Council’s Fall Meeting Report and Key Updates for GSU members

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GSU’s governing body, the Joint Executive Council (JEC), met on September 24 for its regular annual meeting. Made up of elected leaders from across our Locals, the JEC helps keep the union running smoothly between conventions.

Here’s a look at what was discussed, key decisions, highlights, and what these mean for members. 

  • Dues Vote: The JEC mapped out how members will vote on the proposed dues change (from 1.75% to 2.0%) at their upcoming annual general membership meetings (AGMs). The main goal is making sure everyone has accessible voting options while keeping meeting attendance and member discussion front and center.

  • Local 10 (Trouw Nutrition – Westlock) Motion: Local 10’s council member brought a specific request from his Local to the Council regarding the potential dues increase.

    • As GSU’s newest Local, they are currently finishing up their very first collective agreement (which runs through December 31, 2027) and are working hard to build up their Local and get ready for bargaining next year.

    • Their rep asked that if the overall membership approves the dues increase this Fall, Local 10’s increase be delayed until December 31, 2027—with the understanding that they won’t receive any additional benefits tied to higher dues during that time.

    • After thorough discussion, the JEC voted to approve the motion to support Local 10 through this initial transition period.

  • GSU Scholarships: Expanding 2026 scholarship eligibility to members who are part-time students proved to be a successful change.

  • Finances & Defense Fund: The JEC reviewed the union’s financial statements. They also passed a motion regarding continuation of the additional dues being paid into the Defense Fund (which members will vote on at upcoming AGMs).

  • GSU Convention 2027: Planning continued for the next GSU Convention, tentatively set for March 17–19, 2027 in Regina. It’s time for Locals to start thinking about potential delegates and resolutions.

  • Additional Agenda Items:

    • Planning upcoming member education and training for new union officers

    • Bargaining updates and Local reports from across the union

    • Brainstorming plans for engagement and work through the remainder of GSU’s 90th anniversary year and beyond

    • Review of online voting programs to make member participation easier in 2027.

If you have questions about any of these items or want to know more about how they impact your Local, reach out to your JEC representative.