USJE representatives clearly stated the union’s position that the hybrid work environment must remain flexible. The COVID-19 pandemic brought irrevocable changes to the workplace and to work culture that members quickly adapted to while maintaining high productivity levels thanks to telework. Any post-pandemic interpretation of telework must necessarily benefit from a nuanced approach.
Updates
RVP McKinnon in Saskatchewan for mobilizing push ahead of PSAC and USJE conventions
Regional Vice President Heather McKinnon was in Saskatchewan again last month for a packed two-day program that aimed to oversee union business, provide updates on recent activities and promote current campaigns.
Final days of Equity Conference focused on a more equitable Canada for all
On Thursday morning, individuals had the chance to participate in the KAIROS blanket exercise, a deeply moving self-reflection initiative on the difficult history and urgent need for reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples in Canada. The exercise was emotional, eye-opening and inspiring for many participants.
Looking through the equity lens at USJE’s Equity Conference
On the second day of USJE’s Equity Conference, members were invited to brainstorm in small groups to review the USJE by-laws through an equity lens, as well as all other areas where USJE could act to strengthen equity. In addition, views were exchanged on how to best safeguard equity when equity issues arise with the employer.
USJE members urged to file grievances regarding return to worksite policies within 25 working days
USJE is hearing from many members who are struggling with the implementation of a hybrid policy. If you are a USJE member who believes they cannot fulfill their obligation to return to the worksite as it is being implemented at your place of work, it is imperative that you file an individual grievance within 25 working days from the date that the policy is implemented in your workplace.
USJE and RCMP making headway on Detachment Services Assistants Report recommendations
USJE commissioned a report on DSAs and mental health last year, written by leading public safety researcher Dr. Rose Ricciardelli. Some of the report’s more urgent recommendations have begun to be addressed, and the following initiatives are already underway.
Together in Unity, Equity for All — USJE Equity Conference kicks off in Winnipeg
USJE’s inaugural National Equity Conference kicked off yesterday in Winnipeg with the slogan “Together in Unity, Equity for All.” Members and speakers are sharing their insights and expertise about how we can work together in a sustained and collective way to advance equity and justice for all of USJE’s members.
Osborne Correctional Centre members welcome visit from President Neufeld and Opposition MP Raquel Dancho
This facility houses some of the highest risk and highest need offenders in the Prairie region. Most offenders living in this facility have a residency condition imposed upon them by the Parole Board of Canada to live at a federally operated CCC.
Remembering Janice Froats, USJE member, colleague and friend
On Friday January 20, 2023 a long time USJE member, colleague and friend to many, Janice Froats passed away unexpectedly. Janice was a Parole Office at Millhaven Institution and fulfilled numerous roles at various sites within the ‘Kingston corridor’ during her decades long career with the Correctional Service of Canada when she acted as a Manager of Assessment and Intervention for the sexual offenders’ program.
Condolences to the family and friends of Kenneth Hazard
Ken was actively involved with the USGE since the 1970s, holding numerous positions within his Local and was elected as Regional Vice-President for the National Parole Service/National Parole Board from 2005 until 2011 when he retired.