We’ve been hearing that certain departments have some concerns. We will try to address them here:
Q: Confused as to why the agreement says 2% in 2026 yet most people will not get that.
A: Some already got 2% increment in January 2026. This is the automatic increment that happens every January that was agreed upon. The other 2% or “up to” refers to the placement on the wage schedule that will occur in 2026 where people will move up to the next highest rate on the wage schedule, which could result in a higher rate of pay up to 2%.
Q: Don’t like that the union orders paper calendars, say it is a waste of union money.
A: We order swag for all members. Some is a hit, others not so much. We have a strong, constant request for calendars from some departments and try to find items that will please everyone. We understand that certain departments might not use paper calendars, but we always try to have a diverse selection of items. Also, something to note, is that the calendars were part of a cost-share with CUPE National so the cost was split between the 2 unions.
Q: Are not in favour of using union money for the “CUPE After Hours” and feel the union is being irresponsible with the members dues.
A: The purpose of the “after hours” idea was to engage members and strengthen the union. A lot of members haven’t been involved or understand the working of the union and we are wanting to change that. As we stated, this is a trial period to see what kind of reception it would get. We have only had 1 GMM “after hours” and today will be the first official “after hours chat” event. Nothing is set in stone and if it doesn’t work, we will discontinue it and try something else. We want to have regular conversations with our members regardless if there are issues or not so that when they do have a problem, they are comfortable coming to the union for help. It is an unofficial, informal, in-person chance to talk to the union.
There has been some talk about the union spending money lately. It is true. We have opened the pocketbooks to spend more on members. In the past, the practice was to not spend anything. This Executive is of a different mind frame. We want to spend the money but on the members. That’s the idea behind having a monthly meeting for the members. That’s why we are renovating the office, so the members have a welcoming space to come and visit, talk, or just take a break. We want to send more members to conferences and conventions. We are also planning to have more events this year for the members. We feel it’s time the members get something back.
Q: They do not think that the “After Hours” event should be held in a bar.
A: We like to hold the event on campus to support our members and the union members working at Louis’. We do not provide any alcohol only appetizers and pop. Today’s event is actually being held in Louis’ Loft which is more of a coffee shop and not a “bar”. We book the room depending on the availability as well. We are always open to suggestions.
Our door is always open and we encourage constructive discussions at any time. We hope to see you tonight at 5 pm at Louis’ Loft.