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dev enviro for os

  • Expense Guide for Observers at Convention 2025

    PDF version

    General Notes 

    On-line registration is available through the Member Portal for all observers listed on the Local Credential Form submitted by the Local President. Registration on the Member Portal will allow you to request a hotel room, childcare and/or a time-off letter (if authorized by your Local). The deadline for all requests is March 14, 2025. 

    Hotel Rooms 

    Observers attending Convention must register using the Member Portal to specify the length of stay and bed preference (one or two beds). 

    The rate at all hotels, excluding taxes, is $325 for a single room. 

    Observers are responsible for payment of their hotel room upon check-out and may be reimbursed for their room costs by the Local, if your Local authorizes such reimbursement. Ensure that the receipt you submit with your Local Membership Expense Claim Forms indicates zero balance owing.  

    Observers will be booked into one of the following Convention hotels.  

    • Fairmont Royal York, 100 Front Street West 
    • Hyatt Regency Toronto, 370 King Street West  
    • Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel, 123 Queen Street West 
    • Toronto Marriott City Centre Hotel, 1 Blue Jays Way 
    • The Westin Harbour Castle, 1 Harbour Square 

    Check-out time is noon on Sunday. We have arranged with the hotels to leave luggage at the bell captain’s desk. 

    If you need to cancel your hotel room, you must contact the Conference and Travel Unit (conferencesandtravel@opseu.org) at least 72 hours before expected arrival. If you do not cancel, you will still be responsible for paying for the room. 

    Parking 

    Only one of the following parking options can be used for the duration of the Convention. OPSEU/SEFPO policy does not permit or reimburse expenses for valet parking. 

    Observers staying at the Fairmont Royal York, Hyatt Regency Toronto, Intercontinental Toronto Centre, Toronto Marriott City Centre, and The Westin Harbour Castle must park their vehicle at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. Shuttles will be available to take you and your luggage to the hotel. 

    Please use the specialized link to order your parking pass. Do not use the public link to obtain a regular parking pass. You will only be reimbursed for the negotiated OPSEU/SEFPO rate if you submit a parking receipt and your Local authorizes reimbursement. 

    The order deadline for the parking pass to be sent to your home address is April 10.  

    Passes must be purchased by April 24 to be eligible for the discounted rate. 

    Observers staying at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel must park at the Green P – Nathan Phillips Square Garage at 110 Queen Street West. 

    Childcare 

    Childcare will be provided on-site for children who are registered in the Member Portal by March 14. To ensure that we maintain proper staff-child ratios, as set out in the OPSEU/SEFPO Child Care Handbook, children must be registered in advance. 

    Childcare will be provided during the hours of registration, and throughout Convention, with a break for dinner as required. Coverage will continue in the evening. Exact hours will be communicated closer to convention. 

    All children 16 years and younger accompanying delegates/alternates/observers must be  

    pre-registered and signed in daily at the childcare centre.  

    Travel Policy 

    As per OPSEU/SEFPO policy (section 4.2.7.1), the most economical means of transportation must be used. 

    All observers are to make their own travel arrangements. You are directed to use unionized providers, where available, as per policy. Please take advantage of the discounts for Via Rail, Park’N Fly and UP Express, which are available on the OPSEU/SEFPO website. 

    If your Local has agreed to pay for any expenses, please note that Local Membership Expense Claim Forms require itemized receipts with your full name on the receipt. 

    Advances 

    If the Local has decided to reimburse you for any expenses, they may also provide an advance. Please contact your Local Treasurer.  

    Credentials 

    All local credentials must be submitted to convention@opseu.org by March 25, 2025. 

    • All locals must submit the Local Credential Form, which must be attested to by two officers of the local. 
    • Insert union ID number, first name, last name, and ranking of each delegate/alternate/observer. 
    • Each member attending Convention must register by using the Member Portal. This lets us know if you want a time-off letter, a hotel room or if you require child care. 
    • If you don’t have a credential and wish to attend Convention, you must bring your OPSEU/SEFPO union card, together with photo ID, for verification. 

    If there are any issues with respect to registration at Convention, you must see a member of the Credentials Committee, who will be available in the registration area. 

    Cancellation 

    If you cannot attend Convention, please notify the Convention Office at OPSEU Head Office toll-free (1-800-268-7376 ext. 3269) or by email (convention@opseu.org) as soon as possible. 

    To cancel your hotel reservation, you must contact the Conferences and Travel Unit at conferencesandtravel@opseu.org at least 72 hours before expected arrival. If you do not cancel, you will be responsible for paying for the room. 

    Convention Hours  

    • Thursday, April 24 9am – 5pm 
    • Friday, April 25 9am – 5pm 
    • Saturday, April 26 9am – 5pm 
    • Sunday, April 27 9am – 12pm  

    Time-off Letters 

    Time-off letters will only be issued for observers if the Local’s TARs are up to date, and the local submits the rebate form to deduct wages from their rebate. 

    Time-off requests must be submitted through the Member Portal by March 14. Please see the guide below for instructions on what to note in your request. 

    Ontario Public Service (OPS) 

    Specify your ministry, the name of your manager, and their email address. 

    Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology (CAAT) 

    Specify the name of the college. 

    Broader Public Service (BPS) 

    The following information must be provided: full name, title, and email address of the appropriate contact person to whom the letter will be addressed. The appropriate contact person will be the director of human resources or equivalent. 

    Liquor Board Employees Division (LBED) 

    Please follow the ‘Request for Union Leave’ (RUL) process. 

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  • Convention 2025 Guide

    PDF version

    The president of each OPSEU/SEFPO local is automatically the first delegate to Convention 2025.  

    Here are the procedures to be followed when:  

    1. electing second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth delegates; 
    2. returning credential forms; and 
    3. informing other members or delegates of the annual Convention and advising them of the guidelines to be followed. 

    Note: All elected delegates/alternates/observers must be members in good standing, as per Article 6 of the OPSEU/SEFPO Constitution.  

    This information will help you when preparing either yourself or other delegates, alternates, or observers to attend the 2025 Convention.

    Credentials  

    Each local will be responsible for completing one credential form (with additional pages attached, if necessary). The credential form is in a fillable format, and we encourage you to use it so we can read the names of the members from your local attending Convention.  

    As per the Constitution, the delegates, alternates, and observers attending must be attested to by two officers of the local. You can digitally sign the form or print it after it has been completed and then sign it. The form can then be submitted electronically (scanned and emailed) to convention@opseu.org.  

    Locals’ delegate entitlement, as per the OPSEU/SEFPO Constitution, is as follows:  0 to 150 members in good standing: 1 delegate

    • 1 to 150 members in good standing: 1 delegate
    • 151 to 300 members in good standing: 2 delegates
    • 301 to 500 members in good standing: 3 delegates
    • 501 to 800 members in good standing 4 delegates
    • 801 to 1,100 members in good standing: 5 delegates
    • 1,101 to 1,500 members in good standing: 6 delegates
    • 1,501 to 1,900 members in good standing: 7 delegates
    • 1,901 to 2,300 members in good standing: 8 delegates
    • More than 2,300 members in good standing: 9 delegates

    In addition, the following are entitled to be delegates in their own right, as identified in the Constitution. They are not part of their local’s entitlement:  

    • each member of the Executive Board 
    • each member of a Convention committee 
    • the Executive Committee of the Retired Members Division  
    •  the members of: 
      • the Provincial Women’s Committee  
      • the Provincial Human Rights Committee  
      • the Provincial Francophone Committee  
      • the Provincial Young Workers Committee 
      • the Indigenous Circle 
      • the Rainbow Alliance arc-en-ciel Committee  
      • the Coalition of Racialized Workers Committee   

    They will be added directly to the event by the Convention Office as they are automatic delegates. 

    Once your delegates/alternates/observers have been elected at a local general membership meeting, their names are entered into the fillable credential form for the local. You must identify the role for each member and their ranking (e.g., second delegate, third delegate, first alternate, second alternate, etc.).  

    The president is automatically the first delegate. However, if the local president cannot attend (or is coming under another entitlement, such as an Executive Board Member or as a member of a Provincial Committee), the local vice-president automatically becomes the first delegate.  

    If your local vice-president is coming as the automatic delegate, the credential form must be accompanied by a letter or email from the local president, waiving their right to attend (or explaining their attendance under another entitlement), and delegating this right to the local vice-president.  

    The credential form must be received at the Convention Office at convention@opseu.org no later than March 25, 2025. 

    Each attendee must register using the Member Portal to let us know if you need a hotel room, if a time off letter is required or if you are requesting childcare no later than March 14, 2025.  

    Things to note:

    Delegates:  

    If delegates lose their Convention badge (provided upon registration), a duplicate badge will not be issued.  

    Alternates and observers:  

    A local may elect and send alternates up to the number of delegates to which it is entitled. The number of observers is not limited by the Constitution, but space at Convention is severely restricted. Therefore, we ask locals to keep their observers to a minimum.  

    If your local intends to send alternates or observers to Convention, please ensure they are included on the credential form completed for the local.  

    If your local wishes to use rebates for time-off for alternates and observers, please submit the Locals that Wish to use Rebates form which is found in the same file as the credential form. 

    If there is a change in status from alternate to delegate, it will be done in order of alternate ranking, i.e., first alternate, second alternate, etc.  

    Observers may not become or replace delegates or alternates.  

    Delegates/alternates/observers should read their respective Expense Guides for the 2025 Annual Convention carefully. Alternate and observers may have their Convention expenses reimbursed by the Local if authorized by the Local. 

    Article 13 of the Constitution contains additional information about Convention.  

    If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Convention Office by email at convention@opseu.org.  

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  • Local Presidents and Vice-Presidents Orientation – Session 2

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  • Region 5 Weekend Educational, March 15-16

    Online application form | In-person application form

    How to challenge discrimination in the workplace. The best way to file a grievance. Making your work safer.

    As an OPSEU/SEFPO member, these are just a few of the free educational workshops you can take during the union’s Region 5 Weekend Educational taking place on Saturday, March 15 and Sunday, March 16, 2025.

    The deadline to complete the application form is 4 pm on Friday, Jan 31 by 4pm.

    If you choose to attend online, two courses are being offered. If you attend in-person, nine courses are being offered.

    Online-only courses

    1. Stewards 1: Making a Difference in the Workplace (In French)
    2. Duty to Accommodate: A Tool for Inclusive Workplaces (In French)

    In-person-only courses

    1. Stewards 1: Making a Difference in the Workplace
    2. Stewards 2: Facing the Employer, Building Member Involvement
    3. Stewards 3: Dealing with Discipline
    4. Health & Safety: Level 2
    5. Health & Safety: Level 3
    6. Basic Grievance Handling for Union Building
    7. The Indigenous Journey: Walking Together: Part 2
    8. Challenging Discrimination in Everyday Union Work
    9. Dismantling Systemic Racism

    If you’d like to take any of these courses, your union provides a variety of supports that can help, including family and child care and human rights accommodations. If you take part in the in-person event, you are also eligible for cash advances, and potentially the full reimbursement if you need to travel and stay in a hotel.

    Event details

    Location:

    • For online participants, courses will be offered via Zoom.
    • For in-person participants, courses take place at the Chelsea Hotel, 33 Gerrard St W, Toronto, ON M5G 1Z4

    Dates:

    • Saturday, March 15 – 9 am to 5 pm
    • Sunday, March 16 – 9 am to 1 pm

    Application deadline:

    On-site child care:

    • OPSEU/SEFPO on-site child care will be available Saturday from 8:30 am to 5 pm and Sunday from 9 am to the end of classes. Parent/Guardians must be on site at all times when using childcare provided by OPSEU/SEFPO.

    Off-site child care:

    • Family Care/Attendant expenses will be reimbursed per OPSEU/SEFPO Policy.

    Online-only course descriptions

    The following courses are being offered online only:

    Stewards 1: Making a Difference in the Workplace (In French)

    Prerequisites: None

    This updated version of Stewards 1 includes a more detailed description and history of OPSEU/SEFPO’s equity- seeking groups. The course continues to support stewards through a range of tools and practical activities. The key aims are to strengthen steward skills to orient a new employee to the union, have effective one-on-one conversations with a cross-section of members, develop a communications strategy to enlist diverse member involvement, and develop approaches to everyday workplace problems.

    Throughout the course, participants are supported as they develop a profile of their members, clarify the tasks of the steward, find the resources and information in OPSEU/SEFPO, and understand the grievance process and their role in it. Stewards 1 is a prerequisite to Stewards 2 and must be completed before taking Stewards 2. Participants should bring their Collective Agreements to the course.

    Duty to Accommodate: A Tool for Inclusive Workplaces (In French)

    Prerequisites: None

    Provincial legislation and existing case law require employers and unions to provide accommodation short of undue hardship.

    This interactive course examines the roles and responsibilities of the employer, the union and the member in accommodating members with disabilities and all other protected groups under the Ontario Human Rights Code. It builds activists’ skills to support members requiring an accommodation, and to deal with employer resistance to accommodation in the workplace.

    In-person-only course descriptions

    We are pleased to offer the following in-person courses:

    Stewards 1: Making a Difference in the Workplace

    Prerequisites: None

    This updated version of Stewards 1 includes a more detailed description and history of OPSEU/SEFPO’s equity-seeking groups. The course continues to support stewards through a range of tools and practical activities. The key aims are to strengthen steward skills to orient a new employee to the union, have effective one-on-one conversations with a cross-section of members, develop a communications strategy to enlist diverse member involvement, and develop approaches to everyday workplace problems.

    Throughout the course, participants are supported as they develop a profile of their members, clarify the tasks of the steward, find the resources and information in OPSEU/SEFPO, and understand the grievance process and their role in it. Stewards 1 is a prerequisite to Stewards 2 and must be completed before taking Stewards 2. Participants should bring their Collective Agreements to the course.

    Stewards 2: Facing the Employer, Building Member Involvement

    Prerequisites: Stewards 1

    This revised follow-up to Stewards 1 focuses on investigating and writing a grievance, facing management, and involving members in worksite action. Participants will use their own collective agreements to identify grievances. They will become immersed in an evolving case study in order to interview a grievor, write up a grievance, face the employer at a step 1 and make a presentation on safety issues to the union side of the Joint Health and Safety Committee. They will examine the elements of effective mobilization and develop a campaign strategy for a local. Participants should bring their collective agreements to the course.

    Stewards 3: Dealing with Discipline

    Prerequisites: Stewards 1 & Stewards 2

    This is an advanced level steward course. It is suggested that participants take Stewards 1 and Stewards 2 prior to signing up for this program. Dealing with Discipline is a skills and knowledge focused workshop that will assist union activists in their duties representing members that are facing discipline up to and including dismissal.

    The course bridges concepts from Stewards 1 and 2, Basic and Advanced Grievance Handling and Workplace Investigations. Participants should bring their Collective Agreements to the course.

    Health & Safety: Level 2

    Prerequisites: Health & Safety Level 1

    This course is designed for members and Stewards who want to become more involved in health and safety activities in their workplace. There is a strong focus on health and safety legislation to enable participants to use the legislation effectively in their own workplaces.

    Participants work in groups to explore the legislation and to gain a better understanding of their rights and employers’ obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations. Participants are introduced to the concepts of hazard identification, assessment and control and develop a greater understanding of the components of an effective health and safety system.

    Health & Safety: Level 3

    Prerequisites: Health & Safety Level 1 & 2

    This course is designed for Health and Safety committee members and union activists with a strong interest in Health and Safety. Participants learn how to be more effective members of their JHSC’s as they work in small groups learning how to better identify, categorize, and control hazards.

    Using case studies and examples from their own workplaces, participants learn how to improve workplace inspections, and how to begin accident and illness investigations.

    The course offers the opportunity to prioritize and strategize around health and safety problems and to address problems specific to participants’ own workplaces. The course builds on the material in OPSEU/SEFPO’s Level 1 course and assumes that participants have a basic knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

    Basic Grievance Handling for Union Building

    Prerequisites: None

    This course is designed to examine the grievance process from a workplace organizing perspective. Grievances are opportunities to build the union. This hands-on course helps members analyze situations to decide whether a grievance is the best approach.

    They will learn about different types of grievances and the remedies available through the grievance/arbitration process. They will develop technical skills in writing, processing grievances and practice communication to assess whether a member’s rights have been violated. Participants should bring their Collective Agreements to the course.

    The Indigenous Journey: Walking Together: Part 2

    Prerequisites: The Indigenous Journey : Walking Together: Part 1

    Would you like to learn more about Indigenous peoples? Do you know that the First Nation, Inuit and Métis peoples have differences in their traditions, beliefs, communities and cultural identities as well as some commonalities?

    Through activities, inspired by the teachings and traditions of Indigenous peoples, we will take you through an overview of the lives of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples as well as allow you an opportunity to share in some of their stories.

    You will take a journey of examining both historical and current relationships between Indigenous people and governments within Canada and the world today. If you would like to share in the rich history of Indigenous peoples and spend time understanding why being an ally is important, this course will offer that opportunity.

    Challenging Discrimination in Everyday Union Work

    Prerequisites: None

    This course looks at everyday situations in our workplaces and union where inequality and racism are at work, and where people can take effective action. It uses case scenarios and analysis to examine different forms of discrimination – race, gender, age and disability – and its divisive effects. It draws from videos and role play to get people to practice responding practically to situations.

    The course helps us to see equity and human rights as basic union work for all. And it strengthens our skills as effective allies and advocates to build more inclusive workplaces and locals.

    Dismantling Systemic Racism

    Prerequisites: Must be an elected leader in your local (ex.  Steward)

    Please be advised that the 60 km rule will not be waived for the DSR course.

    This course is offered on Saturday, March 15 only.

    Those interested in taking the course are encouraged to attend in a group of at least three (3) members from the same local, if possible.

    This one-day course “Organizing for Power with an Anti-Racism Lens” is the training for all elected leaders.

    As per the OPSEU/SEFPO Constitutional amendment, Article 7 of the Constitution requires mandatory training for elected leaders and bargaining teams on dismantling racism. The goal of OPSEU/SEFPO is “To actively identify and dismantle anti-Black racism, anti-Indigenous racism and all forms of racism and discrimination within its systems and structures so that all members have full access to services and can fully participate in the union.

    We are very excited that the one-day training “Organizing for Power: Dismantling Anti-Black, anti-Indigenous and all forms of Racism” is now ready to be offered.

    Important Information

    • The Participant and Course Selection Process will be carried out in accordance with OPSEU/SEFPO Education Policy.
    • Confirmation will only be sent to applicants who are accepted.
    • As a reminder, in accordance with OPSEU/SEFPO policy, full attendance is mandatory for participants at the educational. If you are unable to attend with full attendance without an acceptable reason, you will not receive credit for the course and your expenses (if any) may not be paid.
    • Lost Wages will not be provided for this Educational.
    • Application forms must be signed by one (1) Local Executive Officer (OPSEU/ SEFPO Policy 6.2.2) and received by r5educationals@opseu.org no later than January 31 2025 by 4:00PM.
    • Late applications may not be acknowledged.

    If you’re attending online-only

    • When registering participants must confirm that they have their own computer with proper internet connections (training cannot be completed over a cell phone). The computer must have a camera which remains on during the training.
    • The virtual training is being delivered via Zoom and participants must download the free Zoom software in advance of the training. Please check for the most current version.
    • If you are participating in the online-only courses, no expenses outside of Family Care/Attendants claims (if required) will be reimbursed except in special circumstances where expenses have been pre- approved. To inquire further about pre-approval, please email OPSEURegion5EBMs@gmail.com
    • If you are participating in the online-only courses, no expenses outside of Family Care/Attendants claims (if required) will be reimbursed except in special circumstances where expenses have been pre- approved. To inquire further about pre-approval, please email OPSEURegion5EBMs@gmail.com

    If you’re attending in-person

    • Single accommodation is approved for this Educational.
    • OPSEU/SEFPO’s 60km rule will be enforced – this means that if you live further than 60km from the hotel you are entitled to single accommodations.
    • You are responsible for booking your own accommodations directly with the hotel, if required. An online direct booking link for rooms in the Event Group Block will be issued to successful applicants at the following rates: Single $209.00 (taxes not included). Individuals may also call the hotel directly, toll free 1-800-CHELSEA (243-5732) or 416-595-1975. These individuals must also identify themselves as part of OPSEU/SEFPO March Educationals to take advantage of the discounted group rate.
    • Valet parking will not be covered
    • As a reminder, in accordance with OPSEU/SEFPO policy, full attendance is mandatory for participants at the educational. If you are unable to attend with full attendance without an acceptable reason, you will not receive credit for the course and your expenses (if any) may not be paid.
    • Persons attending OPSEU/SEFPO meetings are requested to refrain from using perfume, cologne and other fragrances for the comfort of other participants.
    • Participants are also to refrain from bringing nut products, bottled water and Coca Cola products to OPSEU/SEFPO Events.
    • All applications must be approved/signed by a Local Executive Committee member from the applicants Local, per OPSEU/SEFPO Policy 6.2.2. Applications without the required signatures will not be processed.

    Accommodation (in-person only)

    • A block of rooms has been reserved at the Chelsea Hotel, 33 Gerrard St W, Toronto, ON M5G1Z4
    • Members are responsible for making their own Accommodation and Payment arrangements. Accommodations must be booked no later than February 12, 2025.
    • All unreserved rooms will be released for re-sale after this date. OPSEU/SEFPO Policy states that members are responsible for their own rooms and paying for same, you are also responsible for any cancellation. Failing cancellation, you are responsible for the room charges.
    • An online direct booking link, and telephone instructions for reserving a hotel room will be issued to successful Educational applicants prior to the hotel-booking deadline of Aug 30, 2024.
    • For this event, members living outside 60 kms of the hotel will be entitled to room accommodation. Members will be reimbursed for the cost of a single room.

    Cancellations

    • Notification by a member to cancel course attendance should be received by both the local president and the Regional Office no later than 48 hours prior to the Weekend Educational (no later than 9:00 A.M. on the Thursday prior to the Educational). When a member does not attend and the Regional Office has not been notified forty-eight (48) hours prior to the Weekend Educational, the member will be assessed a Fifty Dollar ($50.00) penalty. Extenuating circumstances will be taken into consideration.
    • A member cancelling participation must notify r5educationals@opseu.org and their local president on or before 9:00AM on March 12, 2025.
    • All hotel reservations must be cancelled by 4 pm EST 48 hours (2 days) prior to the day of arrival. Late cancellations will result in a charge of a 1-night stay plus taxes. A valid credit card is required at time of booking

    Child / elder/ dependant care

    • Use of OPSEU/SEFPO’s on-site child care is encouraged – please complete this child-care registration form to participate.
    • Members who arrange their own child care will be reimbursed at $15 an hour to a maximum of $220 per 24-hour period, per OPSEU/SEFPO Policy 4.2.2.
    • Child care claims will be honoured for children up to and including age 16, for whom the member is the parent/guardian.
    • Friends, family, or professional or Commercial Services or any other arrangement satisfactory may provide care to the member making the claim. Claims may be verified and must be signed by the service provider.
    • Members seeking childcare through OPSEU/SEFPO for this educational must include the completed Childcare Registration paperwork with their Application
    • If child care is requested, the child/dependant must be in attendance with the program.
    • Off-site Family/Attendant care will be reimbursed at the rate of $15.00 per hour to a maximum of $220.00 per 24-hour period and must be signed by the care provider(s). Please complete this Family/Attendant Care form and specify hours claimed for each day. This policy covers the expenses for persons over the age of 16, permanently residing with, and under the care of a member, who are differently abled and/or aged.

    Transportation (in-person only)

    • If you are participating in person, you will be reimbursed for the actual cost incurred for travel by public transportation. As per the policy of the Union, the most economical means of transportation should be used.
    • Where a member is required to use their private vehicle, they may claim for such travel at the current The total distance travelled, and destination points are to be indicated on the expense form.
    • Members must arrange their own travel and are encouraged to
    • Transportation/ Kilometric Rate will be as follows:
      • One (1) OPSEU/SEFPO member travelling alone $0.55/km.
      • Two (2) OPSEU/SEFPO members, $0.60/km.
      • Three (3) OPSEU/SEFPO members $0.65/km.
    • Any transportation/kilometric expense claim form involving OPSEU/SEFPO members as passengers must have the members name and address on the expense form.
    • All expenses must be submitted on proper Expense Claim Forms or via the Member Portal.

    Lost wages

    • Lost Wages will not be provided for this Educational as per OPSEU/SEFPO Policy; this means that time-off letters are not being issued for this Educational.

    Meals (in-person only)

    • Breakfast: Members who stay at the hotel or had to be present for an OPSEU/SEFPO event before 0800 hours (8:00 a.m.) are eligible to claim twenty- two dollars ($22.00).
    • Lunch: Members attending this educational may claim thirty dollars ($30.00) lunch on both Saturday and Sunday.
    • Dinner: Members who stay at the hotel or had to be present for an OPSEU/SEFPO event past 1700 hours (5:00 m.) are eligible to claim thirty-nine dollars ($39.00).

    Advance

    Application

    To apply for this event, please download and complete the appropriate fillable forms. Please email the completed forms by Friday, Jan 31 at 4 pm  to r5educationals@opseu.org

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  • Temporary Job Opportunity: T25.002 – Assistant People, Culture and Equity Advisor (2 Positions)

    Temporary Job Opportunity: T25.002 – Assistant People, Culture and Equity Advisor (2 Positions)

    Title: Assistant People, Culture and Equity Advisor (2 positions) (temporary – 12 months)

    Work Location:

    • People & Culture Division
    • OPSEU/SEFPO Head Office,
    • 100 Lesmill Road, Toronto, ON. M3B 3P8

    Reporting to: Administrator, People and Culture Division

    Start Date: To be determined.

    Search Type: Open to all – staff, members and the community

    Ontario Public Service Employees Union/Syndicat des employés de la fonction publique de l’Ontario

    OPSEU/SEFPO has an incredibly talented, knowledgeable, and dedicated workforce that provides the highest level of support to its diverse membership. OPSEU /SEFPO is striving to be an organization which reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.

    OPSEU/SEFPO represents approximately 180,000 members across Ontario. They are full-and part-time workers, as diverse a group as you could imagine. OPSEU/SEFPO’s members work for the Ontario government, inside community colleges, for the LCBO, in the health care and education sectors, and they are employed in a wide range of community agencies within the broader public sector.

    It is within this context that OPSEU/SEFPO welcomes applications for two temporary positions noted below. OPSEU/SEFPO supports employment equity and encourages applications from racialized individuals, people with disabilities, Indigenous, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.

    Candidates must have a demonstrated ability to foster an inclusive union culture and to advance equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessible programs, strategies, and principles.

    Role Overview:

    Reporting to the People, Culture and Equity Advisor, the Assistant People, Culture and Equity Advisor is responsible for implementing policies, programs and initiatives that will foster an environment where employees feel valued and respected. They will work closely with the team to provide operational support and strategic advice to the management and staff for a wide range of HR matters, including interpretation and administration of the collective agreements, employee and labour relations, recruitment, learning and development, organizational and workforce planning, grievance management, workplace investigations, progressive discipline, change management, employee engagement, talent management and succession planning.

    They will also work with the People, Culture and Equity Advisor and Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Lead to develop and lead an integrated approach to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in line with the organization’s values and HR best practice.

    Note: These are in office positions with ability to work from home one day a week.

    Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

    • Provides support and strategic advice to leadership on a variety of operational and strategic Human Resources (HR) matters including but not limited to recruitment, learning and development, equity, diversity and inclusion, employee and labour relations, performance and attendance management, return to workplace, grievance management, workplace investigations, and employee recognition.
    • Develops and implements HR policies, procedures, and programs in collaboration with team members.
    • Researches, investigates and makes recommendations on wide variety of labour and employee relations matters including grievances, employee complaints, collective bargaining matters and trends.
    • Provides support in preparing and conducting workplace investigations.
    • Manages and implements organization-wide plans to promote equity, diversity and inclusiveness (EDI) with the OPSEU/SEFPO workplace and ensure EDI is embedded in all aspects of the employee lifecycle.
    • Provides advice related to confidential labour relations matters and collective bargaining on EDI issues.
    • Promotes EDI principles by providing advice and recommendations to OPSEU/SEFPO’s Leadership team.
    • Provides support in the research, development and implementation of an HR Plan that prioritizes the processes, programs, and initiatives critical to the organization’s success and supports the organization to deliver on its mission while ensuring an organizational culture of inclusiveness, transparency, accountability, teamwork, and innovation.
    • Plans and facilitates trainings to OPSEU/SEFPO staff on EDI.
    • Supports the organization’s training and development initiatives to improve and build organizational capacity.
    • Participates in workplace committees.
    • Assists and provides support regarding OPSEU/SEFPO’s recruitment strategy.
    • Maintain and update employee information in the HRIS.
    • Collect, analyze and interpret HR data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement, and provide update and recommendations to the People and Culture team and leadership team.
    • Manage development and delivery of reporting products including reports to meet legal, compliance and regulatory requirements.
    • Monitors and reviews changes in Provincial and Federal legislation and regulations related to HR/LR including Employment Standards Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, etc.
    • Other duties as assigned.

    Note: The roles within the People and Culture Division are interchangeable and the successful incumbent maybe assigned to other HR duties and responsibilities as required.

    Qualifications:

    The following qualifications will be used as guidelines:

    • An undergraduate degree/diploma in Human Resources Management and three years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
    • Completion of a recognized Human Resources designation(s) or other accreditation is considered an asset.
    • Knowledge of applicable legislation, regulations and policies
    • Demonstrated knowledge of HR and EDI issues and best practices.
    • Demonstrates culture competency and ability to work with diverse groups of people.
    • Experience handling employee grievances, disputes and complaints.
    • Experience in conducting workplace investigations into employee misconduct or violation of company policies.
    • Experience in developing and leading impactful HR projects inclusive of EDI principles.
    • Experience in facilitating and managing learning and development programs and training.
    • Understanding of and commitment to labour movement and social democratic philosophy.
    • Understanding of and commitment to the principles of anti-racism, equity, diversity and inclusion for all under-represented communities.
    • Project management, change management, and organization skills.
    • Interpersonal skills with a proven ability to facilitate and handle sensitive conversations with tact and diplomacy.
    • Active listening, empathy, coaching and conflict management skills.
    • Communication, analytical and presentation skills. Ability to present data, reports and presentations to senior leaders, executive board members and to staff members.
    • Collaboration, influence and negotiation skills.
    • Proficient in using MS Office Suite and HR Information Systems.
    • Vision, strategic thinking, and a willingness to instigate change

    Remuneration

    Annual salary of $125,178, a comprehensive fully employer funded benefits package along with a defined benefit pension plan.

    Application Submission:

    Required: Applicants must complete the two-step submission process noted below. Failure to do so may result in disqualification from consideration.

    1. Complete this OPSEU/SEFPO Job Applicant Survey
    2. All applications must be sent as a Word document or as a PDF. Please send your cover letter and resume to AdministratorPAC@opseu.org quoting “#T25.002 Assistant People, Culture and Equity Advisor”, no later than January 30, 2025, by midnight. (Eastern Time).

    Please advise in your email if you require disability related accommodation to participate in this competition.

    apedersen

    ,

  • Job Opportunity – 25.003 – Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Lead (1 Position)

    Title: Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Lead (500-19C) (permanent)

    Work Location:

    • People & Culture Division
    • OPSEU/SEFPO Head Office,
    • 100 Lesmill Road, Toronto, ON. M3B 3P8

    Reporting to: Administrator, People and Culture Division

    Start Date: To be determined.

    Search Type: Open to all – staff, members and the community

    Ontario Public Service Employees Union/Syndicat des employés de la fonction publique de l’Ontario

    OPSEU/SEFPO has an incredibly talented, knowledgeable, and dedicated workforce that provides the highest level of support to its diverse membership. OPSEU /SEFPO is striving to be an organization which reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.

    OPSEU/SEFPO represents approximately 180,000 members across Ontario. They are full-and part-time workers, as diverse a group as you could imagine. OPSEU/SEFPO’s members work for the Ontario government, inside community colleges, for the LCBO, in the health care and education sectors, and they are employed in a wide range of community agencies within the broader public sector.

    It is within this context that OPSEU/SEFPO welcomes applications for one permanent position noted below. OPSEU/SEFPO supports employment equity and encourages applications from racialized individuals, people with disabilities, Indigenous, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.

    Candidates must have a demonstrated ability to foster an inclusive union culture and to advance equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessible programs, strategies, and principles.

    Role Overview:

    Reporting to the Administrator, People and Culture Division, the Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Lead is responsible for developing and implementing policies, programs and initiatives that will foster an environment where employees feel valued and respected. They develop and lead an integrated approach to equity, diversity and inclusion in line with the organization’s values and behaviours and best practice.

    They will also be providing operational support and strategic advice to the management and staff for a wide range of HR matters, including interpretation and administration of the collective agreements, employee and labour relations, recruitment, learning and development, organizational and workforce planning, change management, employee engagement, talent management and succession planning.

    Note: These are in office positions with ability to work from home one day a week.

    Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

    • As the subject matter expert, responsible for creating and implementing organization-wide plans to promote equity, diversity and inclusiveness with the OPSEU/SEFPO workplace and ensure EDI is embedded in all aspects of the employee lifecycle.
    • Design and implement EDI strategies, frameworks and action plans.
    • Analyzes and advises on legislative advancements related to employee equity and diversity.
    • Plan and facilitate trainings to OPSEU/SEFPO staff on equity, diversity and inclusion.
    • Promotes staff employee equity and diversity principles by providing advice and recommendations to OPSEU/SEFPO’s Senior Leadership team.
    • Research and benchmarks employee equity best practices.
    • Review and update OPSEU/SEFPO’s staff employee equity and diversity policies/directives.
    • Manages Employee Equity Resource Groups including providing support for initiatives activities, agendas and communication plans from the groups.
    • Provide advice related to confidential labour relations matters and bargaining on Employee Equity, Diversity and Inclusion issues.
    • Partner with team members to diversify OPSEU/SEFPO’s recruitment strategy.
    • Research, investigate and make recommendations on wide variety of labour and employee relations matters including grievances, complaints, collective bargaining matters and trends.
    • Support the development and implementation of an HR Plan that prioritizes the processes, programs, and initiatives critical to the organization’s success and supports the organization to deliver on its mission while ensuring an organizational culture of inclusiveness, transparency, accountability, teamwork, and innovation.
    • Track the progress and impacts of the EDI strategies, frame works and action plans.
    • Provide consultative support and advice to leadership on a variety of operational and strategic Human Resources (HR) matters including but not limited to recruitment, attendance management, return to workplace, performance supports, grievance management, learning and development, and employee recognition.
    • Support the organization’s training and development initiatives to improve and build organizational capacity.
    • Participate in workplace committees.
    • Develop and implement HR policies, procedures, and programs in collaboration with team members.
    • Monitor and review changes in Provincial and Federal legislation and regulations related to HR/LR including Employment Standards Act, Occupational Health and Safety Act, etc.
    • Other duties as assigned.

    Note: The roles within the People and Culture Division are interchangeable and the successful incumbent maybe assigned to other HR duties and responsibilities as required.

    Qualifications:

    The following qualifications will be used as guidelines:

    • An undergraduate degree/diploma in Human Resources Management, Diversity Studies, Human Rights, Social Justice or a related discipline, and five years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
    • Completion of a recognized Human Resources designation(s) or other accreditation is considered an asset.
    • Knowledge of applicable employment legislation, regulations and policies.
    • Strong knowledge of the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, anti-racism, decolonization, anti-oppression, truth and reconciliation, intersectionality, equity, and accessibility, as well as how to apply these concepts in an organizational setting.
    • Experience working with diverse and systemically marginalized communities and collaborating on program development and/or projects.
    • Demonstrated progressive experience developing, implementing, and evaluating strategies and initiatives that address disproportionality and disparity.
    • Demonstrates culture competency and ability to work with diverse groups of people.
    • Demonstrated knowledge of HR issues and best practices.
    • Understanding of and commitment to labour movement and social democratic philosophy.
    • Experience in conducting workplace investigations into employee misconduct or violation of company policies.
    • Experience handling employee grievances, disputes and complaints.
    • Experience in developing and leading impactful HR projects inclusive of EDI principles.
    • Experience in facilitating and managing learning and development programs and training.
    • Project management, change management, and organization skills. Must possess the ability to take initiative and work independently.
    • Interpersonal skills with a proven ability to facilitate sensitive conversations with tact and diplomacy.
    • Active listening, empathy, coaching and conflict management skills.
    • Communication and presentation skills. Ability to present data, reports and presentations to senior leaders, executive board members and to staff members.
    • Ability to plan and think strategically.
    • Critical thinking and analytical skills for complex problem solving.
    • Collaboration, influence and negotiation skills.
    • Proficient in using MS Office Suite and HR Information Systems.
    • Vision, strategic thinking, and a willingness to instigate change.

    Remuneration

    Annual salary of $166,904, a comprehensive fully employer funded benefits package along with a defined benefit pension plan.

    Application Submission:

    Required: Applicants must complete the two-step submission process noted below. Failure to do so may result in disqualification from consideration.

    1. Complete this OPSEU/SEFPO Job Applicant Survey.
    1. All applications must be sent in as a Word document or as a PDF. Please send your cover letter and resume to AdministratorPAC@opseu.org quoting “#25.003 Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Lead (500-19C), no later than January 30, 2025, by midnight. (Eastern Time).

    Please advise in your email if you require disability related accommodation to participate in this competition.

    apedersen

    ,

  • Register now for Provincial Women’s Committee’s Wellness Marketplace on Jan 18

    The OPSEU/SEFPO Provincial Women’s Committee is hosting a Wellness Marketplace on Saturday, Jan 18, from 12:30 to 5:30pm at the Region 5 office at 31 Wellesley St. East.

    The event will feature information, venues, and some fun exercises and games!

    Please complete this form by Friday, Jan 17, to reserve your spot!

    apedersen

    ,

  • Provincial Young Workers’ Zoom Rooms about Convention 2025

    apedersen

  • Provincial Young Workers’ Zoom Rooms about Convention 2025

    apedersen

  • Provincial Young Workers’ Zoom Rooms about Convention 2025

    apedersen

  • Orientation for New Local Presidents/Vice-Presidents – Feb. 24-26, 2025

    Dear Members,

    This is to advise you that you have been selected to attend the Local Presidents/Vice-Presidents session on February 24-26, 2025.

    Date:
    Monday, February 24, 2025 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
    7:00 pm – 9:00 pm*

    Tuesday, February 25, 2025 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
    7:00 pm – 9:00 pm*

    Wednesday, February 26, 2025 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
    * Evening workshop for participants.

    Hotel:
    Pan Pacific Toronto
    900 York Mills Road, Toronto, ON M3B 3H2
    Phone: 1 416 444 2511

    Single rate: $179.00 +taxes

    Meeting Room: Large Training Room – 100 Lesmill, North York, ON

    Parking: Parking free at head office, $18 per day at Pan Pacific
    *Note: valet parking receipts are not a reimbursable claim.

    Hotel Room Bookings

    In accordance with the OPSEU/SEFPO policy (Section 10.1-5), any member who resides further than 60 kilometers from the event may request that OPSEU/SEFPO make their hotel reservation on their behalf by completing the Hotel Registration section when registering for the event in the OPSEU/SEFPO Member Portal.

    If you attend the evening workshops, the 60 kilometers rule is waived for members who live within 60km, and hotel accommodation will be approved. Sign-in will be required to claim hotel accommodation.

    OPSEU/SEFPO will be booking all hotel rooms centrally. Delegates will be reimbursed for single room hotel accommodation.

    Members are also responsible for payment of their hotel room upon check out as there are no charges billed back to OPSEU/SEFPO. Please save your itemized receipt and submit it with your Membership Expense Claim Form.

    Please also notify the Conferences and Travel Unit of any special accessibility needs that you may have with respect to your hotel room.

    Any additional nights outside of this policy must be pre-approved by the Conferences and Travel Unit, regardless of Region or distance from the event.

    Human Rights Accommodation Request Form

    Should you require a human rights accommodation or have an existing accommodation under the Human Rights Code, please complete and submit the Human Rights Accommodation Request Form in full.

    Family, Dependent and Attendant Care are covered expenses for this event for those who require it at the event or at home.

    OPSEU/SEFPO Child Care Policy

    OPSEU/SEFPO undertakes to provide childcare services, when requested, at all union educationals, conventions, regional, divisional, and demand-setting meetings where the membership requests are at least three weeks prior to the event. Members who bring their children to OPSEU/SEFPO sponsored functions should normally be required to use the on-site childcare service if it is available. The three-week notice will ensure adequate time to process advances when requested. If no requests for on-site childcare are received three weeks prior to the activity date, childcare arrangements for on-site child care may not be made. If members then bring children to the event without the required notice, the member should be responsible for making his/her own childcare arrangements.

    Procedures for Online Submission of Forms

    Members are to complete their Event Registration, Hotel Booking and Child Care Registration through OPSEU/SEFPO’s Member Portal.

    Attached you will find the following documentation:
    1. Advance Form
    2. OPSEU/SEFPO Human Rights Accommodation Form
    3. Member Portal Quick Intro
    4. Event Registration Tutorial
    5. Online Expense Claim Tutorial

    In order to confirm your registration, please submit all forms by email to the Conferences Unit (conferencesandtravel@opseu.org) no later than January 9, 2025.

    We appreciate your participation in these meetings.

    In Solidarity,

    J.P. Hornick
    OPSEU/SEFPO President

    Savona-Palhinha, Laura

  • Orientation for New Local Presidents/Vice-Presidents – February 19-21, 2025

    Dear Members,

    This is to advise you that you have been selected to attend the Local Presidents/Vice-Presidents session on February 19-21, 2025.

    Date:
    Wednesday, February 19, 2025 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
    7:00 pm – 9:00 pm*
    Thursday, February 20, 2025 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
    7:00 pm – 9:00 pm*
    Friday, February 21, 2025 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
    * Evening workshop for participants.

    Hotel:
    Pan Pacific Toronto
    900 York Mills Road, Toronto, ON M3B 3H2
    Phone: 1 416 444 2511

    Single rate: $179.00 +taxes

    Meeting Room: Large Training Room – 100 Lesmill, North York, ON

    Parking: Parking free at head office, $18 per day at Pan Pacific
    *Note: valet parking receipts are not a reimbursable claim.

    Hotel Room Bookings

    In accordance with the OPSEU/SEFPO policy (Section 10.1-5), any member who resides further than 60 kilometers from the event may request that OPSEU/SEFPO make their hotel reservation on their behalf by completing the Hotel Registration section when registering for the event in the OPSEU/SEFPO Member Portal.

    If you attend the evening workshops, the 60 kilometers rule is waived for members who live within 60km, and hotel accommodation will be approved. Sign-in will be required to claim hotel accommodation.

    OPSEU/SEFPO will be booking all hotel rooms centrally. Delegates will be reimbursed for single room hotel accommodation.

    Members are also responsible for payment of their hotel room upon check out as there are no charges billed back to OPSEU/SEFPO. Please save your itemized receipt and submit it with your Membership Expense Claim Form.

    Please also notify the Conferences and Travel Unit of any special accessibility needs that you may have with respect to your hotel room.

    Any additional nights outside of this policy must be pre-approved by the Conferences and Travel Unit, regardless of Region or distance from the event.

    Human Rights Accommodation Request Form

    Should you require a human rights accommodation or have an existing accommodation under the Human Rights Code, please complete and submit the Human Rights Accommodation Request Form in full.

    Family, Dependent and Attendant Care are covered expenses for this event for those who require it at the event or at home.

    OPSEU/SEFPO Child Care Policy

    OPSEU/SEFPO undertakes to provide childcare services, when requested, at all union educationals, conventions, regional, divisional, and demand-setting meetings where the membership requests are at least three weeks prior to the event. Members who bring their children to OPSEU/SEFPO sponsored functions should normally be required to use the on-site childcare service if it is available. The three-week notice will ensure adequate time to process advances when requested. If no requests for on-site childcare are received three weeks prior to the activity date, childcare arrangements for on-site child care may not be made. If members then bring children to the event without the required notice, the member should be responsible for making his/her own childcare arrangements.

    Procedures for Online Submission of Forms

    Members are to complete their Event Registration, Hotel Booking and Child Care Registration through OPSEU/SEFPO’s Member Portal.

    Attached you will find the following documentation:
    1. Advance Form
    2. OPSEU/SEFPO Human Rights Accommodation Form
    3. Member Portal Quick Intro
    4. Event Registration Tutorial
    5. Online Expense Claim Tutorial

    In order to confirm your registration, please submit all forms by email to the Conferences Unit (conferencesandtravel@opseu.org) no later than January 9, 2025.

    We appreciate your participation in these meetings.

    In Solidarity,

    J.P. Hornick
    OPSEU/SEFPO President

    Savona-Palhinha, Laura