disciplinary action is recommended, it shall be subject to approval by a two-thirds majority of the National Council, except that the member(s) initiating disciplinary action against another member(s), and the accused member(s) shall be denied voice and vote during the decision-making process.

In cases where the National Council upholds a recommendation for suspension from membership, that recommendation shall be placed before the National Board of Directors of the Alliance by the GSU President in accordance with the GSU By-laws, to be dealt with in accordance with the Constitution of the Public Service Alliance.

Part 4 - Standing Discipline Investigation Committee

The GSU Standing Discipline Investigation Committee shall consist of five (5) GSU National, Regional or Local Officers appointed by the National Council, in accordance with GSU By-law 6, section 8. Any three (3) members of the committee shall investigate any particular complaint.

The committee shall develop appropriate methods for its investigations which will include the following points:

1.  The committee shall conduct the investigation in an impartial manner, with discretion and within a reasonable timeframe and will conduct interviews in an appropriate manner and in a confidential location.

2.  The committee shall ensure that the accused member has been provided with a written copy of the allegations.

3.  The accused member and the complaining members will be given opportunity to identify relevant witnesses for the committee to interview.

4.  The committee will ensure that all witnesses, the complainant, and the accused member are aware of the mandate of the committee.

5.  The Committee will receive specific training from the Component.

The Standing Discipline Investigation Committee may invite a neutral person from outside the GSU organization to participate in a particular investigation. The rationale for such an invitation shall be included in the committee's report of the investigation.

The Committee shall report to the National Council in accordance with Part 1 c) of this regulation, for each investigation presented to it. In addition it shall present a more general report on its activities to each regular meeting of the GSU National Council.

If a member of the Standing Discipline Investigation Committee is personally implicated in a particular complaint, he or she shall excuse himself or herself from that investigation and shall take no part in it unless called as a witness by the committee.

Part 5 - Appeal Procedures

Appeals against discipline must be received in writing, signed by the appellant and clearly state the grounds upon which the appeal is based.

An appeal against discipline, up to and including removal from office, at the Local level shall be submitted to the National President. The National President shall forward the appeal to the GSU Standing Discipline Investigation Committee.

An appeal against discipline, up to and including removal from office, at the National level shall be submitted to the National President. The National President shall forward the appeal to a three-person tribunal.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

M/S              Daniel Charron / Alex Sauvé

That this resolution be referred back to the By-laws Committee to deal with Part 4, Standing Discipline Investigation Committee separately.

MOTION TO REFER DEFEATED.

Convention Action:  Carried

Recorded against the Convention decision:  John Jedrasik

M/S              Randy Ford / Elizabeth McCormick

Number:  08/23, Subject:    Triennial National Conventions, Originator: 70013/37/E

BE IT RESOLVED to add...

"The rules of Order governing the handling of and completion of all Convention business shall be approved by the Convention as its item of business. The Public Service Alliance of Canada Rules of Order (Bourinot's Rules of Order) shall be furnished in advance to the Locals at the same time as the copies of resolutions are sent out."

...as a new section in the proposed By-laws.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    CARRIED WITH A 2/3 MAJORITY.

Guest Speaker, John Gordon

Brother Brunell introduced Brother John Gordon, PSAC National President. He was elected on May 5, 2006 at the PSAC's 14th Triennial National Convention in Toronto.

Brother Gordon wished the delegates success with Convention business. He indicated that he is looking forward to working with us as we move the union forward. His address to the Convention recognized that we have many challenges ahead of us and that he is aware that by working together in solidarity we can achieve success.

Brother Brunell thanked Brother John Gordon for his contribution to the Convention and presented him with a commemorative coin set from the Royal Canadian Mint.

General Resolutions Committee

The Convention Chairperson asked the General Resolutions Committee to come to the front where he introduced Brother Daniel Charron and Sister Wilma Findlay, Co-Chairpersons of the General Committee. Brother Charron introduced the members of the Committee.

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/44, Subject:  Grievance tracking, Originator:  NC/1/E

BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED THAT GSU acquire and implement "Unionware" as our grievance handling and tracking system for all levels of GSU representation, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the GSU National President ensure that a detailed development, implementation and training plan for "Unionware" be presented to National Council early in 2009, and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT $45,000 be allocated from the 2007 budget surplus to fund this project.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

M/S              Randy Howard / Alain Courcelles

The previous question.

MOTION CARRIED.

Convention Action:  CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/46, Subject:  National Equity Conferences, Originator:  70013/41/E

The Committee divided this resolution into two parts:

Part 1 - First Be It Resolved, Part 2 - Second Be It Resolved.

Part 1:

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the GSU establish and fully fund an Annual National Equity Conference for one regional equity representative from each region within the GSU to attend; and

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence unanimously

Part 2:

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the composition of this conference be comprised of one regional equity representative from the following regions and one from a Separate Employer;

• British Columbia
• Alberta, Nunavut and the North West Territories
• Saskatchewan and Manitoba
• Ontario
• National Capital Region
• Quebec
• Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island
• Newfoundland and Labrador

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

M/S              Lori Walton / Bill Walsh

That this resolution be referred back to the General Committee to include Separate Employer.

MOTION CARRIED.

P.M. Session

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/45, Subject: Orientation presentation for new employees, Originator:          60018/2/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT GSU component develop an orientation information presentation for consistent communication to the new membership parties that may be delivered in a timely, efficient and knowledgeable manner, thus allowing the new members time at these PWGSC Orientation sessions to ask any questions and a better understanding of their union.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence as amended. (See underline)

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/68, Subject:    Duty to Accommodate, Originator:  70013/15/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the PSAC place priority in development and delivery of education courses on Duty to Accommodate for its members; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the PSAC lobby appropriate levels of employer governments and separate employers to bring more awareness as well as highlight their legal responsibility under the Human Rights Act; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the PSAC call for employer governments and separate employers to provide education on the legal obligations of Duty to Accommodate for all management and employees; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the PSAC take steps to attain/pursue to ensure adequate processes are in place to deal with workplace accommodation issues.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/59, Subject: Funding for Regional Activities - NCR, Originator: 70013/16/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the AEC amend its' formula for Regional Allocations to better reflect the size of the membership, and the diversity and the need to service a bilingual population in each region; and...

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the percentage allocation be increased to reflect the size of the membership and different services required by the National Capital Region regional council.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

M/S              Dana Bailey / John Jedrasik

The previous question.

MOTION CARRIED.

Convention Action:  Lost

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/60, Subject:    Access Conferences - Regions, Originator: 70013/22/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the PSAC hold "Regional Access Conferences" in the regions for members with disabilities;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the PSAC hold these regional conferences triennially prior to the PSAC National Access Conference;

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT these regional conferences be fully funded, by the PSAC.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S    Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/62, Subject:    Equity Conferences - Regions, Originator: 70013/27/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the PSAC hold Regional Women's, Unity, Pride and Access Conferences on a model funded such as the Regional Women's Conferences.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Lost

Recorded against the Convention decision:  Wilma Findlay, John Jedrasik, Ed Janis, Donna Lackie, Allen Deering, Dana Bailey, Lori Walton, Alex Sauvé, Daniel Charron, Monique Jaenicke, Brenda Mazerall-Bryant, Goldie Glasgow.

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/58, Subject:  National Equity Conferences - Funding, Originator:  70013/24/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the PSAC revise the funding policy to provide an equitable amount of funds to allow for a balanced number of equity attendees at these PSAC National Equity conferences; and

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the funding be adjusted to take into account the requirements of equity members.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence as amended. (See underline)

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number: 08/70, Subject:     Disability Insurance, Originator:  70013/21/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the PSAC lobby the Employer to change the DI policy to waive the waiting period.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number: 08/54, Subject:  Men's Action and Support Committee, Originator: 70013/26/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the PSAC support the establishment of Men's Action and Support Committee in the regions; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT funding be made available to these committees through existing funds from within the PSAC; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the PSAC create a course to educate members about Men's issues.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number: 08/55, Subject:  Rand Cards, Originator:        70013/3/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the PSAC expedite the process for members transferring from rand status to full membership status and use whatever means necessary to reduce the waiting time these rand members must wait to a turnover time of not more than 1 (one) month, once the PSAC receives the card.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/56, Subject:    Meeting room charges, Originator: 70019/2/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT PSAC direct the managing company to not charge any boardroom fees for PSAC, Components, regional or local meetings for union business; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this take effect immediately following the 2009 PSAC triennial convention.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried unanimously

Announcement

Brother Brunell reminded everyone that the deadline to submit nomination forms is at the end of business today.

By-laws Resolutions Committee

M/S              Randy Ford / Elizabeth McCormick

Number:  08/27, Subject:    Local Meetings  Originator:  70020/2/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT this convention mandate the National Council to come up with a clear definition of the words / term, Local meeting; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this definition be placed in the GSU by-laws, regulations & policies manual in By-law 19 Definitions.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Randy Ford / Elizabeth McCormick

Number:  08/28, Subject:  Framework Local By-laws, Originator: NC/5/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT GSU Regulation 2, By-law 6, Section 4 be amended to read as follows;

"If the office of Local President becomes vacant for any reason, the Local Vice-president will fill the position, in accordance with Local By-law 7, Section 2 a.

If an elected office other than Local President becomes vacant for any reason, the Local Executive Committee may appoint a replacement on an interim basis.

At the next General Membership Meeting the Executive must conduct an election, following the procedure outlined in the PSAC Rules of Order, to fill the vacant position for the remainder of the original term of office."

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Randy Ford / Elizabeth McCormick

Number:  08/35, Subject:    Suspension from membership, Originator:  70013/1/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the PSAC amend its constitution by adding a new clause Regulation 19, Section 6 (h) as follows:

"(h) If the Local meeting accepts a recommendation to suspend or expel from membership, the accused member will be denied voice and vote at subsequent Local meetings until the matter is dealt with by the National Board of Directors."

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Randy Ford / Elizabeth McCormick

Number:  08/34, Subject:    Discipline - Report on Disciplinary Action Against Strikebreakers, Originator:  70013/4/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT Section 25 of the PSAC Constitution is amended to include that

"Within six (6) months of the conclusion of any ratification votes, members of the NBoD shall be responsible for providing the AEC a status report on disciplinary actions taken against scabs within their Component"; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the report shall contain details on Locals that did not require disciplinary action, on Locals that did and did not meet the Constitution obligations and what steps have been taken to ensure that scabs are disciplined for violating our Constitution.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Randy Ford / Elizabeth McCormick

Number:  08/31, Subject:  Equity Representative, Originator:  70013/12/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the PSAC, at its Triennial Convention, shall elect to the Alliance Executive Committee (AEC) a full time paid Equity Officer responsible for all Equity issues with voice and vote and have delegate status at all conventions; and have the responsibility to report to the AEC of the PSAC.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

General Resolutions Committee

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/46, Subject:    National Equity Conferences, Originator: 70013/41/E (Continuation of 08/46 - (Part I - First BIRT, Part 2 - Second BIRT)

Part 1

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the GSU establish and fully fund an Annual National Equity Conference for one regional equity representative from each region within the GSU to attend; and

Part 2

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the composition of this conference be comprised of one regional equity representative from the following regions and one from a Separate Employer;

• British Columbia
• Alberta, Nunavut and the North West Territories
• Saskatchewan and Manitoba
• Ontario
• National Capital Region
• Quebec
• Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Separate Employer

M/S              Allen Deering / Monique Jaenicke

The previous question.

MOTION CARRIED.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:  Part 1 - Lost

Convention Action:  Part 2 - Concurrence as amended. (See underline)

Recorded against the Convention decision:  Wilma Findlay, John Jedrasik, Ed Janis, Robert Spencer, Allen Deering, Monique Jaenicke, Dana Bailey, Brenda Mazerall-Bryant, Donna Lackie, Daniel Charron, Michelle Little, Wilma Findlay, Lori Walton.

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/71, Subject:    Employment Insurance, Originator:  70013/19/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the PSAC together with the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) launch a campaign to lobby parliament to amend the Employment Insurance Act in waiving the waiting period of two (2) weeks for workers who apply for EI under illness.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Carried

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/63, Subject:    Family Care Registration Forms, Originator: 70013/6/E

M/S              Nicole Rousseau / Jean-Paul Fortin

That this resolution be divided into two parts as follows:

Part 1 - First BIRT and Part 2 - Second BIRT.

Part 1

BE IT RESOLVED THAT all registration forms for family care take into account the requirements of family members with disabilities; and

Part 2

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the information gathered on the registration forms be used to design inclusive activities using non-toxic materials.

MOTION CARRIED.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence, Part 1 and Part 2

Convention Action:                    Carried - Part 1

Convention Action:                    Lost - Part 2

M/S              Daniel Charron / Wilma Findlay

Number:  08/69, Subject:    Disability Insurance for Subsequent Injuries or Disabilities, Originator:     70013/23/E

BE IT RESOLVED THAT the PSAC lobby the Employer to achieve an insurance plan where members with multiple disabilities as well as members who develop subsequent and additional disabilities not be made to wait for benefits to start for each and every disability that befalls them.

Committee Recommendation:    Concurrence

Convention Action:                    Lost

Announcement

Brother Brunell reminded everyone that the Banquet and Dance would be held this evening.

The Convention adjourned at 5:10 p.m. until 9:00 a.m.

Thursday, September 25, 2008.