Our Tuesday Members’ Memo is sent to GSU members every Tuesday morning.
Do you receive our Tuesday Members’ Memo?
If not, email gsu@gsu.ca and ask to be put on our contact list.
Tuesday Morning Memo archives:
- Oct. 1, 2024 – AGMs are being scheduled – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Are you volunteering too many details when requesting medical leave?; GSU’s biennial policy convention to be held March 20-22, 2025 in Regina, SK
- Sept. 24, 2024 – Recap of GSU’s Sept. 19 Joint Executive Council meeting; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: When there are issues with your EI cheque, we can help you straighten things out; Worker Engagement and Empowerment: The Union Advantage; Grain Workers Union Local 333 members are on the picket line
- Sept. 17, 2024 – Local 8 (AEA/Advance) members vote to accept company offer; GSU is offering Level 2 Steward Training in November; GSU’s Joint Executive Council will meet in Regina this week
- Sept. 10, 2024 – Congratulations to our 2024 GSU scholarship and bursary recipients; Local 19 (Prairie Co-op) vote to accept tentative settlement; GSU Local 8 (AEA) consider final offer; Commemorating the 1994 SWP Strike with an evening of Reconnection and Reflection
- Aug. 27, 2024 – Sept. 7 30th Anniversary of 1994 strike at SWP Social Event; update on Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) executive grievances on Pay and Retro Pay; The Troubling Trend of Binding Arbitration
- Aug. 13, 2024 – Local 8 (AEA/Advance) members are on the picket line in Regina; Last chance to register for Saskatchewan Federation of Labour’s OH&S Conference; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Summer brings a variety of questions and issues and we’re here to assist you!
- July 30, 2024 – 30th Anniversary of the 1994 SWP strike – social to be held Sept. 7 in Regina; Local 8 (Advance) on final days of cooling off period; Local 9 (Trouw) members vote YES to a tentative settlement
- July 16, 2024 – Fixed Negotiated-Pay Increases versus Variable Pay; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Awaiting a new commuted value calculator; Remembering Jane McAlevey; Local 19 (Prairie Co-op) bargaining – Mediator appointed
- July 2, 2024– Our new GSU welcome guides are here; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Union assistance results in wage increase for GSU member; Local 8 (Advance/AEA) members authorize strike action
- June 25, 2024 – GSU Defense Fund Board of Directors met in Regina; Local 8 (Advance/AEA) voting on authorization to strike; Help us welcome new members into GSU; GSU Shop Steward 2 training coming this autumn
- June 18, 2024 – Global Women’s Strike – June 24; Collective agreement booklets being printed for Local 6 (Wild West Steelhead) and Local 2 (Viterra Head Office) members; GSU scholarship application dateline draws closer; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Ask questions, carefully review annual policy sign-offs; Local 8 (Advance/AEA) members to vote on final offer as bargaining committee recommends rejection
- June 11, 2024 – Local 2 (Viterra Head Office) Rider ticket contest; Collective bargaining, elections hinge on making informed decisions; GSU scholarship application deadline just around the corner (July 1); WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Staff reps are on the road with member visitations and handing out collective agreements; Local 8 (Advance/AEA) and Local 19 (Prairie Co-op) bargaining tables both reach impasse
- June 4, 2024 – Navigating Labour Relations: The Role of Legal Expertise at GSU; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: A booklet to welcome new GSU members into the union; Local 8 (Advance/AEA) attends first mediation session; Local 9 (Trouw) members reject Memorandum of Agreement; Local 19 (Prairie Co-op) bargaining scheduled for June 4-6
- May 28, 2024 – Worker Engagement and Empowerment: the Union Advantage; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Defending Member Rights: the grievance and arbitration process
- May 21, 2024 – How the UAW organized in anti-union country; Know your Local 1 (Viterra Operations & Maintenance) agreement, and don’t feel obligated to volunteer; Local 9 (Trouw) members to vote May 25 on memorandum of agreement14
- May 14, 2024 – Workers and Unions need to maintain their independence; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Membership visitations and collective agreements; Local 8 (AEA/Advance) – Bargaining impasse reached, Notice of Impasse filed
- May 7, 2024 – GSU’s president and general secretary attend the ILWU Canada‘s 37th Convention; Local 15 files two Executive Grievances against Nutrien; Why May Day is so important
- April 30, 2024 – Local 1 (Viterra Operations & Maintenance) delegates meet, discuss concerns and new collective agreement; Staff Rep Mason Van Luven attends North America’s largest trade union biannual conference; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Assisting members in addressing allegations of harassment, or witnessing harassment
- April 23, 2024 – Competition Bureau’s report outlines concerns over acquisition of Viterra; Easy Steps to contact GSU: Just do it!; GSU scholarships: Your grades aren’t required to apply
- April 16, 2024 – GSU 2023/2024 annual report sent to GSU members; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Helping temporary, casual, term employees and Co-op Students understand their rights and benefits as GSU members; GSU scholarship – if you are accepted into a full-time community college, university, trade school or technical institute program, you are eligible to apply for a GSU scholarship
- April 9, 2024 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Workplace suspensions; Youth advocacy results in free transit for Regina’s under-13 kids; Local 1 and 2 (Viterra) new collective agreements online as text documents for easy access
- April 2, 2024 – Joint Executive Council annual report being released this week; Local 15 (Nutrien) board of delegates to begin preliminary bargaining preparation; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Handing in your Resignation; We’re all political – whether we know it, or not!
- March 27, 2024 – Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) agreements signed and in effect; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: You don’t need a big problem to contact us; Joint Executive Council meeting update
- March 19, 2024 – GSU’s Joint Executive Council will meet March 21 – learn about the elected people who call the shots; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: In-vehicle surveillance cameras: concerns have been raised, and we’re on it; support Saskatchewan’s teachers; bargaining updates
- March 12, 2024 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Assisting with a smooth exit strategy to a new employer; New-officer training held online; GSU’s 2024 scholarship program
- March 5, 2024 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Nutrien’s planned policy change will forfeit employees’ unused vacation time; Delegate meetings for Locals 1 (Viterra), 14 (Richardson) and 15 (Nutrien) coming soon; Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) files executive grievances on 4.5% retro and increase
- Feb. 27, 2024 – Delegates meetings will be scheduled soon for elected officers of Locals 1 (Viterra), 14 (Richardson) and 15 (Nutrien); WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Navigating the performance review maze; Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) 4.5% retro and increase – contact us before Feb. 29 if you want to file an individual grievance
- Feb. 20, 2024 – GSU supports the Grain Archers team on Family Day; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: When Workers train Workers; Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) executive grievance to be launched over 4.5% increase/retro pay
- Feb. 13, 2024 – Labour’s role in Super Bowl 58; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Timelines for taking action on an issue; We’re compiling 4.5% increase/retro pay information from Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) members; SGEU reaches impasse with Saskatchewan government
- Feb. 6, 2024 – Unions deliver higher wages, better benefits for workers in Saskatchewan; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Questions on vacation accrual, retroactivity, and the Local 1 (Viterra) final offer; bargaining updates
- Jan. 30, 2024 – Servicing responsibilities shift among GSU staff; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) experiencing problems getting their retro pay; Working and Extreme Weather
- Jan. 23, 2024 – Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) members accept company’s Jan. 4 Final Offer; ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED – Clarification on the Aggregate Pay system in Local 14 (Richardson); Don’t underestimate the impact you have on others
- Jan. 16, 2024 – Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) members voting on company’s Jan. 4 Final Offer; ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED – Can your employer tell you what is acceptable winter-wear at work?; Every day is the perfect day to start making changes
2023 - Dec. 19, 2023 – A message from GSU general secretary Steve Torgerson; GSU members vote to continue paying dues into their Defense Fund; Local 1 (Viterra – Operations & Maintenance) Board members to meet, assess progress on Jan. 29
- Dec. 12, 2023 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: GSU members are seeking opportunities for engagement with fellow members; GSU Defense Fund board of directors meet; bargaining updates
- Dec. 6, 2023 – Dec. 6 is National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women; The company just sent you a notice of termination – CALL YOUR STAFF REP; Connecting with Communities: GSU members choose their Community Connection donation recipients; Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) are voting on the Company’s Nov. 17 *final offer*
- Nov. 28, 2023 – Don’t answer work calls when you are sick, on personal time away from work, or not actively working; Significant progress made in Local 9 (Trouw) agreement renewal bargaining; Navigating Winter Roads Safely: Essential Precautions for Winter Driving
- Nov. 21, 2023 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Is it Vacation … or is it Personal Family Leave?; Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) bargaining: Company presents GSU committees with final offer; It’s okay to disagree, but do it respectfully
- Nov. 14, 2023 – Unions welcome Bill C-58 – legislation to ban use of replacement workers; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: GSU staff reps are assisting members facing position eliminations; Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) conciliation taking place Nov. 14 and 15, strike authorization vote underway
- Nov. 7, 2023 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: There is an uptick in discipline-related calls regarding safety; Membership meetings continue with Strike Authorization Vote being held at Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) meetings; GSU staff representative areas expand, responsibilities shift
- Oct. 31, 2023 – Local 1 and 2 (Viterra) AGMs will include s strike vote; ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED: Answering questions about benefit coverage while on strike or lock-out; TRUTH & RECONCILIATION: Seeking to understand complicated topics is necessary but not simple; Conciliation set for Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) on Nov. 14 & 15, and set for Local 5 (Western Producer) on Nov. 20
- Oct. 24, 2023 – Severance pay – one of the most overlooked advantages of a collective agreement; ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED: Should a member who is considering retirement wait around for possible retroactive pay?; Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) bargaining: Late-November conciliation dates likely, strike vote being conducted
- Oct. 17, 2023 – First meeting of GSU’s governing body under change of leadership; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: We’ve been working closely with our lawyer; Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) bargaining: Still waiting for conciliation dates
- Oct. 10, 2023 – Conciliator appointed in Local 1 and 2 (Viterra) bargaining; Local 5 (Western Producer) bargaining rescheduled to Nov. 20; GSU’s governing body to meet Oct. 11 & 12; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Assisting members with their short-term and long-term disability
- Oct. 3, 2023 – GSU staff attend ILWU Canada board meeting, Youth Convention; Be safe this Thanksgiving weekend; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Assisting members with workplace accommodations
- Sept. 26, 2023 – TRUTH & RECONCILIATION: Learn more about the work of the Office of the Treaty Commissioner (OTC); WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Assisting a member through a position elimination; Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) bargaining: Notice of Dispute filed, waiting for appointment of conciliator/dates 14914
- Sept. 19, 2023 – Consider your specific health and benefit needs before you announce your retirement; SFL OH&S Conference: Stand up, report any and all violence in the workplace; Local 1 (Viterra Ops & Maintenance) & Local 2 (Viterra Head Office): Notice of Dispute filed with Federal Labour Minister
- Sept. 12, 2023 – Notice of Dispute served (Local 1 & 2 – Viterra); WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Employer attempts to keep in-scope workers out of the union, executive grievance filed; Introducing our 2023 GSU scholarship recipients
- Sept. 5, 2023 – Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) bargaining update; TRUTH & RECONCILIATION: “Reservation Dogs” television comedy/drama; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: New-officer training course being prepared for January 2024
- Aug. 29, 2023 – Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) bargaining committee to return to table Aug. 31; Local 5 (Western Producer) members vote and overwhelmingly reject employer’s *final offer*; OH&S – Avoid rushing, mind fatigue this season; ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED: Support and assistance for a member during sick leave
- Aug. 15, 2023 – Examining an expedited grievance and arbitration process; No problem is too small for your GSU staff rep; Local 1 and 2 (Viterra) are ready to return to the bargaining table
- Aug. 2, 2023 – Go Fund Me and GSU support for a member going through tough times; TRUTH & RECONCILIATION: Reconciliation or Economic Development – it’s not an either/or choice; GSU bargaining updates; ILWU bargaining update
- July 18, 2023 – Tentative settlement in Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) bargaining; ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED: GSU staff reps answering questions about STIP payments; Showing our support for striking ILWU members;
- June 20, 2023 – Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) members fight for and win their STIP bonus payment; BARGAINING: Local 5 (Western Producer) members examine ways to demonstrate member, Local support; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Explaining situation-specific collective agreement entitlements and options
- June 13, 2023 – Bunge, Viterra finalize agreement to merge; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Member signatures requested on company document; Local 2 (Viterra Head Office) Rider ticket contest
- June 6, 2023 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Members entitled to more than vacation leave or banked time when a personal circumstance affects their ability to report for work; bargaining updates; collective solutions solve individual problems
- May 30, 2023 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Assisting a long-term disability member; bargaining updates; GSU scholarship deadline is this Thursday, June 1
- May 23, 2023 – ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED: Grievance successful, member received requested vacation time; Local 1 (Viterra Operations & Maintenance) board of delegates to meet, select bargaining committee member; Scholarship deadline is next week
- May 16, 2023 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: When you are struggling to work at work, call us; Working in Hot Weather; Bringing the Western workers’ perspective to WESTAC; June 1 scholarship application deadline approaching quickly
- May 9, 2023 – STIP UPDATE: GSU responds to Viterra’s April 26 reply; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Assisting a member who move from sick leave to long-term disability; Scholarship deadline is June 1; Bargaining updates
- May 2, 2023 – Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) bargaining update meetings begin May 8; Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) STIP update; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: GSU member waiting on company to retire; June 1 GSU scholarship deadline is approaching quickly!
- April 25, 2023 – Bargaining updates; April 28 is the Day of Mourning; Thinking About Retirement? Contact us; GSU scholarship applications now available
- April 18, 2023 – Health & Safety: Watch out for the warm-weather seekers; If we had a Member of the Month award, we know who we would give it to; GSU scholarship program is well underway; bargaining updates
- April 11, 2023 – Local 1 & 2 STIP update: Unfair Labour Practice filed, Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) petitions delivered to HR; Delegates to GSU biennial policy convention elect Defense Fund directors; GSU scholarships – apply now!
- April 4, 2023 – The torch has been passed: Hugh Wagner retires, Steve Torgerson becomes GSU’s fifth general secretary; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: potential harassment issue
- March 28, 2023 – GSU convention delegates plan union’s course; ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED: staff rep assistance at investigation meeting helps resolve issue on front end; Local 7 (Heartland) bargaining: members to vote on company offer; GSU scholarship program applications are being accepted – apply now!
- March 21, 2023 – WORKING ON IT: Options to have Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) STIP paid out; H&S: Slips, trips and falls in Spring; Apply now! GSU is offering five $2,000 scholarships in 2023
- March 14, 2023 – Claim your union dues on your tax return; GSU Defense Fund board meets, reviews financial statements in preparation for GSU convention; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Commuted value and pension plan clarification
- March 7, 2023 – International Women’s Day; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Administration of the collective agreement; GSU announces 2023 scholarship program; GSU officer training report
- Feb. 28, 2023 – Local 16 (Lake Country Co-op) members have a new collective agreement; TRUTH & RECONCILIATION: The power of one little word; Last chance to register and attend GSU’s 2023 Policy Convention
- Feb. 21, 2023 – Local 5 (Western Producer) members overwhelmingly reject employer offer; Psychological health and safety in the workplace; GSU convention delegates to review 2022 audited financial statements
- Feb. 14, 2023 – Local 5 (Western Producer) members to meet Feb. 16; GSU staff rep attends Sask. Safety Council seminar; Quick action solves member’s EI problem; GSU convention delegates will get one of our new t-shirts;
- Feb. 7, 2023 – Will you be one of our next Defense Fund Directors?; Register now and join us at GSU’s March 2023 policy convention; Your meeting with management and your right to union representation; Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) bargaining – There’s still work to do!
- Jan. 31, 2023 – Registration for GSU’s upcoming policy convention open to all members Feb. 1; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: GSU staff attend labour relations training conference; GSU’s executive committee holds first meeting of 2023
- Jan. 24, 2023 – GSU convention offers opportunities for change, education; Our toll-free numbers make it easy to talk to your GSU staff rep; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Member discovers a year’s worth of unpaid double-time; Identifying your type of tired helps you bounce back sooner
- Jan. 17, 2023 – Local 17 (Discovery Co-op) members have a new collective agreement; What are you prepared to do to support mental health?; We’ve invited our newly-elected officers and shop stewards to sign up for online training
2022 - Jan. 10, 2022 – Catching up at work after the holiday season; GSU new officer and shop steward training set for March 1; Working from Home – Local 2 (Viterra Head Office)
- Dec. 20, 2022 – GSU members vote in favour of continuing additional dues being paid into GSU Defense Fund; Mental Health: Ahhhh, the holidays. So much fun, family and friends … or so much stress, burnout and depression; bargaining updates
- Dec. 13, 2022 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Work requirements cause vacation cancellation concerns; Have you used your Health Flex Spending Account or other health benefits? It’s time to check your account; bargaining updates
- Dec. 6, 2022 – National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women; Long-term temporary employee seeking permanent employee status; 10 days paid sick leave now in force in federal jurisdiction; GSU member education lined up for 2023
- Nov. 29, 2022 – GSU will never stand in the way of you getting a bonus; Support SK child care advocates! Wear polka dots and attend their Nov. 30 play-in event; HEALTH & SAFETY: Right 3 – The Right to Refuse; TRUTH & RECONCILIATION: What are the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission?
- Nov. 22, 2022 – HEALTH & SAFETY: Right 2 – The Right to Participate; Tell the government to stop the sell-off of our profitable public liquor stores; WE’RE WORKING ONIT: Performance Evaluations; bargaining updates
- Nov. 15, 2022 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Navigating position elimination; HEALTH & SAFETY: Right 1 – the Right to Know; How to become a GSU convention delegate
- Nov. 8, 2022 – Bargaining updates; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Preparing for Local 1 (Viterra Operations & Maintenance) arbitrations; the Moose Hide campaign; HEALTH & SAFETY: Your three basic rights for working safely
- Nov. 1, 2022 – GSU delegates attend 66th Sask. Federation of Labour convention; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Union representation during workplace-accommodation discussions; bargaining now underway for GSU Local 7 (Heartland Livestock/Northern Livestock Sales)
- Oct. 25, 2022 – TRUTH & RECONCILIATION: Honouring the work of Senator Murray Sinclair; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Employer wanting to extend probationary period; GSU’s governing body meets today in Regina
- Oct. 18, 2022 – Bargaining dates set for Locals 1 (Viterra Operations & Maintenance), 2 (Viterra Head Office), 7 (Heartland Livestock/Northern Livestock Sales), Local 17 (Discovery Co-op); Nutrien lining up some 2023 stats to be observed on different dates; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Talk to your GSU staff rep before leaving your employment
- Oct. 11, 2022 – as of Oct. 1, Saskatchewan’s minimum wage is the lowest in Canada; Join GSU; bargaining updates; what we dwell on is who we become
- Oct. 3, 2022 – GSU members to vote on Defense Fund dues continuation; HEALTH & SAFETY: Poor communication causes health and safety concerns;
- Sept. 27, 2022 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Member did not receive an interview for a position; Sept. 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation & Orange Shirt Day; new Local 4 (Grain Millers) collective agreement to be signed today
- Sept. 20, 2022 – Local 4 (Grain Millers) settlement breaks mould; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Interviews and final preparations for an arbitration; Saskatchewan Federation of Labour’s OH&S Conference; Precautions to avoid identity theft
- Sept. 13, 2022 – Do I use Banked Time or Vacation first?; Local 2 (Viterra HO) hosts food truck lunch; Local 14 (Richardson) new collective agreement booklets on their way to members
- Sept. 6, 2022 – Tragedy at James Smith Cree Nation; Congratulations to our GSU scholarship recipients; Anxiety is not the same as “having butterflies”
- August 30, 2022 – Wagner to attend meeting with Sask. Minister of Highways; Canadian Labour Congress wants to hear about your experience with new technology on the job
- August 23, 2022 – Local 4 (Grain Millers) members vote YES to new collective agreement; GSU executive committee to meet Aug. 31; deadline to apply for General Secretary posting is Aug. 31; bargaining updates
- August 16, 2022 – We’ve confirmed it: GSU’s Viterra members to be paid mileage AND time spent when travelling to work at non-home station; at-risk behaviours you need to avoid at work; Local 4 (Grain Millers) members voting on tentative settlement
- August 9, 2022 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Preparing for a Sept. 29/30 arbitration regarding severance; Congratulations to new Local 8 (AEA/Advance) vice president; Are you using words that don’t exist?
- August 2, 2022 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Assisting with a WCB appeal; *getting even*; JOB POSTING: GSU general secretary; bargaining updates
- July 26, 2022 – WE’RE WORKING ON IT: transition from short- to long-term disability; Truth & Reconciliation: Farmland and Reconciliation; bargaining updates
- July 19, 2022 – Local 1/2 (Viterra) bargaining survey closes Friday; Are you fit for work?; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Change to Schedule; A Kick is a Boost
- July 12, 2022 – ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED: Changes to company policy made after issue raised by local executive
- July 5, 2022 – Welcome Rebecca to GSU staff; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Severance pay grievance moved to arbitration, date set; Mental Health: Struggling with Depression and Anxiety
- June 28, 2022 – Local 14 (Richardson) delegates hold post-bargaining debrief, plan for increased member involvement; Local 1, 2 (Viterra) delegates meet, authorize bargaining survey, prepare for autumn bargaining with employer; Truth & Reconciliation: National Indigenous Peoples Day, Symbolism, and History
- June 21, 2022 – We just solved five Local 1 (Viterra) grievances; Guidelines for working safely in Heat and Humidity; Local 5 (Western Producer) bargaining update
- June 14, 2022 – What is included in your EAP/EFAP plan?; We’re preparing a bargaining survey for Local 1, 2 (Viterra) members; BOARD MEETINGS: GSU Locals 1, 2 (Viterra); Local 14 (Richardson) – June 22, 23, 24 in Regina
- June 7, 2022 – Joint Executive Council annual report; Rising cost of fuel hot topic for GSU members; Minimize the risks of fire at home and in the workplace
- May 31, 2022 – GSU Scholarship deadline is tomorrow; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Our first collective agreement with gender-neutral pronouns; Truth & Reconciliation: Child Poverty
- May 24, 2022 – June 1 GSU scholarship deadline approaching quickly; We’re working on individual member work-related issues and grievances; Electrical Safety in the Workplace
- May 17, 2022 – Pressing necessity grievance scheduled for June; Local 6 (Wild West Steelhead) vote tomorrow; Canada needs to put its money where its mouth is on Mental Health
- May 10, 2022 – Rising long-term interest rates and lower commuted values; We’re hiring a permanent part-time Accounting & Payroll Administrator
- May 3, 2022 – Local 8 strike narrowly averted; tentative settlement in Local 6; and visitations for GSU members underway
- April 26, 2022 – April 28 Day of Mourning; Local 8 (Advance) serves strike notice; Violence in the Workplace – Personal Relationship; Truth and Reconciliation: Intergenerational Trauma; Another Problem Solved: Assistance with Travel Expenses
- April 19, 2022 – AEA/GSU Local 8 serves notice of strike action on Advance Tank Production Ltd. / Advance Tank Centres Ltd.; Violence in the Workplace – Worker on Worker; MENTAL HEALTH TALK: Stress, anxiety or both
- April 12, 2022 – Local 8 (Advance) holds strike vote; Our latest Rush ticket winner; Why everyone needs time alone
- April 5, 2022 – Local 14 (Richardson) approves company offer by slim margin; more Rush tickets to win; Violence in the Workplace – Customer/Client; GSU Defense Fund directors meet, approve strike/lockout pay for Local 8 (AEA) members; Truth & Reconciliation: Reactions to Pope Francis’s apology vary greatly
- March 29, 2022 – Bargaining updates; Rush ticket contest; Joint Executive Council meeting update; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Temporary assignment of higher duties
- March 22, 2022 – Bargaining updates; Rush ticket winner; GSU’s council to meet; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Uncomfortable conversations about management policy
- March 15, 2022 – Bargaining updates; another Rush ticket contest; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Short-Term Disability; GSU scholarship application link
- March 8, 2022 – March 8 is International Women’s Day; bargaining updates; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Time off needs to be mutually agreed upon; enter our draw and you could win RUSH tickets; GSU scholarship program application link
- March 1, 2022 – AEA/GSU Local 8 conciliation postponed; Local 14 (Richardson) bargaining to resume March 9; GSU steward training update; Last chance to participate in GSU’s membership survey; GSU’s 2022 scholarship program is underway
- Feb. 22, 2022 – GSU Local 14 (Richardson) members may soon assess, vote, determine next step in process; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Standby Pay and getting paid for the hours you work; Reminder to complete your GSU membership survey
- Feb. 15, 2022 – GSU survey sent to every member; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: members are asking about pension and retirement; Is there such a thing as *Stress Leave*?; It’s time to find a new job
- Feb. 8, 2022 – Local 8 (AEA/GSU) conciliation set for March 3; bargaining to resume Feb. 16 with Richardson International; we’re hiring a part-time Accounting & Payroll Administrator in our Regina office; PPE: Fit for Women?
- Feb. 1, 2022 – Conciliator appointed to GSU/AEA Local 8 bargaining impasse; Local 14 (Richardson) bargaining committee awaits company reply; GSU’s executive committee meets to review administration and financial items
- Jan. 25, 2022 – GSU Local 4 (Grain Millers) services notice to bargain; Local 8 (AEA/Advance) and Local 14 (Richardson) bargaining updates; we are accepting expressions of interest for a Defense Fund director
- Jan. 18, 2022 – Local 8 (AEA/Advance) bargaining reaches an impasse; we are consulting with Local 14 (Richardson) members about bargaining; working safely in winter
- Jan. 11, 2022 – Familiarize yourself with company policies at your workplace; Take your vacation days
- Jan. 4. 2022 – Annual performance reviews; Health and Safety as you return to work;
2021
- Dec. 21, 2021 – Local 8 (Advance) and Local 14 (Richardson) bargaining updates
- Dec. 14, 2021 – Car loading causes problems for terminal elevator employees; Keep track of your time at work and check your pay stubs; Avoiding the pressure of the holiday tradition
- Dec. 7, 2021 – Local 8 (Advance) bargaining continues Dec. 16; firm dates of Dec. 14, 20 and 21 set for Local 14 (Richardson) bargaining; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: Get it in writing; GSU members donate to Red Cross to assist with BC flood and extreme weather relief
- Nov. 30, 2021 – Dates set for Local 14 bargaining with Richardson; Dec. 6 – National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women; Truth and Reconciliation: Treaties; Employer replies to GSU on 2022 wage increases
- Nov. 23, 2021 – Helping members sort through snow-day paystub issues; A reminder to use your health flex spending accounts; GSU promotes 2022 wage increases; How to start a difficult conversation
- Nov. 16, 2021 – We’re pressing Richardson Pioneer for a bargaining date; How sick is too sick to be at the workplace; Exercise your brain
- Nov. 9, 2021 – Richardson bargaining postponed; preparing for your year-end performance review; we’re assisting a GSU member with a sick leave claim; break free from the stress of self-imposed rules
- Nov. 2, 2021 – Can I carry over my unused vacation into the new year; Local 8 (Advance) bargaining continues; elected officers are an important link between GSU members and their staff representatives
- Oct. 26, 2021 – Local 8 (Advance) bargaining resumes; understanding land acknowledgements; SFL convention focusses on putting workers first
- Oct. 19, 2021 – Getting ready for bargaining in Local 8 (Advance) and Local 14 (Richardson Pioneer); we’re working on grievances; what personal pronouns are and why they matter
- Oct. 12, 2021 – Local 14 (Richardson) delegates to meet and prepare for bargaining; we’re arguing that employer actions constitutes double penalty and violates employee’s rights; GSU’s new staff reps Brian Lark and Mason Van Luven reported for work today
- Oct. 5, 2021 – We have three new directors on the Defense Fund board; our first National Truth and Reconciliation Day; enter our draw for Rider tickets; our Regina office renovation is complete
- Sept. 28, 2021 – Joint Executive Council (JEC) announces new staff representatives, National Truth & Reconciliation, JEC meeting update
- Sept. 21, 2021 – Joint Executive Council meeting moves to online format; Crunching numbers for a severance package; GSU Regina office renovations near completion
- Sept. 14, 2021 – Membership meetings coming up soon; staff representative hiring committee to report to Joint Executive Council
- Sept. 7, 2021 – Notice to bargain sent to employers – Local 8 (Advance) and Local 14 (Richardson Pioneer); interviews for GSU’s next staff rep to be held Sept. 9 and 10; your chance to win tickets to the Rider v. Argonauts Sept. 17 game
- August 31, 2021 – Be mindful using a company vehicle
- August 24, 2021 – GSU members, COVID-19, and mandatory vaccinations; your chance to win Labour Day Classic tickets;
- August 10, 2021 – introducing our 2021 GSU scholarship recipients; Local 1 (Viterra) meeting on car loading/standby issues; Riders/Redblacks ticket giveaway
- August 3, 2021 – Local 14 (Richardson Pioneer) delegates to meet early Sept., prepare bargaining proposals, elect bargaining committee; Wagner, Pavo meet and review GSU Defense Fund’s $5.4 million investment portfolio; union’s government body – the Joint Executive Council (JEC) to meet in Sept.
- July 27, 2021 – bargaining survey being distributed to Local 14 (Richardson) members; GSU contacts employers regarding Sept. 30 National Truth and Reconciliation stat holiday; 10 simple exercises to build your mental toughness
- July 20, 2021 – announcing GSU’s five $2,000 scholarship recipients; helping out with filing a WCB claim; and our Rider ticket package;
- July 13, 2021 – Grievance action results in pay boost for some Local 1 (Viterra) members; renovations at GSU’s Regina office continue; our GSU clear bag contest winners
- July 6, 2021 – Working in extreme weather conditions; we’re getting calls about problems with member vacation requests; are you our next Defense Fund director?
- June 29, 2021 – How/Do we celebrate Canada Day 2021; members seek back-up to address unsanitary lunchroom conditions; Burnout is not a badge of honour
- June 22, 2021 – GSU Regina office undergoing a facelift; GSU executive committee meets; imminent lifting of COVID restrictions raising questions for GSU members
- June 15, 2021 – GSU member’s grievance action and thorough record keeping results in extra week of vacation; staff responsibility changes at GSU; we are looking for GSU members who want to become a Defense Fund director
- June 8, 2021 – Grievance results in pressing necessity leave awarded and banked time/overtime/vacation restored to members; new Local 15 (Nutrien) booklets are being distributed to members; GSU turns 85
- June 1, 2021 – GSU member to be paid for notice period; staff rep Steve Torgerson assumes responsibility for Co-op Locals; Discovery brings sadness
- May 25, 2021 – last week to submit GSU scholarship applications; GSU general secretary to submit brief on supervisory employees; Nutrien agreement booklets being printed, ready for Local 15 members in early June
- May 18, 2021 – Temporary resolution to the grievance over denial of sick leave benefits to members age 65 and older; GSU staff responsibilities reassigned as Dale Markling’s retirement draws closer; two weeks left until GSU scholarship application deadline
- May 11, 2021 – GSU members being pressured to use banked time; Unemployed Workers Help Centre provides free EI advice and assistance to Sask. workers; only three weeks left until GSU scholarship application deadline
- May 4, 2021 – union member, officer, and friend Brett North retires; GSU Defense Fund Directors meet, review first quarter report; GSU Executive Committee meets, agree to recommend filling upcoming staff representative vacancy
- April 27, 2021 – staff rep Dale Markling set to retire; ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED: sick leave denied; Day of Mourning is April 28
- April 20, 2021 – ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED: Grievance action secures severance pay for GSU member; Mayo Schmidt named president, CEO of Nutrien
- April 13, 2021 – ANOTHER PROBLEM SOLVED: Member to receive pay increase; staff rep Steve Torgerson answering members’ questions about EI; GSU members, their spouses and dependents eligible to apply for $2,000 GSU scholarships
- April 6, 2021 – JEC released annual report to members; April 7 is Equal Pay Day, Bad weather has been leading to time loss issues for GSU members
- March 30, 2021 – Understanding aggregate increases
- March 23, 2021 – GSU biennial policy convention update; Sask. government introduces special vaccination leave
- March 16, 2021 – Performance review DOs and DON’Ts; GSU files executive grievance challenging denial of sick leave benefits to employees age 65 or older
- March 9, 2021 – Submit your resolutions to GSU’s convention; we are accepting scholarship applications; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: paid sick leave for employees 65 and over
- March 1, 2021 – Happy International Women’s Day; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: boot inspections
- Feb. 23, 2021 – GSU convention delegates to elect union’s president, vice presidents, general secretary, and the five-person Defense Fund board; WE’RE WORKING ON IT: GSU members receiving lower rate of pay than new employee in same job classification with less experience
- Feb. 16, 2021 – update on grievance on Local 1 (Viterra) storm stayed employees; Monitoring requirements for members to work outside the province; how to have your own back
- Feb. 9, 2021 – Should employers be exempt from giving employees at least 24 hours’ notice of change to their work shifts? GSU says no (copy of GSU’s submission to government officials is available); Local 14 (Richardson) and Local 15 (Nutrien) boards meet, elect representatives to council; your opportunity to be a director on GSU’s Defense Fund.
- Feb. 2, 2021 – Local 14 (Richardson) and Local 15 (Nutrien) board to meet; Local 5 (Western Producer) and Local 6 (Wild West Steelhead) collective agreements now available online; GSU Defense Fund board authorizes shift of Fund’s investment asset mix
- Jan. 26, 2021 – Local 1 (Viterra) delegates, Local 2 (Viterra Office) executive members meet, approve salary schedule changes, and elect officers
- Jan. 19, 2021 – Local 6 (Wild West Steelhead) members vote to accept memorandum of settlement
- Jan. 12, 2021 – draft version of Nutrien collective agreement now available online, Local 5 (Western Producer) members vote to accept tentative settlement
- Jan. 5, 2021 – If it’s important, get it in writing; planning for GSU’s 2021 policy convention; Local 5 (Western Producer) members are voting on a tentative settlement today
2020
- Dec. 22, 2020 – The plan to exempt grain companies from providing 24-hours’ notice of shift change
- Dec. 15, 2020 – Members vote to approve constitutional changes, continue Defense Fund dues
- Dec. 8, 2020 – Health Spending Account; Hours of Work, and BeGrainSafe training
- Dec. 1, 2020 – Is your leave of absence a paid leave? It depends …
- Nov. 25, 2020 – Workplace safety during COVID-19’s second wave; pressing necessarity leave and winter storms; Are you being gaslighted?
- Nov. 17, 2020 – Nutrien pension clarification; congratulations to scholarship recipient Marc Rapin; ask about GSU’s layoff organization guide
- Nov. 10, 2020 – Annual meetings continue; congratulations to scholarship recipient Ty Nikolejsin; We are more alike than we are unalike
- Nov. 3, 2020 – Local 15 (Nutrien) members vote to accept settlement; congratulations to scholarship recipient Alexis Wood; Unconscious biases
- Oct. 27, 2020 – Local 15 (Nutrien) ballots to be counted Nov. 2; GSU scholarship recipient Tyler Buenneke; your self-limiting beliefs are sabatoging you
- Oct. 20, 2020 – Local 15 (Nutrien) ratification vote underway; GSU scholarship recipient Dayne Patterson; Rest is a requirement, not a reward
- Oct. 13, 2020 – GSU council meets; upcoming arbitration; your membership meeting is being set
- Oct. 6, 2020 – Tentative settlement in Local 15 (Nutrien) bargaining, Another Problem Solved: greater responsibility should translate into pay increase; dandelions remind us that we are resilient
- Sept. 28, 2020 – Local 2 contest winners; Working too many hours; Why talking to yourself is good for you
- Sept. 22, 2020 – Executive committee meets, We helped a member receive their proper overtime pay, Clear your mind by clearing your clutter
- Sept. 15, 2020 – SLRB orders Nutrien Ag Retail outlets at Fielding, Kincaid and Norquay into GSU bargaining unit; Oversharing; and pursuing a pay increase to coincide with a raise in the salary grade
- Sept. 8, 2020 – Taking an active role in your hiring process; GSU executive committee to meet; the importance of self-confidence
- Sept. 1, 2020 – GSU Local 15 (Nutrien) bargaining committee checks in with company; Local 6 (Wild West Steelhead) bargaining begins; Annual membership meetings coming up soon
- August 25, 2020 – How many Sask. workers are working for minimum wage; Last week to apply for a GSU scholarship; 21 important lessons to learn from failure
- August 18, 2020 – Two weeks until the scholarship application deadline; Are you receiving the right rate of pay?
- August 11, 2020 – Alberta workers under assault from Bill 32; Shirley wins a shirt; strike or lockout looming in ILWU Canada, SGS Prince Rupert dispute
- August 4, 2020 – SFL cancels 2020 convention; Long hours, high pressure; Being right versus being happy
- July 28, 2020 – Local 15/Nutrien bargaining set for Sept. 30, Oct. 1; Defense Fund board of directors meet; take workplace disciplinary penalties seriously
- July 21, 2020 – Attend an OH&S webinar, our Sick Leave Organizer booklet for members, setting dates with Nutrien for Local 15 bargaining, and try something new!
- July 15, 2020 – Another problem solved: Increment Date; We’re on the road with masks for members; GSU services are included in your dues so don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance
- July 7, 2020 – Local 15 (Nutrien) members reject final offer; we’re giving masks to GSU members
- June 30, 2020 – Local 5 (Western Producer) members vote on rollbacks, bargaining set to begin in Local 6 (Wild West Steelhead), and we’ve got a mask for you!
- June 23, 2020 – Local 15 (Nutrien) vote deadline fast approaching, Local 5 (Western Producer) representatives to meet management today
- June 16, 2020 – Local 15 (Nutrien) members prepare to vote, preparing for bargaining in Local 6 (Wild West Steelhead), addressing the pay rollback in Local 5 (Western Producer)
- June 9, 2020 – Local 15 (Nutrien) members to vote, following up on Local 1 & 2 (Viterra) personal family leave
- June 2, 2020 – Local 15 (Nutrien) Bargaining underway today, our $100 gift card contest winners
- May 26, 2020 – Local 5 (Western Producer bargaining), Local 1/2 (Viterra) personal leave, tell us how COVID changed your workplace and you could win a $100 gift card
- May 19, 2020 – Local 7 members vote to accept settlement, GSU scholarship deadline extended to Sept. 1
- May 12, 2020 – Local 7 voting on settlement, Local 8 starts work sharing, the Quarantine 15
- May 5, 2020 – Employers reply on employee recognition during COVID, Local 4 wellness checks, Nutrien bargaining update
- April 28, 2020 – Day of Mourning, JEC issues annual report, union proposes arbitration over video conference
- April 21, 2020 – GSU brief on new hours of work provisions, Part III, Canada Labour Code, Another problem solved [quarantine]
- April 14, 2020 – GSU promotes employee recognition during COVID-19 pandemic; Council approves COVID-19 pandemic donation; Employers show their appreciation to GSU members with bonus, increase in pay
- April 7, 2020 – Defense Fund vacancy, Joint Executive Council meets, teleconferencing etiquette
- March 31, 2020 – GSU Council to meet, Local 19 ratifies settlement, tips for essential workers
- March 24, 2020 – Local 19 members to vote, Unifor 594 still locked out, and how to avoid mood swings
- March 17, 2020
- March 10, 2020
- March 3, 2020
- February 25, 2020
- February 18, 2020
- February 11, 2020
- February 4, 2020
- January 28, 2020
- January 21, 2020
- January 14, 2020
- January 7, 2020