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Prior to the work refusal, USJE’s Regional Vice-President for Québec, Patrick Menard, reported circumstances at the worksite that presented a real and substantial risk for the health and/or safety of an employee. Unfortunately, the employer’s response to this reporting was unsatisfactory and no measures were taken to mitigate the risks or protect the USJE member. 

National President David Neufeld and Regional Vice-President Bill Bailey met with some USJE members of PSAC’s Indigenous Circle in Kingston. It is clear from many on the front lines of CSC that the recruitment of Indigenous staff needs to take into better account the lived experience and discrimination many Indigenous peoples have encountered for centuries.

The events that took place in James Smith Cree Nation in September sent shockwaves across our union, and every corner of this country. Since this tragedy, USJE has endeavoured to ensure we offer ongoing support to USJE members who were affected, directly or indirectly, by virtue of their work in Corrections, the RCMP or the Parole Board of Canada.

The Greenwood-Gray Class Action, which has been certified by the Federal Court, relates to personal harassment and bullying of RCMP employees. When this class action was brought to the attention of USJE, we immediately began researching whether this was something that could assist our members in addressing this long-standing, deeply entrenched issue within RCMP culture.

The visit provided the opportunity to meet with several USJE members and to answer their questions regarding Phoenix pay issues, USJE’s representation on the new hybrid work model and more general questions around collective bargaining. Telework remains a top priority with many of our members and USJE must continue to advocate for flexibility and a nuanced approach.

The Treasury Board directive will have a disproportionately negative impact on public servants who are also active care-givers. It is quite difficult to secure before and after school spots mid-year, leaving many parents scrambling to find other arrangements and creating unnecessary stress and anxiety for public servants who have worked tirelessly since the pandemic began. 

Once every three years, USJE turns to Local executives with a call out for nominations for the Exemplary Service Award. That time is now! However, this year, there is something brand new! USJE is proud and excited to launch for the very first time a second award, the Human Rights Award!

USJE member Nicole Akhenak was able to address several of the challenges faced by Parole Officers with MP McCauley. She described the experience of USJE members who support the reintegration and rehabilitation of offenders without sufficient resources and staff.