dev-os

dev enviro for os

  • Apply now for 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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  • Convention 2025

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  • Apply now for Convention 2025 Blanket Exercise

    If you are attending OPSEU/SEFPO’s Convention 2025, you have the opportunity to participate in the KAIROS Blanket Exercise (KBE), which is an experiential teaching tool that explores the historic and contemporary relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in the land we now know as Canada.

    To apply to take part, please fill out the information below.

    Please note: only those confirmed to be a Convention 2025 delegate, alternate, observer or guest are eligible to take part in this event.

    Registration is now closed.

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  • Region 7 Kenora Educational, March 29 and 30

    Region 7 will be hosting an educational in Kenora on March 29 and 30, 2025.

    • Location
      • Kenora – Clarion Hotel, 470 1st Avenue South, Kenora, ON, P9N 1W7, Canada
    • Dates
      • March 29, 2025 – 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
      • March 30, 2025 – 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
    •  Application deadline

    Courses

    Challenging Discrimination in Everyday Union Work

    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.

    Duty to Accommodate: A Tool for Inclusive Workplaces

    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.

    Health and Safety: Level One

    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.

    Social Media for Union Activists

    The increasing use of social media has become a reality in our union work. With this reality, come both pitfalls and opportunities. “Social Media for Union Activists” will explore what social media is and how to spot both the opportunities and difficulties when using social media. Recognizing that social media is an important part of many of our members lives, participants will examine what risks are inherent when using social media and what case law has been telling us.

    Participants will explore what makes a successful social media campaign and develop some practical applications for social media use within Locals. Upon completing the course participants will be able to confidently use social media in their union work.

    Stewards 1: Making a Difference in the Workplace

    This course will build and strengthen the skills of a steward. Participants will explore the role of the steward throughout the bargaining cycle, including organizing their local, having effective one-on-one conversations, developing a communications strategy to enlist diverse member involvement, and learning strategies for everyday workplace problems.

    Throughout the course, participants are supported as they develop a profile of their members, find resources and information in OPSEU/SEFPO, and understand their role in the grievance process. Stewards 1 is a prerequisite to Stewards 2. Participants should bring their collective agreements.

    Applications

    Completed application forms must include the signed recommendation or an approval email from a Local Executive Officer and be received by the Dryden Regional Office no later than February 7, 2025. Please note applications will not be accepted after this date.

    Applicants will be notified after February 12, 2025, of their acceptance for the educational.

    The application form, childcare requests and Human Rights Accommodation Requests if required, are to be submitted to Linda Robinson via email larobinson@opseu.org or fax 1-807-697-0862 by February 7, 2025.

    Selection Process – Education Policy Section 7 (Policy Manual)

    The selection process will be in accordance with the Education Policy – Section 7 of the Policy Manual. All Local Presidents have an OPSEU/SEFPO Policy Manual. Please contact your Local President to review this policy. Applicants will be notified after February 12, 2025 of their acceptance for the educational.

    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 before commencement of the regional school (no later than 4:30 P.M. on the Wednesday prior to the weekend school). When a member does not attend and the Regional office has not been notified 48 hours prior to the school’s commencement, the member will be assessed a $50.00 penalty. Extenuating circumstances will be taken into consideration.

    Family/Attendant Care

    Family/Attendant Care will be reimbursed as per OPSEU/SEFPO policy as outlined on the back of the expense claim. If you have any questions, please check the OPSEU/SEFPO Policy Manual.

    Members seeking childcare onsite must make their request through the Dryden Regional Office by February 7, 2025.

    Lost Wages/Time Off

    Per past practice, lost wages will be paid for those members who are shift workers and are scheduled to work on Friday, March 28 and/or Saturday, March 29 and/or Sunday, March 30. Any claim for lost wages must be substantiated by proof from your employer.

    Travel Time

    Lost wage claims will also be accepted for those members who are not shift workers and who have to take time off to travel to the educational. Claims will only be honoured for the time that is required to travel.

    Transportation

    Arrangements have been made for a motor coach for the members travelling from Thunder Bay to Dryden. The coach will leave the Thunder Bay Regional Office at noon on Friday, March 28 and will arrive in Kenora in time for dinner Friday evening. In compliance with the “Greening OPSEU” plan to reduce our carbon footprint that was passed at Convention in 2006 and in the interest of cost savings, all participants are requested to travel on the motor coach. Please indicate on the registration form if you will be utilizing the coach. Due to liability issues the consumption of alcohol on the bus will no longer be allowed. Please respect this expectation.

    Alternate travel expense claims for those members travelling from Thunder Bay will only be paid with the advance approval Ed Arvelin, the Regional Vice-President.

    Accommodation And Meals

    Accommodation will be provided for those members who must travel 60 kilometres or more. Reservations may be made by contacting the Clarion Hotel at (807) 468-5521. Please tell them you are booking with OPSEU/SEFPO.

    Members who bring children to the Educational will be entitled to single accommodation. The meal allowance for children under 13 years of age should be 50% of OPSEU/SEFPO’s standard meal allowance. If you require special assistance at the hotel, please notify the hotel at the time of making your reservations.

    Lunch will be provided on Saturday. If you have any food allergies or special dietary requirements please ensure a Human Rights Accommodation Request Form is submitted.

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  • OPSEU/SEFPO CoRW Region One Reps serve hot meals for Migrant Workers Program

    On December 21, 2024, and for the sixth year in a row, OPSEU/SEFPO’s Coalition of Racialized Workers (CoRW) Region 1 Reps organized hot meals for migrant workers over the 2024 holiday season.  OPSEU/SEFPO’s CoRW and Region One partnered with both the Windsor Caribbean Centre and Justicia for Migrant Workers (J4MW) to make this initiative possible. This collaboration has been an ongoing partnership between these organizations since 2018.

    “Canada continues to rely on migrant workers to work in fields, orchards, farms, and greenhouses across the country.  Each year, nearly 60,000 workers come to help toil the land and more than one third of those workers are right here in Ontario, thousands of miles away from their homes and loved ones”  said Chris Ramsaroop, Organizer with Justice for Migrant Workers.

    A total of two hundred and forty-eight meals (248) meals was served to eight (8) different farms in Essex and Leamington locations. Notably the Windsor and Essex County areas have one of the highest populations of migrant workers in the province.

    “Over the last six years, we continue to see the most vulnerable in our communities get further marginalized and affected by economic and financial conditions” said Elizabeth Ha, CoRW Region 1 Rep and Vice-Chair.

    The significance of this event is particularly important since during the holiday season, migrant workers are often away from their families and friends.  The nature of this initiative is to create a feeling of belonging, inclusion, and solidarity.   This initiative has blossomed into an annual event that provides culturally appropriate food to migrant workers in the community.

    “We want to support the workers who are here to feed our community, build our economy, and who are essential workers. They are here working during the holiday, away from their families”  said Peter Thompson, Region 1 CoRW member.

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  • Region 7 Kenora Educational, March 29 and 30

    Region 7 will be hosting an educational in Kenora on March 29 and 30, 2025.

    • Location
      • Kenora – Clarion Hotel, 470 1st Avenue South, Kenora, ON, P9N 1W7, Canada
    • Dates
      • March 29, 2025 – 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
      • March 30, 2025 – 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
    •  Application deadline

    Courses

    Challenging Discrimination in Everyday Union Work

    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.

    Duty to Accommodate: A Tool for Inclusive Workplaces

    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.

    Health and Safety: Level One

    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.

    Social Media for Union Activists

    The increasing use of social media has become a reality in our union work. With this reality, come both pitfalls and opportunities. “Social Media for Union Activists” will explore what social media is and how to spot both the opportunities and difficulties when using social media. Recognizing that social media is an important part of many of our members lives, participants will examine what risks are inherent when using social media and what case law has been telling us.

    Participants will explore what makes a successful social media campaign and develop some practical applications for social media use within Locals. Upon completing the course participants will be able to confidently use social media in their union work.

    Stewards 1: Making a Difference in the Workplace

    This course will build and strengthen the skills of a steward. Participants will explore the role of the steward throughout the bargaining cycle, including organizing their local, having effective one-on-one conversations, developing a communications strategy to enlist diverse member involvement, and learning strategies for everyday workplace problems.

    Throughout the course, participants are supported as they develop a profile of their members, find resources and information in OPSEU/SEFPO, and understand their role in the grievance process. Stewards 1 is a prerequisite to Stewards 2. Participants should bring their collective agreements.

    Applications

    Completed application forms must include the signed recommendation or an approval email from a Local Executive Officer and be received by the Dryden Regional Office no later than February 7, 2025. Please note applications will not be accepted after this date.

    Applicants will be notified after February 12, 2025, of their acceptance for the educational.

    The application form, childcare requests and Human Rights Accommodation Requests if required, are to be submitted to Linda Robinson via email larobinson@opseu.org or fax 1-807-697-0862 by February 7, 2025.

    Selection Process – Education Policy Section 7 (Policy Manual)

    The selection process will be in accordance with the Education Policy – Section 7 of the Policy Manual. All Local Presidents have an OPSEU/SEFPO Policy Manual. Please contact your Local President to review this policy. Applicants will be notified after February 12, 2025 of their acceptance for the educational.

    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 before commencement of the regional school (no later than 4:30 P.M. on the Wednesday prior to the weekend school). When a member does not attend and the Regional office has not been notified 48 hours prior to the school’s commencement, the member will be assessed a $50.00 penalty. Extenuating circumstances will be taken into consideration.

    Family/Attendant Care

    Family/Attendant Care will be reimbursed as per OPSEU/SEFPO policy as outlined on the back of the expense claim. If you have any questions, please check the OPSEU/SEFPO Policy Manual.

    Members seeking childcare onsite must make their request through the Dryden Regional Office by February 7, 2025.

    Lost Wages/Time Off

    Per past practice, lost wages will be paid for those members who are shift workers and are scheduled to work on Friday, March 28 and/or Saturday, March 29 and/or Sunday, March 30. Any claim for lost wages must be substantiated by proof from your employer.

    Travel Time

    Lost wage claims will also be accepted for those members who are not shift workers and who have to take time off to travel to the educational. Claims will only be honoured for the time that is required to travel.

    Transportation

    Arrangements have been made for a motor coach for the members travelling from Thunder Bay to Dryden. The coach will leave the Thunder Bay Regional Office at noon on Friday, March 28 and will arrive in Kenora in time for dinner Friday evening. In compliance with the “Greening OPSEU” plan to reduce our carbon footprint that was passed at Convention in 2006 and in the interest of cost savings, all participants are requested to travel on the motor coach. Please indicate on the registration form if you will be utilizing the coach. Due to liability issues the consumption of alcohol on the bus will no longer be allowed. Please respect this expectation.

    Alternate travel expense claims for those members travelling from Thunder Bay will only be paid with the advance approval Ed Arvelin, the Regional Vice-President.

    Accommodation And Meals

    Accommodation will be provided for those members who must travel 60 kilometres or more. Reservations may be made by contacting the Clarion Hotel at (807) 468-5521. Please tell them you are booking with OPSEU/SEFPO.

    Members who bring children to the Educational will be entitled to single accommodation. The meal allowance for children under 13 years of age should be 50% of OPSEU/SEFPO’s standard meal allowance. If you require special assistance at the hotel, please notify the hotel at the time of making your reservations.

    Lunch will be provided on Saturday. If you have any food allergies or special dietary requirements please ensure a Human Rights Accommodation Request Form is submitted.

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  • LockTalk #7 – Back at the table

    Click here for PDF version.

    Your Correctional Bargaining Team is returning to the table with the employer this week on January 15-16, 2025. We’ll provide you with an update as soon as possible. Remember: LockTalk is your only source for accurate bargaining information.

    We won’t be deterred from connecting with you

    In LockTalk #6, you read about our corrections mobilizers actively in the field, visiting institutions, facilities and community offices to share bargaining information and answer questions. The team would like to acknowledge the mobilizers’ efforts to connect with members across the province.

    Last week, the employer informed us that they would no longer be allowing our mobilizers access inside our workplaces. It’s clear that the employer doesn’t want us to organize during bargaining – but we’re not letting that deter us from connecting with you. Stay tuned as our mobilizers strategize on ways to continue to reach out to Correctional Bargaining Unit members across the province.

    Update your contact info today!

    If you have not already done so, it is vital that you update your secure (non-employer) contact information when asked to do so by your local or a mobilizer, so you can get bargaining information quickly and directly. You can also do this via the OPSEU/SEFPO Member Portal.

    A reminder that individual bargaining team members cannot respond to any bargaining-related questions or concerns. If you have questions, please contact the Correctional Bargaining Team at CorrectionsOPSBargaining@opseu.org.

    In solidarity,

    Janet Laverty, Chair, Correctional Bargaining Team
    Adam Cygler, Vice-Chair, Correctional Bargaining Team

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  • Translators assignment

    Ambulance (Sector 1) – Christiane Devaud

    Board of Education and Cultural Institutions (Sector 3) – Éric Capelle

    CAAT-A – Éric Capelle

    CAAT-S FT and PT – Christiane Devaud

    CAAT-S PT College Workers Campaign – Tim Humphries

    Canadian Blood Services and Diagnostics (Sector 19) – Tim Humphries

    Child Treatment (Sector 15) – Tim Humphries

    Children’s Aid Societies (Sector 4) – Christiane Devaud

    Coalition of Racialized Workers (CoRW) – Tim Humphries

    Community Agencies (Sector 5) – Éric Capelle

    Community Health Care Professionals (Sector 17) – Christiane Devaud

    Community Services Divisional Council (CSDC) – Tim Humphries

    Convention – Christiane Devaud

    Developmental Services (Sector 2) – Christiane Devaud

    Disability Rights Caucus – Éric Capelle

    Forms – Christiane Devaud

    French Web Editing – Christiane Devaud

    General (Sector 20) – Éric Capelle

    Grievances (According to Sector) – Christiane Devaud

    Grievances (According to Sector) – Éric Capelle

    Health and Safety – Christiane Devaud

    Health Care Divisional Council (HCDC) – Christiane Devaud

    Health Professionals (Sector 10) – Christiane Devaud

    Hospital Support (Sector 11) – Christiane Devaud

    In Solidarity – Tim Humphries

    Indigenous Circle – Éric Capelle

    Job Opportunities / People and Culture – Tim Humphries

    LBED (Sector 26) – Éric Capelle

    Long Term Care (Sector 8) – Tim Humphries

    Members Education/Training – Christiane Devaud

    Mental Health (Sector 18) – Christiane Devaud

    MPAC (Sector 16) – Éric Capelle

    Municipalities (Sector 13) – Éric Capelle

    OPS – Unified and both (not corrections-only material) – Éric Capelle

    OPS Corrections – Christiane Devaud

    OPSEU in the News – Tim Humphries

    OPSEU This Week – Tim Humphries

    Organizing – Éric Capelle

    Pensions and Benefits – Christiane Devaud

    Personal Support Workers (PSWs) – Christiane Devaud

    Policy and Procedures Manuals – Christiane Devaud

    President and 1VPT messages – Christiane Devaud

    Private Contractors (Sector 14) – Éric Capelle

    Provincial Francophone Committee (PFrC) – Tim Humphries

    Provincial Human Rights Committee (PHRC) – Tim Humphries

    Provincial Women’s Committee (PWC) – Tim Humphries

    Provincial Youth Committee (PYC) – Tim Humphries

    Rainbow Alliance Arc-en-ciel (RAA) – Tim Humphries

    Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) – Christiane Devaud

    Research (CPI Tables) – Éric Capelle

    Retired Members – Éric Capelle

    Shop OPSEU/Discount Programs – Tim Humphries

    Social media – Tim Humphries

    Solidarity Funds, Live and Let Live – Éric Capelle

    Universities (Sector 9) – Tim Humphries

    Youth Corrections – BPS (Sector 7) – Christiane Devaud

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  • Parking passes for Convention 2025

    The Metro Toronto Convention Centre is now accepting Parking pass orders for the OPSEU/SEFPO Annual Convention 2025!

    Order Online Now! Onsite orders will not be permitted.

    Simply use this specialized link to order now: www.mtccc.com/opseu

    Online ordering is available until Thursday, April 24, 2025, at midnight.

    Save Money!

    Discounted rates of $19/day are available until April 24, 2025, on passes purchased for 2 or more consecutive days.

    Standard rates will apply for all passes purchased after April 24, 2025.

    Parking is available from Tuesday April 22 to Saturday April 27, 2025.

    Mail or onsite pick-up available!

    All orders placed prior to April 10, 2025, are eligible to be mailed directly to your address. Please specify your preference to have your passes mailed out or if they are to be picked up once you arrive onsite.

    Questions?

    Please contact the Exhibitor Services office at (416) 585-8387 or exhibitor-services@mtccc.com

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  • Local 374 beats displacement attempt at Mackenzie Health Hospital, securing workers’ futures

    In July 2024, OPSEU/SEFPO was given notice that NOWU – a predatory, sham union whose hallmark is building its ranks by raiding other unions – was targeting our hospital service bargaining unit in OPSEU/SEFPO Local 374 at Mackenzie Health, attempting to force a decertification vote.

    Following a concerted campaign by members and OPSEU/SEFPO to inform workers that a move to NOWU flushes away your bargaining power for a bargain-bin union, we begin 2025 celebrating good news: we won.

    On Thursday, January 9, we received notice that the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB) had decided to confirm and finalize NOWU’s request to withdraw both their Certification/Displacement Application & the Unfair Labour Practice (ULP) Complaint – imposing a one (1) year bar on any further certification applications for this unit.

    The practice of “raiding” forgoes the meaningful work of grassroots organizing and is entirely disconnected from the principles underpinning trade-unionism. NOWU raids unions so that they get your dues from day one, without the work of getting to a first contract.

    This news represents a huge win for workers at Mackenzie Health, who have built on a strong contract with OPSEU/SEFPO for the last 20 years.

    NOWU is a disgraced name in the labour movement, without the presence or power to push employers or lobby the government to make the changes needed in Ontario’s health care system. NOWU’s resume is a long string of broken promises: leaving workers at Humber River, Mount Sinai, and Michael Garron hospitals waiting years for a wage increase, and in some cases a contract; bargaining concessions; losing grievances; and lining their own pockets with member settlements.

    Over the last months, OPSEU/SEFPO Local 374 members have been hard at work, building a stronger union: electing a new Local Executive Committee (LEC) and stewards; overhauling local by-laws; electing a bargaining team; holding local demand-setting; and preparing fresh proposals while bargaining dates are secured.

    This is the dedicated, everyday work that charts the course forwards – the work NOWU is unwilling to do.

    As bargaining heats up, OPSEU/SEFPO is ready to fight for the wage gains and benefits enhancements members need at the table – and we have the track record to prove it.

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  • College Support Part-Time: Special Bargaining Town Hall on January 22 – and we’re coming to your campus!

    As we enter 2025, we’re gearing up in our fight to set the course for part-timer futures at Ontario’s 24 public colleges. This fight matters: for you, for your colleagues, for your family, and for generations of workers after us.

    A better college system cannot be built on precarity: we need to be able to afford to live in the communities we work in. Groceries, gas, rent, cost-of-living, it’s all going up – everything except our wages.

    Enough is enough. It’s time for a different agenda – and we get to decide what we’re willing to do to achieve it.

    Join us on Wednesday, January 22nd at 7:00 p.m. (EST) on Zoom for a Special Bargaining Town Hall.

    Register for Jan 22 Town Hall here.

    On the agenda:

    1. A bargaining breakdown of what’s happened so far on both sides of the table between your CAAT-S PT bargaining team and the College Employer Council (CEC.)
    2. Important member polling to determine future negotiations.

    We’re touring the province – visiting your campus soon!

    Members of your CAAT-S PT bargaining team and Divisional Executive are back on tour to connect with you on the ground about the issues facing members and our fight for a fair deal – including a livable wage increase and paid sick days for all.

    Over January, we’re touring the province; our full tour schedule is listed below. Room numbers will be communicated out to members are their respective college via your bargaining team and Local president.

    If you can’t connect with us in person, you can participate in our daily virtual drop-ins on Zoom: Monday – Friday, 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. until the end of January.

    Register for the virtual drop-in here.

    Campus Tour Schedule

    Monday, January 6
    George Brown College – St. James campus

    Tuesday, January 7
    Centennial College (Progress campus)

    Wednesday, January 8
    Humber College (North campus)

    Thursday, January 9
    Seneca College (Newnham campus)

    Friday, January 10
    Durham College (Oshawa campus)

    Monday, January 13
    Sheridan College (Davis campus)

    Tuesday, January 14
    Conestoga College (Kitchener campus)

    Wednesday, January 15
    Mohawk College (Fennel campus)

    Thursday, January 16
    Niagara College (Welland campus)

    Monday, January 20
    Georgian College (Barrie campus)

    Tuesday, January 21
    Fanshawe College (London campus)

    Wednesday, January 22
    Lambton College (Sarnia campus)

    Thursday, January 23
    St. Clair College (Windsor campus)

    Monday, January 27
    St. Lawrence College (Kingston campus)

    Tuesday, January 28
    Algonquin College (Ottawa campus)

    Wednesday, January 29
    Cambrian College (Sudbury college)

    Friday, January 31
    Confederation college (Thunder Bay campus)

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  • Submit a constitutional amendment for Convention 2025 by Feb. 21

    The deadline to submit both Resolutions and Constitutional Amendments was February 21, 2025. This was an earlier deadline than previous years.

    At Convention 2024, a Constitutional Amendment was passed requiring that Resolutions and Constitutional Amendments must be submitted a minimum of 60 days prior to Convention. Convention 2025 will take place from Thursday, April 24, 2025 to Sunday, April 27, 2025.

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