News

On August 28, 2014 I reported that we were provided an initial list of designated positions.  The ?consultation? process was completed by November thereby finalizing the list of designated positions (and the employees occupying them). Employees have been (or are in the process of being) notified by the various departments.

Overall, approximately 30% of the positions in our bargaining unit are designated.  However, this percentage varies widely by department.  For example, National Defence designated less than 10% of the positions.  On the other hand, Fisheries and Oceans designated 100% of the EL positions.  And in the case of Fisheries and Oceans, this represents more than 100% of the employees in that department.  How can this be? DFO even designated vacant positions!

So concludes the position designation process.  And as stated earlier, the Treasury Board?s list of designated positions confirms that our dispute resolution mechanism is conciliation-strike because less than 80% of the bargaining unit?s positions are designated.

We are a long way from reaching an impasse so there is no cause for alarm or concern. But, if and when the time comes, some sort of job action might be required and we are preparing for that possibility.  This includes preparing a strike planning / survival manual, sharing information with other unions in the federal government and learning from other IBEW Local Unions in Canada.

Regardless of the outcome, we (with your help) will do our best to get the best possible agreement we can under the circumstances.

In solidarity,

Daniel J Boulet
Business Manager / Financial Secretary