ANNUAL CONVENTION NOVEMBER 2, 2012
SASKATOON, SASKATCHEWAN
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
AGENDA…………………………………………………………………………………….. 5
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT………………………………………………. 6
GUEST SPEAKER: STEPHEN HAMMOND.……………………………………. 8
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING AGENDA………………………………………. 9
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING PROCEDURES………………………………. 10
CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS REFERENCE ARTICLES ………………… 11
2011 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MINUTES ……………………………. 15
PRESIDENTS ANNUAL REPORT………………………………………………….. 36
MEMBERSHIP STATISTICS….…………………………………………………….. 39
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ANNUAL REPORT…………………………………. 43
ANNUAL CONVENTION COMMITTEE REPORT.…………………………. 50
BARGAINING CONFERENCE COMMITTEE REPORT……………………. 52
COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE REPORT……………………………….. 53
CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS COMMITTEE REPORT ……………….. 58
2012 – 2013 BUDGET……………………………………………………………….. 63
CHARITABLE AND PROFESSIONAL DONATIONS………………………… 64
FUNDS, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND AWARD RECIPEINTS…………………… 65
GRIEVANCE COMMITTEE REPORT…………………………………………….. 70
NEGOTIATING COMMITTEE REPORT………………………………………… 71
REGIONAL COUNCIL DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT……… 81
CYPRESS HEALTH REGION REGIONAL COUNCIL REPORT………….. 82
TOWN HALL COMMITTEE REPORT…………………………………………… 83
2012 – 2013 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS………………………….. 84
GUEST SPEAKER: DR. BRIAN GOLDMAN…………………………………… 85
GUEST SPEAKER: TONI VILLIERS……………………………………………….. 88
THE HISTORY OF HSAS……………………………………………………………… 91
BANQUET AND RECEPTION INFORMATION……………………………… 104
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AGENDA: NOVEMBER 2, 2012
8:00 a.m. Registration and Breakfast 8:45 a.m. Opening remarks 8:50 a.m. Introduction of Speaker 9:00 a.m. Guest Speaker -‐ Stephen Hammond, Workplace Human Rights 10:00 a.m. Refreshment Break 10:15 a.m. Annual General Meeting 12:15 p.m. Lunch 1:05 p.m. Introduction of Speaker 1:15 p.m. Guest Speaker -‐ Dr. Brian Goldman, Medical Broadcaster 2:15 p.m. Refreshment Break 2:30 p.m. Introduction of Speaker 2:35 p.m. Bargaining Conference Summary Report – Toni Villiers, Bargaining Conference Facilitator 4:00 p.m. Adjournment
6:30 p.m. Reception 7:15 p.m. 40th Anniversary Banquet & Entertainment
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MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Greetings Brothers and Sisters:
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the 40th Convention and 40th Anniversary of Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan!
During this past year, a great deal of work was undertaken by the staff, Executive Council and Committee members of Health Sciences. Take time to review the booklet and reports, and you will also find the history and achievements of HSAS during the last four decades.
Past Presidents, Executive Council members, and staff have all contributed to the growth and maturity of our union over the years. Time and time again, challenges were met and strength of spirit and resolve prevailed. As stated in one letter some forty years ago, “There is room in this province for a union representing Health Care Professionals such as ourselves”, and it came to be.
We have come so far, and now is the time to look forward. I encourage you to participate at this Convention fully and with pride. I look forward to meeting you.
Kind Regards,
Karen Wasylenko President
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A message from the first HSAS President:
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GUEST SPEAKER: STEPHEN HAMMOND
Stephen Hammond thinks his next book should be called “From conservative to communist in one life time”. Stephen grew up conservative and when he studied law, his major was corporate/commercial. So if anyone back then told him he’d be crossing Canada speaking about the benefits of human rights, he’d have laughed. When Stephen was young, he questioned the importance of unions, even though his grandfather was a strong union man and president of his local working for CN Rail. But later, when he worked in labour relations, representing management, he got to see how important unions were to protect workers. Today he is an unapologetic supporter of unions and argues strongly when someone says, “unions had their place years ago”. He loves using the line, “These are the folks that brought you the weekend!” Stephen was born in Winnipeg and lived there many years, as well as in a small Manitoba town called Minnedosa. While he now lives in Victoria, he works and visits the prairies as often as he can. He is the author of two books, Managing Human Rights at Work and his favourite gift book, Steps in the Rights Direction.
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: AGENDA
1. Call to Order and Introductory Remarks
2. Credentials Report
3. Appointment of Scrutineers
4. Meeting Procedures
5. Adoption of Agenda
6. Adoption of the October 28th, 2011 Annual General Meeting Minutes
7. President’s Annual Report
8. Executive Director’s Annual Report
9. Finance – Presentation of Audited Financial Statements
10. Committee Reports (Written Reports)
a. Annual Convention
b. Bargaining Conference
c. Communications
d. Constitutional
e. Emergency Fund
f. Finance – Awards, Charitable Donations, Professional Contributions, Education
Fund, Scholarships
g. Grievance
h. Negotiating
i. Regional Council Development
j. Town Hall Meetings
11. Resolutions
12. Executive Council Seat Elections Results
13. Roberta Ekberg Award – To Be Presented at the 40th Anniversary Banquet
14. Scholarship Award – To Be Formally Announced at the 40th Anniversary Banquet
15. Adjournment
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ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING: PROCEDURES
General Rules
1. Once recognized by the Chair, delegates wishing to speak shall state their name and Health Region.
2. Debate or comments shall be limited to two minutes for each speaker. A speaker shall not speak more than once on the same question unless everyone who wishes to has spoken.
3. Only one speaker speaks a time. 4. Debate is limited to the motion. 5. No person shall interrupt a speaker, except to make a point of order. At the request of the
Chair, a speaker shall be seated until a point of order is decided. 6. All comments shall be directed to the Chair. No comments should be directed to or at
another delegate. 7. Side conversations are discouraged as it can be distracting to other delegates. 8. All votes require a simple majority, except in special circumstances or outlined in the
By-‐laws. Here are some special circumstances where 2/3 majority is required: a. To amend the By-‐laws b. To close debate when it appears some people still want to debate.
Motions
1. A motion is not debatable until a motion has been made, seconded and restated by the Chair.
2. The maker of the motion has the right to be the first speaker on the motion if he chooses. 3. The maker of the motion is prohibited from speaking against the motion. 4. For the AGM, a resolution cannot be postponed beyond this AGM.
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CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS:
REFERENCE ARTICLES ARTICLE 3 -‐ MEETINGS OF MEMBERS
Article 3.1-‐ Annual Convention
The Annual Convention of the Association shall be held within ten (10) weeks of the fiscal year-‐end of the Association in each year. Article 3.3-‐ Notice of Meeting
Notice of the time and place of a meeting of Members shall be sent not less than 15 calendar days before the meeting in the manner provided in Article 13 hereof. The notice shall specify the nature of the matters and the resolutions to be presented to the meeting. Article 3.4-‐ Delegate Status, Attendance and Voting
(a) For the purposes of these By-‐laws, the term “delegate” shall refer to a delegate duly elected or deemed to be elected as such in accordance with these By-‐laws and, if any duly elected delegate is not available to act as a delegate in accordance with these By-‐laws, the term “delegate” shall include the first available alternate duly elected as such in accordance with these By-‐laws, unless the context requires otherwise. (b) All Members may attend all meetings of Members, however, only delegates shall be entitled to vote on matters at such meetings. Each delegate shall be entitled to one (1) vote. (c) Each member of the Executive Council is an automatic delegate. (d) Each Health Region with up to and including 100 active Members shall be entitled to elect one (1) delegate to attend and vote at meetings of Members. Each Health Region with more than 100 active Members shall be entitled to one (1) additional delegate for each additional 100 active Members or portion thereof. (e) All active Members who form a part of a Health Region are entitled to be elected as a delegate for such Health Region. (f) All elected delegates shall attend the meeting for which they have been elected as a delegate, shall act in the best interests of the Association and shall report back to such Health Region, on the significant results of such meeting. (g) The Executive Council shall cause the Executive Director or her designate to provide sufficient notice to the members within each Health Region of the candidates for delegates for such region prior to the meeting for which such delegates are to attend to allow the members of such region to vote for such delegates. Voting for delegates shall be by mail-‐in ballot, as contemplated in these By-‐laws. Any nominee(s) not elected as a delegate shall stand as an alternate in order of the greatest number of votes received.
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Article 3.5-‐ Quorum Requirements
A quorum for any meeting of Members shall be constituted only if fifty one (51%) percent of the delegates for such meeting are present. If a quorum is not present at the time and place fixed for the meeting in the notice thereof, the meeting shall, without further action, stand adjourned. A meeting shall be deemed to be adjourned whenever a quorum is not present, whether a quorum was present at the start of the meeting or not. No formal business may be attended to in the absence of a quorum. Article 3.6-‐ Chair of Meeting
The President, or in her absence, the Vice-‐President, in both of their absences, the President’s designate, shall preside as Chair of every meeting of the Members. If there is no Chair, or if at any meeting she is not present within thirty (30) minutes after the time appointed for holding the meeting or is unwilling to act as Chair, the members of the Executive Committee present will endorse someone of their number to be Chair of the meeting. Article 3.7 – Resolutions
(a) Subject to subsections (b) and (c) hereof, all resolutions to be presented to a meeting of the Members must be received by the Secretary of the Association at least sixty-‐five (65) days before the meeting or they will not be considered at the meeting. Resolutions for consideration at a meeting may be submitted by the Executive Council, the Board of Governors or a group of not less than ten (10) active Members of the Association. The Secretary shall present all resolutions to be considered at a meeting of the Members to Executive Council before inserting such resolutions into the notice of meeting. The notice of the meeting shall specify Executive Council’s support or lack of support for such resolution and the reasons for such support or lack of support. (b) A resolution may be submitted from the floor of the meeting if it arises from circumstances that prevented the resolution from being submitted in the normal manner and it is submitted immediately prior to the commencement of the meeting to the Chair of the meeting. The Chair shall forward such resolution to the Executive Committee members present at such meeting. Such members shall determine if there were sufficient circumstances that prevented such resolution from being submitted in the normal manner. The decision of such members shall be final and conclusive as to whether the resolution may be submitted from the floor of the meeting. (c) A resolution dealing with constitutional and/or By-‐law changes, as contemplated by Article 18 hereof, or budgetary matters, as contemplated by Section 15.2 hereof, may not be submitted from the floor of the meeting. Such matters must be submitted in the manner contemplated in these By-‐laws.
CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS:
REFERENCE ARTICLES, continued
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ARTICLE 15 -‐ FINANCIAL AFFAIRS
Article 15.1-‐ Accounts and Records
The Executive Council shall cause to be kept the proper records and accounts of all transactions of the Association.
Article 15.2-‐ Budget
At the first Executive Council meeting of the new fiscal year, the Finance Committee shall submit to Executive Council, a proposed budget of the Association for approval. The approved budget shall be ratified by the Board of Governors by a simple majority. All special appropriations exceeding the provisions of the annual budget shall be submitted to the Executive Council for approval and ratified by the Board of Governors by a simple majority. Whenever the annual budget and special appropriations are not ratified by the Board of Governors, then a joint meeting of the Executive Council and the Board of Governors shall be held to resolve the matters before them and, failing any agreement being reached, then the matters shall be placed before the Members of the Association at a special meeting or the Annual Convention, whichever shall come first.
Article 15.3-‐ Financial Statements
(a) The Executive Council shall, by a simple majority, approve the quarterly unaudited and annual audited financial statements of the Association.
(b) A member of the Finance Committee shall place before the members at every Annual Convention:
(i) financial statements for the most recent fiscal year ended before the Annual Convention; (ii) the report of the auditor; and (iii) any further information respecting the financial affairs of the Association.
The auditor of the Association shall be appointed yearly at the Annual Convention.
(c) The voting delegates attending the Annual Convention shall, by a simple majority, approve the annual audited financial statements of the Association.
(d) Following Annual Convention, any Member may request a copy of the Association’s most recently approved annual audited financial statements and report of the auditor.
CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS:
REFERENCE ARTICLES, continued
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Article 15.4-‐ Auditor
(iii) any further information respecting the financial affairs of the Association.
(c) The voting delegates attending the Annual Convention shall, by a simple majority, approve the annual audited financial statements of the Association.
(d) Following Annual Convention, any Member may request a copy of the Association’s most recently approved annual audited financial statements and report of the auditor.
Article 15.4-‐ Auditor
The auditor of the Association shall be appointed yearly at the Annual Convention.
ARTICLE 18 -‐ CONSTITUTIONAL AND BY-‐LAW AMENDMENTS
(a) All proposed constitutional and/or By-‐law resolutions shall be submitted to the Secretary of the Association in accordance with Section 3.7(a). Such proposed resolution shall be presented to the next meeting of the Executive Council.
(b) All constitutional and/or By-‐law resolutions passed by two-‐thirds (2/3) of the Executive Council shall be ratified by the Board of Governors by a simple majority and, subject to compliance with Section 3.7 hereof, shall be submitted to the Members of the Association at the next Annual Convention of Members. The delegates at such Annual Convention may, by two-‐thirds (2/3) majority, confirm or reject the resolution, with or without minor variations. Where the delegates propose to confirm or reject the proposed resolution with a substantive variation, such resolution shall, firstly, be referred back to the Executive Council, for their approval, and the Board of Governors, for ratification, in accordance with the foregoing prior to being re-‐submitted to the Members at the next Annual Convention in compliance with Section 3.7 hereof. The delegates at such Annual Convention may, by two-‐thirds (2/3) majority, confirm or reject the revised resolution, with or without minor variations or confirm or reject the proposed revised resolution with a substantive variation in accordance with the above. (c) Whenever a constitutional and/or By-‐law resolution is not ratified by the Board of Governors, such resolution shall be considered by the Executive Council and Board of Governors at a joint meeting; and failing any agreement being reached, the resolution shall be referred to the Members of the Association at the next Annual Convention. The delegates at such Annual Convention may, by two-‐thirds (2/3) majority, accept or reject the resolution in accordance with paragraph 18(b) hereof. The submission of any resolutions to the Members of the Association shall indicate whether such resolution has been ratified by the Board of Governors.
CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS:
REFERENCE ARTICLES, continued
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2011 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING MINUTES Friday, October 28th, 2011
Hotel Saskatchewan Radisson Plaza Regina, SK
Delegates Present: Ralph Aman Cypress Health Region Gail Beggs-‐LaRiviere Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Nicole Bidwell Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Scott Boucher Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Warren Chykowski Saskatoon Health Region Debra Clark Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Jean Coleman Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Cathy Dickson HSAS President Mary Deren Sun Country Health Region Glenda Erickson Sunrise Health Region Tracy Erickson Sunrise Health Region Ann Farn Executive Council Bill Feldbruegge Saskatoon Health Region Bill Fischer Executive Council Peggy Forsberg Executive Council Yingbo Guo Five Hills Health Region Natalie Horejda Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Liz Ivanochko Executive Council Sheila Kerr Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Karen Kinar Executive Council Joe Klyne Keewatin Yatthé Health Region Kade Martin Kelsey Trail Health Region Brad Mee Prairie North Health Region Gwen Miller Moyse Executive Council (Replacing Cara McDavid) Deb Morton Saskatoon Health Region Terry Nordgulen Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Cynthia Ostafie Saskatoon Health Region Patricia Pedersen Executive Council Trevor Persaud Executive Council Anne Robins Executive Council Crystal Springer Saskatoon Health Region Marie Stimson Cypress Health Region Valerie Stopanski Executive Council Dan Szmutko Saskatoon Health Region Karen Wasylenko Executive Council Rod Watson Sun Country Health Region Ruth Wong Five Hills Health Region Bonnie Yake Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Delegates Regrets: William Logue Executive Council Christie Matechuk Executive Council Cara McDavid Executive Council
Joanne Schenn Executive Council Jolene Kemery Executive Council
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Thirty-‐four (34) voting delegates were present. Quorum established as per Article 3.5 of By-‐Laws. President Cathy Dickson called the meeting to order at 15:05 p.m. 1. Adoption of Agenda
Motion #AC2011-‐1: To adopt the agenda as amended:
• exclude agenda item 9. Announcement of results for Executive Council seats, which was done prior to the start of the meeting
• Add to New Business: An Open Forum discussion
Motion made by: Deb Morton Motion seconded by: Mary Deren
Motion #AC2011-‐1: Carried 2. Adoption of November 5, 2010 Annual Convention Meeting Minutes
Motion #AC2011-‐2: To adopt the minutes of the November 5, 2010 Annual Convention as
circulated
Motion made by: Natalie Horejda Motion seconded by: Gail Beggs-‐LaRiviere
Motion #AC2011-‐2: Carried 3. President’s Annual Report
The President’s report was made available to members prior to the commencement of the meeting. Cathy Dickson presented her report.
Motion #AC2011-‐3: To accept the President’s Annual Report as presented
Motion made by: Terry Nordgulen Motion seconded by: Rod Watson
Motion #AC2011-‐3: Carried 4. Executive Director’s Report
The Executive Director’s report was made available to members prior to the commencement of the meeting. Bill Craik presented his report. Motion #AC2011-‐4: To accept the Executive Director’s Report as presented
2011 AGM MINUTES, continued
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Motion made by: Terry Nordgulen Motion seconded by: Rod Watson
Motion #AC2011-‐4: Carried 5. Committee Reports (a) Finance Committee
The Audited Financial Statements were circulated to members. Treasurer Karen Wasylenko presented the reports. The 2011/2012 Budget Projection was also circulated and presented.
Motion #AC2011-‐5: To accept the General Audited Financial Statement as circulated and presented Moved by: Karen Wasylenko Seconded by: Scott Boucher Motion #AC2011-‐5: Carried
Motion #AC2011-‐6: To appoint Mr. Allan Ashdown as HSAS Auditor for the 2011-‐2012 Fiscal Year
Moved by: Karen Wasylenko Seconded by: Deb Morton Motion #AC2011-‐6: Carried (b-‐g) The Provincial Negotiating, Communications, Emergency Fund, Grievance, Annual Convention and
Regional Council Development Committees
The Committee’s reports were made available to members prior to the commencement of the meeting. Cathy Dickson presented the Committees’ reports.
Motion #AC2011-‐7: To accept the Committees’ reports as presented Moved by: Deb Morton Seconded by: Natalie Horejda Motion #AC2011-‐7: Carried (h) Constitutional Committee The Constitutional Committee report was made available to members prior to the commencement of
the meeting. Karen Kinar presented the report.
2011 AGM MINUTES, continued
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6. Constitutional Amendments
Motion #AC2011-‐8: To approve the Non-‐Substantive changes to the Constitution and Bylaws as presented:
To approve the non-‐substantive changes to Article 2.1 of the Bylaws Current Language ARTICLE 2 – MEMBERSHIP 2.1 Eligibility
(e) Membership in the Association shall consist of the following classes: (i) Active Members
(ii) Inactive Members (iii) Association Members (iv) Honorary Members
(f) A Member is good standing is one who complies with provisions contained in the constitutional Objects and By-‐laws of the Association
(h) (i) Any person who is permanently employed in an out-‐of-‐scope capacity with an employer signatory to a Collective Agreement with the Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan is ineligible for membership.
(iii) An individual rendered ineligible for membership through the operation of this by-‐law may be reinstated to the appropriate membership class when she ceases to be employed in an out-‐of-‐scope capacity.
Proposed Changes ARTICLE 2 – MEMBERSHIP 2.1 Eligibility
(e) Membership in the Association shall consist of the following classes: (i) Active Members
(ii) Inactive Members (iii) Associate Members (iv) Honorary Members
Rationale: Word corrected.
(f) A Member in good standing is one who complies with provisions contained in the constitutional Objects and By-‐laws of the Association
Rationale: To correct a typo.
(h) (i) Any person who is permanently employed in an out-‐of-‐scope capacity with an employer signatory to a Collective Agreement with the Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan is ineligible for membership.
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(iii) An individual rendered ineligible for membership through the operation of this By-‐law may be reinstated to the appropriate membership class when she ceases to be employed in an out-‐of-‐scope capacity.
Rationale: Capitalize for consistency.
To approve the non-‐substantive changes to Article 2.3 of the Bylaws
Current Language 2.3 Active Members
(c) An active Member is entitled to hold office and vote on all matters in accordance with these by-‐laws.
Proposed Changes 2.3 Active Members
(c) An active Member is entitled to hold office and vote on all matters in accordance with these By-‐laws.
Rationale: Capitalize for consistency.
To approve the non-‐substantive changes to Article 2.8 of the Bylaws
Current Language 2.8 Initiation Fees And Dues
(b) In the event that a Member ceases employment and is subsequently re-‐employed within two (2) years by an employer covered by a Collective Agreement of the Association or is on an approved leave of absence, no new initiation fee shall be levied.
Proposed Changes 2.8 Initiation Fees And Dues
(b) In the event that a Member ceases employment and is subsequently re-‐employed within two (2) years by an employer covered by a Collective Agreement of the Association or is on an approved leave of absence, no new initiation fee shall be levied.
Rationale: Space removed.
To approve the non-‐substantive changes to Article 3.7 of the Bylaws
Current Language
ARTICLE 3 – MEETINGS OF MEMBERS 3.7 Resolutions
(c) A resolution dealing with constitutional and/or by-‐law changes, as contemplated by Article 18 hereof, or budgetary matters, as contemplated by Section 15.2 hereof, may not be submitted from the floor of the meeting. Such matters must be submitted in the manner contemplated in these By-‐laws.
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Proposed Changes
ARTICLE 3 – MEETINGS OF MEMBERS 3.7 Resolutions
(c) A resolution dealing with constitutional and/or By-‐law changes, as contemplated by Article 18 hereof, or budgetary matters, as contemplated by Section 15.2 hereof, may not be submitted from the floor of the meeting. Such matters must be submitted in the manner contemplated in these By-‐laws.
Rationale: Capitalize for consistency.
To approve the non-‐substantive changes to Article 3.10 of the Bylaws
Current Language 3.10 Mail-‐In Ballot
With the exception of the Annual Convention and subject to the provisions of these By-‐laws, the Executive Council may elect, in lieu of a meeting of the Members, to have any matter brought before the Members by means of a mail-‐in ballot. Ballots shall be distributed, either by regular mail or courier to all Members entitled to vote at least 15 days prior to the date scheduled for the completion of such vote. Each Member entitled to vote shall be entitled to submit their ballot, either by regular mail or courier, on or before the date scheduled for the completion of such vote. The Secretary of the Association shall be responsible for the tallying of such ballots. Unless otherwise provided herein, in the case of any vote conducted by ballot, the matter will be considered to be passed upon approval by a simple majority of eligible ballots received. Ballots shall be destroyed upon motion of Executive Council.
Proposed Changes
3.10 Mail-‐In Ballot With the exception of the Annual Convention and subject to the provisions of these By-‐laws, the Executive Council may elect, in lieu of a meeting of the Members, to have any matter brought before the Members by means of a mail-‐in ballot. Ballots shall be distributed, either by regular mail or courier to all Members entitled to vote at least 15 days prior to the date scheduled for the completion of such vote. Each Member entitled to vote shall be entitled to submit their ballot, either by regular mail or courier, on or before the date scheduled for the completion of such vote. The Secretary of the Association, or designate, shall be responsible for the tallying of such ballots. Unless otherwise provided herein, in the case of any vote conducted by ballot, the matter will be considered to be passed upon approval by a simple majority of eligible ballots received. Ballots shall be destroyed upon motion of Executive Council.
Rationale: To reflect current practice.
2011 AGM MINUTES, continued
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To approve the non-‐substantive changes to Article 6.5 (g) of the Bylaws
Current Language (g) s a member of the Executive Committee.
Proposed Changes (g) Is a member of the Executive Committee.
Rationale: To correct a typo.
To approve the non-‐substantive changes to Article 9.3 (a) of the Bylaws Current Language
9.3 Duties Of The Board Of Governors (a) The Constitution and By-‐laws:
The Board of Governors shall provide guidance and counsel to the Executive Council on all such constitutional and/or by-‐law matters brought before the Executive Council and shall vote on all constitutional and/or by-‐law matters in accordance with Article 18(b) hereof.
Proposed Changes 9.3 Duties Of The Board Of Governors
(a) The Constitution and By-‐laws: The Board of Governors shall provide guidance and counsel to the Executive Council on
all such constitutional and/or By-‐law matters brought before the Executive Council and shall vote on all constitutional and/or By-‐law matters in accordance with Article 18(b) hereof.
Rationale: Capitalize for consistency.
To approve the non-‐substantive changes to Article 11.3 of the Bylaws
ARTICLE 11 – COLLECTIVE AGREEMENTS
Current Language 11.3 Ratification Of Collective Agreements
The Executive Council shall have the sole responsibility for recommending acceptance or rejection of the terms of any collective agreement to the members of the applicable collective bargaining unit and shall cause to be organized a ratification meeting or meetings in locations throughout the province to facilitate ratification of any collective agreement. Ratification of a collective agreement shall be by a simple majority of the voting Members from whom ballots are returned on a ratification mail vote conducted by the Association. Ballots shall be distributed to all members of the applicable bargaining unit and each such member shall have one vote in respect of such collective agreement.
2011 AGM MINUTES, continued
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Proposed Changes ARTICLE 11 – COLLECTIVE AGREEMENTS
11.3 Ratification Of Collective Agreements The Executive Council shall have the sole responsibility for recommending acceptance or rejection of the terms of any collective agreement to the members of the applicable collective bargaining unit and shall cause organized communication of the terms of any collective agreement to the members to facilitate ratification of any collective agreement. Ratification of a collective agreement shall be by a simple majority of the voting Members from whom ballots are returned on a ratification mail vote conducted by the Association. Ballots shall be distributed to all members of the applicable bargaining unit and each such member shall have one vote in respect of such collective agreement.
Rationale: Changed to reflect current practice, i.e., email.
To approve the non-‐substantive changes to Article 12.1 of the Bylaws
Current Language ARTICLE 12 – DISCIPLINE
12.1 Charges (a) A Member who has reasonable grounds to believe that another Member has committed
one of the following acts or the President, on behalf of the Association, where the Association has reasonable grounds to believe that a Member has committed one of the following acts: (i) violated any provision of the Constitution or these By-‐laws; (ii) obtained membership through fraudulent means or misrepresentation; (iii) wilfully published or circulated, verbally or otherwise, among the Members false
reports or misrepresentations concerning any Member of the Association in respect of any matter connected with the affairs of the Association;
(iv) acted in a manner inconsistent with the Objects of the Association set out in the Constitution; or
(v) worked during a legal work stoppage (unless specifically authorized by a decision of the Executive Council);
(vi) committed conduct unbecoming of a Member of HSAS;
may prefer a charge against the Member in accordance with the procedure set out in this Article.
Proposed Changes ARTICLE 12 – DISCIPLINE
12.1 Charges (a) A Member who has reasonable grounds to believe that another Member has committed one of the following acts or the President, on behalf of the Association, where the Association has reasonable grounds to believe that a Member has committed one of the following acts:
2011 AGM MINUTES, continued
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(i) violated any provision of the Constitution or these By-‐laws; (ii) obtained membership through fraudulent means or misrepresentation; (iii) wilfully published or circulated, verbally or otherwise, among the Members false
reports or misrepresentations concerning any Member of the Association in respect of any matter connected with the affairs of the Association;
(iv) acted in a manner inconsistent with the Objects of the Association set out in the Constitution; or
(v) worked during a legal work stoppage (unless specifically authorized by a decision of the Executive Council);
(vi) committed conduct unbecoming of a Member of HSAS;
may prefer a charge against the Member in accordance with the procedure set out in this Article.
Rationale: To correct a typo.
To approve the non-‐substantive changes to Article 13.1 of the Bylaws
Current Language ARTICLE 13 – NOTICES
13.1 Notices Any notice (which includes any communication or document) to be given (which term includes sent, delivered or served) pursuant to the By-‐laws will be sufficiently given if delivered personally to the person to whom it is to be given or if delivered to her latest address as shown on the records of the Association, or if mailed to him or her at her said address by prepaid ordinary or airmail, or if sent to him or her by facsimile or other means of electronic communication. A notice so delivered will be deemed to have been given when it is delivered personally or to the said address as a foresaid; a notice so mailed will be deemed to have been given on the fourth (4th) business day following the date of mailing; a notice so sent by facsimile or other means of electronic communication will be deemed to have been given on the date the sender receives the facsimile or other electronic communication answer back confirming receipt by the recipient. The Secretary of the Association may change or cause to be changed the recorded address, facsimile number or any other electronic address or number of any Member in accordance with any information which he or she reasonably believes to be reliable.
Proposed Changes ARTICLE 13 – NOTICES 13.1 Notices
Any notice (which includes any communication or document) to be given (which term includes sent, delivered or served) pursuant to the By-‐laws will be sufficiently given if delivered personally to the person to whom it is to be given or if delivered to her latest address as shown on the records of the Association, or if mailed to him or her at her said address by prepaid ordinary or airmail, or if sent to him or her by facsimile or other means of electronic communication. A notice so delivered will be
2011 AGM MINUTES, continued
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deemed to have been given when it is delivered personally or to the said address as aforesaid; a notice so mailed will be deemed to have been given on the fourth (4th) business day following the date of mailing; a notice so sent by facsimile or other means of electronic communication will be deemed to have been given on the date the sender receives the facsimile or other electronic communication answer back confirming receipt by the recipient. The Secretary of the Association may change or cause to be changed the recorded address, facsimile number or any other electronic address or number of any Member in accordance with any information which he or she reasonably believes to be reliable.
Rationale: To correct a typo.
To approve the non-‐substantive changes to Article 18 of the Bylaws Current Language ARTICLE 18 – CONSTITUTIONAL AND BY-‐LAW AMENDMENTS (a) All proposed constitutional and/or by-‐law resolutions shall be submitted to the Secretary of
the Association in accordance with Section 3.7(a). Such proposed resolution shall be presented to the next meeting of Executive Council.
Proposed Changes ARTICLE 18 – CONSTITUTIONAL AND BY-‐LAW
AMENDMENTS (b) All proposed constitutional and/or By-‐law resolutions shall be submitted to the Secretary of
the Association in accordance with Section 3.7(a). Such proposed resolution shall be presented to the next meeting of Executive Council.
Rationale: To capitalize for consistency. Moved by: Karen Kinar Seconded by: Warren Chykowski Motion #AC2011-‐8: Carried
Motion #AC2011-‐9: To approve the substantive changes to Article 2.1(h) (ii) of the Bylaws Current Language ARTICLE 2 – MEMBERSHIP 2.1 Eligibility
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(ii) Any Member who is temporarily employed in an out-‐of-‐scope capacity shall not be eligible to hold office, or attend a meeting of the Members. Any Member who remains in such a temporary out-‐of-‐scope capacity ceases to be a Member on the 91st day.
Proposed Changes ARTICLE 2 – MEMBERSHIP
2.1 Eligibility (ii) Any Member who is temporarily employed in an out-‐of-‐scope capacity shall
not be eligible to hold office, or attend a meeting of the Members. Any Member who remains in such a temporary out-‐of-‐scope capacity ceases to be a Member on the 1st day after twelve (12) months in the aforesaid position unless mutually agreed upon between the union and the employer.
Rationale: To coincide with current Collective Agreement Article 11 – Leave of Absence.
Moved by: Karen Kinar Seconded by: Deb Morton Motion #AC2011-‐9: Carried
Motion #AC2011-‐10: To approve the substantive changes to Article 6.1(c) of the Bylaws as amended Current Language ARTICLE 6 – OFFICERS 6.1 President (New) Proposed Changes ARTICLE 6 – OFFICERS 6.1 President
(c) The President shall hold office for a two (2) year term, unless such member resigns, ceases to be an active member, or is on an approved leave of absence from her employer.
Rationale: To make explicit and clear the term of the President.
Change as Amended 6.1 President
(c) The President shall hold office for a two (2) year term, unless such member resigns or ceases to be an active member.
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Proposed by: Karen Kinar Seconded by: Gail Beggs-‐LaRiviere Motion #AC2011-‐10: Carried Motion #AC2011-‐11: To approve the substantive changes to Article 6.1(d) and (d) (i) of the Bylaws
Current Language ARTICLE 6 – OFFICERS
6.1 President (New)
Proposed Changes 6.1 President
(d) No candidate for President shall have her name accepted for nomination or election if:
(i) She has been removed by a vote of non-‐confidence pursuant to Section 6.1
(b);
Rationale: The decision to remove a president, the authority of which is given to an elected Executive Council by the membership, is one that is exercised with extreme caution and requires a ¾ majority vote.
A President who has lost such confidence cannot represent the interests of HSAS in the face of such clearly presented opposition.
Moved by: Karen Kinar Seconded by: Natalie Horejda In favour of Motion #AC2011-‐11: 32 Opposed to Motion #AC2011-‐11: 2 Motion #AC2011-‐11: Carried
Motion #AC2011-‐12: To approve the substantive changes to Article 6.1(d) (ii) of the Bylaws as amended
Current Language ARTICLE 6 – OFFICERS
6.1 President (New)
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Proposed Changes (ii) She has not submitted a clear Criminal Record Check from the city in which she resides.
The expenses of the candidate in obtaining the Criminal Record Check shall be reimbursed by the Association.
Rationale: All members of Executive Committee will be required to obtain and submit a clear criminal record check so as to support their high level of responsibility to members.
Proposed Changes as Amended
(ii) She has not submitted a clear Criminal Record Check from the jurisdiction in which she resides. The expenses of the candidate in obtaining the Criminal Record Check shall be reimbursed by the Association.
Moved by: Karen Kinar Seconded by: Warren Chykowski
Discussion: • There is a requirement to have the check done in the jurisdiction in which you live, therefore
the motion to amend the wording from “city” to “jurisdiction • Concern was expressed about timing of criminal record check, redemption (minor charge
from 20 years ago).
In favour of Motion #AC2011-‐12: 19 Opposed to Motion #AC2011-‐12: 15
Motion #AC2011-‐12: Defeated
Motion #AC2011-‐13: To approve the changes to Article 6.2 (f) of the Bylaw as amended
Current Language 6.2 Election of the Vice-‐President, Secretary and Treasurer (New)
Proposed Changes 6.2 Election of the Vice-‐President, Secretary and Treasurer (continued)
(f) All candidates for office shall submit a clear Criminal Record Check from the city in which they reside within thirty (30) days of appointment. The expenses of the candidate in obtaining the Criminal Record Check shall be reimbursed by the Association.
Rationale: All members of Executive Committee will be required to obtain and submit a clear
criminal record check so as to support their high level of responsibility to members. Change as Amended
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(f) All candidates for office shall submit a clear Criminal Record Check from the jurisdiction in which they reside within thirty (30) days of appointment. The expenses of the candidate in obtaining the Criminal Record Check shall be reimbursed by the Association.
Moved by: Karen Kinar Seconded by: Scott Boucher
Discussion: • There is a requirement to have the check done in the jurisdiction in which you live,
therefore the motion to amend the wording from “city” to “jurisdiction • Concern was expressed about timing of criminal record check, redemption (minor charge
from 20 years ago), the minor conviction pardon process, human rights issues, and the potential for a false “hit” on the search, which is based on birth date and year, to cause delays
• The intent of the bylaw change to protect the organization given the responsibility of the positions, and the requirement for a policy when there is not a clear criminal record check were also discussed
In favour of Motion #AC2011-‐13: 13 Opposed to Motion #AC2011-‐13: 21
Motion #AC2011-‐13: Defeated
Motion #AC2011-‐14: To approve the changes to Article 6.5 (f) of the Bylaws as amended
Current Language 6.5 The Treasurer
The Treasurer: (f) Is a signing officer and selects other signing officers.
Proposed Changes 6.5 The Treasurer
The Treasurer: (f) Is a signing officer and selects other signing officers. The Treasurer will obtain a clear
Criminal Record Check from the city in which she resides prior to appointment. The expenses of the signing officer in obtaining the Criminal Record Check shall be reimbursed by the Association.
Rationale: All members of Executive Committee will be required to obtain and submit a clear criminal record check so as to support their high level of responsibility to members.
Change as Amended
6.5 The Treasurer
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The Treasurer:
(f) Is a signing officer and selects other signing officers. The Treasurer will obtain a clear Criminal Record Check from the jurisdiction in which she resides prior to appointment. The expenses of the signing officer in obtaining the Criminal Record Check shall be reimbursed by the Association.
Moved by: Karen Kinar Seconded by: Peggy Forsberg
Discussion: • There is a requirement to have the check done in the jurisdiction in which you live, therefore
the motion to amend the wording from “city” to “jurisdiction • The defeat of the prior motion would render this motion invalid; a ruling on process was
requested with the following results: o A motion that has been reviewed by Executive Council it must be voted on o Amendments can be made to the motion, only if the intent is not altered
In favour of Motion #AC2011-‐14: 9 Opposed to Motion #AC2011-‐14: 25
Motion #AC2011-‐14: Defeated
Motion #AC2011-‐15: To approve the changes to Article 7 of the Bylaws as amended
Current Language
ARTICLE 7 – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The Executive Council, or a committee thereof, shall from time to time hire an Executive Director and Administrator. The Executive Director and Administrator shall act under the direction of the Executive Council, or a committee thereof, be responsible for and report to Executive Council on the day to day administration of the Association as and when it is necessary or desirable or requested by the Executive Council.
Proposed Changes
ARTICLE 7 – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The Executive Council or a committee thereof, shall from time to time hire an Executive Director and Administrator. The Executive Director and Administrator shall act under the direction of the Executive Council, or a committee thereof, be responsible for and report to Executive Council on the day to day administration of the Association as and when it is necessary or desirable or requested by the Executive Council. The Executive Director will submit a clear Criminal Record Check from the city in which she resides prior to accepting employment and every two (2) years thereafter. The expenses of the Executive Director in obtaining the Criminal Record Check shall be reimbursed by
2011 AGM MINUTES, continued
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the Association.
Rationale: All members of Executive Committee will be required to obtain and submit a clear criminal record check so as to support their high level of responsibility to members.
Change as Amended
ARTICLE 7 – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The Executive Council or a committee thereof, shall from time to time hire an Executive Director and Administrator. The Executive Director and Administrator shall act under the direction of the Executive Council, or a committee thereof, be responsible for and report to Executive Council on the day to day administration of the Association as and when it is necessary or desirable or requested by the Executive Council. The Executive Director will submit a clear Criminal Record Check from the jurisdiction in which she resides prior to accepting employment and every two (2) years thereafter. The expenses of the Executive Director in obtaining the Criminal Record Check shall be reimbursed by the Association.
Moved by: Karen Kinar Seconded by: Mary Deren Discussion:
• There is a requirement to have the check done in the jurisdiction in which you live, therefore the motion to amend the wording from “city” to “jurisdiction
In favour of Motion #AC2011-‐15: 19 Opposed to Motion #AC2011-‐15: 10 Motion #AC2011-‐15: Defeated Motion #AC2011-‐16: To approve the changes to Article 9.1 of the Bylaws as amended
Current Language ARTICLE 9 – BOARD OF GOVERNORS 9.1 Board Of Governors
(d) (New) Proposed Changes
ARTICLE 9 – BOARD OF GOVERNORS 9.1 Board Of Governors (d) The Board of Governor will submit a clear Criminal Record Check from the city in which she resides prior to accepting the position and every two (2) years thereafter. The expenses of the Board of Governor in obtaining the Criminal Record Check shall be reimbursed by the Association.
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Rationale: All members of Executive Committee will be required to obtain and submit a clear criminal
record check so as to support their high level of responsibility to members
Change as Amended ARTICLE 9 – BOARD OF GOVERNORS 9.1 Board Of Governors (d) The Board of Governor will submit a clear Criminal Record Check from the jurisdiction in which
she resides prior to accepting the position and every two (2) years thereafter. The expenses of the Board of Governor in obtaining the Criminal Record Check shall be reimbursed by the Association.
Moved by: Karen Kinar Seconded by: Deb Morton Discussion:
• There is a requirement to have the check done in the jurisdiction in which you live, therefore the motion to amend the wording from “city” to “jurisdiction
In favour of Motion #AC2011-‐16: 20 Opposed to Motion #AC2011-‐16: 10 Motion #AC2011-‐16: Defeated 7. Old Business None 8. New Business
The following motion was made as a New Business item:
Motion #AC2001-‐17: The Executive Council and Constitution Committee review the criminal record check wording, process and ramifications and that the Constitution Committee reports their findings back to the membership for the next AGM.
Moved by: Gail Beggs-‐LaRiviere Seconded by: Bill Feldbruegge Motion #AC2001-‐17: Carried Open Forum Discussion: Rod Watson suggested that an open forum be included as an agenda item for all AGM’s. He suggested that such a forum would add value to the convention and allow input from the members about such topics of
2011 AGM MINUTES, continued
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concerns such as: Future direction (where are we going)
Themes moving forward Planning/study groups Rod also expressed thanks to the staff and Executive Council for all of their hard work.
There was discussion about educating the members about the timing of items such as, the necessity for motions to be submitted to the Executive Council for consideration 65 days before a motion can be brought forward. Karen Wasylenko indicated that the Executive Committee has a plan to publish a calendar on the web site, which will include the significant HSAS dates and deadlines to help keep members informed and aware of association activities. Mary Deren suggested that some grass roots education would be helpful on items such as how to make resolutions and the rules by which the union operates. Rod suggested that we may want to discuss social issues, the union stance on these issues, and what we as a union can do. He liked the negotiating grouping, by topic of concern such as maternity leave, and suggested that study sessions grouped by topics of interest would help add value to the AGM. An older workers’ group could discuss how to meet the demands of work as we age, how to support older workers on the job or a group interested in a forum on strategic direction could meet at the AGM. Mary Deren talked about the disconnect between Executive Council and the grass roots members in part because of geography, and emphasized the need to reach and involve new workers, young workers, distant workers and isolated workers. Liz Ivanochko stressed the need for the members to know what is going on and how to become involved. We need to facilitate the “grass roots” input to Council Cathy and Karen welcomed the suggestions from the members and informed them that the Executive Council and Communications Committee are currently working on new and inventive ways to involve members. There has been a lot of work on the web, email and social media in an effort to make it a part of the HSAS culture to both seek and be receptive to HSAS communication and training opportunities in future, including improved orientation for members, orientation for Executive Council, communication training for Executive Council and Regional Council members as well as plans to improve the access to and training for contact people throughout the province. 10. Roberta Ekberg Award Roberta Ekberg Award for 2010 was presented by Natalie Horejda to: Cathy Dickson. 11. Adjournment
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Motion #AC2011-‐18: That the 2011 Annual Convention be adjourned Moved by: Cathy Dickson Seconded by: Natalie Horejda Motion #AC2011-‐18: Carried Adjournment time: 17:15 p.m. Karen Wasylenko, President Sheila Kerr, Secretary
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Excerpts from the First President’s Report: November 24, 1973
35
Excerpts from the First President’s Report: November 24, 1973, continued
36
PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT
As you review the reports from Committees and our Executive Director you will see that this has indeed been a busy year. It has been a pleasure to serve as your President over this past year.
HSAS represents a diverse group of health care professionals, as diverse as the health care needs of Saskatchewan’s residents. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well-‐being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Each and every one of you as an HSAS member, contribute to the quality of life that the residents of Saskatchewan experience. Your work and dedication is invaluable.
In the past year, I have witnessed a group of our members contribute their time and energies at the committee and Executive Council level. Work, thought and care have been put into each of the committees’ activities. HSAS is fortunate in that it continues to have dedicated individuals actively participating in HSAS committee work, and in service to the Membership. I welcome this opportunity to reflect on this past year and to share my thoughts on the activities of the Health sciences Association of Saskatchewan.
A significant focus of the Communications Committee has been to increase the internal communications with members, to communicate with the Public about our role as HSAS health care professionals and to educate the Saskatchewan residents about the services HSAS members provide each and every day, from emergency and hospital services to community and preventive services to therapeutic services. Through media events and contact, as President, I was able to draw attention to service delivery issues in health regions across the province. Members came forward with their respective workplace concerns; reluctance of employers to advertise and fill vacant positions, inability of health regions to retain experienced staff and an inability of the health region to recruit to vacant positions. All of these factors affect the extent to which our members are able to deliver the level of care Saskatchewan residents should receive. Service related stories require preparation and an understanding of the issues prior to release. This year’s development team included: Communications Chair, Natalie Horejda, Labour Relations Officer (LRO), Kate Robinson, and Garry Aldridge, Media Consultant, Points West Consulting.
The Membership Survey of fall 2011 results indicated that members would appreciate the opportunity to meet face to face with the union leadership. They asked for a forum within which they could ask their questions and discuss their concerns. In January 2012, the Executive Council established a Committee to plan a series of Town Hall meetings across the province as well as plan a Bargaining Conference for September, 2012. Both committees were chaired by Anne Robins. The Town Hall meetings were held in the months of May and June. I would like to thank the members who came out to the meetings and shared their stories of frustration which included issues such as: work spaces lacking client privacy, inadequate staffing for growing patient/client needs and lack of clarity in job descriptions and inter-‐professional roles. The Bargaining Conference held in September also offered members of varied disciplines a venue within which to share their thoughts and learn from others. I appreciate that I had the opportunity to meet many members at the Town Hall meetings and at the Bargaining Conference.
37
PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT, continued
Over the past months I have had the privilege of working with Kay Robertson, a lawyer/consultant with extensive knowledge regarding parliamentary procedure and the interpretation of constitution/bylaw language. In any organization such as ours, these aspects of process are fundamental to the organization. I thank Kay for her expertise in parliamentary procedure, and her guidance in this area. I look forward to working with her in the review of the structure and cohesiveness of our Constitution/By-‐Laws in the coming year. Our goal is to arrive at a document which will be easier for members to navigate. That process will also allow for the research and recommendation with respect to criminal record checks language. The AGM of 2011 had requested that the Executive Council and Constitutional Committee explore this issue and provide a recommendation to Annual Convention. With Kay’s assistance, that task will be completed. I wish to acknowledge Ann Farn, past Chairperson of the Constitutional Committee, who resigned in August due to the expected arrival of their baby, and Patti Pedersen, who completed the task of Chairperson for the remainder of the term, as well as the Committee members who served on this Committee over the course of the year, Jolene Kemery, Sheila Kerr-‐ Secretary, Cara McDavid and Marie Stimson.
External affairs have included: attendance at meetings with regards to the Bills 5 and 6 lawsuit appeals, upon invitation of the Deputy Minister of Health, attendance at meetings to learn of the government’s LEAN strategy which also provided the opportunity for us to share information and concerns we have had with situations in the health regions, and attendance at a meeting with the Deputy Minister of Labour to discuss the HSAS perspective on Essential Services legislation and proposed Labour legislation.
Since 2003, HSAS has been a member of CHPS at a current cost of approximately $23,000.00 per annum (based on 1% of our total dues revenue).CHPS was established by the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) to meet the challenges and seize opportunities open to Canadian Health Professionals. The Secretariat has three (3) main goals:
1) To raise the profile of health professionals across the country 2) To deal with issues of public policy that impact health professionals 3) To enhance gains in collective bargaining by sharing information, identifying collective
strengths and developing common strategies and tactics.
Current members of the Secretariat include both unions directly affiliated with NUPGE and those like HSAS who are members of the Secretariat but are not members of NUPGE. CHPS meetings are held twice yearly. HSAS is represented at these meetings by the President, other elected representative and the Executive Director. Bill Craik, Karen Kinar and I attended the meeting in November, 2011 in Halifax. Bill Craik and I attended the June, 2012 CHPS meeting in Ottawa.
Since April, 2012 I have served on the Union Partners Committee to represent HSAS. Other Union Partners Committee representatives include members from SUN, SEIU, CUPE, SGEU, and RWDSU. Natalie Horejda represents HSAS as a trustee on the SHEPP Board of Trustees.
38
PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT, continued
This past year has been a tremendous learning experience for me and I have appreciated being surrounded by competent staff, Committee Chairs, and Committee members. Without the additional support of our lawyers and consultants, our work for the members and their interests would be diminished.
I wish to welcome to our Executive Council, our newly elected Members: Glenda Brown, Bill Fischer, Maureen Kraemer, Cynthia Ostafie, Sheryn Peterson, Daniel Szmutko, Erin Yeates, and Donna Torrens. These individuals have been elected/acclaimed to the Executive Council to serve the HSAS Membership. They will assume the responsibility of representing members of their professional group and will participate fully in the decision making process of our organization – a vocal advocate for the Saskatchewan public and for the specialized health care our members deliver.
I wish to thank and acknowledge the dedication and hard work of the following people:
1) Members and former members of Executive Council: Ralph Aman, Bonnie Dobranski, Ann Farn, Liz Ivanochko, Jolene Kemery, Sheila Kerr, Karen Kinar, Christie Matechuk, Cara McDavid, Trevor Persaud, Patricia Pedersen, Anne Robins, Marie Stimson, Val Stopanski, and Lana Wilkinson
2) Executive Officers: Anne Robins, Vice-‐President, Karen Kinar, Treasurer, and Sheila Kerr, Secretary.
3) Board of Governors: Natalie Horejda 4) Executive Director: Bill Craik 5) Committee Members: Tracy Erickson, Bill Feldbruegge, Terry Nordgulen, Dawn Phillips,
Crystal Springer 6) Regional Council Chairpersons: Cypress: Sandra Harlick; Five Hills: Sheila Bellrose; Prince
Albert Parkland: Dwayne Cameron, Dianne Nielsen; Sunrise: Tracy Erickson; Sun Country: Mary Deren
7) HSAS Member Contacts throughout the province 8) Labour Relations Staff: Garnet Dishaw, Russ Dixon, Kevin Glass, Mario Kijkowski, Kate
Robinson 9) Office Manager: Lesa Bergen – Guenther 10) Administrative Assistants: Angela Benn, Charlene Hebert, Diane Wright
As we celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan (HSAS), let us take the time to reflect on the history of 40 years, celebrate its victories and growth, and continue to plan for the future. I look forward to this coming year and the opportunity to serve our members. It will be a privilege and an honour to do so.
Respectfully submitted:
Karen Wasylenko President
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MEMBERSHIP STATISTICS
Health Region/Employer Number of Members % of Membership by Region
Cypress 107 3.1% Five Hills 114 3.3% Heartland 145 4.2% Keewatin Yatthe 49 1.4% Kelsey Trail 94 2.7% Mamawetan Churchill River 49 1.4% Other Employer 88 2.5% Prairie North 238 6.8% Prince Albert Parkland 203 5.8% Regina Qu’Appelle 970 27.7% Saskatoon 1103 31.5% Sun Country 175 5.0% Sunrise 162 4.6% Total Membership 3497 100.0%
Status Number of Members Percent
3258 Full Time: 2001 61% Part time: 597 18% Casual: 617 19% Other: 43 1%
% of membership
Female 78% Male 22%
40
Professional Groups Number of Members
Addictions Counsellor 345 Anaesthesia Assistant 2 Assessor/Coordinator 342 Audiologist 12 Biomedical Engineering Technologist (Canadian Blood Services) 1 Dental Therapist 14 Dietitian 144 Emergency Medical Responder (La Ronge EMS) 10 Emergency Medical Services 500 Exercise/Conditioning Therapist 53 Genetics Counsellors 4 Health Educators 133 Infection Control Practitioner 30 Mental Health Therapist 103 Music Therapist 11 Nutritionist 24 Occupational Therapist 221 Orthoptist 7 Orthotist 4 Perfusionist 9 Pharmacist 202 Physical Therapist 338 Prosthetist 5 Psychologist 118 Psychometrician 25 Public Health Inspector 89 Recreation Therapist 58 Registered Laboratory Technologist (Canadian Blood Services) 16 Respiratory Therapist 154 Social Worker 411 Speech Language Pathologist 112
MEMBERSHIP STATISTICS, continued
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Resume of the Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan: January 12, 1973
42
Resume of the Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan: January 12, 1973, continued
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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S ANNUAL REPORT
1
The following is a brief summary of the areas of activity your staff have been involved with since last year’s report.
The past year has been very busy with our Labour Relations Officers spending the majority of the time on labour relations issues together with bargaining in Gravelbourg EMS, La Ronge EMS, at Canadian Blood Services, North East EMS, and Crestview EMS.
Family leave, employee selection, dismissals, probationary dismissal, workplace accommodations, and Return to Work are some of the areas in which we have been engaged. We have had a drop off in arbitrations in the past year and have been extensively engaged in constructive settlements.
I. Provincial Negotiations The current HSAS Collective Agreement expires on March 31, 2013. Please refer to the Negotiating Committee Report.
II. Local Negotiations
Collective Bargaining with La Ronge EMS has concluded with a new contract negotiated.
The Collective Agreement with Crestvue Ambulance Services expired May 19, 2008. A new contract was concluded this past spring.
Gravelbourg – A contract was agreed to and ratified in the early spring.
Canadian Blood Services – The contract expired February 20, 2012. Negotiations are underway to reach a new collective agreement.
III. Market Supplements Report
Dental Therapists • The decision dated October 22, 2011 recommended no increase. • The next Market Supplement Review is scheduled for October 2012.
Infection Control Practitioners • The next Market Supplement Review is scheduled for December 2012.
Occupational Therapists • The Market Supplement report for 2012, dated May 27th, was received on July 20,
2012, recommending no additional supplement. Appeal filed and under review and is scheduled to be heard in January 2013.
• The next Market Supplement Review is scheduled for May 2013.
2
44
Orthotists and Prosthetists • The June 23, 2012, report was received. It recommends that the current market
supplement be renegotiated. SAHO has provided an offer to HSAS which is currently under consideration. The next Market Supplement Review is scheduled for May 2013.
Paramedics • The report for March 2012 was received. It recommends maintaining the current
market supplement. • The next Market Supplement Review is scheduled for March 2013.
Perfusionists
• The December 2011 report was received and recommended that the current market supplement be retained.
• The next Market Supplement Review is scheduled for December 2012.
Pharmacists • The Market supplement report for 2012 was received in late July, recommending no
additional supplement. • The next Market Supplement Review is scheduled for May 2013.
Physical Therapists
• The last report recommended no increase. HSAS has filed an appeal from this decision to be heard on May 9, 2012, in Saskatoon. The decision of the adjudicator was to dismiss the appeal.
• The next Market Supplement Review is scheduled for September 2012.
PhD Psychologist • The Market supplement report for 2012, received in late August, recommended no
additional supplement. No appeal is recommended. • The next Market Supplement Review is scheduled for May 2013.
Public Health Inspector
• In a decision dated January 2012, the SAHO Market Supplement Review Committee decided to maintain the current market supplement.
• Notice of appeal of this decision by HSAS was filed on March 6, 2012. • This appeal has been dropped. • Next review is due January 2013.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S ANNUAL REPORT, continued
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Respiratory Therapist • The May 27, 2012 report was received in July 2012. It recommended that the current
market supplement be maintained. An appeal has been filed and will be heard in January 2013.
• The next Market Supplement Review will be in May 2013.
Speech and Language Pathologist • The report for April 2011 was received and a market supplement was not
recommended. • A request for review is before the SAHO Committee.
IV. Contract Administration
Four (4) of our Labour Relations Officers spend the majority of their time handling members’ questions, concerns, grievances and arbitrations. In the past year, we have been working mainly on four different types of files: dismissals, Attendance Management issues, Return to Work and Accommodation issues. We have negotiated satisfactory resolutions to several different kinds of grievances and return to work/accommodation issues. An additional Labour Relations Officer spends her time working on the Market Supplement program, provincial and local negotiations, and communications.
V. Labour Relations Board Matters A number of unfair labour practices were filed on behalf of our members at North East EMS, which occurred immediately after certification. They are scheduled to be heard in mid-‐January.
VI. Inter Union Activities A. HSAS & SUN vs SAHO and 4 Provider Unions
This claim arose as a result of a transfer of $3 million dollars from the SAHO benefit plan to shore up a deficiency in the contributions of the provider unions, SEIU, SGEU, CUPE and RWDSU.
We have been in mediation talks throughout the past year and will be pressing our claim forward.
At stake for HSAS is a sum in excess of $1.5 million, plus clarification of the direction of the benefit plan for HSAS members.
We have made a proposal to SAHO to settle this claim and they have accepted. The provider unions met on October 10, 2012, to discuss the settlement and have not provided us with a response. The next meeting is scheduled for December 19.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S ANNUAL REPORT, continued
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B. Multi Union Benefits Working Group
The six (6) health care unions (HSAS, SUN, RWDSU, SEIU and CUPE, and SGEU) meet on a regular basis with SAHO to discuss issues arising from the Extended Health and Enhanced Dental Plan. Russ Dixon currently serves as the HSAS representative.
Currently 2,500 HSAS members have coverage under the Benefit Plans with employers submitting 2,300 FTE premiums.
C. SAHO Employee Benefits Plan Committee
This Committee meets on a regular basis to provide advice to SAHO on the Life Insurance, Core Dental and Disability Income Plans. It is made up of representatives from SAHO, HSAS, CUPE, SEIU and SUN, and SGEU. Russ Dixon currently serves as the HSAS representative.
Our Benefit Plan currently has a surplus and our premiums are now exceeding claims. Our accumulated surplus and growth should allow HSAS several years at current benefits even without enhancements to the plan. This is a slight turnaround from results of previous years.
VII. Union Administration
HSAS maintains offices in Saskatoon and Regina. The staffing complement is as follows: Saskatoon Address #42 – 1736 Quebec Avenue Labour Relations Officers Kevin Glass, Kate Robinson and Russell Dixon Office Manager Lesa Bergen-‐Guenther Administrative Assistants Angela Benn Regina Address #12 – 395 Park Street Executive Director Bill Craik Labour Relations Officers Mario Kijkowski and Garnet Dishaw Administrative Assistants Charlene Hebert, Diane Wright
With the exception of the Executive Director and the Office Manager, all staff are represented by the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers’ Union. The current HSAS/CEP Collective Agreement was renegotiated in July 2010 and will expire on December 31, 2012.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S ANNUAL REPORT, continued
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Staff Changes – In April of this year, Collette Duffee left to begin a new career with STF. We wish her well.
VIII. Conclusion
The past year has been busy on the bargaining, communications and labour relations fronts.
Although, to some extent, our work will always continue, I believe we have had some considerable successes over the past year and I am encouraged by the team that HSAS has in place.
In thanking all for their efforts last year, I would firstly recognize all members of the Regional Councils who have taken a strong interest in the Association and their fellow members.
Second, I would recognize the following groups:
1. Labour Relations Staff: Kevin Glass, Mario Kijkowski, Garnet Dishaw, Russell Dixon and Kate Robinson.
2. Office Staff: Lesa Bergen Guenther, Charlene Hebert, Angela Benn and Diane Wright.
3. Our Board of Governor: Natalie Horejda.
4. Executive Committee: Karen Wasylenko, Karen Kinar, Natalie Horejda, Anne Robins, and Sheila Kerr.
5. Members of Executive Council: Ralph Aman, Bonnie Dobranski, Ann Farn, Bill Fischer, Liz Ivanochko, Jolene Kemery, Sheila Kerr, Karen Kinar, Christie Matechuk, Cara McDavid, Patricia Pedersen, Trevor Persaud, Anne Robins, Marie Stimson, Valerie Stopanski, Karen Wasylenko and Lana Wilkinson.
To the extent that we make a difference to HSAS members, it is also due to all of you. It has been my honour to work with and for you this past year.
Thank you to all.
Respectfully Submitted:
Bill Craik
Executive Director
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Letter to the Membership: March 25, 1973
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Letter to the Membership: March 25, 1973, continued
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ANNUAL CONVENTION COMMITTEE REPORT
Warren Chykowski, who originally sat as Chair of this committee, as well as the members of the committee, wanted to plan a special Convention as it is our 40th Anniversary. Well-‐known speakers such as Dr. Brian Goldman and Stephen Hammond were secured to ensure this year’s Convention was a success. The speakers appear to have been a drawing card as delegate positions were filled in record time by the end of August. In addition, the largest number of non-‐delegates ever signed up to attend the day’s events. At time of writing, approximately 80 people committed to attend the 40th Anniversary Convention.
Along with engaging great speakers for the celebration, it was decided to host an Anniversary Banquet. Past members who contributed to the growth and spirit of Health Sciences were also invited to share in this celebration. The banquet was further promoted by giving away 40 banquet tickets to the first 40 HSAS members who signed up. It is expected that 120 people will attend this special celebration.
Respectfully submitted:
Karen Kinar (Chair) Respiratory Therapist Saskatoon Health Region Christie Matechuk Pharmacist Regina Qu’appelle Health Region Dawn Phillips Psychologist Saskatoon Health Region Anne Robins Recreation Therapist Saskatoon Health Region
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Meeting Minutes: November 1, 1973
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BARGAINING CONFERENCE COMMITTEE REPORT
The second Bargaining Conference in HSAS history was held in Saskatoon on September 6 & 7. It was attended by over seventy engaged people. The facilitator for the two days was Toni Villiers. The first day began with Rob Cunningham from DC Strategic Management sharing an environmental scan of HSAS. He spoke of statistics within Saskatchewan, surrounding provinces and HSAS. Did you know that of the Health Sciences membership, the 30-‐34 year old Generation Y, makes up the majority?
Members also listened to the political considerations within this province, what is going on in the economy, in Saskatchewan, in the health system, and with our members. Discussion followed in breakout groups of how these statistics affect HSAS at this time and going forward.
Later in the day, Kate Robinson (Labor Relations Officer and bargaining support) summarized the 2012 HSAS bargaining survey results. The survey had been conducted between June 1st and 30th and for the first time HSAS had conducted the survey online. A few interesting demographics of the HSAS member responding were; 76.8% female, 23.2% male, average age was 42, 72.2% were full-‐time, 20.2% part-‐time, and 93.3% permanent. The retirement statistics confirmed what we had learned earlier from Rob Cunningham: 77% are not eligible to retire in the next 5 years, 13.2 are eligible in 5 years, and 8% are but have not decided if they will retire or not.
The second day built on the analysis and conversations of the previous day, as well as some of the information shared at this spring’s town hall meetings. All in attendance had the opportunity to share their thoughts on questions posed, and also to engage with many different members in those discussions. This information was captured and will be presented by the facilitator to membership and the Negotiating Committee at the Annual Convention. Concluding the agenda, Bill Fischer, Negotiating Committee Chair, guided the attendees through the negotiating process that HSAS has followed with SAHO in recent rounds of negotiating and offered the attendees the opportunity to ask their questions. Responses to the Bargaining Conference experience were strongly positive with encouragement to repeat the event in future rounds of negotiating.
Respectfully submitted:
Anne Robins (Chair) Recreation Therapist Saskatoon Health Region Bill Fischer Paramedic Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Karen Kinar Treasurer/Respiratory Therapist Saskatoon Health Region Cara McDavid Social Worker Five Hills Health Region Trevor Persaud Occupational Therapist Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Karen Wasylenko President/Speech Language Pathologist Saskatoon Health Region Kate Robinson Labour Relations Officer HSAS
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COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE REPORT
In the fall of 2011, an HSAS membership survey was conducted. The results of that survey have played a significant role in the activities of the Communication Committee in the 2011-‐2012 fiscal year. Members identified a number of themes: a desire to meet with leadership of the union in a face to face format, positive support for an effective website, union visibility and a request for relevant and timely information.
In response to the membership survey a number of initiatives were implemented. Over the past months work has been proceeding on a redesign of the website and the union logo. In the spring of 2012 a series of Town Hall meetings were held in the province. Members of the Communication Committee had the opportunity to meet with members across the province to listen to the experiences and concerns of their workplaces. Some of the issues raised will help to form the basis for service stories going forward while others issues have identified gaps in membership communication. We truly appreciate the engagement of our members at these meetings and have begun to improve our processes in addressing those gaps.
Media events through this year highlighted services stories that focused on vacancies, vacancy management, high turnover rates, and layoffs. The willingness of our members to share their stories formed the basis for strong media messages.
For the first time, the Communications Committee had the benefit of a Labor Relations Officer dedicated to the committee. This allowed for the execution of many essential tasks: research, liaising with our communication consultants and providing critical support to the president for media events. This has been a positive building block to a comprehensive communication strategy.
Going forward in the 2012-‐2013 fiscal year, we anticipate that both internal and external communication initiatives will be carried out by the Communications Committee with the support of your Executive Council.
Respectfully submitted:
Natalie Horejda (Chair) Board of Governor, Physical Therapist Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Ralph Aman Social Worker Cypress Hills Health Region Ann Farn Assessor Coordinator Regina Qu’appelle Health Region Trevor Persaud Occupational Therapist Regina Qu’appelle Health Region Karen Wasylenko President, Speech Language Pathologist Saskatoon Health Region Lana Wilkinson Music Therapist Regina Qu’appelle Health Region Bill Craik Executive Director HSAS Kate Robinson Labor Relations Officer HSAS Diane Wright Administrative Assistant HSAS
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Press Release: January 7, 1974
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Attachment to Press Release: January 7, 1974
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Attachment to Press Release: January 7, 1974, continued
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PUBLIC RELATIONS PHOTOS:
2007
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CONSTITUTION AND BYLAWS COMMITTEE REPORT
The Constitutional Committee’s focus of this past year was to conduct a review of the wording used in the Constitution and By-‐Laws. The goal was to achieve a document that would be cohesive and more easily understood by all members. This work began in January 2012 when Kay Robertson, a lawyer with extensive knowledge in parliamentary procedure and constitutional language addressed an Executive Council retreat. Following that retreat, Executive Council requested that the Constitutional Committee follow up on the recommendations that had been made. The Committee met for two days in Regina in May to further study those recommendations. Kay Robertson provided her assistance to the Committee at this meeting.
Upon further study and consultation with Kay Robertson, it became evident that if we only adopted the few language changes, we would continue to have a document which was not cohesive in its structure and which would remain a challenge to be understood. It was recommended by Kay Robertson that we consider a full review of the language and organization of the document. With this in mind the Committee recommended to Executive Council that Health Sciences engage the services of Kay Robertson to assist with this project and to hold any resolutions on change to the constitutional language for the Annual Convention 2012. Executive Council approved the recommendations to engage Kay Robertson and to have a comprehensive review of the Constitution and By-‐Laws with the goal of completion for the Annual Convention in 2013.
Therefore, there are no resolutions put forward from Executive Council. In addition, no resolutions were received by the Secretary of the Association from the membership.
Respectfully submitted: Patricia Pedersen (Chair) Physical Therapist Regina Qu’appelle Health Region Sheila Kerr Physical Therapist Regina Qu’appelle Health Region Marie Stimson Emergency Medical Dispatcher Regina Qu’appelle Health Region Natalie Horejda Board of Governor/Physical Therapist Regina Qu’appelle Health Region Bill Craik Executive Director HSAS Diane Wright Administrative Assistant HSAS
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Proposed First Constitution, Page 1
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Meeting Minutes: April 8, 1973
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Meeting Minutes: April 8, 1973, continued
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HSAS Financial Statement:
November 23, 1973
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2012 – 2013 BUDGET
RECEIPTS
Membership Fees $3,115,000.00 Interest on Operating Account $ -‐ Miscellaneous $ -‐ Retirement $60,000.00 Heritage Fund $20,000.00 Defense Fund $ -‐
$3,195,000.00
EXPENDITURES
Advertising and Promotion $430,000.00 Awards $40,300.00 Business Promotion $8,000.00 Contract Printing $10,000.00 Depreciation $ -‐ Dispatches $1,000.00 Donations $15,000.00 Emergency Fund Payouts $5,000.00 Employee Education $19,500.00 Fixed Asset Purchases $30,000.00 Insurance $2,000.00 Legal Counsel $308,000.00 Library Books & Subscriptions $12,000.00 Meetings $508,000.00 Miscellaneous $1,000.00 NUPGE $40,000.00 Office $220,000.00 Payroll and Employee Benefits $1,082,700.00 President's Wage Replacement and Expenses $88,000.00 Professional Fees (accounting) $9,000.00 Rent and Occupancy Costs $138,000.00 Staff Expenses $99,000.00 Staff Recruitment $30,000.00 Job Action $50,000.00 Telephone $33,000.00
$3,179,500.00
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Charitable Donations A total of $300.00 was given in charitable donations over the 2011-‐2012 fiscal year to the following organization:
• The Unemployed Workers Help Centre $300.00 Union/Professional Donations A total of $10,320.00 was given in union/professional donations over the 2011-‐2012 fiscal year to the following organizations:
• SLP, OT and PT Conference with Dr. Rossetti -‐ $1000.00 • SHR Therapeutic Recreation Services Innovations 2012 -‐ $1000.00 • Regina Civic Pension and Benefits Committee -‐ $820.00 • Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives -‐ $500.00
• 50th Anniversary of Medicare Steven Lewis Conference -‐ $5000.00
• The Health Sciences Students' Association 5th Annual Inter-‐Professional Student Symposium -‐ $2000.00
CHARITABLE AND PROFESSIONAL DONATIONS
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FUNDS, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND AWARDS RECIPIENTS
A. Continuing Education Fund The Education Fund was established at the October 1990 Annual Convention. The purpose of the fund is to provide financial assistance to members who take an educational event directly related to their current position.
A lottery system is used to select the successful applicants. Names are drawn from those eligible in the following manner: twenty (20) on October 1st and twenty (20) on March 1st of each fiscal year. Successful applicants are eligible for a maximum of $500.00.
For the fiscal year 2011-‐2012, the lottery results are as follows:
October 1st, 2011 Education Fund Draw
Twenty (20) successful applicants were drawn from forty-‐one (41) applications submitted:
NAME OCCUPATION REGION Vanessa Amy Public Health Inspector Heartland Pamela Blumenschein Genetic Counsellor Saskatoon Laura Carney SLP Saskatoon
Crystal Corey Occupational Therapist Cypress Audrey Dosman Occupational Therapist Saskatoon Damara Flottemesch Recreation Therapist Saskatoon Peggy Forsberg Physical Therapist Regina Jason Greville Occupational Therapist Regina Karen Kinar Respiratory Therapist Saskatoon Renee Knutson Infection Control Practitioner Saskatoon Janet Lucas Giandomenico Genetic Counsellor Saskatoon Jillian Morgan SLP Saskatoon Kristin Regnier Occupational Therapist Saskatoon Sharon Schantz Occupational Therapist Regina Brenda Schuster Pharmacist Regina Miriam Scuka Physical Therapist Saskatoon Rachel Simonson Dietitian Saskatoon Naresh Tinani Respiratory Therapist Regina Shelly Weber Social Worker Saskatoon
Jeffrey Zwack Social Worker Regina
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FUNDS, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND AWARDS RECIPIENTS, continued
March 1st, 2012 Education Fund Draw
Twenty (20) successful applicants were drawn from forty (40) applications submitted: NAME OCCUPATION REGION Nicole Bidwell Pharmacist Regina Linda Bouchard* Physical Therapist Saskatoon Deirdre Cavanagh Occupational Therapist Saskatoon Lynn Corbett Psychologist Saskatoon Monique Deault Occupational Therapist Saskatoon Jesse Dziad Occupational Therapist Saskatoon Christina Lepage Occupational Therapist Parkland Nicole McLennan Dietitian Saskatoon Lacey Nairn Physiotherapist Saskatoon Katherine Owens Psychologist Regina Sara Patenaude Occupational Therapist Saskatoon Erin Soltys Occupational Therapist Saskatoon Allison Stene Physiotherapist Saskatoon Bonnie Yake Physical Therapist Regina Gerald Block Psychologist Saskatoon Erin Hantke SLP Saskatoon Janna Kowalsky SLP Saskatoon Carrie Opalko-‐Windecker Health Educator Saskatoon Jeff Scott Addictions Counsellor Saskatoon Sandeep Sharma Occupational Therapist Saskatoon Kathryn Gorectke Physical Therapist Regina * Indicates Alternate
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FUNDS, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND AWARD RECIPIENTS, continued
B. Scholarships In 1984, the Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan established a Scholarship Foundation. One of its objectives is to promote educational achievement, particularly in post-‐secondary areas of study or training in a post-‐secondary educational institution. The following scholarships have been established:
i) Ron Currie Award
Established in 1985, this $500.00 scholarship is awarded to a Pharmacy student in the College of Pharmacy at the University of Saskatchewan. The award recognizes Ron’s leadership as the first president of HSAS and his guidance in the formation of our union. The recipient is chosen by a committee representing the Faculty of Pharmacy, HSAS and the Pharmacy Students Society. The 2011-‐2012 recipient was Graham Houk, who is a Pharmacy student at the University of Saskatchewan in his 4th year of studies.
ii) Silver Anniversary Scholarship The 1997 Annual Convention established scholarships to mark the 25th anniversary of Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan. Twenty (20) five hundred dollar ($500) scholarships are awarded to a spouse or dependent of a Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan member. The spouse or dependent must be enrolled in full-‐time studies at a post-‐secondary educational institution leading to a degree, diploma or certificate. Completed application forms were to be received in the Saskatoon office no later than September 15th 2011.
For the 2011-‐2012 fiscal year, the successful applicants were:
1. Grace Block, SLP, Saskatoon Health Region, whose daughter Emily Block is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Nursing at The University of Saskatchewan.
2. Carolyn Chu, Nutritionist, Saskatoon Health Region, whose son Charles Brooke is pursuing a Bachelor of Science at The University of Saskatchewan.
3. Marnie Deighton, Physical Therapist, Saskatoon Health Region, whose son Alexandar Deighton is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts at The University of Saskatchewan.
4. Deanne Dowling, Pharmacist, Parkland Health Region, whose son Spencer Dowling is pursuing a Bachelor of Science Biochemistry at The University of Saskatchewan.
5. Darcia Evans, Psychologist, Saskatoon Health Region, whose daughter Marissa Evans is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts at The University of Saskatchewan.
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FUNDS, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND AWARD RECIPIENTS, continued
6. Leanne Golding-‐Guest, SLP, Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region, whose son Wade Guest is pursuing a Bachelor of Education at The University of Saskatchewan.
7. Valerie Guillemin, Pharmacist, Saskatoon Health Region, whose son Benjamin Guillemin
is pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce at The University of Saskatchewan. 8. Vicki Kerr-‐Wilson, Physical Therapist, Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region, whose daughter
Asha Kerr-‐Wilson is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies at The University of Regina.
9. Juliette Laberge-‐Lalonde, Health Educator, Saskatoon Health Region, whose son Andre
Lalonde is pursuing an education in the Heavy Equipment/Truck and Transport Program. 10. Laura Moltz, Occupational Therapist, Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region, whose daughter
Kalcey Moltz is pursuing a Geology Degree at The University of Regina. 11. JoAnn Nilson, Physical Therapist, Saskatoon Health Region, whose son Olaf Lokken is
pursuing a Bachelor of Arts at The University of Saskatchewan. 12. Donna Olson, Dietitian, Saskatoon Health Region, whose daughter Haylee Olson is
pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at The University of Saskatchewan. 13. Margaret Petty, Recreational Therapist, Saskatoon Health Region, whose son Jeffrey
Petty is pursuing a Bachelor of Education at The University of Saskatchewan. 14. Doug Ramsay, Health Educator, Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region, whose daughter
Jessica Ramsay is pursuing a Music Diploma in Classical Music at Mount Royal University. 15. Bree Rooke, Health Educator, Saskatoon Health Region, whose spouse Jessica Cutter is
pursuing a Masters in Science in Toxicology. 16. Ken Startup, Public Health Inspector, Prairie North, whose son Zachary Startup is
pursuing a Bachelor of Education at The University of Regina. 17. Joanne Toh, Social Worker, Saskatoon Health Region, whose daughter Kylie Toh is
pursuing a Bachelor of Communications at Mount Royal University. 18. Candace Van Staveron, Occupational Therapist, Sun Country, whose daughter Helyn Van
Staveren is pursuing a Bachelor of Education at The University of Regina.
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FUNDS, SCHOLARSHIPS, AND AWARD RECIPIENTS, continued
19. Margaret Walraven, Health Educator, Regina, whose son Jordan Richards is pursuing a Doctor of Law at The University of Saskatchewan.
20. Verna Zacharias-‐Heuer, Assessor Coordinator, Cypress Health Region, whose son Sidney
Heuer is pursuing a Bachelor of Commerce at The University of Regina. C. Industrial Relations Education Fund
This fund was established by Executive Council at its February 19, 1992 meeting. The purpose is to encourage Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan members to increase their knowledge of industrial relations. The sum of $1,200 per fiscal year is available to members. Monies are distributed on a first come, first served basis to a maximum of $400 per member. There were two (2) applications made for $400. They were approved.
D. Roberta Ekberg Award
This award was established at the 2003 Annual Convention to recognize Roberta Ekberg’s contributions and long standing commitment to HSAS as a past president and Board of Governor. An award of five hundred dollars ($500.00) is provided to an HSAS activist, HSAS employee or HSAS legal counsel who has contributed to furthering the visions and interests of HSAS. Nominations for this award will be accepted no later than August 31 of each year. There was one approved nominee this past year, Cathy Dickson. Application forms for the Silver Anniversary Scholarship, Industrial Relations and Continuing Education Funds may be obtained from either the Regina or Saskatoon HSAS offices.
E. Emergency Fund
A total of 6 members received funding from the Emergency Fund this year. Five members received $500.00 and one member received $200.00.
Respectfully submitted: Karen Kinar (Chair) Respiratory Therapist Saskatoon Health Region Bonnie Dobranski Addictions Counsellor Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Bill Feldebrugge SLP Saskatoon Health Region Anne Robins Recreation Therapist Saskatoon Health Region Bill Craik Executive Director HSAS Lesa Bergen-‐Guenther Office Manager HSAS
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GRIEVANCE COMMITTEE REPORT
The structure for the Grievance Committee was established at the October 1998 Annual Convention. The Committee is comprised of three (3) Executive Council members and one (1) alternate as well as two (2) members-‐ at-‐ large and one (1) alternate. In addition, this committee may request a Labour Relations Officer (LRO) or the Executive Director to serve in an ex-‐officio role. HSAS LROs dedicate a majority of their time dealing with member concerns and grievances in the administration of the collective agreement. When Union and management cannot reach agreement with respect to a grievance, arbitration becomes an option to consider. Prior to 2002, one of the Grievance Committee’s responsibilities was to ensure that this option was chosen in a fair and consistent manner. The practice of who would make that decision changed in 2002 when at its April 16 & 17 meeting, Executive Council passed a motion allowing LROs and the Executive Director the authority to decide whether it was appropriate for a grievance to proceed to arbitration or not. Following that decision, the Grievance Committee then assumed the responsibility of hearing member appeals of an LRO decision to not proceed to arbitration. If the Grievance Committee deliberated and decided in support of the decision of the LRO, the member would still have the opportunity to appeal to Executive Council for a reversal of that decision. The decision of Executive Council would be final and binding. This is the process which continues to this day. This year the Committee met December 19, 2011 for orientation and to review the Terms of Reference. At that time, the Committee also heard and deliberated on one (1) grievance. Respectfully submitted: Sheila Kerr Physical Therapist Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region (Chair) Tracy Erickson Addictions Counsellor Sunrise Health Region Bonnie Dobranski Addictions Counsellor Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Karen Kinar Respiratory Therapist Saskatoon Health Region Terry Nordgulen Mental Health Therapist Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Anne Robins Recreation Therapist Saskatoon Health Region
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NEGOTIATING COMMITTEE REPORT
I had the privilege of chairing the Negotiations Committee for the last round and had relinquished those duties as well as my seat on Executive Council last October. However, due to the untimely passing in March of Warren Chykowski, who had assumed the Chair of Negotiations, I was asked by Executive Council to return to the Committee in April.
The present collective agreement expires March 31st 2013. Preparations for the next round commenced with a survey of the membership followed by the Bargaining Conference early September 2012 in Saskatoon. The membership survey was produced in an online format, which resulted in a high response level and gave the Committee constructive feedback as well. The survey results were further explored and articulated during the Bargaining Conference. This conference allowed for the membership to have more input toward the development of negotiating principles as well as constructing a better overall understanding of the negotiations process. The feedback received for this conference was positive and I expect this exercise to continue in future rounds. Formal preparations of proposals and strategies for the upcoming negotiations will begin early in November with presentation to Executive Council for approval in the New Year.
The union learned some valuable lessons during the last round of negotiations. The most important is that negotiations now have a significant public relations component. Moving forward with the expiration of this current agreement in 2013, communications and the branding of the Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan must continue to draw attention to the valuable work our members perform every day of the year, and not just in the run up to negotiations. In order for us to be successful in advancing the issues of our members there must be a greater public awareness of the value our members contribute to healthcare. Our greatest asset will be our ability to communicate and the willingness of our membership to support these efforts. In conclusion, I would like to thank you for your support of the Negotiations Committee.
Respectfully submitted:
Bill Fischer (Chair) Paramedic Regina Qu’appelle Health Region Ralph Aman Social Worker Cypress Hills Health Region Natalie Horejda Board of Governor/Physical Therapist Regina Qu’appelle Health Region Shelia Kerr Physical Therapist Regina Qu’appelle Health Region Karen Kinar Respiratory Therapist Saskatoon Health Region Crystal Springer Psychologist Saskatoon Health Region Karen Wasylenko President/Speech Language Pathologist Saskatoon Health Region Bill Craik Executive Director HSAS Kate Robinson Labor Relations Officer HSAS
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Collective Bargaining Preparation: 1974
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HSAS Job Action
2002 – 2011
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Newspaper Article: October 17, 2002
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Newspaper Article: May 10, 2011
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REGIONAL COUNCIL DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT
Regional Councils exist to try and promote an active local membership in the health regions they serve. In many ways, Regional Councils are the “eyes and ears” of the union in the workplace. There are five Regional Councils throughout the province that function in varying capacities. In those health regions that have a Regional Council every HSAS member belongs to that Regional Council. Over the past year, the RCDC has worked with other committees and Labour Relations Officers towards the goal of identifying and planning towards improvements to: the orientation presentation to new HSAS members, encouraging effective use of OH&S Committees in the workplace and updating bulletin boards in the workplace. With increasing changes to workplace issues and changes with technology, the role and function of Regional Councils will need to be explored in the future to ensure the needs of HSAS members are being effectively met.
Respectfully submitted:
Ralph Aman (Chair) Social Worker Cypress Health Region Mary Deren Health Educator Sun Country Health Region Tracy Erickson Addictions Counsellor Sunrise Health Region Sandra Harlick Social Worker Cypress Health Region
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The Cypress Regional Council holds supper meetings as required. We want to find ways to include rural sites however a discussion about using telehealth was not viewed favorably by members. We are open to new ideas about how to make meetings more accessible to all. The Town Hall meeting was held on May 17, 2012 in Swift Current at the Holiday Inn with a good turnout. I attended a Regional Council Committee meeting in Regina on March 29, 2012 and look forward to ongoing involvement with the group to share ideas and suggestions of members from other regions to assist with the development of our local council.
Garnet Dishaw, Labor relations Officer, continues to be actively present in our region, meeting with members as requested. We had one union-‐management meeting this year but no further meetings have been called.
We continue to meet with newly hired HSAS members to provide union orientation on a monthly basis or as required.
We divided our education fund between 4 members whose names were submitted for attending the Council meetings. We are open to new ways to divide the fund between members.
We will hold our Annual General Meeting and Elections on October 22, 2012 in Swift Current with President Karen Wasylenko, Labor Relations Officer Garnet Dishaw and Regional Council Development Chair Ralph Aman in attendance.
Respectfully submitted:
Sandra Harlick, Chair of the Cypress Health Region Regional Council
CYPRESS HEALTH REGION
REGIONAL COUNCIL REPORT
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TOWN HALL COMMITTEE REPORT
Results of the fall 2011 membership survey indicated that you as members were requesting increased and varied types of communication with your union. In response to those requests, Town Hall meetings were held in May and June of 2012 throughout our Province to hear what your concerns and questions were and to provide an opportunity for face to face conversations. We visited each Health Region in the province and met with members in twelve communities. The meetings were attended by the President, Executive Director, Treasurer, Board of Governor, Labour Relations Officers, and often any other Executive Council member who lived in that area. Administrative staff also attended to capture the discussion and concerns voiced.
Throughout the course of the Town Hall meetings there were themes that emerged. The following is a non-‐exhaustive list:
• Patient/Client care concerns: inadequate staffing levels, excessive caseloads preventing delivery of appropriate service levels, a system meeting the needs of the system not patients, discharges taking place without supports available for patients, ‘fix in six’ in Mental Health services, lack of backup coverage, implementation of new programs with no additional staff added
• Lack of clarity in job descriptions, lack of current job descriptions, Health Regions struggling to retain experienced staff –‘brain drain’ leading to lack of mentors and loss of knowledge available to provide best care
• Health Regions utilizing ‘vacancy management’ to balance budgets, vacant positions not being posted/filled, employer refusal to acknowledge need for overtime to deliver service creating potential for necessary care not being delivered
• Lack of funding for professional development, lack of respect for professional standards and codes of ethics, disregard for professional judgement, employers not honoring the collective agreement
Following the completion of the meetings the notes gathered were reviewed and discussed. It was decided that action plans would be determined and concerns would be delegated to the appropriate resource for follow through. The Town Hall meetings provided an opportunity to meet with members face to face and hear the concerns. The conversations held will play a part in defining the goals and objectives of the union over the next few years.
Thank you to all members who took the time to attend and share their thoughts. Respectfully submitted: Anne Robins (Chair) Recreation Therapist Saskatoon Health Region Karen Kinar Treasurer/Respiratory Therapist Saskatoon Health Region Trevor Persaud Occupational Therapist Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region Karen Wasylenko President/Speech Language Pathologist Saskatoon Health Region Cara McDavid Social Worker Five Hills Health Region Kate Robinson Labour Relations Officer HSAS
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2012-2013 EXECUTIVE COUNCIL MEMBERS
Representing: Name Occupation Health Region
Addictions Counsellors Bonnie Dobranski Addictions Counsellor Regina
Assessor Coordinators (2 seats) Glenda Brown
Sheryn Peterson
Assessor Coordinator
Assessor Coordinator
Saskatoon
Kelsey Trail
Dietitians, Nutritionists Vacant
Emergency Medical Technicians, Dispatchers, Paramedics (2 seats)
Marie Stimson
Bill Fischer
EMT
Paramedic
Regina Qu’Appelle
Regina Qu’Appelle
Occupational Therapists Dan Szmutko Occupational Therapist Saskatoon
Pharmacists Christie Matechuk Pharmacist Regina Qu’Appelle
Physical Therapists, Prosthetists, Orthotists, Exercise/Conditioning Therapists (2 seats)
Sheila Kerr
Vacant
Physical Therapist Regina Qu’Appelle
Public Health Inspectors, Infection Control Practitioners, Health Educators
Cynthia Ostafie Health Educator Saskatoon
Psychologists, Psychometricians Donna Torrens Psychologist Saskatoon
Recreation Therapists, Mental Health Therapists
Anne Robins Recreation Therapist Saskatoon
Respiratory Therapists, Perfusionists, Anaesthesia Assistants
Karen Kinar Respiratory Therapist Saskatoon
Social Workers (2 seats) Maureen Kraemer
Vacant
Social Worker Sun Country
Speech and Language Pathologists, Audiologists, Orthoptists, Music Therapists
Erin Yeates Speech Language Pathologist
Saskatoon
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GUEST SPEAKER: DR. BRIAN GOLDMAN
Dr. Brian Goldman is one of those rare individuals with great success in more than one high-‐pressure field. For more than twenty years, he's been a highly regarded emergency physician at Toronto's Mount Sinai Hospital. He's also parlayed his medical expertise into an award-‐winning career in medical journalism.
Millions of Canadians know Brian as CBC Radio One's 'house doctor,' serving up information and
advice on matters medical to twenty afternoon shows across the country. In addition, he created and will host the radio program, White Coat, Black Art. Dr. Brian Goldman takes listeners through the swinging doors of hospitals and doctors' offices, behind the curtain where the gurney lies. It's a biting, original and provocative show that will demystify the world of medicine. He explores the tension between hope and reality: between what patients want, and what doctors can deliver. Doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals will explain how the system works, and why, with a refreshing and unprecedented level of honesty.
Goldman was health reporter for The National, CBC Television's flagship news program, and for CBC TV's The Health Show. He served as Senior Production Executive during the launch year of Discovery Health Channel, Canada's only 24-‐hour channel devoted to health programming.
Goldman released his first book in September 2010, The Night Shift -‐ Real Life in the Heart of the ER, published by HarperCollins. He attempts to show you hour by hour what happens in the ER during a typical night shift, and to pull back the curtain to reveal the culture of emergency medicine.
He lives in Toronto with his wife and two children.
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Meeting Minutes: April 26, 1973
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Meeting Minutes: October 25, 1973
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GUEST SPEAKER: TONI VILLIERS
Toni Villiers is an Organizational Effectiveness Consultant, Facilitator and Coach. Toni holds a MSc. in Sport Psychology in addition to being a Certified Human Resource Professional, Certified Management Consultant and Mediator. Toni has provided facilitation expertise to a number of initiatives involving large groups of stakeholders. She is proud to have been part of such ground breaking action groups as the “City of Saskatoon Community Plan for Homelessness and Housing’”, “Active Transportation Plan for the City of Saskatoon” and the Provincial roundtables(s) on “Creating Sustainable Communities through Physical Activity” to highlight a few. Toni recently facilitated our Bargaining Conference held in Saskatoon in September 2012.
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21
HSAS OFFICES
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Newspaper Ad: June 14, 1997
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THE HISTORY OF HSAS
1972 The Government amended the Trade Union Act. Prior to this the Labour Relations Board (LRB) could exclude all the members of a professional association from a union if satisfied that a majority of the members of the professional association were in favor of being excluded. The amendment did away with this provision which opened the door for large multi-‐occupational type unions to include health care professionals in their certification applications. Because of their training, certification and professional ethics, our founders believed the interests of health care professionals differed from those of other health care employees and for this reason they met to form HSAS.
1973 Health Sciences made application to the LRB to represent all Physical Therapists, Speech Language Pathologists, Pharmacists, Social Workers, Electroencephalograph Technologists, Electrocardiograph Technologists, Occupational Therapists, Dietitians, Medical Laboratory Technologists and Radiology Technologists for a total of 139 employees working at University Hospital.
However, the LRB determined that an appropriate unit for collective bargaining should be comprised of only Physical Therapists, Pharmacists, Dietitians, Social Workers and Registered Occupational Therapists. As a result, HSAS was certified to represent these 5 groups for a total of 50 members. HSAS made application to the LRB to represent all Medical Technologists, Medical Record Librarians, Pharmacists and Physical Therapists working at Saskatoon City Hospital. The LRB certified HSAS to represent only Physical Therapists and Pharmacists for a total of 6 out of the 37 applied for.
The LRB rejected HSAS's applications to represent health care professionals at Lloydminister Hospital, Eatonia Union Hospital, Moosomin Union Hospital, Shaunavon Union Hospital and Swift Current Union Hospital.
1974 Health Sciences was certified by the LRB to represent all Pharmacists working at Pasqua Hospital in Regina. HSAS was certified by the LRB to represent all Pharmacists, Physical Therapists and Dietitians working at Regina General Hospital.
The LRB rejected applications by Health Sciences to represent health care professionals working at St. Paul's Hospital in Saskatoon, Holy Family and Victoria Union Hospitals in Prince Albert and Yorkton Union Hospital.
1981 Health Sciences was certified by the L.R.B. to represent all Medical Laboratory Technologists, Radiology Technologists and Nuclear Medicine Technologists employed by University Hospital. Rather than add these professionals to our existing bargaining unit the LRB decided to create a separate unit for them.
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THE HISTORY OF HSAS, continued
1986 Health Sciences was certified by the LRB to represent all Pharmacists and Physical Therapists employed by St. Paul's Hospital in Saskatoon.
1987 Health Sciences was certified by the LRB to represent all Pharmacists, Dietitians, Occupational Therapists and Social Workers employed by the Plains Health Centre.
1988 Health Sciences was certified by the LRB to represent all Pharmacists, Dietitians, Physical Therapists, Social Workers and Psychologists employed by Victoria Union Hospital in Prince Albert.
1990 The LRB granted the following Health Sciences applications:
• To carve out Dietitians and Speech Language Pathologists from an SEIU bargaining unit at St. Paul's Hospital and add them to the existing H.S.A.S. unit of Pharmacists and Physical Therapists.
• To include Social Workers in the HSAS certification order at Saskatoon City Hospital.
Frustrated by the failure of the Saskatchewan Health-‐Care Association to deal with their concerns during the latest round of provincial negotiations (April 1988 to July 1989) Health Sciences members voted to amend the Constitution and By-‐Laws. Prior to the amendment one of the Objects of the Association outlined in the Constitution provided that no disciplinary proceedings would be taken against any member who refused to take part in any concerted refusal to provide service either by strike or honouring any picket lines. The amendment did away with this provision and replaced it with:
"To ensure patient safety participate in the creation of an essential services committee at each health care facility in the event of a legal strike."
The amendment to the By-‐Laws made it an offence for a member to work during a legal work stoppage unless specifically authorized by decision of Executive Council.
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THE HISTORY OF HSAS, continued
1991 Health Sciences certification orders were amended by the LRB to include the following professionals:
• Occupational Therapists (unorganized) -‐ St. Paul's Hospital • Orthoptists (unorganized) -‐ Royal University Hospital degreed unit • Dietitians, Occupational Therapists, Laboratory Technologists (unorganized) -‐ Saskatoon City
Hospital. 1993 The LRB granted HSAS' application to carve out the following group of professionals from an SEIU bargaining unit at Royal University Hospital and add them to the HSAS Technologist bargaining unit: Laboratory Technologist Students, Radiology Technologist Students, Cardiology Technologists, EEG Technologists and Trainees, Perfusionists, EMG Technologists, Pulmonary Function Technologists and Trainees and Orthopedic Technologists.
1994 The LRB granted Health Sciences' application to amend its certification order at Saskatoon City Hospital to include the following professionals: Psychologists (unorganized), Speech Language Pathologists (SEIU members) and the Orthoptists (HSAS members transferred from RUH). Unfortunately, the LRB decided the Recreation Therapists, who had also been applied for, belonged in the SEIU all employee general bargaining unit at Saskatoon City Hospital. The Saskatoon District Health Board voluntarily recognized HSAS as the bargaining agent for Sleep Disorders Technologists at Royal University Hospital.
Despite overwhelming support from the employees affected the LRB rejected HSAS's application to represent the following professionals at Wascana Rehabilitation Centre who were represented by SGEU: Exercise/Conditioning Therapists, Recreation Therapists, Music Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Prosthetists, Prosthetic Technicians, Prosthetic Trainees, Orthotists, Orthotic Technicians, Orthotic Trainees, Social Workers, Dietitians, Pharmacists, Speech Language Pathologists, Psychologists, Radiology Technologists, Laboratory Technologists, Audiologists, Psychometricians and Vocational Coordinators.
Without evidence of employee support SEIU made application to the LRB to have all HSAS Technologists in Saskatoon placed in a new, single all employee bargaining unit for all facilities within the jurisdiction of the Saskatoon District Health Board.
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THE HISTORY OF HSAS, continued
1995 The LRB granted Health Science's application to amend its certification order at Pasqua Hospital to include the following unrepresented professionals: Social Workers, Occupational Therapists and Dietitians. The LRB granted Health Science's application to represent the following unrepresented professionals at Wascana Home Care and Client Assessment Services in Regina: Dietitians, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Social Workers, Lab Services Coordinators and Assessor Care Coordinators.
Health Sciences applied to the LRB to consolidate all its bargaining units in Saskatoon naming Saskatoon District Health Board as the successor.
Saskatoon District Health Board (SDHB) made application to have the Labour Relations Board (LRB) create three (3) bargaining units in the District (professional, nursing, support). While Health Sciences was prepared to allow the LRB to proceed we were concerned whether the Technologists would be placed in the professional or support unit. SUN, SEIU, CUPE and SGEU wanted to stop the application as they feared it would have negative implications for them in other Districts, especially if it was decided the Technologists belonged in the professional unit.
The following Health Sciences applications to the LRB (all with evidence of majority support) were outstanding at the time the government enacted the Health Labour Relations Reorganization Act on July 12, 1996:
• Royal University Hospital -‐ application to carve out Recreation Therapists from SEIU -‐ application to consolidate the HSAS Technologist and HSAS degreed bargaining units.
• Saskatoon City Hospital -‐ application to carve out balance of SEIU Technologists and Recreation Therapists from SEIU and place in HSAS bargaining unit.
• Parkridge Centre -‐ application to de-‐certify SEIU degree bargaining unit and certify HSAS as the bargaining agent.
• St. Paul's Hospital -‐ application to carve out all Technologists from SEIU and to consolidate into existing HSAS bargaining unit.
1996 -‐ January to February In response to SUN, SEIU, SUPE and SGEU's opposition to the SDHB application [to create 3 bargaining units] the Labour Relations Board requested the Department of Labour to mediate a solution among health care unions to jurisdictional concerns in Saskatoon. Discussion shifted to a suggestion from all unions except Health Sciences that a one person Czar be appointed to resolve issues of health care representation on a provincial basis.
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THE HISTORY OF HSAS, continued
1996 -‐ March 13 Representatives from Health Sciences, SEIU, CUPE, SGEU and SUN met with government ministers Anguish, Cline and Mitchell. SEIU, SGEU, CUPE and SUN presented a signed document to them requesting a Commissioner be appointed. When asked why we didn't sign Health Sciences replied:
1. The other heath care unions would not agree to our request that the Commissioner be guided by Section 3 of the Trade Union Act which provides employees the right to belong to the union of their choice and,
2. In our view the Labour Relations Board could deal with the Saskatoon District Health Board application.
1996 -‐ July 12 Government enacted the Labour Relations Reorganization Act and appointed Jim Dorsey as Commissioner.
1996 -‐ July 12 to November 27 Jim Dorsey received input from all stakeholders via briefs and meetings. Health Sciences presented its brief in Saskatoon on October 10, 1996.
1997 -‐ January 17 Emergency meeting of cabinet is called January 17, 1997 to obtain approval of Dorsey's Regulations. This process was scheduled for January 21, 1997.
January 15, 1996 to November 28, 1997 During this time Dorsey released five [5] draft reports. Each report spoke to three [3] bargaining units in health care [professional, nursing and support]. What is interesting to note when reviewing each report is how the definition of who would be included in the professional unit changed.
1. November 28, 1996 -‐ Dorsey named the professional unit the Licensed Provider Unit and only included those professionals who are governed by statute except LPNs.
2. December 13, 1996 -‐ Dorsey changed the professional unit to exclude Technologists and include Community Health Nurses [RNs and RPNs] and named it the Public Health and Rehabilitation Unit.
3. December 18, 1996 -‐ The professional unit is now called the Third Unit and includes RNs, RPNs in Public Health/Community Health.
4. January 8, 1997 -‐ The professional unit becomes the Health Support Practitioner Unit and includes 1500 Certified Home Health Aides. Nurses are out of the unit.
5. January 15, 1997 -‐ Dorsey's final report. Only named professions make it into the professional unit called the Health Support Practitioner Bargaining Unit.
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THE HISTORY OF HSAS, continued
With Dorsey's December 13, 1996 report Health Sciences was scheduled to lose all of its Technologists [300] to SEIU in Saskatoon without a vote. As well, non union Technologists throughout the province would be forced into SEIU and CUPE without a vote. As a result, Health Sciences requested Technologists throughout the province to petition Dorsey to both: create a professional unit based on functional criteria and hold a vote among all professionals to determine which union would represent them.
Unfortunately, the hundreds of petitions that were mailed or faxed to Dorsey by Technologists and other professionals from around the province fell on deaf ears. In an attempt to have government revisit Dorsey's final report, Health Sciences sent each MLA a document on all of its Technologists which demonstrated their professional status and why they should be included in the professional unit.
1997 -‐ January 17 Emergency meeting of cabinet is called January 17, 1997 to obtain approval of Dorsey's Regulations. This process was scheduled for January 21, 1997.
1997 -‐ January 20 Health Sciences held a public demonstration in front of Royal University Hospital to protest exclusion of Technologists from the professional unit and their movement without a vote into SEIU.
1997 -‐ February 12 Barry Nowoselsky, President of SGEU sends a memo to SGEU members in elected positions. This memo is noteworthy as it reveals the backroom deals that were taking place among the unions during Dorsey's deliberations. For example on page 6 and 7 he states:
After a period of time four unions [SGEU, SEIU, CUPE and SUN] met under the facilitation of Barb Byers, President of the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour. The meetings that Barb Byers facilitated were solely to pressure SGEU to join them in their attempt to ensure HSAS would no longer exist in health care. They felt by joining forces they could slip SGEU a few members from SEIU and CUPE to ensure HSAS would not be included in a vote for their membership. In return SGEU was to give up their Homecare members, Wascana Rehabilitation Centre members, all Nurses and accept the idea of no votes anywhere.
1997 -‐ February 19, 20 and 21 SGEU's application to have Dorsey's Regulations set aside was heard at Queen's Bench by Justice Pritchard in Regina. Health Sciences, an intervenor in this application, supported SGEU. On March 10, 1997 Justice Pritchard released her 34 page decision dismissing the application. An appeal of her decision was filed by SGEU supported by Health Sciences; however, the Court of Appeal refused to move off of Justice Pritchard's decision.
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THE HISTORY OF HSAS, continued
1997 -‐ February 26 Health Sciences appeared before the Labour Relations Board requesting it hold a hearing over its allegation that implementation of the Dorsey Regulations would result in breaches of the Trade Union Act, Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, Charter of Rights and Freedoms and International Labour Conventions. On March 5, 1997 Beth Bilson, Chairperson of the Labour Relations Board, in a 17 page decision rejected the request.
1997 -‐ February 27 to July 13 Health Sciences and SGEU embarked upon a campaign to convince members of the Health Support Practitioner Unit to vote for them. On April 1, 1997 300 Health Sciences Technologists are transferred without a vote to SEIU.
1997 -‐ July 14 Mail in ballots were counted with the following results: Number voting = 1344
Health Sciences votes = 980 SGEU votes = 359 Spoiled ballots = 4 Disqualified ballots = 39 Disputed ballots = 35 (for Board determination)
1997 -‐ July 22 The Labour Relations Board issues an order certifying Health Sciences as the bargaining agent for thirty [30] professions employed by Health Districts in Saskatchewan including four [4] health facilities in northern Saskatchewan.
1998 -‐ April 28 Health Sciences makes application to the Labour Relations Board to represent approximately 35 Health Support Practitioners in the newly created northern Health Districts of Mamawetan Churchill River and Keewatin Yatthé.
1999 -‐ September 10 The Labour Relations Board issues an order certifying Health Sciences as the bargaining agent for the Health Support Practitioners in the two [2] newly created northern Health Districts.
2000 -‐ March 13 The Labour Relations Board issues an order certifying Health Sciences as the bargaining agent for the non-‐union Health Support Practitioners employed by LaRonge EMS, a privately owned ambulance service.
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THE HISTORY OF HSAS, continued
2000 -‐ August 8 The Labour Relations Board issues an order certifying Health Sciences as the bargaining agent for the non-‐union Health Support Practitioners employed by Melville's St. Peter's Hospital in the North Valley Health District.
2002 -‐ Strike
• February 21 -‐ Health Sciences and SAHO sign a tentative settlement providing members a wage increase of 3%, 3% and 3%.
• April 7 -‐ SUN and SAHO sign a tentative agreement giving nurses a 20% wage increase using mandate and job evaluation money.
• April 16 -‐ Health Sciences Executive Council votes to recommend that the membership reject the tentative agreement.
• May 8 -‐ SAHO files a complaint against Health Sciences with the Labour Relations Board alleging that the Union had committed an unfair labour practice by failing to recommend the tentative agreement to its members.
• June 5 -‐ For the first time ever in their history, the Health Sciences membership rejects a tentative agreement by a margin of 78%. This settlement had been reached by Health Sciences and SAHO on February 21, 2002.
• September 3 -‐ Health Sciences conducts a strike vote. Members vote overwhelmingly (80%) to take job action.
• September 5 -‐ The Labour Relations Board grants an injunction at SAHO's request barring Health Sciences from striking until a decision is rendered regarding the alleged unfair labour practice.
• September 16 -‐ The Labour Relations Board decides in favour of Health Sciences finding that the union had not committed an unfair labour practice rejecting every argument raised by SAHO. This cleared the way for Health Sciences to take job action.
• September 18 -‐ Health Sciences commenced job action by conducting an incremental withdrawal of services. Negotiations continued with the assistance of a mediator, Stephen Kelleher.
• September 26 -‐ SAHO refused to move off their position regarding Market adjustments and Job Evaluation -‐ as a result talks break down.
• September 27 -‐ Health Sciences moved to all out strike action taking all members out with the exception of essential services.
• October 14 -‐ Mr. Kelleher returns to assist the parties in their negotiations. • October 16 -‐ A tentative agreement is reached and Health Sciences members return to
work. • November 19 -‐ Health Sciences members vote 90% in favour of accepting the tentative
agreement.
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THE HISTORY OF HSAS, continued
The Health Sciences strike is recorded as the longest health care strike in the province's history. Our members were rewarded for their determination with significant improvements in wages and a workable method to deal with market adjustments.
2003 -‐ March 24 The Labour Relations Board issues an order certifying Health Sciences as the Bargaining Agent for the non-‐union support practitioners employed by Crestvue Ambulance Services in Yorkton, a privately owned ambulance service.
2003 -‐ August 6 The Labour Relations Board issues an order certifying Health Sciences as the Bargaining Agent for the non-‐union support practitioners employed by Kilbach's Ambulance Services in Esterhazy, a privately owned ambulance service.
2005 -‐ April 4 A first collective agreement could not be reached with Crestvue Ambulance Services in Yorkton. As a result, strike action began on this day.
2005 -‐ May 26 Following a six and a half week strike, a first collective agreement was ratified with Crestvue Ambulance Services in Yorkton.
2005 -‐ June 9 Health Sciences members vote to provide their Negotiating Committee with a strike mandate.
2005 – July Facing a 0-‐1-‐1% total compensation mandate from the Employer, Health Sciences members vote in favor of Job Action. A settlement is reached in August 2005, with wage increases of 2-‐2-‐2%, with another 2% for members on the top step along with other monetary improvements. Job Action is not taken in achieving this settlement.
2006 – September Larson House, a detoxification facility in Saskatoon, is taken over by the Saskatoon Health Region. In applying the Dorsey regulations, the Labour Relations Board awarded Health Sciences the (27) Table C professionals employed there; namely, Addictions Counsellors and EMTs. Although Larson House had been organized by SGEU, they hadn't negotiated a first contract by the time Saskatoon Health Region took it over.
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THE HISTORY OF HSAS, continued
2007 – June Health Sciences members vote in favor of strike action to support their Negotiating Committee in efforts to secure a fair Collective Agreement. .
2007 – July 29 members of Health Sciences withdraw their services in legal strike action on July 3 in order to bring pressure on SAHO and Government to make a fair contract offer. On July 10, 2007, a tentative Collective Agreement is achieved.
2007 – September Health Sciences members vote 98% in favor of accepting the 2-‐year Collective Agreement.
2008 – May Health Sciences has their application heard at the Labour Relations Board to represent Laboratory Technolgists and the Biomedical Technologist employed at Canadian Blood Services in Regina.
2008 – July Health Sciences is successful in becoming certified to represent Laboratory Technolgists and the Biomedical Technologist employed at Canadian Blood Services in Regina.
2009 – April HSAS Regina expanded offices and moved to a new location on Park Street.
2009 -‐ June Annual strategic planning sessions started for the 1st time at Elbow, Saskatchewan.
2010 -‐ April HSAS Saskatoon expanded offices at current location.
2010 – June Non-‐confidence vote reached by Executive Council. The result was the current President was asked to step down and the Vice-‐President became the interim President.
2010 -‐ November Interim President acclaimed as new President at the AGM held in Saskatoon.
2010 -‐ December North East EMS was organized by the union. An additional 20 new members were added to HSAS. Collective bargaining on a new agreement begins.
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THE HISTORY OF HSAS, continued
2011 – February Application was made to the Labour Relations Board to organize midwives in the province.
2011 -‐ May 9 – July 7 HSAS conducts the longest healthcare strike in Saskatchewan history. The effectiveness of this strike is tempered by the Saskatchewan Party’s Bill’s 5 & 6 which are the bills that form the framework for the new Essential Services legislation. HSAS was the first union to strike under the new Public Service Essential Services Act. There were 27 days of actual picket lines throughout the province. Approximately 1000 members were pulled-‐out on strike.
2011 -‐ July A Tentative Agreement is reached with SAHO.
2011 – August HSAS membership ratifies the Tentative Agreement. The new agreement is in place from April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2013.
2011 -‐ October Certification order comes through to organize 7 midwives members throughout the province.
2011 -‐ November 14 The lawsuit regarding Bills 5 & 6 is heard in Regina for more than 2 weeks.
2012 -‐ February 6 The Public Service Essential Services Act is ruled unconstitutional by Justice Ball.
2012 -‐ March 5 The Saskatchewan Government announces it will appeal the decision that the Public Service Essential Services Act is unconstitutional.
2012 -‐ May 17 – June 25 “Town Hall” meetings are held across the Province to hear from members issues they are experiencing in their work.
2012 -‐ September 6 – 7 HSAS holds it second Bargaining Conference with approximately 50 members from across the province.
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RECEPTION AND BANQUET INFORMATION
40th Anniversary Gala
Top of the Inn, Sheraton Cavalier Hotel
612 Spadina Crescent East, Saskatoon
Friday, November 2, 2012
Cocktails 6:30 pm
Banquet 7:15 pm
Entertainment to Follow