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:
- Union dues shall be off a worker’s regular wages with respect to regularly scheduled hours as defined by the collective agreement in place.
- 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.