On March 25, GSU’s governing body—the Joint Executive Council (JEC)—convened in Regina to tackle an ambitious agenda centered on financial sustainability and effective member services. As the union celebrates its 90th anniversary, the Council is focused heavily on the future, including a heavy bargaining schedule, progress of a new member portal, and the continued implementation of the Union365 data management software that launched last autumn.

Financial transparency remained a priority throughout the meeting. The Council members conducted a thorough review of the 2025 audited financial statements and the 2026 draft budget, while having a candid discussion regarding the impact of budget restraints. They noted that staying within the union’s means has required GSU to alter or cancel certain initiatives to maintain fiscal viability. The JEC authorized the release of its annual report, which will be combined with the audited financial statements and shared with members during upcoming spring meetings and visitations.

A pivotal moment of the meeting involved a report from the JEC’s Special Strategic Financial Planning Committee. This report identified existing gaps in GSU services based on current resources and proposed solutions to ensure Locals and members receive the support they deserve and expect. Following a vote on these recommendations, the Council announced it will reconvene on May 28, 2026. This upcoming meeting will focus on further strategy and the preparation of detailed information to be shared directly with the GSU membership.

General Secretary Steve Torgerson noted the positive energy in the room throughout the day. “We had a great mix of experienced and new officers at the table, and the level of discussion and participation was excellent,” Torgerson said. “That engagement is important because this group of officers represents the interests of members in their respective locals. That is the true power of the union—electing the people you trust to represent you and empowering them to take an active role in shaping our future.”