3 Day Union Education Series - Cranbrook
Facilitators: Robert Strang, Deb Seaboyer
This weekend will feature three of the PSAC’s core courses - read on to find out more, or apply online here.
Friday – Talking Union Basics
This is the union’s key “introductory” course. If you have wondered what it means to be a union member, how the PSAC works, and what happens to your dues dollars, then Talking Union Basics provides answers to these questions. The course also introduces the collective agreement, your employee rights and your rights as a member of the PSAC. You will learn about the many opportunities to be active in the union and ways you can make a contribution to building strong locals in the B.C. region. It is recommended that members take Talking Union Basics first, as it provides the basic knowledge you need to get the most from other PSAC courses.
Saturday – Understanding and Interpreting the Collective Agreement
This course explores key provisions in members’ collective agreements and introduces an easy four-step framework for interpreting the contract. We will practice applying the four-step interpretation method and examine cases providing examples of “aids to interpretation”. Using a number of case studies from adjudication / arbitration decisions (e.g., sick leave; operational requirements; other leave with or without pay; acting pay; discharge), we also will practice applying the collective agreement to actual workplace situations. Working with actual cases enhances your ability to problem solve through analysis and discussion. The course will “demystify” the collective agreement and provide you with the necessary skills and tools for on-going, self-directed learning. NOTE: please bring your collective agreement to this course.
Sunday – Basic Grievance Handling
This training is a must for stewards and other workplace representatives, or member who want to use the acquired knowledge and skills to solve problems in the workplace. You will find out what the law says about grievances, grievors and their representatives, and the protections built in for those who choose to use the grievance procedure to solve problems. You will develop grievance-handling and problem-solving skills through “hands-on” exercises on gathering facts, analyzing a problem, drafting grievance wording, building a complete file, framing the arguments and presenting the case to the employer. You will work on case studies based on actual grievances and, in the process, improve your knowledge of case law.
Courses are scheduled to take place from 9AM to 4:30PM each day.
Expense Entitlements
The PSAC reimburses lost wages for regularly scheduled days (shift schedule required for weekend or shift work) and provides child-care reimbursement per the PSAC Child-care Policy. In addition the PSAC provides a $50 per diem for members residing within 60 kms of the course location OR covers travel costs for members residing more than 60 kms in accordance with the PSAC travel policy.
The expectation is that members will take all 3 courses unless advance alternate arrangements are made with the Regional Education Officer.
This education weekend is open to all PSAC members in the BC Southern Interior catchment area. Applications from members outside the catchment area will only be approved in exceptional circumstances.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the excellent education offered by your Union!