September 1, 2020

Calendar highlights and upcoming events:
GSU Local 6, Wild West Steelhead bargaining - Sept. 1

Bargaining got underway today in Lucky Lake, SK. More bargaining dates are expected to be announced soon.

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Last day to apply!

GSU's 2020 scholarship program application deadline is today

If you paid union dues to GSU in 2020 that means you, your dependant children, and your spouse are eligible to apply for a $2,000 GSU scholarship.

Deadline for receipt of 2020 scholarship applications is Sept. 1.

Learn more and download the application forms here.


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Are you interested in attending OH&S video webinars in September?

Learn more here.

GSU members who sign up and are approved to participate in GSU-sanctioned events will have their time off work, wages, and expenses covered in accordance with GSU's expense policies (child care included). GSU staff will also assist you with arranging the time off with your employer.

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Nutrien, Local 15 (Nutrien) bargaining - Sept. 30, Oct. 1

Members will be updated on the result of the meetings.

GSU collective agreements with Nutrien expired Dec. 31, 2019. Your GSU Local 15 bargaining committee members are Brian Cowen, Curtis Cousins, Lynn Shaw, GSU staff rep Steve Torgerson, and GSU staff rep/bargaining spokesperson Dale Markling.

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Autumn 2020 membership meetings

We need to talk to you. In addition to the usual union business we've got some constitutional amendments for your consideration and we need you to vote on whether you want to continue paying dues into the GSU Defense Fund.

They way we hold membership meetings will be different this autumn, and we're busy figuring out exactly how to take care of business while keeping everyone safe during Covid. If you have thoughts or suggestions on what type of meeting would work well for you, contact your GSU staff rep.
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GSU Local 15 (Nutrien) bargaining committee spokesperson checks in with company
On Aug. 31, GSU Local 15 bargaining spokesperson Dale Markling reached out to company representatives to check if any dates had come available to resume bargaining before the end of September. Markling hasn't received a reply yet, but he is hopeful earlier dates may be available for the two sides to meet and work toward an acceptable settlement.

GSU collective agreements  with Nutrien expired Dec. 31, 2019. GSU Local 15 bargaining committee members are Brian Cowen, Curtis Cousins, Lynn Shaw, GSU staff rep Steve Torgerson, and GSU staff rep/bargaining spokesperson Dale Markling.

The recent hot weather across most of Saskatchewan kicked harvest into high gear. The accompanying competitive pressure to retain and expand business can lead to a tendency to minimize or forget worker health and safety.
 
“Don’t fall prey to the pressure to produce at the expense of your safety and well-being,” said GSU general secretary Hugh Wagner. “Make sure the proper Covid-19 protective protocols are in place and being followed. There is no reason to let our guard down.”
 
“In addition to being Covid savvy, GSU encourages every member to insist on adherence to their rights, including limits on the amount of time worked as set out in the collective agreements with employers,” Wagner said. “Fatigue is enemy number one and the right to a life away from work should be everyone’s number one priority. Take time to do your job safely and take the time you need to rest and refresh.”

We work hard to enforce the rights and benefits in your collective agreement. If you think your rights are being violated, don't hesitate to contact your GSU staff rep.

Celebrate workers on Labour Day - Sept. 7

On the first Monday in September we celebrate the social and economic achievements of workers and their contribution to the strength, prosperity and well-being of Canada.

In a non-Covid year you will find Labour Day events such as parades, picnics, entertainment in the park, and other social activities. This year will be noticeably different.

Let's use this Labour Day 2020 to reflect on the contribution of our frontline workers and the struggles of all working people who have helped us navigate our way through the Covid-19 pandemic.

Happy Labour Day!
Does autumn make you tired?
It's happening. There is a noticeable chill in the evening. Leaves are changing colour and dropping from the trees. Wasps are willing to fight you for your food. Autumn is here.

What is it about the change in season that leaves us tired and unable to sit down without wanting to have a nap? Learn more here:


This article has been printed for entertainment purposes. The views and opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those of GSU, its members, officers, or staff.