dev-os

dev enviro for os

  • Region 1 Weekend Educational, March 15 and 16, 2025

    Printable PDF and application form

    The Weekend Educational will be In-Person at the St Clair College Centre for the Arts and will run from Saturday, March 15th from 9:00am-4:30pm & Sunday, March 16th from 9:00am-1:00pm with an optional Evening Event on Saturday, March 15th 7:00pm-9:00pm.

    Educational Details & Expense Guidelines

    • Hotel Rooms – Double Tree by Hilton, 333 Riverside Drive West, Windsor, Ontario – ensure to advise you are attending the OPSEU/SEFPO Weekend Educational. *please see page 3 for room rate & hotel information
    • OPSEU/SEFPO Policy states that members are responsible for reserving their own rooms AND paying for same, you are also responsible for any cancellation. Failing cancellation, you are responsible for the room charges.
    • Meal Rates – Breakfast $22.00, Lunch, $30.00 & Dinner, $39.00 (meals provided at the Event cannot be claimed)
    • *Breakfast & Lunch are provided on Saturday & Sunday and are not claimable expenses
    • Current Kms Rates– $0.60/km (1 – Member travelling alone), $0.65/km (2 – Members), $0.70/km (3 – Members), $0.75/0 km (4 – Members), $0.80/km (5 – Members)
    • Wages are covered for this educational
    • If you require a time-off letter, please fill out the Time-Off request information on page
    • LBED members must submit a RUL for time-
    • Advance Request –please fill out the attached form and email to Advances@opseu.org.
    • Di rect Deposi t – if you do not already have Direct Deposit, please fill out the attached form and email to the Claims Unit at Claims@opseu.org.
    • Elder/Dependent Care – Members who have responsibility for elderly/dependent persons wherever the service is provided, at home, in town or out of town will be reimbursed at $15.00 per hour for a maximum of 12 hours, and $40.00 overnight, to a maximum of $220.00 a day. Friends, family, professional, 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. 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.
    • Childcare – is being offered at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel – *see page 3 for Childcare Members will be reimbursed for off-site childcare at $15.00 an hour or a maximum of 12 hours and $40.00 overnight, to a maximum of $220.00 per 24 hour period. Childcare claims will be honoured for children up to and including age 17, for whom the member is guardian.
    • Human Rights Accommodation – please fill out the Human Rights Accommodation request form and email to the Equity Unit at Equity@opseu.org and copy Lisa Baker, Windsor Regional Secretary at lbaker@opseu.org.

    Course descriptions

    Local Treasurer’s Course

    This course is aimed at Local Treasurers and Trustees who are either NEW to the role or experienced members who are seeking a “refresher course”. The goal is to give the necessary tools and education to Local Treasurers and Trustees in order for them to fulfill their roles in the Local. It will also draw on members’ experiences to solve problems occurring with the administration of Local funds.

    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.

    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.

    Follow the Money: A First Course in Public Economics

    Are you worried about your economic future and that of your children? Are you frustrated by the growing gap between the soaring wages of CEO’s and the stagnant take-home pay of your family? As a union member and a public employee, are you surprised that you have somehow become “the problem”?

    Follow the Money: A First Course in Public Economics takes you on a guided tour of today’s economy. We’ll examine who runs it and who doesn’t. We’ll discuss what this all means for people, public services and the planet. We’ll look at how economics is tied up with politics and the role played by corporate power and public relations. Lastly, we’ll draw some inspiration from folks who are fighting for a fair economy and identify what we can do to be part of those struggles in our locals and communities. The course has 6 modules which can be taught separately in meetings or local events.

    Public Speaking — Finding your voice, connecting with your audience

    Have you ever felt intimidated when you are a speaker in front of a large group? Have you ever wondered what you need to consider when planning and preparing a short presentation for the public?

    Whether you would like to strengthen your presentation skills, look more confident and credible, define your core message, organize your thoughts, or find new and effective ways to collaborate with your team, this course will give you practical skills you need to communicate successfully. You will have an opportunity to practice and hone your presentation skills in a small group setting while concentrating on your message and target audience.

    Union Strategies for Attendance Management Programs

    Are the employees in your workplace under assault from the employer’s attendance management program? Do you find yourself responding to issues such as medical notes being denied, requests for independent medical exams, last chance agreements being offered, and members being threatened with non-disciplinary dismissal?

    This course examines why Attendance Management Programs exist, how these programs are supposed to be run, employer motivations, and strategies to challenge the employer. By examining their own workplace situations, participants will be able to identify inconsistencies between workplace policies and program implementation, as well as become skilled at recognizing unfair attendance management practices. Through a series of interactive exercises participants will develop strategies to defend members and build the locals capacity to challenge unfair and poorly implemented Attendance Management Programs. *Participants should bring their Collective Agreements.

    apedersen

    , ,

  • Region 1 Weekend Educational, March 15 and 16, 2025

    Printable PDF and application form

    The Weekend Educational will be In-Person at the St Clair College Centre for the Arts and will run from Saturday, March 15th from 9:00am-4:30pm & Sunday, March 16th from 9:00am-1:00pm with an optional Evening Event on Saturday, March 15th 7:00pm-9:00pm.

    Educational Details & Expense Guidelines

    • Hotel Rooms – Double Tree by Hilton, 333 Riverside Drive West, Windsor, Ontario – ensure to advise you are attending the OPSEU/SEFPO Weekend Educational. *please see page 3 for room rate & hotel information
    • OPSEU/SEFPO Policy states that members are responsible for reserving their own rooms AND paying for same, you are also responsible for any cancellation. Failing cancellation, you are responsible for the room charges.
    • Meal Rates – Breakfast $22.00, Lunch, $30.00 & Dinner, $39.00 (meals provided at the Event cannot be claimed)
    • *Breakfast & Lunch are provided on Saturday & Sunday and are not claimable expenses
    • Current Kms Rates– $0.60/km (1 – Member travelling alone), $0.65/km (2 – Members), $0.70/km (3 – Members), $0.75/0 km (4 – Members), $0.80/km (5 – Members)
    • Wages are covered for this educational
    • If you require a time-off letter, please fill out the Time-Off request information on page
    • LBED members must submit a RUL for time-
    • Advance Request –please fill out the attached form and email to Advances@opseu.org.
    • Di rect Deposi t – if you do not already have Direct Deposit, please fill out the attached form and email to the Claims Unit at Claims@opseu.org.
    • Elder/Dependent Care – Members who have responsibility for elderly/dependent persons wherever the service is provided, at home, in town or out of town will be reimbursed at $15.00 per hour for a maximum of 12 hours, and $40.00 overnight, to a maximum of $220.00 a day. Friends, family, professional, 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. 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.
    • Childcare – is being offered at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel – *see page 3 for Childcare Members will be reimbursed for off-site childcare at $15.00 an hour or a maximum of 12 hours and $40.00 overnight, to a maximum of $220.00 per 24 hour period. Childcare claims will be honoured for children up to and including age 17, for whom the member is guardian.
    • Human Rights Accommodation – please fill out the Human Rights Accommodation request form and email to the Equity Unit at Equity@opseu.org and copy Lisa Baker, Windsor Regional Secretary at lbaker@opseu.org.

    Course descriptions

    Local Treasurer’s Course

    This course is aimed at Local Treasurers and Trustees who are either NEW to the role or experienced members who are seeking a “refresher course”. The goal is to give the necessary tools and education to Local Treasurers and Trustees in order for them to fulfill their roles in the Local. It will also draw on members’ experiences to solve problems occurring with the administration of Local funds.

    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.

    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.

    Follow the Money: A First Course in Public Economics

    Are you worried about your economic future and that of your children? Are you frustrated by the growing gap between the soaring wages of CEO’s and the stagnant take-home pay of your family? As a union member and a public employee, are you surprised that you have somehow become “the problem”?

    Follow the Money: A First Course in Public Economics takes you on a guided tour of today’s economy. We’ll examine who runs it and who doesn’t. We’ll discuss what this all means for people, public services and the planet. We’ll look at how economics is tied up with politics and the role played by corporate power and public relations. Lastly, we’ll draw some inspiration from folks who are fighting for a fair economy and identify what we can do to be part of those struggles in our locals and communities. The course has 6 modules which can be taught separately in meetings or local events.

    Public Speaking — Finding your voice, connecting with your audience

    Have you ever felt intimidated when you are a speaker in front of a large group? Have you ever wondered what you need to consider when planning and preparing a short presentation for the public?

    Whether you would like to strengthen your presentation skills, look more confident and credible, define your core message, organize your thoughts, or find new and effective ways to collaborate with your team, this course will give you practical skills you need to communicate successfully. You will have an opportunity to practice and hone your presentation skills in a small group setting while concentrating on your message and target audience.

    Union Strategies for Attendance Management Programs

    Are the employees in your workplace under assault from the employer’s attendance management program? Do you find yourself responding to issues such as medical notes being denied, requests for independent medical exams, last chance agreements being offered, and members being threatened with non-disciplinary dismissal?

    This course examines why Attendance Management Programs exist, how these programs are supposed to be run, employer motivations, and strategies to challenge the employer. By examining their own workplace situations, participants will be able to identify inconsistencies between workplace policies and program implementation, as well as become skilled at recognizing unfair attendance management practices. Through a series of interactive exercises participants will develop strategies to defend members and build the locals capacity to challenge unfair and poorly implemented Attendance Management Programs. *Participants should bring their Collective Agreements.

    apedersen

    ,

  • Region 1 Leadership Conference, March 17 and 18, 2025

    Printable PDF and application form

    • Region 1 leadership conference for Local Presidents, Highest Ranking, Region 1 Equity Representatives, Retiree Committee Chair and Convention Committee Members
    • Monday, March 17 and Tuesday March 18, 2025
    • Deadline: Please complete this form and email it to lbaker@opseu.org by Friday, Feb. 7, 2025

    You are invited to attend the OPSEU/SEFPO’s Region 1 – Leadership Conference being held on Monday, March 17th and Tuesday, March 18th at the St Clair College Centre for the Arts at 201 Riverside Drive West, Windsor, Ontario. This Region 1 – Leadership Conference will be a Mock Convention to discuss Budget, Robert’s Rule of Order, Constitution Amendments and Resolutions. No elections will be held.

    Participants will include Local Presidents or Highest Ranking, as well as Region 1 Equity Representatives that are ordinarily elected at Regional Meetings, the Convention Committee members (Constitution, Credentials & Resolutions) and the Chair of the Region’s Retiree Committee.

    The business at the Region 1 – Leadership Conference will be set by the Regional Vice-President, Jennifer Van Zetten who will oversee the agenda. Please direct any questions/inquires to the RVP at jennifervanzetten@gmail.com.

    Conference Details & Expense Guidelines

    • Hotel Rooms – Double Tree by Hilton, 333 Riverside Drive West, Windsor, Ontario. – please ensure to advise you are attending the OPSEU/SEFPO Leadership Conference. *see page 2 for room rates & hotel details.
    • OPSEU/SEFPO Policy states that members are responsible for reserving their own rooms AND paying for same, you are also responsible for any cancellation. Failing cancellation, you are responsible for the room charges.
    • Meals – Breakfast $22.00, Lunch $30.00 & Dinner $39.00 (you cannot claim meals provided at the Event).
    • *Breakfast & Lunch are provided on Monday & Tuesday and are not claimable expenses
    • Current Kilometer Rates – $0.60/km (1 – Member travelling alone), $0.65/km (2 – Members), $0.70/km (3 – Members), $0.75/0 km (4 – Members), $0.80/km (5 – Members)
    • Wages are covered for Local Presidents (or Highest Ranking) & Equity Committee Locals are entitled to use 80/20 Funds and encouraged to ensure Local Convention Delegates participate in the Leadership Conference.
    • If you require a time-off letter, please fill out the Time-Off request information on page
    • LBED members must submit an RUL if requesting time-
    • Advance Request s – please fill out the attached form and email to Advances@opseu.org.
    • Direct Deposit – if you do not already have Direct Deposit, please fill out the attached form and email to the Claims Unit at Claims@opseu.org.
    • Elder / Dependent Care – Members who have responsibility for elderly/dependent persons wherever the service is provided, at home, in town or out of town will be reimbursed at $15.00 per hour for a maximum of 12 hours, and $40.00 overnight, to a maximum $220.00 a day. Friends, family, professional, 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. 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.
    • Childcare– is being offered at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel – *See page 2 of the application form for Childcare Registration Members will be reimbursed for offsite childcare at $15.00 an hour or a maximum of 12 hours and $40.00 overnight, to a maximum of $220.00 per 24 hour period. Childcare claims will be honoured for children up to and including age 17, for whom the member is guardian.
    • Human Right s Accommodation Requests – please fill out a Human Rights Accommodation request form and email to the Equity Unit at Equity@opseu.org and copy Lisa Baker, Windsor Regional Secretary at lbaker@opseu.org.

    apedersen

    ,

  • Region 1 Leadership Conference, March 17 and 18, 2025

    Printable PDF and application form

    • Region 1 leadership conference for Local Presidents, Highest Ranking, Region 1 Equity Representatives, Retiree Committee Chair and Convention Committee Members
    • Monday, March 17 and Tuesday March 18, 2025
    • Deadline: Please complete this form and email it to lbaker@opseu.org by Friday, Feb. 7, 2025

    You are invited to attend the OPSEU/SEFPO’s Region 1 – Leadership Conference being held on Monday, March 17th and Tuesday, March 18th at the St Clair College Centre for the Arts at 201 Riverside Drive West, Windsor, Ontario. This Region 1 – Leadership Conference will be a Mock Convention to discuss Budget, Robert’s Rule of Order, Constitution Amendments and Resolutions. No elections will be held.

    Participants will include Local Presidents or Highest Ranking, as well as Region 1 Equity Representatives that are ordinarily elected at Regional Meetings, the Convention Committee members (Constitution, Credentials & Resolutions) and the Chair of the Region’s Retiree Committee.

    The business at the Region 1 – Leadership Conference will be set by the Regional Vice-President, Jennifer Van Zetten who will oversee the agenda. Please direct any questions/inquires to the RVP at jennifervanzetten@gmail.com.

    Conference Details & Expense Guidelines

    • Hotel Rooms – Double Tree by Hilton, 333 Riverside Drive West, Windsor, Ontario. – please ensure to advise you are attending the OPSEU/SEFPO Leadership Conference. *see page 2 for room rates & hotel details.
    • OPSEU/SEFPO Policy states that members are responsible for reserving their own rooms AND paying for same, you are also responsible for any cancellation. Failing cancellation, you are responsible for the room charges.
    • Meals – Breakfast $22.00, Lunch $30.00 & Dinner $39.00 (you cannot claim meals provided at the Event).
    • *Breakfast & Lunch are provided on Monday & Tuesday and are not claimable expenses
    • Current Kilometer Rates – $0.60/km (1 – Member travelling alone), $0.65/km (2 – Members), $0.70/km (3 – Members), $0.75/0 km (4 – Members), $0.80/km (5 – Members)
    • Wages are covered for Local Presidents (or Highest Ranking) & Equity Committee Locals are entitled to use 80/20 Funds and encouraged to ensure Local Convention Delegates participate in the Leadership Conference.
    • If you require a time-off letter, please fill out the Time-Off request information on page
    • LBED members must submit an RUL if requesting time-
    • Advance Request s – please fill out the attached form and email to Advances@opseu.org.
    • Direct Deposit – if you do not already have Direct Deposit, please fill out the attached form and email to the Claims Unit at Claims@opseu.org.
    • Elder / Dependent Care – Members who have responsibility for elderly/dependent persons wherever the service is provided, at home, in town or out of town will be reimbursed at $15.00 per hour for a maximum of 12 hours, and $40.00 overnight, to a maximum $220.00 a day. Friends, family, professional, 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. 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.
    • Childcare– is being offered at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel – *See page 2 of the application form for Childcare Registration Members will be reimbursed for offsite childcare at $15.00 an hour or a maximum of 12 hours and $40.00 overnight, to a maximum of $220.00 per 24 hour period. Childcare claims will be honoured for children up to and including age 17, for whom the member is guardian.
    • Human Right s Accommodation Requests – please fill out a Human Rights Accommodation request form and email to the Equity Unit at Equity@opseu.org and copy Lisa Baker, Windsor Regional Secretary at lbaker@opseu.org.

    apedersen

    , ,

  • LockTalk #4: Organizing and Preparing to Bargain

    LockTalk #4: Organizing and Preparing to Bargain

    Click here to download PDF version

    Over the last month, your Correctional Bargaining Team has been busy preparing our opening statement and proposals. These proposals aim to address the priorities that the Correctional Bargaining Unit set through the demand set survey. You can review the priorities in Lock Talk #1.

    It is our goal to bring back a negotiated collective agreement to the membership for a ratification vote that offers meaningful gains to this division. The Employer has indicated they have a similar inclination. The Team has proposed dates in December to the Employer for the parties to sit down and get to work at the bargaining table.

    Mobilizers building and strengthening lines of communication

    Our mobilizers have completed training and are hard at work building channels for two-way communication between the Bargaining Team and you, the members. One of the key tasks of the mobilizers is to update the contact information for as many members as possible. This will help you stay informed as we navigate the bargaining process.

    If you have not done so, it is vital that you provide a secure email address when asked to do so by either a mobilizer or by your local. It is important that you do not use your ministry (ontario.ca) email address for union communications.

    Click here to update your contact information in the online OPSEU/SEFPO Member Portal today!

    Be ready for solidarity actions to build a united front

    We all know the challenges that we face in our workplaces, whether that be in an institution, facility or probation office. These issues go far beyond wages and benefits. We are working in some of the most dangerous and challenging working conditions in the province that have been left unaddressed for far too long.

    It is likely that during the coming months, the division will be called upon to participate in solidarity events to support our demands at the bargaining table. It is vital that members actively participate in these events. No matter how trivial it may seem, the Employer pays attention to how united we are as a division. In key moments our bargaining unit has had a strong history of sending a powerful message as a united front.

    Remember, Lock Talk is your ONLY source of accurate bargaining information. Members should be aware 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

    mlanglois

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  • Thank you! Social Mapping Survey now closed

    Thank you! Social Mapping Survey now closed

    We want to take a moment to thank the thousands of OPSEU/SEFPO members who took the time to fill out the Social Mapping Survey.

    The survey has now closed and the exciting work of analyzing and reporting on the data will soon begin.

    The Social Mapping Project is a systematic demographic analysis of our membership as well as a review of our membership systems. The project will help us identify gaps and barriers and provide ideas for how to make our union more inclusive.

    Knowing more about one another will also make us more powerful.

    Over the next couple of months, our partners at Blueprint will be analyzing the data and your responses. They will present their findings and analysis of the results with Executive Board in the New Year. They will then present a report to the membership at Convention in April.

    These reports will provide us all with a snapshot of our members, their issues, and challenges we face as individuals, workers and community members.

    The information that all of you provided will be a driving force behind the recommendations made for a path forward to a more equitable, inclusive, and powerful OPSEU/SEFPO.

    Stay tuned for announcements of winners of the weekly draws and the grand prizes!

    With pride, solidarity, and gratitude,

    JP Hornick, OPSEU/SEFPO President

    Laurie Nancekivell, OPSEU/SEFPO First Vice-President/Treasurer

    Katie Arnup

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  • Hospital Professionals hold province-wide public healthcare town halls

    Throughout November, members of the Hospital Professionals Division (HPD) hosted five Public Healthcare Townhalls in Ottawa, London, Windsor, Kingston, and Thunder Bay. Thank you to every member of the community, HPD, and Health Coalitions who attended!

    The healthcare town halls provided an opportunity for Hospital Professionals and community members around Ontario to discuss how the healthcare staffing crisis has affected crucial diagnostic services, radiology, respiratory, social work, and community supports.

    In Thunder Bay, medical laboratory technologists and technicians talked about the decline in local diagnostic testing. As a result, they have to send specimens to Toronto for testing. This causes months of delay before delivering heartbreaking cancer diagnoses; diagnoses that could have been treated if addressed promptly.

    In Windsor, radiology technologists noted the rise of private for-profit CT and radiology clinics taking workers away from public delivery; all the while, testing rooms are vacant, with not enough staff to service them.

    In Ottawa, we heard loud and clear from Dr Vivian Stamatopoulos about the perils of private for-profit Long-Term Care – more precarity, more expensive, more negative outcomes.

    From Kingston to London and beyond, we heard stories about how privatization of public services is leading to closures, shutdowns, early retirements, and total burnout of crucial allied health professionals.

    The media focuses heavily on physicians and nurses; however, those professions are only a few in a full team of healthcare providers necessary to keep our public healthcare system running.

    Physicians and nurses rely on the diagnostic work and support provided by Hospital Professionals. No treatment occurs in healthcare without diagnostic services provided by allied healthcare providers.

    HPD represents approximately 30,000 hospital professionals in more than 100 bargaining units across the province – more than half of which are currently participating in the central bargaining process with the Ontario Hospital Association (OHA). The HPD Central contract will expire on March 31, 2025.

    kmahabir

  • New Professional Insurance Plans: Apply by December 1 to bridge your coverage!

    New Professional Insurance Plans: Apply by December 1 to bridge your coverage!

    To all Hospital Professionals Division members:

    In April 2024, OPSEU/SEFPO announced new professional and personal insurance plans and exclusive perks available to you through Arthur J. Gallagher Canada Limited.

    We understand that plans through our previous provider, RGI, expire on November 30 and that coverage with Gallagher was meant to begin on January 1, 2025. To ensure that you won’t have any gaps in your professional or personal insurance coverage, Gallagher will be bridging your existing coverage at a flat rate of $25.

    Some members may have been told previously that you’d need to pay the full premium for November and December 2024. Please disregard this. Your coverage for these months will only cost $25.

    To be insured with Gallagher for December 2024, send in your application by December 1st, 2024.

    To apply for insurance coverage with Gallagher and bridge your coverage until the end of 2024, please follow the following steps:

    1. Visit the Hospital Professionals Division Group Insurance page on Gallagher’s website, click “Apply Online” and enter your information.
    2. When you get to the quote stage, please enter the effective date as December 1st, 2024.
    3. Save your quote and don’t pay.
    4. Send an email to on.opseu@ajg.com indicating that you have completed the quote portion.
    5. One of Gallagher’s customer service representatives will override the insurance premium rate.
    6. When your application has been processed, a Gallagher customer service representative will send you a secure payment link.
    7. Follow the link and pay online.

    There are thousands of OPSEU/SEFPO members needing to renew their insurance coverage, so please be patient – emails are addressed in chronological order.

    As long as your email is received prior to December 1, 2024, Gallagher will process your application and bridge your coverage for December.

    Click here to submit your application for insurance coverage

    For problems applying for insurance coverage or processing your payment, please contact Gallagher directly via email at IBAM.ON.OPSEU@ajg.com or phone 1 (888) 336-7738.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    The following information has been provided by Arthur J. Gallagher Canada Limited:

    Q: “My current Professional Liability insurance policy expires prior to January 1, 2025. How can I make the switch without a gap in coverage?”

    A: Berkley has recently approved the option for OPSEU/SEFPO members with insurance policies expiring in the months of November and December, which are outside the program, to purchase a short-term “bridge” policy. For a flat premium of $25 + taxes, this “bridge” policy will assist members in coordinating their current policy with our January 1, 2025, program renewal date.

    If you would like to take advantage of this option, please proceed to apply through Gallagher’s insurance portal here and obtain a quote but do not purchase the coverage. Then reach out to the Gallagher team and we will manually adjust the premium and send you the secure payment link to finalize the purchase the short-term policy. After purchase, a new policy certificate will be emailed to you instantly.

    When selecting a start date for this “bridge” policy please ensure you use the date when your current policy expires as your new policy effective date. (For example, if your current policy certificate shows December 1, 2023, to December 1, 2024, use December 1, 2024, as your new start date with our program coverage).

    It is also critical that you purchase the 2024-2025 short-term coverage before purchasing the 2025-2026 full-term policy to maintain the correct order in the system!

    Q: “I have already paid full price for my short-term policy to switch over to Gallagher. Can I get a refund for the difference between what I paid, and the $25 flat fee now being offered?”

    A: Yes. Please allow us some time to get all refunds processed and we appreciate your patience while we work with the portal vendor to accommodate.

    Q: “I am a pharmacist and have been told my coverage is not compliant with the Ontario College of Pharmacists by-laws requirement to carry an automatic 3-year Extended Reporting Period. What are my options?”

    A: Gallagher was recently informed of the new Ontario College of Pharmacists by-laws requirement to carry an automatic 3-year Extended Reporting Period (ERP). As such, we are pleased to advise that coverage now includes a three-year Extended Reporting Period at no additional costs to members of the Ontario College of Pharmacists only, bringing it into compliance with the updated by-laws. Upon purchasing insurance coverage through our program over these next few weeks, you will be sent a policy certificate that still shows the former 2-year ERP, while we update the documents in the portal.

    In the interim, should you require the written endorsement reflecting the changes, please email us here.

    2025-2026 Limits and Premiums
    $1,000,000 Limit per Claim / $5,000,000 Aggregate $50 annual premium + taxes
    $2,000,000 Limit per Claim / $5,000,000 Aggregate $55 annual premium + taxes
    $5,000,000 Limit per Claim / $5,000,000 Aggregate $85 annual premium + taxes

    **The premium is fully earned, and no refunds will be provided for any mid-term cancellations**

    kmahabir

  • OPSEU/SEFPO participates in Joint Union Roundtable on Public Health at Queen’s Park

    On Wednesday, November 27, OPSEU/SEFPO participated in a joint union roundtable discussion on key Public Health sector issues alongside the Ontario Nurses’ Association and Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE).

    In attendance on behalf of OPSEU/SEFPO members were Lucy Morton, Chair of OPSEU/SEFPO’s Community Health Professionals Division and Janet Dawson, OPSEU/SEFPO Local 327 President from the Peterborough Public Health Unit.

    Janet Dawson (left) and Lucy Morton (centre) at the joint union Public Health roundtable discussion

    The three unions met with MPPs to speak about issues affecting Public Health Units in Ontario (outlined in the Background and Context below) and presented the following four solutions necessary for supporting the Public Health sector:

    1. An immediate increase of 10% in annual base funding to public health units, followed by annual increases above the combined rate of inflation and population growth (currently around 5%) to allow service restoration and growth.
    2. Support fair and competitive wage structures that ensure compensation keeps pace with the rising cost of living. This would contribute to a motivated and stable workforce and alleviate the recruitment and retention crisis.
    3. Ensure the preservation of existing Public Health jobs and preventing layoffs, while using enhanced funding to create net new jobs that allow for expanded service delivery. Job security and sector growth are integral to sustaining and expanding the reach of Public Health initiatives, aligning with the Ontario Public Health Standards (OPHS) mandate.
    4. Provide full provincial funding for enhancements to Public Health services rather than downloading costs to municipalities who may not have the funding to provide additional services to the public.

    Background and context on Public Health challenges in Ontario

    Underfunding is the Central Issue

    The Public Health sector plays a crucial role in advancing the well-being of individuals, preventing diseases and injuries, and safeguarding the overall health of the population. Its efforts contribute to a healthier society and alleviate the strain on the healthcare system. Unfortunately, the Public Health sector has faced chronic underfunding for decades, depriving communities of essential resources required for maintaining good health.

    At current 1% increase per year, the Public Health sector is observing a reduction and elimination of services and programs, closures of service sites, and the elimination of jobs through attrition. The dedicated workers in this sector endure inadequate compensation, heightened workloads, burnout, and a substantial departure from the profession.

    The rate of funding growth is well below the combined inflation and population growth rate of around 5%, meaning funding hikes of only 1% per year are a huge cut in real per-capita terms.

    Right now, the Public Health sector is in crisis. Reversing this means government must do two things:

    1. An immediate injection of funds to stabilize the system, stop further cuts, and begin to undo the damage of years of underfunding; and
    2. A commitment to rebuild the public health system through a long-term commitment to steadily raise funding beyond the rate of inflation and population growth.

    Public Health Investment Improves Quality of Life and Reduces Healthcare Costs

    Austerity in the Public Health sector has both hurt quality of life for Ontario residents, and unnecessarily increased healthcare costs. Public Health spending has disproportionate benefits for both population health outcomes and downstream costs.

    Public Health has a broad scope and mandate. The 6 core functions of public health are:

    1. health protection;
    2. disease and injury prevention;
    3. health promotion;
    4. emergency preparedness and response;
    5. population health assessment; and
    6. health surveillance.

    All these areas directly impact both health outcomes for individuals, and costs in the health care system.

    Public health is the first line of defense for the healthcare system. According to a 2022 Canadian Public Health Association (CPHA) report, “Every $1 invested in public health interventions brings a median return of over $14 saved in costs to health and economic sectors.”

    Improving Service Delivery Means Supporting Public Health Workers

    The core of the Public Health system is the workforce that delivers services across the province. The only way to ensure a strong public health system is to ensure adequate staffing levels and good working conditions.

    At present, underfunding has led to understaffing and poor working conditions. Difficulties with recruitment and retention then only further compound these problems, particularly when employers use departures to cut jobs by attrition as is too frequently the case.

    Only improved funding can restore and improve staffing levels, working conditions, and ultimately the quality of services provided to Ontario residents.

    The broad scope of public health services — and the importance and value of these services to communities — becomes evident when reviewing just a sampling of the jobs in the sector and the associated job duties:

    • Dental Assistants and Hygienists play crucial roles in preventive dental care and education in schools. They help in maintaining excellent oral health, providing critical support in dental practices, and educating patients about hygiene best practices.
    • Public Health Inspectors ensure compliance with health regulations in various settings, including food establishments, salons, swimming pools, daycares, and long-term care facilities. They prevent health hazards, promote hygiene and safety in the community, and handle emergency preparedness and response in the community.
    • Smoke-Free Ontario Inspectors keep tobacco and vaping products out of children’s hands through compliance inspections of retailers. By enforcing regulations, they support local policies aimed at reducing smoking rates and protecting vulnerable populations from secondhand smoke, such as children and those with respiratory conditions.
    • Public Health Nurses provide immunization, healthcare services and education to communities, focusing on disease prevention and health promotion. They often work with at-risk populations and lead health initiatives that address community needs.
    • Family Home Visitors offer support and education to families in their homes, focusing on maternal and child health. They guide families on child development, parenting skills, and accessing health services.
    • Epidemiologists study the patterns, causes, and effects of health conditions within populations. They investigate outbreaks of disease and identify risk factors, ultimately informing public health interventions.
    • Health Educators / Promoters develop programs and materials to teach communities about health topics and promote healthy behaviors. They work to empower individuals with knowledge that can lead to better health choices.
    • Public Health Nutritionists and Dietitians work to improve the health of communities and populations through nutrition education. They support healthy eating in different settings including schools, daycares, and public spaces. They guide the development of policies and practices that promote healthy eating.
    • Speech and Language Experts assess children’s speaking and language skills, provide language intervention and speech therapy. They help children with communication disorders achieve better reading, language, and listening skills.
    • Environmental Health Specialists assess environmental factors that can affect human health, ensuring that air, water, and soil meet safety standards. They work on issues such as pollution control, waste management, and food safety.
    • Support Staff provide administrative and business support to health units so that public health workers can focus on delivering services to the community. They include administrative assistants, communications and IT support staff, to name a few.

    In sum, underfunding has meant cuts of these jobs and others like them, hurting service

    delivery.

    Download the PDF.

    kmahabir

  • Course evaluation for Organizing for Power: Dismantling Anti-Black, Anti-Indigenous and all Forms of Racism

    Course evaluation for Organizing for Power: Dismantling Anti-Black, Anti-Indigenous and all Forms of Racism

    Printable PDF

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  • Job Opportunity – Bilingual Grievance Officer – 24.034

    Job Opportunity – Bilingual Grievance Officer – 24.034

    Title: Bilingual Grievance Officer (81)
    Location: Arbitrations Unit, Contract Enforcement Division, OPSEU/SEFPO Head Office, 100 Lesmill Road, Toronto, ON M3B 3P8
    Reporting to: Supervisor, Arbitrations Unit
    Search Type: External – Open to All Qualified Applicants
    Salary: $1,994.00 to $2,215.00 per week (Range 4 – Pro-Tech)
    Working Conditions: As provided in the OPSSU/OPSEU/SEFPO Collective Agreement

    Principal Duties:

    Represents OPSEU/SEFPO and its members as a professional litigator by preparing and presenting grievance arbitrations before administrative tribunals:

    • Litigation of grievances in arbitrations before Boards and Arbitrators
    • Examines witnesses, in chief and in cross-examinations
    • Prepares evidence, researches and applies case law, and presents arguments on behalf of grievors
    • Meets with LEC’s, grievors and management representatives with a view to settling grievances
    • Negotiates grievance settlements, and drafts settlement documents
    • Provides advice and representation in the enforcement of settlements
    • Prepares written submissions for Boards and Arbitrators as required
    • Guides and instructs outside counsel
    • Responds to inquiries regarding collective agreement interpretation
    • Provides advice to OPSEU/SEFPO staff and members concerning grievances, including legal principles and case law, strategy, process and settlements as well as the merits of grievances
    • Co-ordinates and administrates grievances in the area of responsibility
    • Performs other related duties as assigned
    • Proficiency to carry out the duties and responsibilities in both English and French

    Qualifications:

    • Requires advanced French language skills (written and oral)
    • Undergraduate degree and five years of related work experience with demonstrated advocacy skills (or equivalent combination of education and experience)
    • Knowledge of labour law, collective agreement language, grievance/arbitration procedures and practices
    • Research and analytical skills to interpret and apply relevant collective agreements, legislation, and case law
    • Knowledge of OPSEU/SEFPO organization, structure and policies
    • 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
    • Requires intermediate PC skills and knowledge of relevant software packages
    • Requires tact and diplomacy skills

    OPSEU/SEFPO supports employment equity. Racialized workers, women, Indigenous workers, LGBTQ2S+ workers and workers with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For the purpose of statistical data collection, applicants are strongly encouraged to voluntarily self-identify. OPSEU/SEFPO’s diverse workplace also supports Francophone workers and young workers.

    A total of 60% or greater must be achieved in the competition process to obtain the position.

    Please advise should you require any accommodation to participate in this competition.

    Expression of Interest – 2-step process:

    1. Submit your resume with cover letter in Word or PDF to competitions@opseu.org quoting “24.034 Bilingual Grievance Officer (81), Arbitrations Unit” by 5:00 pm (Eastern Time) on October 29, 2024;
    2. Complete the OPSEU/SEFPO Job Applicant Survey – Please click the link below: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ntqy3vmHp0WKvIeSS54XACSzxUJfqY5Ehbkv7jfWaYpUME9TVTFJTVIxMkhROEFENUoxUVJXS0JQTyQlQCN0PWcu

    To be considered in the job competition, it’s essential to complete both steps of the two-step submission process. Failure to do so may result in disqualification from consideration.

    webpublisher

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  • Region 1 virtual educational, Jan 14, Jan 21, and Jan 28, 2025

    • Region 1 virtual educational
    • January 14, 21, and 28, 2025
    • 6 pm – 9 pm each evening

    Courses

    Each of the courses will be held virtually by Zoom over three evenings – Tuesday, January 14, Tuesday, January 21, and Tuesday, January 28, 2025 – from 6 pm – 9 pm each evening.

    Course Confirmations – Once your application has been received, you will be automatically enrolled in your course selection.

    Electronic Course Materials will be emailed to all registered participants prior to the course start date along with a Zoom link.

    OPSEU/SEFPO Health and Safety Level 2

    The 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’s Level 1 course and assumes that participants have a basic knowledge of the Occupational health and Safety Act.

    Stewards 3: Dealing with Discipline

    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.

    Registration information

    • Please ensure to provide your personal email address (employer email addresses will not be accepted).
    • The participant and course selection process will be carried out in accordance with the OPSEU/SEFPO Education Policy.
    • When registering, participants must confirm that they have access to a computer with proper internet connections (training can not be completed over a cell phone). The computer must have audio and a camera. We highly recommend leaving the camera ‘on’ during the training for full participation.
    • This virtual training is being delivered via ZOOM. If you do not have ZOOM, please download the free Zoom software at www.zoom.us in advance of the training.
    • Please Note: As these courses are being held virtually, no expenses will be reimbursed including Family/Attendant Care & Child Care Expenses, except in special circumstances where expenses have been pre-approved. To inquire further about pre-approval, please email Lorri Foley, Convenor at lfoley@opseu.org and copy Mary MacDonald, Regional Secretary at mmacdonald@opseu.org.
    • Lost wages will not be reimbursed. Own time is not paid for virtual training. *LBED members must submit an RUL (unpaid). If required, you are responsible for making your own time-off arrangements.
    • Complete the HR Accommodation Form for any specific accommodation requests. Please email the completed form to the Equity Unit at equity@opseu.org and copy Mary MacDonald, Regional Secretary at mmacdonald@opseu.org.
    • As a reminder in accordance with OPSEU/SEFPO policy, full attendance is mandatory for all 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.

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