Since the inception of the GSU Defense Fund in 2001, members of GSU have voted on the continuation of paying dues into the Fund. This annual vote ensures the Fund remains healthy and strong and that it is top of mind for members. This Fall a strong majority of 93.23 percent of members voting at GSU annual meetings approved a motion to continue the additional dues being paid into the Defense Fund for another year.

Votes on the additional dues were conducted in conjunction with GSU’s annual Local and Sub-local meetings held this Fall.

This summer, GSU Local 8 – Advance Tank Centres went on strike for four weeks before achieving a negotiated settlement. Time spent on the line serves as a powerful example of the importance of the GSU Defense Fund, and that its backing plays a critical role in fostering membership solidarity and strength on the picket line.

Access to the Defense Fund allowed the Local 8 to provide daily strike pay so members could pay bills, put food on their tables, and continue receiving medical benefits for the duration of the strike. These workers sacrificed while on the picket line, but strike pay ensured members did not have to worry about refilling medications or their gas tanks.

“I believe the decision of members to continue supporting and growing the Defense Fund shows that GSU members recognize the purpose of the Defense Fund and the value it provides,” said GSU general secretary Steve Torgerson. “Making progress and winning battles requires sacrifice, time, energy, and financial commitment. Our responsibilities have evolved significantly over the past 50 years, and the GSU Defense Fund empowers members to negotiate without these burdens weighing them down.”

The Defense Fund currently has assets of $6 million (market value) and is administered by a board of directors elected by delegates to GSU biennial policy conventions. This March marks the end of the two-year terms for the Board members, and elections will be held to fill these positions.
 
The current directors of the GSU Defense Fund are:

–  Wilfred Harris (Local 1 – Viterra)
–  Doug Kampman (Local 8 – Advance)
–  Craig Reiman Local 14 (Richardson)
–  Lynn Shaw (Local 15 – Nutrien)
–  Vacant

To learn more about becoming a Defense Fund director, contact general secretary Steve Torgerson or your GSU staff rep.