Union Dues

Union dues are set at 1.35% as per the Unions local Bylaws. The terms in which union dues are supposed to be deducted are as follows: 

  1. Union dues shall be off a worker’s regular wages with respect to regularly scheduled hours as defined by the collective agreement in place. 
  1. Regular wages include but are not limited to vacation pay, holiday pay, jury duty pay, full paid leave compensation, paid absence allowance compensation, cost of living allowance, supplementary unemployment benefits, or an equivalent lay-off benefit. 
    Regular wages does not include overtime, shift, Saturday, Sunday and holiday premiums, Workers Compensation benefits, relocation, termination or severance pay, pension, supplemental parental or maternity benefits. 

Medical reimbursements and company approved overtime are not supposed to have union dues deducted. We have asked the company to do a full audit for all members, after which the union will also conduct an audit to make sure all numbers are accurate. We want to make it clear; we are very aware of and concerned about this issue. The union is not the one incorrectly making these deductions, we have very clear parameters set that the company is not currently adhering to. We will update you once both sides have completed their audits.  

Updates

-Basic Human Rights: As per the company and from Screening Officer experiences, this concern has improved in relation to receiving timely bathroom breaks. Remember you cannot be denied the use of the bathroom. Please ensure you are not abandoning a crucial position where care and control are required. The company has made an effort to educate all management on the floor that every effort must be made to ensure bathroom breaks are given in a timely manner.  We are still addressing the concerns over access to water while on shift, but progress has been made in ensuring adequate water is supplied in each of the search rooms at the checkpoints. If you notice the water is not stocked, please be sure to raise these concerns to your manager. We are happy to report the installation of the new water cabinets at each checkpoint, this came after much discussion with the employer about the old practice of storing them in boxes on the floor.  

– Scope work is a serious concern right now. Often it can be seen as management “helping”, but managers performing Screening Officer functions makes it easier for the company to not pay one of us to do that work. Any position or duty that is to be performed by a screening officer should only ever be performed by a screening officer. This can affect staffing levels, as it does not accurately portray where the scheduling shortcomings are to the employer and contractor during peak or rush hours. This could lead to the company not offering overtime or backfills to cover these gaps in coverage. If you see a manager performing scope work, for example S1/S2, please note the date, time, position, and checkpoint and report it to any Vice Chair. The positions of Facilitator and Break Relief Coordinator are major Scope violations, as this is work that we should be or are already performing.  

-We are still actively addressing the major concern over receiving your scheduled breaks and being paid correctly for any and all late/missed breaks. It is imperative that everyone reports all late/missed breaks through both the online report form with the company and to any of the Vice Chairs. This data is crucial in proving that the issue is ongoing and for the upcoming CBA negotiations and the next shift bid. If you have any questions, please reach out to any Vice Chair.  

-In regard to the inappropriate comments made on break submissions, we bring all of these to the attention of upper management, and they are immediately addressed. Please bring these concerning Reponses forward so we can continue to address them. It should not be happening, and if we don’t report it, the comments will continue to happen.  

-The company is choosing to interpret the CBA incorrectly in regards to awarding Overtime shifts and extensions. “Shift Seniority” and “Uplifting” are not agreed upon terms in our CBA, and are blatant violations. We hope to have a resolution on these matters soon, and will update the membership once we do.  

-The company has agreed to auditing the RRSP contributions, just know that this will be a large undertaking and may take some time. This is not just a local issue; this is spanning all airports across the prairies and pacific regions and both the company, and the union are collaborating closely to ensure that all concerns over RRSP contributions and remittances are addressed.  

-There are still many concerns over the benefit discrepancies. We are constantly following up with the benefits provider to ensure that the plans match. The benefits team is extremely behind in addressing these concerns so to ensure that your request is resolved in a timely manner be ensure you submit all necessary documentation in your initial correspondence and follow up if you do not hear back in a timely manner. 

All detailed updates regarding workplace issues and concerns will be posted on this page. If you have any questions or concerns, you can always reach out to any of the members of the Leadership Team.  

In Solidarity 

Saskatchewan election

There might be an opportunity to go to Saskatchewan to help with their upcoming election. The union would cover all expenses including time off.  Your requirement would be door knocking and assisting with a labour friendly party being elected.

If interested please send Jan Sills – [email protected] an email.

Tribute to our colleague

Hello All,

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the loss of our dear colleague, Courtney Gardiner, who was a cherished member of our team and a good friend to many of us. Her absence leaves a significant void that we all feel deeply. The emotions we are experiencing reflect the profound impact Courtney had on our lives and the close connections we’ve all built with each other.

As we find our way through this loss, let’s remember to be kind and considerate to one another. We all grieve differently, and that’s okay. Supporting each other is important, you are not alone. If you’re struggling or need someone to talk to, please reach out—to a friend, a colleague, or through the available support services.

The Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) through Homewood Pathfinder offers free, confidential, 24/7 counselling and support. You can access their services online at Homewood Pathfinder using the company name Paladin Security and the invitation code PS2686, or by calling 1-800-663-1142.

Anyone can contact the Distress Centre to speak with a highly trained responder, receive emotional support, and feel heard. They are available 24/7 by phone or text at 9-8-8 or 403-266-HELP (4357). This is a free, confidential service.

We have a Crisis Advocate who can be reached confidentially by email at [email protected] and can assist you with finding resources within the workplace and community.

In our shared grief, let’s honor Courtney by coming together as a community. Her impact on our team was profound, and we’ll keep you updated on how we can support her family and celebrate her life. I encourage everyone to share your cherished memories of Courtney with one another; these shared moments will offer us strength and comfort as we navigate this difficult time together.

In solidarity,
Kelly Wilson

*This post has been revised from its earlier version following permission from Courtney’s family.

March with Unifor for Calgary Pride

A message from our Prairie Regional Council LGBT Committee- Sherwin, Chad and Peter: “I’m excited to announce that I’m heading up our team for the YYC Pride Parade on September 1, 2024, with the Prairie Regional Council of Unifor. Join us as we march together to make a big impact, show our support, and have a fantastic time with other Unifor locals!

Event Details:

Date: September 1, 2024 (Labour Day Long Weekend)

Event: YYC Pride Parade

Parade Route: 1.45km

Call Time/Meeting Point: We’ll share the exact time as we get closer to the event

Volunteers needed for setup the day before

How to Sign Up: Want to be part of the excitement? Register by clicking on this link or scanning the QR code in the attached poster with your smartphone. This helps us get organized and ensures you get all the details you need.

Important Info: We have a limited number of Unifor Pride T-Shirts available, distributed on a first-come, First-served basis. Register early to snag yours!

We’ll be joining other Unifor Locals from Calgary, so let’s show up in force and make a strong statement. Feel free to bring along a friend or family member- everyone’s welcome!

If you have any questions or need more info, just reach out to me directly.”

Email us at [email protected]

Sign up link