USJE National President David Neufeld, RVP Valda Behrens and USJE members from across the North attended the PSAC North Regional Triennial Convention held in Yellowknife on May 28 – May 31, 2026, at the beautiful Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre.
This convention shined a light on the unique realities of living and working in the North. It helped attendees better understand the challenges and experiences of our members in remote and isolated communities and reminds us that, as a union, we’re strongest when we stand together, learn from one another, and support each other no matter where we work and live.
Delegates passed the PSAC North Regional budget for the next three years and more than a dozen priority resolutions for improvements related to domestic violence, Northern travel, language and mental health and women’s issues.
A quote from the Yukon Indigenous People’s Circle was found both inspiring and deeply relevant: “Nothing About Us, Without Us.” It highlights a reality many people experience—decisions being made without input from those directly affected. It’s a powerful call for inclusion, respect, and meaningful engagement, and I hope it becomes a mantra for us all.
The keynote speaker was Dr. Glynnis Lieb from Concordia University in Edmonton who gave a very lively and timely talk on Sexual and Gender Diversity. This was definitely a highlight of the Convention.
Congratulations to re-elected Regional Executive Vice-President for the North, Josée-Anne Spirito, and newly elected Alternate REVP Kushalini Naidoo as well as all our region’s elected representatives and directors.
A special congratulations to our USJE members, Catherine “Steph” Crocker with Local X0149, RCMP, Justice and PPSC North for being elected as the Northwest Territorial Director and Sandrine Jallet with Local Y0118, Yukon RCMP, elected to the Regional Women’s Committee.
Apart from the convention, RVP Valda Behrens and USJE members Sandrine Jallet, Melissa Martin-Chouinard (PPSC Yellowknife), and Stephanie Crocker, conducted a workplace visit to the RCMP Headquarters in Whitehorse.
During the visit, the delegation had the opportunity to meet with USJE members as well as uniformed RCMP officers representing a variety of federal departments and the local detachment. These discussions provided a valuable opportunity for members to share workplace experiences, raise questions and concerns, and discuss issues affecting their respective worksites. The visit also strengthened connections between union representatives and members, reinforcing USJE’s commitment to supporting employees and maintaining open lines of communication across the region.