Staff rep Steve Torgerson is working with members and the newly elected executive in Local 9 (Hi-Pro Feeds) to strengthen their workplace health and safety committees. Members are concerned the company isn’t fully engaged in their workplace H&S Committees, so they approached Steve for his guidance and assistance to help protect plant and mill workers by returning the committees to acceptable standards.

Do you need help? Just want advice? GSU can help.  If you need advice or ideas about how to handle a workplace situation, contact your GSU staff rep. These services are provided to you as part of your union dues. There is no additional charge for assisting you.

As a worker, it’s frightening to think that your employer can demand concessions to your pension plan.

As a GSU member, the good news is this time it’s not your employer demanding pension concessions. The same can’t be said for nearly 800 Co-op Refinery workers are still on the picket line trying to protect their pension plans.

Choosing to strike is never an easy decision.
Negotiations between Unifor and Federated Co-op hit an impasse when the employer demanded massive concessions on pensions, despite an explicit commitment during the last round of bargaining to maintain the current pension plan.

Would you be willing to strike over major concessions to your pension plan? Or would you look the other way?
Look beyond Facebook and media headlines. Challenge yourself to talk to a locked-out worker and ask them why they’ve been on a picket line for a month in the middle of winter.

#supportUnifor594 

You can help. Support fellow workers by supporting picket lines wherever they appear. Learn more about this dispute and the resulting Unifor 594 boycott of Federated Co-op here.

UPCOMING BARGAINING DATES: The previously set Feb. 25 bargaining date was postponed until March 24, and postponed again due to COVID-19. No further dates are set at this time.

GSU’s collective agreement with The Western Producer expired July 31, 2019.

Bargaining committee members representing GSU Local 5 are Sharlene Tetrault, Michelle Houlden, and GSU staff rep/bargaining spokesperson Dale Markling.

Collective bargaining is how the union and company management arrive at the terms and conditions of employment for the workers in the bargaining unit. 

Sides meet, proposals exchanged

Source: Jan. 21, 2020 TMM

Union and company committee met on Jan. 14 in Saskatoon and exchanged a number of proposals. When the two sides didn’t agree on most of the larger issues, they did agree to create a sub-committee to meet and attempt to and narrow down issues.

The next bargaining session has been scheduled for Feb. 25.

GSU’s collective agreement with The Western Producer expired July 31, 2019.
Bargaining committee members representing GSU Local 5 are Sharlene Tetrault, Michelle Houlden, and GSU staff rep/bargaining spokesperson Dale Markling.

If you aren’t enjoying solid sleep for a minimum of seven hours, chances are your body needs more rest. (And no, napping doesn’t count.) 

Getting a proper amount of sleep is vital for your overall health and well-being. A deep, prolonged sleep allows your body to mend, stay trim, and combat heart disease and other ailments. If you spend nights tossing and turning or you are sleeping well for less than seven hours, you are interfering with your ability to focus and complete complex tasks, and you are increasing your risk for Alzheimer’s.

Use the frigid weather as an excuse to hit the sheets early. 

Learn more about why you need quality sleep here:  Why sleep is important

BY HUGH WAGNER, GSU GENERAL SECRETARY

Recent conversations with members of Local 1 (Viterra Operations & Maintenance) and a recent workplace incident have reinforced the importance of employees’ rights in relation to hours of work.

Employees who receive less than 24 hours’ notice that the start time or time-frame of their scheduled shift has changed should decline to change and report for work at their originally scheduled time.

The right to 24 hours’ notice is covered in section 173.1 of Part III of the Canada Labour Code which applied to GSU members in Locals 1 & 2 (Viterra), 4 (Grain Millers), and 14 (Richardson). The Code also provides that employers shall provide employees with their work schedules in writing at least 96 hours before the start of the employee’s first shift under the schedule.

Exceptions are provided for in the event of a threat to the life, health or safety of any person; threat of damage to or loss of property; or the threat of serious interference with the ordinary working of the employer’s industrial establishment.

Employees should be staffing their operations adequately and should not rely on employees constantly interrupting their plans, their family or private time or compromising health and safety on account of fatigue.

Questions? Comments? Contact your GSU staff rep.

The weather may be cold, but the fellowship will be warm Jan. 18 as women and their allies  around the world will join the fourth annual march of Women’s March Global, a yearly event that brings together inspired, international  change-makers committed to fighting for equality, justice, and human rights worldwide.  

In Saskatchewan, supporters in Saskatoon and Regina will gather to march for change, mutual support, and to create connections for the future. 

Learn more on the following Facebook links:

Women’s March Canada 2020 REGINA
Sat. Jan. 18 – 10:00 a.m. March / 10:45 post-march social
YWCA – Regina
1940 McIntyre Street,  Regina, SK

Women’s March Canada 2020 SASKATOON
Sat. Jan 18 – 4:00 p.m. 
d-Lish by Tish Cafe
702A 14th Street East, Saskatoon, SK

We asked GSU members to tell us what event they would attend if the sports fairy granted them tickets, and we learned about a lot of fantastic events all over the world that we didn’t even know existed. We could only draw one winner, and this time it’s Glenda Hunter-Craig who gets two tickets to watch the Rush take on the Colorado Mammoth this Saturday evening in Saskatoon.

We wish we could have the sports fairy whisk you away to the  2020 Scotties Tournament of Hearts, Glenda, but at least you and your guest will enjoy the Rush game. Thanks to everyone who played along. Check back for more chances to win.

Archives [Jan. 7, 2020]:

The Rush season has started off well and we have two tickets to the game and we are giving them away to one lucky GSU member. You can enter our ticket draw by sending us your answer to the following question:

If the sports fairy flew down and told you she was sending you and 10 friends to any sporting event in the world you wanted to attend, where would you ask her to send you?

Send your answers to us by 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14 and you will be entered in the draw.

The board of directors of the GSU Defense Fund met in Regina on Dec. 11. The meeting agenda included receiving an update on the Fund’s assets and receiving an investment portfolio review presented by Keith Pavo of RBC Dominion Securities Inc. 

GSU Defense Fund has current assets (market value) of $4.7 million. The investment and management of the Fund is overseen by a five-person elected board of directors. Current directors are Dennis Piasta (Local 14 – Kindersley), Ron Gerlock (Local 8 – Regina), Sharlene Tetrault (Local 5 – Saskatoon), Wilfred Harris (Local 1 – Carnduff), and Darryl Knelsen (Local 1 – Fairlight). 

Directors are elected to two-year terms by delegates to GSU’s biennial policy conventions. The next round of elections for directors will be held during the 2020 GSU policy convention scheduled for March 19 to 21 at Temple Gardens Hotel and Spa in Moose Jaw. 

Shortly after the 2020 GSU convention, the directors will meet again with RBC representatives to review and renew the investment guidelines for the Defense Fund.

With two meetings to go, a strong majority of GSU members attending 2019 annual meetings debated and ultimately voted to continue the additional union dues of $10 per member per month being paid into the GSU Defense Fund.

So far, a  majority of  86 percent  of voters have approved the motion to continue the additional dues for another year and to vote again at the 2020 annual meetings of GSU locals and sub-locals. 

“Although the motion to continue the additional dues to the GSU Defense Fund has been approved every year since voting began in 1996, the annual process is fundamental to union democracy,” said GSU general secretary Hugh Wagner. “This is by far the largest and most important asset GSU members collectively own. It is one of the key aspects of defending GSU members’ rights, so it stands to reason that the subject is revisited every year.”

Learn more about the GSU Defense Fund here.

Members of Unifor Local 594 are nearing the end of their second week on the picket line in their collective bargaining dispute at the Federated Co-op Refinery in Regina. At the center of the dispute is the Unifor members’ struggle to defend their hard-earned pension benefits. 

FCL’s senior management locked out unionized workers at the refinery following a 97 percent strike vote by members of Unifor Local 594. The employer’s tactics include the hiring and housing of some 200 so-called replacement workers who, along with management personnel, are attempting to keep the refinery operating. 

“This is a dispute that many present and retired GSU members will relate to as they recall their fight with Viterra ten years ago to protect the pension benefits they had earned,” said GSU general secretary Hugh Wagner. “In the face of determined efforts by FCL to break the resolve of Unifor members, we can stand by and watch or we can support our neighbours in their fight to defend what they have earned.” 

“GSU’s executive committee is asking GSU members across Saskatchewan to show solidarity with the locked-out members of Unifor Local 594 by fueling up your vehicles at retailers other than the Co-ops for the duration of the dispute,” Wagner said. 

“We are members and customers of our local co-ops and we know that many GSU members are in the same boat,” said GSU president Jim Brown. “Despite the potential inconvenience of buying fuel elsewhere, we think it is important to stand in solidarity with Unifor 594 members and send FCL a clear message that we are opposed to aggressive anti-worker policies and tactics.” 

This document was distributed to GSU members at their autumn 2019 membership meetings.

You can read it in the text below or read/print it as a PDF document here. If you have questions or comments about the report, contact your elected officers or your GSU staff rep.

2019 GSU General Secretary’s Report to Members

I appreciate the opportunity to again report on the business of your union and I hope you have a thorough discussion about the direction of GSU, including your suggestions for change.

GSU Bargaining in 2019

As we begin an all-too-early autumn, GSU is engaged or about to be engaged in agreement renewal collective bargaining with the following employers:

• The Western Producer – Local 5
• Heartland Livestock – Local 7
• Nutrien Ag Solutions Ltd. – Local 15
• Discovery Co-op – Local 17
• Prairie Co-op – Local 19.

As bargaining commences and proceeds, regular reports will be provided through GSU’s Tuesday Members’ Memo (TMM), direct reports and membership meetings.

Success at the bargaining table is directly linked to the involvement and support of members on the job. The best way to show your support for your bargaining committee is to keep up-to-date, share the information, talk it up in your workplace, and attend Local meetings when they are called.

As it has been at every other bargaining table, the dominant issue will be wage increases. GSU members expect to bargain wage increase that provide actual increases to purchasing power after inflation is taken into account.

It is time for change and the bargaining table is the place to begin changing the dynamics around wages.

The 2019 Federal Election

We are in the midst of a federal election and once again Canadians have an opportunity to vote for the candidates and parties who are vying to form our national government for the next four years.

As the options are being considered, I hope GSU members will dive into the issues and vote for candidates who best represent the interests of working people.

Ask yourself who has the best plan for progressive labour legislation. Who has the best plan for addressing climate change, transforming the economy, tackling inequality and implementing social programs that will benefit all of us?

When you’ve made your decision, be sure to vote. Elections matter.

Union Representation

Administering collective agreements and assisting GSU members is a big part of your union’s daily work. We try to report on issues identified and resolved as part of our regular reporting to GSU members though the TMM and membership meetings. If there are subjects we are overlooking and should be including in GSU’s communications, please let us know.

Representing employees in pursuit of a fair deal for all is unique to the employment relationships of employees represented by a union. Non-union employees do not have the benefit of contractual rights or an organization to represent them and communicate results.

Neither do non-union employees have the right to protection from unjust dismissal and reinstatement to employment when they are wrongfully fired. This protection is part of the bedrock of being unionized.

Recently, Viterra purchased the operations of ILTA Grain in Belle Plaine and 12 more workers joined GSU’s ranks. We welcome this new group to GSU and Local 1.

GSU is eager to bring union representation to groups of workers who are looking for proven representation in their workplaces. We need contacts and/or an introduction. That’s where you come into the picture. If you know someone who might be interested in being represented by GSU, don’t be shy. Please tell them about us, and let us know.

GSU Administration

In August, GSU advertised for a part-time Accounting Assistant II position, and on September 4 Debbie Head joined the team in the union’s Regina office. We welcome Debbie and wish her a long, happy and rewarding relationship with GSU.

Assessing the size of GSU’s staff complement is a work in progress as we strive to provide the best service to members in the most economical way.

To date GSU is running a modest operating surplus, but we anticipate somewhat of a spike in expenses related to required repairs to the office building in Regina, the annual SFL convention, an arbitration on behalf of Local 2 members working at Viterra’s service desk, and annual Local/Sub-Local meetings.

GSU is also planning to invest in educating the next generation of union leaders and your participation will be the most important part of the process.

GSU Defense Fund

At the end of the second quarter of 2019 the assets of the GSU Defense Fund stood at $4.6 million.

Whenever GSU enters agreement renewal bargaining, union members can be confident that they have the resources to take on a collective bargaining fight if the need arises.

Each year, GSU members attending annual meetings of their Locals or Sub-Locals have the opportunity to debate and vote on whether to continue paying additional dues into the GSU Defense Fund.

This year is no different, and GSU’s Joint Executive Council is submitting the following resolution to be voted on at each annual membership meeting. The number voting in favour and against the resolution should be recorded and transmitted to GSU’s general secretary.

“Be it resolved that the additional dues being paid into the GSU Defense Fund by members/employees represented by GSU shall continue until December 31, 2020, subject to review by members of the union at the 2020 annual Local and Sub-Local meetings.”

A majority of 50 percent plus one of all the votes cast is required for the resolution to be carried or defeated.

GSU 2020 Policy Convention – March 19 to 21, 2020

GSU will hold its biennial policy convention from March 19 to 21 inclusive at Temple Gardens in Moose Jaw.

GSU is not immune from the constantly changing environment and challenges to its existence. As a result, we must constantly strive to reinvent the union in order to be relevant to new generations of workers and effective in responding to evolving political and economic challenges.

As with every policy convention, the 2020 convention will give every Local and Sub-Local the opportunity to send a full contingent of delegates and to put their ideas on the agenda in setting the policy direction of GSU.

Delegates to the 2020 convention will also elect the president, vice presidents, general secretary and directors of the GSU Defense Fund to two-year terms of office.

I urge every member and elected officer of GSU to seize the day and help lead the way to a rewarding future for every member of the union. In my opinion, it is our responsibility to fearlessly promote the good that GSU and other unions do; not just for union members, but also for the broader community and society. What we’ve accomplished together is remarkable, but we have much more to do. By supporting one another and standing up to our opponents we can shake the foundations of inequality.

Our democratic values are in peril as a result of apathy, cynicism and prejudice. Unions might just well be one of the last best chances for the survival of civility and progress. I urge everyone to get involved.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

Solidarity,

GRAIN & GENERAL SERVICES UNION

Hugh Wagner
General Secretary

Congratulations to this week’s contest winner Courtney Risling. She and her guest will be in the stands to watch the Rush take on the New England Blackwolves in the first home game of the season. 

In last week’s contest we asked you to name your favourite holiday foods. Courtney listed turkey and stuffing as her favourites, as many of our respondents did. Not surprisingly, meat stuffing, homemade buns, perogies and nanaimo bars also made the favourites list. Shortbread cookies were mentioned more than once, and we’re giving a special shout-out to Carie who even shared her Auntie Marion’s special shortbread cookie recipe with us.

Thanks to everyone who played along. Check back! We’ll have more Rush tickets to give away in the New Year.

GSU contest rules are available here.

On Dec. 5 and 6, 2019 the Saskatchewan Labour Relations Board (SLRB) held and concluded its hearing in a dispute between GSU Local 15 and Nutrien regarding the status of the Ag retail outlets at Fielding, Kincaid and Norquay. 

The dispute before the SLRB focused on whether the three Ag retail outlets and the employees at those locations will remain in GSU’s certified bargaining unit in Saskatchewan. The case arose in 2018 as Nutrien consolidated the operations of several unionized locations into new sites at Fielding, Kincaid and Norquay. GSU argued at the SLRB hearing that Nutrien just moved existing businesses to new locations. 

“Following the evidence and legal arguments, the SLRB panel reserved its decision,” said GSU general secretary Hugh Wagner. “Hopefully we’ll know the outcome fairly soon.”  

GSU was represented at the SLRB hearing by Ronni Nordal (legal counsel) and Hugh Wagner. Staff reps Steve Torgerson and Donna Driediger also attended the hearing to observe the proceedings.

Archives:

Dec. 5/6: Sask. Labour Relations Board to hear GSU Local 15, Nutrien dispute

Dec. 4, 2019

On Dec. 5 and 6, 2019 the Saskatchewan Labour Relations Board (SLRB) will convene a long-delayed hearing in a dispute between GSU Local 15 and Nutrien regarding the status of the Ag retail outlets at Fielding, Kincaid and Norquay. 

The dispute to be heard by the SLRB is focused on whether the three Ag retail outlets and the employees at those locations will remain in GSU’s certified bargaining unit in Saskatchewan. The case arose in 2018 as Nutrien consolidated the operations of several unionized locations into new sites at Fielding, Kincaid and Norquay. As GSU sees it, Nutrien just moved existing businesses to new locations. 

“GSU’s assertion is that all of the work consolidated into the new sites comes from the union bargaining unit and should remain in the union bargaining unit, thereby continuing the collective agreement coverage and rights for the employees,” said GSU general secretary Hugh Wagner. “After hearing the evidence of GSU and Nutrien, the SLRB will decide the outcome of the dispute, although a decision is not expected until the new year.” 

This matter had been previously scheduled to be heard and was adjourned by the SLRB until Dec. 5 and 6. Members of GSU Local 15 (Nutrien) will be informed as soon as a decision is received.

GSU works hard to enforce the rights and benefits in your collective agreement. Identifying problems as soon as they arise benefits everyone, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions about a problem in your workplace.

The Saskatchewan Rush are ready for action at their first home game against the New England Blackwolves on Dec. 14. 

We have two tickets to the game and we are giving them away to one lucky GSU member. You can enter our ticket draw by sending us your answer to the following question:

The season of fantastic food is upon us. What is your favourite holiday food?

Optional: What is your least favourite holiday food?

Get your answer to us by 9:00 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 10 and you will be entered in our draw.

Good luck! 

GSU contest rules are available here.

A collective agreement is a contract that describes the terms and conditions of employment for employees in their workplace, the rights of employees, and the obligations of the employer. Collective agreements protect employees. GSU’s goal is to expand on and improve collective agreements through effective collective bargaining with employers. 

Bargaining is underway or set to begin shortly in a number of GSU Locals. Watch upcoming Tuesday Members’ Memos and the GSU web page at www.gsu.ca for bargaining updates. 

Local 19 – Prairie Co-operative bargaining – Melville, Nov. 25 & 26
Local 19 bargaining committee members are Colin Phillips (Strasbourg), Devin Lipinski (Cupar), and GSU staff rep/bargaining spokesperson Steve Torgerson. 

Local 5 – Western Producer – Saskatoon, postponed to Jan. 10
The sudden illness of a committee member on Nov. 26 postponed the scheduled Local 5 (Western Producer) bargaining session. The two sides have rescheduled to meet Jan. 10. GSU’s bargaining committee members are Sharlene Tetrault, Michelle Houlden, and GSU staff rep/bargaining spokesperson Dale Markling 

Local 15 – Nutrien – TBD
December dates are being rescheduled for early January. GSU’s Local 15 bargaining committee members are Brian Cowen, Curtis Cousins, Lynn Shaw, GSU staff rep Steve Torgerson, and GSU staff rep/bargaining spokesperson Dale Markling.

Local 7 – Heartland Livestock – TBD
Previously scheduled December bargaining dates have been postponed. The Local 7 bargaining committee is comprised of Heather Mackay (Regina), Tyler Sherwood (Yorkton), and GSU staff rep/bargaining spokesperson Donna Driediger.

If you are unfamiliar with the bargaining process or you want to learn more about how bargaining works, check out this handy infographic from MGEU

GSU works hard to enforce the rights and benefits in your collective agreement. Identifying problems as soon as they arise benefits everyone, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you have questions about a problem in your workplace.