“I was afraid to contact the union, in case I got in trouble,” has become a far-too-common concern among members as management continues to disregard the collective agreement and our rights. We are sharing the article below, from the April 2024 UTE newsletter, to remind everyone that you cannot be prevented from meeting with a union representative, or from seeking union representation/support for ANY work issues you are facing, or questions that you have. Union representation is much more than grievances. Some of the most important work we do is to help resolve situations without the need for a grievance filing. The more of us who exercise our right to representation, the more effective this representation is.
Solidarity!
Your Right to Union Representation
source: Union News – April 2024
Many members approach a Union representative (rep) only at the last minute, frequently when faced with potential discipline or other serious consequences. Often this is too late for the rep to provide meaningful assistance. By then, the only thing that the rep may be able to do is support the member as they are escorted from the building when they are suspended or terminated.
Any time that you are facing an issue with the employer, you should contact a Union rep.
If during a discussion with management at any level, you begin to feel uncomfortable, then you should:
- let management know how you feel
- ask that the meeting be stopped until you can speak to a Union rep
- if they refuse to stop the meeting, terminate the meeting yourself and contact a Union rep immediately.
You should also consult a Union rep as soon as discussions with your team leader/manager start to include topics like:
- rejection on probation
- early conclusion of a term contract
- not meeting expectations
- Performance Improvement Plan
- accommodations
- discipline.
You should request a rep to attend all subsequent meetings on any of the above topics.
NEVER attend a meeting without a rep if:
- the meeting includes a higher level of management than just your team leader ie. manager or Assistant Director
- the meeting is to discuss accommodations (the Union rep should be contacted well in advance of this meeting)
- the meeting is with an Internal Affairs Directorate (IAD) officer.
Your Union reps have received training and/or have experience in these areas and can guide you through these meetings, while also ensuring that your rights are being respected.
Consult with a Union rep well before a situation gets to the point of discipline or termination. Preventing a situation before it happens is much easier and less stressful than trying to reverse decisions once they have been made. Many times, we can avert an issue by discussing it with management.
Your Union reps are ready and able to provide support and representation in any area. Call us when you need us!
Melanee Jessup
Communications Committee