Annual general membership meetings are well underway

Watch your email inbox for your meeting notice. Meetings run until mid-December, so if you haven't received your notice you can expect it to show up soon.

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Defense Fund Board of Directors will meet Dec. 6, 2023

These elected directors oversee the administration and investment of the GSU Defense Fund assets and set policy for payment of strike/lockout pay for union members engaged in collective bargaining disputes.

The board meets three or four times a year (or more often, if required) to review the Fund’s financial position, investment strategy and other administrative matters. Most meetings are held via conference call or video technology and paid union leave is arranged for participation in the meetings.

Learn more about the Defense Fund Board of Directors here.

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It's important to attend your union meetings!

Union meetings are opportunities to seek information, set direction, and express your interests

By attending meetings, staying informed, and actively participating in the democratic processes of the union, you not only help to safeguard your own interests but contribute to the resilience and effectiveness of the collective voice. Your involvement is not just a responsibility; it's a powerful tool for positive change in your workplace.

Don't answer work calls when you are sick, on personal time away from work, or not actively working

Regardless of the employer or the season, GSU staff representatives consistently handle calls from members who are stressed about receiving work-related calls during their time off, vacations, or sick leave.

In response, our representatives offer a straightforward piece of advice: if you're not at work, on call or on standby, don't answer the phone.

"You are not obligated to take or reply to calls when you are sick, enjoying your personal time away from work and not actively working for the company," said GSU staff representative Mason Van Luven. "This fundamental principle is reinforced by collective agreements, empowering our members to maintain a healthy work-life balance and assert their right to uninterrupted time away from work obligations."

Van Luven advises "Members need to use the latitude their collective agreement offers. If you don't use it, you leave the door open for management not to respect it."

GSU staff representatives work with you to find answers to your questions, recommend what course of action is best to follow, and find the solutions that work for you. Contacting GSU does not mean you are obligated to file a grievance. We are here to assist you in any way that we can, but we will not contact your employer, file a grievance or act on your behalf without consultation, direction and approval from you.

Navigating Winter Roads Safely: Essential Precautions for Winter Driving

As winter descends upon us, the beauty of snow-covered landscapes comes hand-in-hand with the challenges of winter driving. Treacherous road conditions, reduced visibility, and icy surfaces pose significant risks for motorists. To ensure a safe and stress-free journey during the winter months, it’s crucial to take proactive measures and adhere to safety precautions.

Here are some essential tips for winter driving to help you reach your destination safely.

1. Prepare Your Vehicle

Before embarking on a winter journey, ensure your vehicle is winter-ready:

• Check Your Tires: Invest in winter or snow tires with proper tread depth for improved traction. Ensure tires are properly inflated as well.
• Maintain Fluid Levels: Keep your vehicle’s fluids (antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, oil) topped up to prevent freezing.
• Battery Health: Cold temperatures can strain your car battery. Have it tested to ensure it can handle winter conditions.
• Brakes and Lights: Make sure your brakes are in good condition, and all lights are functioning correctly for optimal visibility.
• Clean the Snow off your Vehicle: Clear your windshield, windows, mirrors. Don't leave snow on your hood where it can blow onto your windshield and obscure your vision.

2. Drive Cautiously

• Reduce Speed: Slow down and drive at a safe, controlled speed. Icy roads require increased stopping distances, so allow for extra time to react.
• Avoid Sudden Movements: Gentle acceleration, braking, and steering are key to maintaining control on slippery surfaces. Sudden movements can lead to skidding.
• Use Low Beams: In snowy conditions, visibility can be compromised. Use low beams to reduce glare and improve your own visibility.

3. Maintain Distance

• Increase Following Distance: Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. This provides time to react and brake without causing a collision.
• Watch for Black Ice: Be particularly cautious on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas, as they tend to freeze first, forming black ice that can be nearly invisible.

4. Stay Informed

• Check Weather Reports: Stay updated on weather forecasts before heading out. Avoid driving in severe weather conditions if possible.
• Road Condition Information: Many regions provide real-time updates on road conditions. Check with local authorities or use online resources for the latest information.

5. Emergency Preparedness

• Carry a Winter Survival Kit: Include essentials like blankets, extra clothing, non-perishable snacks, a flashlight, and a first aid kit in case of an emergency.
• Charge Your Phone: Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged before your journey. A charged phone can be a lifeline in case of an emergency.
• Inform Someone of Your Plans: Let someone know your route and expected arrival time. This information can be crucial in case assistance is needed.

Conclusion

Winter driving demands extra attention and preparation to ensure the safety of both

drivers and passengers. By following these precautions and adopting a vigilant and

cautious mindset, you can navigate winter roads with confidence.

Remember: It’s better to arrive a bit later than to risk safety by rushing through challenging winter conditions. Safe travels!

Local 1 (Viterra Ops & Maintenance) & Local 2 (Viterra Head Office): Strike Authorization votes are in and counted; Meetings to vote on Company's final offer are being scheduled

When the results of the strike vote were counted on Nov. 24 in the presence of GSU Local 1 member Colton Buck, Local 2 bargaining committee member Kaylee Yanoshewski, and GSU staff representatives Donna Driediger and Mason Van Luven, it was determined that Local 1 (Viterra Country Operations & Maintenance) members voted 84 percent in favour of strike action and Local 2 (Regina Head Office) voted 76 percent in favour of strike action.

Meetings are now being scheduled for members to vote on the company’s final offer that was presented to GSU bargaining committees during mediation on Nov. 15.

Detailed information on what's happened and what's next, a copy of Viterra's November 17, 2023, Final Offer and GSU's November 24, 2023, Report on the Final Offer are available in the Nov. 24 (#34) and Nov. 25 (#35) bargaining updates sent to members. All updates are available under the Bargaining/Viterra Bargaining tab on our web page at GSU.ca.

In the coming weeks, members will play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of negotiations. By staying informed, actively participating in the voting process, and engaging in open communication with fellow members and representatives, we can collectively work towards a fair and favourable agreement. We are at a crucial juncture in our union's journey, and your involvement is key to achieving the best possible outcome for all.

Watch your email, and talk to your elected delegates and your GSU staff rep for additional information.

You can read previous updates on the VITERRA BARGAINING page on GSU's main web page under the Bargaining menu tab. Contact Mason@gsu.ca to be added to our bargaining update email list.

If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact a bargaining committee member or your GSU staff representative.

GSU bargaining committee members are Local 1 – Jim Brown (Balgonie), Wilfred Harris (Carnduff), Shannon Antonenko (Lloydminster), David Barrett (Gull Lake), Travis Brewer (Saskatoon), Dale Lysitza (Lloydminster) and Broc Goodwin (Moose Jaw); Local 2 – Sheila Tran, Howard Wilson and Kaylee Yanoshewski with assistance from GSU staff representatives Mason Van Luven and Steve Torgerson (GSU general secretary and bargaining committee spokesperson). Don't hesitate to contact your bargaining committee with any questions or concerns you may have.

Local 5 (Western Producer) bargaining impasse: New dates being sought in 2024 to continue bargaining

Due to scheduling conflicts of The Western Producer, our previously arranged bargaining dates have been canceled. GSU remains actively engaged on behalf of its members and we are diligently exploring opportunities for discussions early in 2024.

A scheduled hearing with the Saskatchewan Labour Relations Board (SLRB) will take place Nov. 27 to 30. This hearing is a pivotal one and a critical step in safeguarding the rights and interests of GSU Local 5 members.

The bargaining committee comprises Laurie Michalycia, Donna Driediger (bargaining co-spokesperson/GSU staff) and Steve Torgerson (bargaining co-spokesperson/GSU general secretary).

Local 6 (Wild West Steelhead) members prepare for bargaining in early 2024

When Local 6 members gathered at their annual general meeting, they also discussed their expiring collective agreement and upcoming bargaining slated for early 2024.

Members in Local 6 work at a fish processing plant in Lucky Lake, SK. This business is a fully-integrated producer controlling all stages of production from egg incubation to finished, boneless fillets ready for the consumer. Members work both inside and outside the facility in roles such as divers and processors.

This group is looking forward to a productive round of bargaining in 2024.

Significant progress made in Local 9 (Trouw) agreement renewal bargaining

GSU general secretary Steve Torgerson and staff representative Mason Van Luven were in Chilliwack for the first round of bargaining on November 21 and 22. Significant progress was made but a final deal wasn't reached. Both sides are looking at their schedules for available dates to meet again before the year ends.

Among the key issues at the table was how to adapt the current collective agreement to cover the new mill being constructed next to the existing one. The aim is to ensure a smooth transition to the new facility with minimal stress and uncertainty for Local 9 members.

The Local 9 (Trouw) collective agreement is set to expire at the end of 2023.

Your GSU bargaining committee comprises Rob Macken, Kelly Swaretzky and Mason Van Luven (bargaining co-spokesperson/GSU staff).Jordan Jefferson will serve as alternate.

Local 19 (Prairie Co-op) - Notice to bargain has been served, bargaining dates have been set

GSU staff rep Mason Van Luven has been engaging with Local 19 members to assess their priorities and elect bargaining committee members before meeting with the company February 14 and 15.

The current collective agreement expired Oct. 31, 2023.

If it's a sincere compliment, share it!

We recently discovered that GSU members (shout-out to you, GSU Local 9ers) enjoy reading the last story here on our Tuesday Members' Memo newsletters, and the positive feedback brightened our day. It got us thinking about the simple joy of expressing appreciation.

How often do we hold positive thoughts about people or situations without vocalizing them? Just imagine the impact of a sincere compliment – whether it's acknowledging a service worker who is really awesome, recognizing someone's excellent taste in decorating their home or crafting a custom hot rod, or letting someone know that they are a really great parent, co-worker, or friend.

Compliments have a unique power; they not only make the person receiving them feel good but also bring a sense of warmth to the one offering the kind words. In a world often clouded by negativity, let's make an effort to spread genuine compliments and brighten each other's days.

Learn more here:

• 20 authentic compliments to make someone's day
• 39 people share the sweetest thing ever said to them
• The amazing power of a sincere compliment

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.

Disclaimer: Things change rapidly. We strive for accuracy, but for the most up-to-date details, please contact your GSU staff representative with any questions or concerns.