Dispatches April 2004

Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan

April 2004 Inside this issue:

Bargaining Update

Bargaining Update

1

Contact Binders

1

Benefits

3

Regional Council News

5

Alleged Breach of By-Laws

7

Grievance Corner

8

Executive Council Hi-Lites

8

Attendance Management

9

31st Annual Convention

8

Minutes from Annual Convention

8

Labour Relations Board

19

New LRO

19

Executive Council

20

Executive Officers and Board of Governors

21

Committees

21

Regional Councils

21

Saskatoon Staff

22

Regina Staff

23

As you know, our provincial collective agreement expires March 31, 2004. In order to provide HSAS members an opportunity for input into what is negotiated, your Bargaining Committee: 1. mailed each HSAS member a bargaining survey and 2. held thirty-three (33) meetings throughout the province.

Thank you to those members who took the time to complete a survey and attend a meeting.

From the input received, the Bargaining Committee will be developing a proposals package which will be presented to Executive Council for approval.

As required by Article 31.02 of the HSAS/SAHO Collective Agreement, HSAS has served SAHO formal notice to renegotiate our agreement. Bargaining will likely commence sometime in April 2004.

Subsequent to the completion of the last round of provincial bargaining the government appointed Robert Shaw to report and make recommendations on employer-side collective bargaining in healthcare. As a result of the government adopting his recommendations, the SAHO bargaining team will see a representative from government on their negotiating committee.

Additionally, we have recently been informed that SAHO has hired David Wartman, a management consultant from Calgary, to serve as their spokesperson at the bargaining table.

See Bargaining Update on Page 2

Contact Binders Updates were recently sent out for the blue HSAS contact binders. If you have one of the binders and have not received the update package, please contact Charlene in our Regina office. If you are no longer a contact person and/or have passed the binder on to another member, please contact Charlene so that our records can be kept updated. She may be reached, toll-free, at 1-877-889-4727 or in Regina at 585-7751.

April 2004

Page 1

Bargaining Update (cont.)

Should you wish to contact the HSAS Bargaining Team, please feel free to e-mail them as follows: Name Chris Driol Marie Dancsok Ian Holton Mario Kijkowski Bob Shaw Tim Slattery Mary Wilson *

Profession Addictions Counsellor Assessor/Coordinator EMT-A HSAS Staff Respiratory Therapist HSAS Staff Occupational Therapist

City Saskatoon Regina Kindersley Regina Saskatoon Saskatoon Regina

E-mail Address driolc@shaw.ca dancingsock@accesscomm.ca ian.holton@sasktel.net mario.hsas@sasktel.net rishaw7@shaw.ca slatteryt.hsas@sasktel.net maryspurr@accesscomm.ca

* Replaces Doris Grant who resigned due to personal reasons.

The SAHO Bargaining Committee, as of February 24, 2004, is as follows: Name David Wartman Tracey Thomas Barb Biliske Mick Grainger Lee Hall Terry Hutchinson Stuart Hutton Terry Kuyek Judie McNamee Trent Regier Don Soanes

Profession Consultant, Delta Strategy Group Ltd. Labour Relations Consultant Director, Community Services Senior Advisor, Labour Relations Director of Public Health/Therapies Director, Mental Health & Addiction Services General Manager of Rehabilitation Services Labour Relations Consultant Director of Therapies Director of Population Health Senior Labour Relations Facilitator

City/Health Region Calgary, AB SAHO, Saskatoon Mamawetan Churchill River Saskatchewan Health Prairie North Five Hills Saskatoon Regina Qu’Appelle Prince Albert Parkland Cypress Saskatoon

As bargaining progresses we will endeavour to provide you with regular updates.

Your Bargaining Team Standing (from left to right): Chris Driol (Chair), Ian Holton, Mario Kijkowski, Bob Shaw, Tim Slattery Seated (from left to right): Mary Wilson, Marie Danscok

Page 2

April 2004

Benefits A. Saskatchewan Healthcare Employees’ Pension Plan [SHEPP] Effective January 1, 2004 both members and employers commenced paying higher contributions to the pension plan as follows: On earnings up to the YMPE [$40,500] contribution increased from 4.5% to 5.85% On earnings over the YMPE [$40,500 +] contributions increased from 6% to 7.35% These increases are due to the fact that the actuarial valuation as of December 2002 revealed an unfunded liability of $74 million. Legally SHEPP is required to fund the shortfall over 15 years which means contributions must increase.

The Board of Trustees felt they had to act quickly to ensure financial stability of the plan. Over the long term, the Board decided an increase is in the best interests of the plan membership and will ensure that benefits are delivered as promised.

B. HSAS Disability Income Plan [DIP] (a) Premium Increase The most recent actuarial valuation of three (3) SAHO administered disability plans indicated that premiums must increase to ensure their long-term financial stability.

Effective April 1, 2004, DIP premiums for HSAS members will increase from .86% to 1.07% of regular earnings.

In comparison, CUPE premiums increase from 1.1% to 1.394% of regular earnings and SEIU from 1.5% to 1.755% of regular earnings.

Employers match employee contributions for each of the above three (3) plans. (b) Third-party Adjudication of Disability Income Appeals Current union healthcare contracts with SAHO committed the unions and SAHO to develop and implement an independent review process for disability claims.

Negotiations between the parties commenced in 2002 concluding December 18, 2003 with a signed agreement.

The agreement provides for a final review of a decision made on an employee’s SAHO disability claim by an independent adjudicator external to both SAHO and the unions. This final external review is available only after SAHO has completed its own internal review process.

The independent review will be based on written documentation only. SAHO will provide the employee’s complete disability claim file to the external adjudicator.

The adjudicator’s ongoing performance will be monitored by a joint union/management committee comprised of representatives from employers and from each health care union.

April 2004

Page 3

Eligible disability claimants will be provided with a form entitled “Request for: Final Adjudication of Disability Plan Appeals”.

If you have any questions regarding this, please contact Tim Slattery in Saskatoon at 955-3399 or toll-free at 1-888-565-3399.

C. Leaves of Absence and Benefits If you are planning to take a leave of absence, your benefits may be affected. This information will tell you what happens to your benefits during a leave and what you need to do if you are eligible to continue your coverage.

1. Paid Leaves and Unpaid Leaves of 30 days or less Leaves such as these do not affect your benefits.

2. Unpaid Leaves of more than 30 days.

Pension - Neither you nor your employer will make contributions to the plan.

- You will not earn credited service during each complete calendar month of leave.

For example, if your leave period is from July 15 to October 15, you will receive credit for the months of July and October but not for August or September.

- Upon your return to work you have the option of purchasing credited service for the months missed (total leave of absence) to a maximum of two years.

Life Insurance You must continue paying your premiums for the basic coverage [2 x annual salary] during the leave of absence to a maximum of 12 months. Coverage and premiums stop on the first day of the 13th month.

Exception – If you are on an educational leave your premiums are payable for up to 36 months. If your leave extends beyond 36 months your premiums and coverage will stop the first day of the 37th month.

Disability Income You can choose to continue your coverage during the leave up to a maximum of 12 months, if you: 1. complete the Disability Income Plan Leave of Absence form for your employer prior to your leave commencing and 2. arrange to pay the total cost of the premiums payable during the leave including the employer’s portion.

Extended Health / Enhanced Dental / Core Dental (a) Full-time Employees—your coverage continues up to 12 months. If the leave extends beyond 12 months your coverage will stop on the first day of the 13th month. Upon your return to work you will resume the coverage you were entitled to prior to commencing your leave.

Page 4

April 2004

(b) Other than Full-time Employees—your coverage continues up to 12 months. If the leave extends beyond 12 months your coverage will stop on the first day of the 13th month. Upon your return to work you will resume the coverage you were entitled to prior to commencing your leave. Other than full-time employees should be aware that on December 31 of the year they return they will be measured to determine their coverage for the subsequent year. The measurement period is the 12 months preceding December 31. Since the last 6 months of an 18 month leave are not deemed as hours worked, future coverage after December 31 may be impacted.

If you have questions regarding this, please contact your Region’s Human Resources Department or Tim Slattery, toll-free at 1-888-565-3399 or if you are in Saskatoon at 955-3399.

D. New Health and Dental Plan The six (6) healthcare unions have recently approved a Health and Dental Plan for the following: 1. Any member of the SAHO Health and Dental Plans that lost coverage upon retirement between April 1, 2000 and the present date and 2. Any member of the SAHO Health and Dental Plans that is currently receiving long term disability benefits and lost coverage through the Health and Dental Plans after receiving benefits longer than 2 years and 119 calendar days.

During the week of March 15, 2004, SAHO will be mailing information on this new Plan to those eligible.

The Plan is designed for people who want to maintain many of the benefits they enjoyed while working.

A medical questionnaire will not be required if the employee makes application for coverage within 90 days of the date the application is sent from SAHO. Premiums for the Plan will be paid directly by the employee.

The Plan is underwritten by Maritime Life Assurance Company and will be administered by the Encon Group. Encon’s toll free number is 1-800-387-2037.

Regional Council News Five Hills The Five Hills (formerly Moose Jaw - Thunder Creek Health District and Assiniboia area) Regional Council meets monthly, usually the first Tuesday of the month.

For more information or questions please contact your HSAS Regional Council chairperson: Katherine Brisbin 691-6517 or kbri@fhhr.ca

April 2004

Page 5

Prince Albert Parkland A summary of issues and concerns that affect our members were presented at a recent HSASManagement Meeting on Feb. 16, 2004.

Prominent in the meetings discussion was the Regional Conflict of Interest Policy, Attendance Support Program Policy, EFAP Update, HSAS Vacation Banks, Transfer Agreement Health Districts Act 1995, HSAS Orientation, and Email communication to HSAS membership.

In regard to the Conflict of Interest Policy a plan was defined to draft a memo that would provide further detail and clarification for our members. To do this a meeting with Human Resources, HSAS Labor Relations Officer, Site/Facility Manager and Chairperson of Regional Council, PAPHR will be scheduled.

In regard to the Attendance Support Program Policy – management was informed that HSAS cannot support said policy in its existing form. A letter was submitted defining this as well as another letter summarizing employee support programs such as EFAP, onsite wellness programs, staff development initiatives, child care options such as onsite day care and child care co-ops., deferred salary leave, field hours, etc.

In regard to the region’s EFAP program it was reported by management that it is in a process of transition. Tenders for service providers had been advertised and later reviewed. In the short term the service providers for former PAHD and Parkland HD have been extended pending further planning.

In regard to the transfer agreement, Health Districts Act 1995 HSAS presented to management a copy of this agreement. Clarification was requested as to whether this Act was still in force in consideration of the recent formation of health regions. A summary of the discussion would be that there has been no recent legislation that replaces or redefines the original agreement stated in the Health Districts Act of 1995. Critical to members that were transferred over to health districts in 1995 is the commitment to maintain services at a level equal to or greater than what existed in 1995.

Management reviewed the issue of certain members that have great amounts of vacation leave banked. Request was made to HSAS consult with these members and insure that said members use up this vacation leave prior to March 31, 2004. The reason from management was that having large vacation leave banks places the employer in a situation of financial liability (pay out of vacation leave). Clarification regarding this is needed by HSAS. As is defined in the collective agreement an HSAS employee cannot voluntarily receive vacation leave payout except on termination. Therefore this may impact on future protocols around carrying over vacation leave for our members.

A request was made to management to develop an email communication system using the regions network. This would be used under certain restrictions but would be a benefit to management as well as HSAS. Such a network would be useful to communicate HSAS-Joint Meeting minutes, policy details, announcements, job postings, etc. Management to review and report back.

The need to provide orientation to new HSAS members was presented. Management reported that the orientation process is being reviewed for all unions and that participation by HSAS is pending.

Page 6

April 2004

The meeting ended with a plan to meet in June, 2004 along with other meetings specific to the above concerns. In regard to the next HSAS Regional Executive meeting it will take place on March 17 at 4:30 p.m. in the Addiction Services Board room at 101 – 15th Street East (East Entrance by Action Printing). Members welcome.

Murray Wotherspoon Chairperson, HSAS PAPHR Regional Council

Alleged Breach of HSAS By-Laws On January 27, 2004, a Special Disciplinary Committee held a hearing over an alleged breach of the HSAS By-Laws. The twenty (20) complainants, all from one worksite, alleged the HSAS ByLaws were violated when HSAS signed a Letter of Understanding with SAHO clarifying the definition of Senior before sending it out to the general membership for ratification.

The three (3) person Disciplinary Committee was comprised of Roberta Ekberg (Chair), Dr. Debby Boyes and Della Yaroshko.

In their Reasons for Decision the committee dismissed all charges in their entirety and went on to state: “Article 4.6 provides for a process whereby a new collective agreement, the end product of a formal negotiation between duly appointed HSAS and SAHO bargaining committees, is transmitted to the HSAS membership for ratification.

Simply put, in our opinion a Letter of Understanding does not equate to a collective agreement as that phrase is referenced in Article 4.6 of the ByLaws”…

While we suspect that the complainants’ concern with the Letter of Understanding is more to do with its effect on their situations, rather than the process which was followed to conclude the Letter of Understanding. However, it is a practical reality that, through collective bargaining, not all interests and issues of all the membership can be achieved in negotiating either a collective agreement or Letter of Understanding…

In this case it is also important to note that the process to negotiate the Letter of Understanding was transparent in all respects and took place with full knowledge and active participation of Executive Council…

However, we are not oblivious to members’ concerns about their rights and the role of HSAS in advancing the rights of its members. Therefore, we encourage these complainants or others with future concerns to look to other ways to have issues appropriately resolved rather than to take the rather drastic step of formally alleging a violation of the Constitution and By-Laws given the seriousness of such a charge and the expense of the required formal hearing.”

April 2004

Page 7

Grievance Corner Article 7 - Management Rights The employer is requiring HSAS members to participate in a peer review process.

HSAS has always been in opposition to peer review for the following reasons: 1. It has the potential to cause conflict within the bargaining unit by pitting one member against another thus undermining solidarity, and 2. It represents an abdication of management rights and duties, and 3. There are no safeguards as to how management ends up utilizing information received through the peer review process.

A grievance was filed over this issue and the HSAS labour relations staff has recently given the go ahead to proceed to arbitration.

Articles 21.02 - Postings and Filling of Vacant Positions and Article 21.04 - Selection Criteria Management of a multi-site department in one of the large health regions created a new full time position and filled it without posting if for all HSAS members in the Region in breach of Article 21.02 of the HSAS contract. HSAS has filed a grievance. The employer defended its action by stating they canvassed HSAS members at the site of the vacancy and assigned it to the most senior.

HSAS has provided the Region notice that we are proceeding to arbitration over this issue.

Appendix D - Vacation Provision for Former PSC Employees A former PSC employee who was receiving their vacation entitlement on the first day of the vacation year transferred to another Health Region. The Health Region the employee transferred to is now refusing to extend this benefit to this person.

HSAS has filed a grievance over this matter and will be proceeding to arbitration if not resolved.

Executive Council Hi-Lites November 6, 2003 Council approved the establishment of the Roberta Ekberg Award to recognize Roberta’s many contributions to HSAS. This yearly award of $500.00 will be given to an HSAS member who exhibits outstanding commitment to furthering the vision of the union.

December 11, 2003 Executive Council dealt with the following resolution that was passed at the Annual Convention: Page 8

April 2004

“To have Executive Council direct a minimum of $60,000.00 in this fiscal year towards development and training of Regional Councils.”

According to Article 7.3 - Duties of the Board of Governors of the HSAS By-Laws this resolution must be considered by the Board of Governors first as it is considered a “Special Appropriations” item. After reviewing this “Special Appropriation” the Board of Governors did not accept it. In their written reasons the Board of Governors stated they fully support development and further training of Regional Councils. They suggest that Executive Council, in collaboration with the Regional Council Development Committee, suggest the pace and content of training and look at effects and results of recent training conducted prior to the Annual Convention over time. They concluded by stating this will ensure prudent and responsible spending of union funds, when a detailed development and training plan is in place.

All of Executive Council, with the exception of one vote, concurred with the Board of Governors’ decision.

- Council also approved a motion to provide striking members of CUPE Local 3078 in Wadena who were on strike $25.00 each to assist them through the Christmas season.

Health Region Attendance Management Policies We have noticed that Health Regions are either dusting off old policies or creating new ones to deal with sick leave.

If your employer has implemented an Attendance Management Policy, please provide your HSAS Labour Relations Officer (LRO) a copy so we can determine if it violates the Collective Agreement and whether a grievance should be filed.

What to do if your employer approaches you regarding absences from work: 1.

2.

Ask the purpose of the meeting Request your HSAS LRO attend the meeting with you.

If you choose not to have an LRO present or the LRO is unavailable: 1.

2.

Don’t agree to any course of action proposed by the employer before checking with your LRO. Take notes regarding what is said at the meeting and talk to your LRO after to determine if there are grounds to file a grievance.

Remember, your employer cannot ask you: ▪ Diagnosis ▪ Name of your health practitioner ▪ Specifics regarding your health status or any treatment plans ▪ Ask you to resign your position.

Remember, your employer must: ▪ Accommodate any limitations or restrictions you may have related to any rights you enjoy under the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code (such as a disability).

April 2004

Page 9

▪

Ensure you have access to sick leave and disability benefits for which you may qualify.

Thanks to the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses for permission to reprint this article taken from their SUNSPOTS Newsletter.

Thirty-First (31st) HSAS Annual Convention Our 2003 Annual Convention was held Saturday, November 22 at St. Gerard’s Parish Hall in Yorkton. Twenty-eight (28) members from nine (9) Health Regions were in attendance.

The meeting opened with our guest speaker James Clancy, President of the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) speaking on their initiative to establish the Canadian Health Professionals Secretariat. He also provided an overview on what is happening on the labour relations front across Canada.

The business relations meeting was chaired by President Chris Driol. Following the presentation of the President’s, Executive Director’s and various committee reports, the results of Executive Council elections were announced.

Prior to adjourning, it was announced that a new HSAS award had been created by Executive Council to honour the many contributions Roberta Ekberg has made to HSAS. The award will be known as the Roberta Ekberg Award and will be awarded to an HSAS member who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment in furthering the vision of our union. The first recipient of the award was, of course, Roberta Ekberg.

Upon adjournment of the Business Meeting: 1. A draw was made for two (2) $100 cash door prizes. The winners were Victoria Jurgens and Bonnie Yake.

2. A social was held to welcome new members to our union.

3. A supper was provided for those in attendance.

Thank you to the HSAS Sunrise Regional Council for hosting and organizing our Annual Convention with special thanks to Brent McKee and Tamara Dobmeier for their leadership.

Minutes From the 2003 Annual Convention President Chris Driol called the meeting to order at 1:30 pm.

Motion to proceed without 10% of the membership present and that the members present constitute quorum.

Brent McKee / Bonnie Yake Motion carried 1. Adoption of Agenda Motion to adopt the agenda.

Katherine Brisbin / Victoria Jurgens Motion carried

Page 10

April 2004

2. Adoption of November 23, 2002 Annual Convention Meeting Minutes Motion to adopt the minutes of the November 23, 2002 Annual Convention as circulated.

Brenda Andreas / Dianne Lieffers Motion carried 3. President’s Annual Report The President’s report was made available to members prior to the commencement of the meeting. Chris Driol presented his report.

Motion to accept the President’s Annual Report as circulated and presented.

Chris Driol / Marie Dancsok Motion carried 4. Executive Director’s Annual Report The Executive Director’s report was made available to members prior to the commencement of the meeting. Tim Slattery presented his report.

Motion to accept the Executive Directors Annual Report as circulated and presented.

Laura Carney / Katherine Brisbin Motion carried 5.

Committee Reports (a) Finance Committee The Audited Financial Statements were made available to members prior to the commencement of the meeting. Treasurer Jo-Ann Walker presented the reports.

Motion to accept the General Audited Financial Statement as circulated and presented.

Jo Ann Walker / Kathleen Malin Motion carried Motion to accept the Emergency Fund Audited Financial Statement as circulated and presented.

Jo Ann Walker / Roberta Ekberg Motion carried Motion to continue to use Glen Dean as the HSAS Auditor.

Jo Ann Walker / Verna Law Motion carried (b)

Negotiating Committee Chris Driol noted to the members that the Negotiating Committee report was included in with the Executive Director’s report.

(c-g) Charitable Donations, Communications, Education Fund, Emergency Fund and Grievance Committees The Committees’ reports were made available to members prior to the commencement of April 2004

Page 11

the meeting. Chris presented the Committees report.

Motion to accept the Committees Report as circulated and presented.

Kathleen Malin / Roberta Ekberg Motion carried (h)

Constitutional The Constitutional changes were made available to members prior to the commencement of the meeting. Treasurer Jo-Ann Walker presented each article.

Proposed Substantive Changes to the Constitution #1. 3 g) - Objects of the Association Jo Ann Walker / Stan Dimnik Motion carried Amend 3(g) to read: g) To ensure patient safety, participate in the creation of an Essential Services Committee in the event of a legal strike.

Proposed Non-Substantive Changes to the By-Laws #1. Article 1 - Interpretation Jo Ann Walker / Stan Dimnik Motion carried Article 1 – Interpretation - Amend to read: “extraordinary resolution” means a resolution which anticipates a change to the Constitution or By-Laws, voted by members of the Association present at the Annual Convention or a Special Meeting of the Association, or by a Special Mail Vote conducted by the Association. #2. Article 3 - Annual Convention Jo Ann Walker / Stan Dimnik Motion carried Amend title to read: Article 3 - Meetings of the Association #3. Article 3.4 - Quorum Jo Ann Walker / Brent McKee Motion carried Renumber Article 3.4 to Article 3.2 (a) - Quorum

Page 12

April 2004

#4. Article 3.5 - Special Meeting Jo Ann Walker / Victoria Jurgens Motion carried Renumber Article 3.5 to Article 3.4 - Special Meeting #5. Article 3.6 - Executive Council Elections Jo Ann Walker / Kathleen Malin Motion carried Renumber Article 3.6 to Article 3.5 - Executive Council Elections #6. Article 7 - Officers 7.1 - Election and Duties of the President 7.2 - Election of First Vice-President, Second Vice-President/Secretary and Treasurer 7.3 - The First Vice-President 7.4 - The Second Vice-President/Secretary 7.5 - The Treasurer Jo Ann Walker / Kathleen Malin Motion carried Renumber Articles to Article 5 - Officers 5.1 - Election and Duties of the President 5.2 - Election of First Vice-President, Second Vice-President/Secretary and Treasurer 5.3 - The First Vice-President 5.4 - The Second Vice-President/Secretary 5.5 - The Treasurer #7.

Article 7.1 - Election and Duties of the President Jo Ann Walker / Kathleen Malin Motion carried Renumber Article 7.1 - Election and Duties of the President to 5.1 and amend the second paragraph to read: The Executive Council of the Association shall cause to have nomination papers for President distributed to all HSAS members.

#8.

Article 5 - District Councils Jo Ann Walker / Victoria Jurgens Motion carried Renumber Article 5 to Article 6 and Amend title to read Regional Councils

April 2004

Page 13

#9.

Article 5.1 - District Councils/Amalgamated District Councils Jo Ann Walker / Murray Wotherspoon Motion carried Renumber Article 5.1 to Article 6.1, Amend title to read Regional Councils and Amend to read: Members in any Health Region may constitute themselves as a Regional Council and petition the Executive Council to delegate to the Regional Council the authority to act on behalf of members constituting the Regional Council on matters of local concern. #10.

Article 5.2 - Officers Jo Ann Walker / Kathleen Malin Motion carried Renumber Article 5.2 to Article 6.2 – Officers and Amend to read: Chairpersons, Stewards and such other officers of the Regional Council as requested by the members of the Regional Council and approved by the Executive Council will be elected by a method established by the Executive Council.

#11.

Article 5.3 - Duties of Officers Renumber to Article 6.3

#12.

Article 6 - Board of Governors Jo Ann Walker / Laura Carney Motion carried Renumber Article 6 to Article 7 - Board of Governors

#13.

Article 6.1 - Board of Governors and Article 6.2 - Chairperson of the Board of Governors Jo Ann Walker / Laura Carney Motion carried Renumber to: Article 7.1 - Board of Governors and Article 7.2 - Chairperson of the Board of Governors

#14.

Article 6.3 - Duties of the Board of Governors The Constitution Jo Ann Walker / Laura Carney Motion Carried Renumber Article 6.3 to Article 7.3 Proposed amendment to delete “Any governor may receive a constitutional resolution from a member at large which shall be presented to the next meeting of the Executive Council.” was defeated

Page 14

April 2004

#15.

Article 7.5 - The Treasurer Jo Ann Walker / Laura Carney Error in Dispatches - number e should read “is a signing officer…”

Motion carried Renumber Article 7.5 to Article 5.5 - The Treasurer and Amend the first word of each a) through f) to read: a) Keeps an …. b) Chairs the … c) Has the … d) Reviews banking … e) Is a signing officer … f) Is a member …

Proposed Substantive Changes to the By-Laws #1.

Article 3.3 - Resolutions Jo Ann Walker / Kathleen Malin Question called, Terry Dodds/Stan Dimnik, Carried Motion defeated Proposed Wording: In exercising its powers under the Constitution, the Annual Convention or Special meeting shall act by resolution passed by a simple majority of voting members present. All proposed resolutions including extraordinary must be provided to the Executive Council in written form including the preamble and resolve, 90 days prior to the Annual Convention. Any proposed amendments, alterations, additions or deletions to any provision of the Constitution or By-Laws must be approved by a three-fourths majority of the Executive Council present at a meeting of the Executive Council. Any extraordinary resolutions not approved by Executive Council will not go forward to the membership. Notice of all extraordinary resolution approved by Executive Council and all other resolutions will be provided to the voting members fourteen (14) calendar days prior to an Annual Convention or a Special Meeting of the Association. Extraordinary resolutions shall only be confirmed with or without variation, by two-thirds of the voting members of the Association present at a Special Meeting duly called for that purpose or at the next Annual Convention, whichever is held first. All votes shall be by show of hands unless a poll is demanded by three members. Only those resolutions submitted by Committee Chairs in their year-end reports will be entertained from the floor.

Executive Council will review all resolutions and recommend acceptance or rejection.

#2.

Article 4.2 - Election Jo Ann Walker / Brenda Andreas Motion defeated Proposed Wording: b) In the event of a vacancy on the Executive Council with more than six months remaining in the term of the vacant position, except in the case of the President, the

April 2004

Page 15

Executive Council shall cause Nomination Papers to be distributed to the members of the professional, occupational or ‘composite’ group affected as soon as practicable. Nomination papers as described in Article 3.5 shall be returned within thirty (30) calendar days. The Executive Council shall cause the Executive Director to create an election process in general accordance with Article 3.5. The incumbent so elected will site for the remainder of the term of the seat. In the event a Council member resigns with less than six months left in her term, she is required to delegate an alternate to complete the term. d) In the event the President’s seat becomes vacant, the First Vice President will fill that position until the regular elections of Executive Council are held. #3.

Article 7.1 - Election and Duties of the President Jo Ann Walker / Bonnie Yake Motion defeated Proposed Wording: (first paragraph) Any active member shall be eligible for nomination to President. The President shall be elected by all members of the Association for a two (2) year term or for a lesser period of time at the pleasure of the Executive Council. The Executive Council may remove the President by a vote of at least three-quarters )3/4) of the Executive Council sitting at a meeting called after a vote of non-confidence of at least twothirds (2/3) of the Executive Council Meeting. The authority of the President would be temporarily suspended pending the outcome of the vote to remove the President.

The second meeting shall not be held earlier than two weeks from the date of the non-confidence motion.

Substantiated Article 5.3 - Duties of Officers Jo Ann Walker / Laura Carney Out of Order by: Chris Driol Appeal Moved by: Jo-Ann Walker Appeal Seconded by: Bonnie Yake Motion defeated Proposed Wording: Officers of the Regional Council shall provide a liaison between the members of the Regional Council and the Executive Council and Executive Director / Labour Relations Officers for the coordination of the activities of the members of the Regional Council and to make such recommendations and reports and carry out such other duties as may be required to assist the Executive Council and Executive Director in the organization, management and operation of the affairs of the Association. From time to time Executive Council may direct the officers of the a Regional Council to carry out various duties to assist the Labour Relations Staff and Executive Council. The Chairperson of each Council shall conduct their affairs in a manner consistent with the objects of the association and shall act and carry out their duties in accordance with such policies as may be established by the Executive Council from time to time. An Officer may be removed from office by the Executive Council for just cause.

Page 16

April 2004

Note: Although motion defeated number 5.3 will change to 6.3 – Duties of Officers and any reference within to District Council(s) will change to Regional Council(s).

Announcement Tim Slattery announced the formation of the Roberta Ekberg Award He mentioned many of the contributions made throughout the years by Roberta Ekberg.

Tim then announced the first recipient of this award is Roberta Ekberg.

Tim presented Roberta with the award as well as a gift.

A plaque displaying the names of the winners was also unveiled which will be hung in the Health Sciences office.

6.

Results of Mail-in-Ballots for President and Other Vacant Executive Council Seats President - Chris Driol Addictions Counsellors/Therapists - Terry Dodds Assessor Coordinators - Debbie Matties (acclaimed) as Doris Grant withdrew few days prior to count - Tanis Sibley (acclaimed) as Doris Grant withdrew few days prior to count Dispatchers, EMTs, EMTAs, Paramedics - Ian Holton - Kateri Singer Pharmacists - Nicole Bidwell (acclaimed) Physical Therapists, Prosthetists, Orthotists, Exercise/Conditioning Therapists - Bonnie Yake (acclaimed) Respiratory Therapists, Perfusionists - Warren Chykowski Social Workers - Rick Felix (acclaimed)

7. Old Business none 8. New Business Motion to have Executive Council direct a minimum of $60,000 in this fiscal year towards development and training of Regional Councils.

Murray Wotherspoon / Katherine Brisbin Question called, Stan Dimnik/Verna Law, Carried Motion carried

April 2004

Page 17

Motion Letter of Understanding • all amendments to a collective agreement including letters of understanding that affects the entire membership must be ratified by the membership.

• Interim letters of understanding or amendments affecting directly only portions of the membership must be ratified by those members directly affected as determined by the bargaining committee.

• The bargaining committee may apply to the Executive Council to waive the requirement for membership ratification of interim letters of understanding or amendments where the effects of the letters of understanding or amendments are not significant or where special circumstances exist. In such cases, members affected by this decision shall be notified of the waiver, in writing.

• The Executive Council must first approve a letter of understanding or amendment prior to going to the membership for ratification.

• When ratification ballots are being counted, the bargaining committee shall ensure that an Executive Council member, not representing that committee directly, is there as a scrutineer.

Marie Danscok / Debbie Matties Question called, Stan Dimnik/Brent McKee, Carried Motion carried 9. Members Resolutions Motion that Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan: 1. Participate as an independent union in the Secretariat and 2. Pay NUPGE 1% of HSAS’s revenue on a monthly basis to assist in defraying Secretariat expenditures.

Monica Lawrence / Victoria Jurgens Motion Carried Motion that the Convention approve all actions undertaken by Executive Council over the past year (November 23, 2002 to November 23, 2003) Monica Lawrence / Dianne Lieffers Motion Carried 10. Adjournment Motion that the Annual Convention be adjourned Bonnie Yake / Brent McKee Motion carried Adjournment time: 5:50 p.m.

11. Lottery to Select Winners of Cash Prizes The winners were: 1. Victoria Jurgens 2. Bonnie Yake

Page 18

April 2004

Labour Relations Board HSAS currently represents three (3) full-time EMS workers employed by the Five Hills Health Region.

The employer plans to abolish two (2) of the full-time EMT positions, create two (2) new positions entitled Care Aide/EMT and move them into the SEIU Provider Unit.

HSAS challenges the right of the employer to create a single classification which is a hybrid of classifications drawn from two different bargaining units. HSAS argues that as long as there are qualified employees performing specialized duties particular to the EMT classification, then HSAS maintains representation rights with respect to the employees when they are carrying out those duties.

The Health Region has agreed with HSAS to forward this issue to the Labour Relations Board for a decision. SEIU will likely participate as an intervener.

Cambridge Research Aoccdrnig to rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoetnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be at the rghit pclae. The rset can be a tatol mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.

HSAS Welcomes New Labour Relations Officer Jim Jeffery to Our Regina Office Jim Jeffery was hired in November 2003 to fill the vacant Labour Relations Officer position created by Greg Deren’s departure. Jim commenced employment in the Regina HSAS office on November 18, 2003. He comes to us from Prince George, BC where he was employed by the Teamsters Union to represent its membership in the northern half of the province. Jim has been representing union members for approximately 23 years. He brings with him extensive experience in collective bargaining, grievance handling and workplace representation. As part of Jim’s previous duties, he was responsible for negotiating collective agreements with 30 employers, including provincial and national agreements, for a very diverse membership. Jim is looking forward to having his family, including four children, join him in Saskatchewan at the end of the school year.

April 2004

Page 19

Executive Council Executive Council is the governing body that conducts the business of the union between Annual Conventions.

Representing Addictions Counsellors/ Therapists

Seats

Address Sturdy Stone Building Addictions Services 122 - 3rd Avenue N. Saskatoon, SK S7K 2H6 Humboldt Home Care 231 Main Street, Box 1930 Humboldt, SK S0K 2A0

Term Ends Nov. 2005

Don Ross Centre 891 - 99th Street North Battleford, SK S9A 1E9 Regina Mental Health Clinic 3rd Floor, 2110 Hamilton Street Regina, SK S4P 2E3

Nov. 2005

Tanis Sibley Heartland Health Region

Kindersley Union Hospital 1003 - 1st Street West Kindersley, SK S0L 1S2

Nov. 2005

Dianne Lieffers Saskatoon Health Region (Speech & Language Pathologist)

1

Warren Chykowski Saskatoon Health Region (Respiratory Therapist)

Saskatoon City Hospital Rehabilitation Program 7th Floor, 701 Queen St. Saskatoon, SK S7K 0M7 Royal University Hospital Respiratory Therapy Dept.

Box 50, 103 Hospital Dr. Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8 Kindersley Union Hospital 1003 - 1st Street West Kindersley, SK S0L 1S2

Nov. 2004

1

Kateri Singer Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region (Paramedic) JoAnn Walker Saskatoon Health Region (Physical Therapist)

Emergency Medical Services Box 3930 Regina, SK S4P 3R8 Community Services Royal University Hospital 103 Hospital Dr. Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8

Nov. 2005

1

Mary Wilson Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region

Wascana Rehab Centre 2180 – 23rd Avenue Regina, SK S4S 0A5 Community Health Services #204 – 1146 – 102nd Street North Battleford, SK S9A 1E9 Pharmacy Department Regina General Hospital 1440 – 14th Ave. Regina, SK S4P 0W5 Occupational Therapy Dept.

Pasqua Hospital 4101 Dewdney Avenue Regina, SK S4T 1A5 McKerracher Centre 2302 Arlington Ave. Saskatoon, SK S7J 3L3 Ellis Hall Royal University Hospital 103 Hospital Dr. Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8 Community Dietitian Shellbrook Hospital Box 70, 211 – 2nd Ave. West Shellbrook, SK S0J 2E0

Nov. 2005

1

Bonnie Yake Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region (Physical Therapist) Roger Piatt Prairie North Health Region (Public Health Inspector) Nicole Bidwell Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region

1

Social Workers

Elected Terry Dodds Saskatoon Health Region Brenda Andreas Saskatoon Health Region

Nov. 2004

2 Rick Felix Prairie North Health Region Assessor/Coordinators

Debbie Matties Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region

Nov. 2005

2

Speech & Language Pathologists, Audiologists, Orthoptists, Music Therapists Respiratory Therapists, Perfusionists Emergency Medical Technicians, Dispatchers, Paramedics

Ian Holton Heartland Health Region (EMT-A)

Nov. 2005

Nov. 2005

2

Physical Therapists, Prosthetists, Orthotists, Exercise/Conditioning Therapists

Nov. 2004

2

Public Health Inspectors, Infection Control Practitioners Pharmacists

1

Occupational Therapists

Recreation Therapists, Mental Health Therapists

1

Psychologists, Psychometritians

1

Dietitians, Nutritionists, Dental Hygienists/ Therapists, Health Educators

Page 20

1

Anne Robins Saskatoon Health Region (Recreation Therapist) Dawn Phillips Saskatoon Health Region (Psychologist) Victoria Jurgens Prince Albert Parkland Health Region (Dietitian)

Nov. 2004 Nov. 2005

Nov. 2004

Nov. 2004 Nov. 2004

Nov. 2004

April 2004

Executive Officers

Board of Governors

The Executive Officers are elected from and by Executive Council for a one (1) year term except the President, who is elected for a two (2) year term by the general membership.

The Board of Governors provide guidance and counsel to Executive Council on all matters regarding administration of the Union. Any member having served at least four (4) years on Executive Council, at least two (2) of which as an officer, shall be eligible for election to the Board of Governors for a seven year term. The current Governors are:

President Chris Driol Addictions Counsellor

Treasurer Warren Chykowski Respiratory Therapist

First Vice-President

Second VicePresident/Secretary Mary Wilson Occupational Therapist

Kateri Singer Paramedic

Ted Makeechak Physical Therapist

Natalie Horejda Physical Therapist

Committees Standing Constitutional 2004 Annual Ian Holton Convention Warren Chykowski (Chair) Natalie Horejda Dianne Lieffers (Chair) Dianne Lieffers JoAnn Walker JoAnn Walker Mary Wilson Charitable Donations Emergency Fund Dawn Phillips (Chair) Roger Piatt (Chair) Anne Robins Tanis Sibley Tim Slattery Communications Terry Dodds (Chair) Finance Ian Holton Laura Carney Natalie Horejda Warren Chykowski (Chair) Tim Slattery Lynn Regier Eileen Zaba Tim Slattery JoAnn Walker

Grievance Brenda Andreas (Chair) Nicole Bidwell Ian Holton Scott Thomson Roger Piatt (Alternate) Bonnie Yake (Alternate) Negotiating Marie Dancsok Chris Driol (Chair) Ian Holton Mario Kijkowski Robert Shaw Tim Slattery Mary Wilson

Regional Council Development Brenda Andreas Terry Dodds (Chair) Debbie Matties Mary Wilson Education Fund Dianne Lieffers Ted Makeechak (Chair)

Ad Hoc Archives Terry Dodds Kevin Glass Ian Holton Mary Wilson (Chair)

Regional Councils Upon approval of Executive Council the HSAS By-Laws provides for members in each Health Region to organize themselves into an HSAS Regional Council. Once established, Regional Councils can act on matters of local concerns. Active Regional Councils are as follows: Sunrise Regional Council - Arlene Tangjerd (Chair) Five Hills Regional Council - Katherine Brisbin (Chair) Prince Albert Parkland Regional Council - Murray Wotherspoon (Chair) Saskatoon Regional Council - Candi Thompson (Chair) Note: If members in other regions are interested in forming a Regional Council, please contact Terry Dodds - Chair of the Regional Council Development Committee. Terry can be contacted at (306) 655-4108 or: Sturdy Stone Building Addiction Services 122 - 3rd Avenue North Saskatoon, SK S7K 2H6 April 2004

Page 21

Saskatoon HSAS Staff #42 - 1736 Quebec Avenue Saskatoon, SK S7K 1V9 Phone: Toll-Free: Fax: E-mail:

(306) 955-3399 1-888-565-3399 (306) 955-3396 hsasstoon@sasktel.net

Tim Slattery Executive Director

slatteryt.hsas@sasktel.net

Kevin Glass glassk.hsas@sasktel.net Labour Relations Officer Al Shalansky shalanskyal.hsas@sasktel.net Labour Relations Officer Lynn Regier Administrator

regierl.hsas@sasktel.net

Colette Duffee hsasstoon@sasktel.net Secretary/Receptionist Janet Foreman * larsonc.hsas@sasktel.net Secretary/Receptionist *

Replacing Crystal Larson who is on a leave of absence.

Saskatoon Labour Relations Officers’ Assignments We encourage members’ concerns and questions be directed to the staff person assigned to their Regional Health Authority/Worksite.

Kevin Glass Phone: 955-5712 E-mail Address: glassk.hsas@sasktel.net Toll-Free: 1-888-565-3399 Heartland Keewatin Yatthé La Ronge EMS Mamawetan Churchill River Prairie North Saskatoon · Idylwyld Health Centre - Public Health Services · Kinsmen Centre · McKerracher · Parkridge · Royal University Hospital · Sherbrooke · Stensrud Lodge · Youth Services

Page 22

Al Shalansky Phone: 955-3454 E-mail Address: shalanskyal.hsas@sasktel.net Toll-Free: 1-888-565-3399 Kelsey Trail Prince Albert Parkland Saskatoon · Calder Centre · Idylwyld Health Centre - Client/Patient Access Services · Nurses Alumnae Wing · Saskatoon City Hospital · St. Paul’s Hospital · Sturdy Stone · rural areas

April 2004

Regina HSAS Staff #180 - 1230 Blackfoot Drive Regina, SK S4S 7G4 Phone: Toll-Free: Fax: E-mail:

(306) 585-7751 1-877-889-4727 (306) 585-7750 hsasregina@sasktel.net

Jim Jeffery jefferyj.hsas@sasktel.net Labour Relations Officer Mario Kijkowski mario.hsas@sasktel.net Labour Relations Officer Charlene Hebert hsasregina@sasktel.net Secretary/Receptionist

Regina Labour Relations Officers’ Assignments We encourage members’ concerns and questions be directed to the staff person assigned to their Regional Health Authority/Worksite.

Jim Jeffery Phone: 585-7753 E-mail Address: jefferyj.hsas@sasktel.net Toll-Free: 1-877-889-4727

Mario Kijkowski Phone: 585-7754 E-mail Address: mario.hsas@sasktel.net Toll-Free: 1-877-889-4727

Cypress Regina Qu’Appelle · Alcohol and Drug Services · Community Health Centres · Hearing Aid Plan · Mental Health Clinics · Public Health Services · Wascana Rehabilitation Centre Sun Country

Crestvue Ambulance Services Five Hills Kilbach’s Ambulance Services Ltd. Regina Qu’Appelle · Cupar and District Nursing Home · Emergency Medical Services · Extendicare · Home Care/SWADD · Lumsden and District Heritage Home · Pasqua Hospital · Regina General Hospital · Regina Lutheran Home · Regina Pioneer Village · Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home Sunrise

Visit us on the Web at www.hsa-sk.com !

April 2004

Page 23

#42 - 1736 Quebec Avenue Saskatoon, SK S7K 1V9

Note: If any of your colleagues express concern about not receiving their newsletter, please have them call the Saskatoon Office.

Dispatches is published for the information of members of the Health Sciences Association of Saskatchewan.

Check out our Web Site ! www.hsa-sk.com