Dear Members,
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to address some concerns that have been brought to my attention regarding our union’s role in representing members across different ranks within our organization.
It has come to my notice that there may be some confusion regarding the extent of union representation and protection for our members, particularly concerning the distinction between managers and non-managerial staff within our union. Let me clarify this for everyone.
As members of the CEIU union, all of you are entitled to representation and protection regardless of your rank within the organization. Whether you are a CR04, AS-01, PM-01, PM-02, PM-03, or PM-04, your rights as CEIU Local 541 union members are equally valued and safeguarded by our union.
I understand that there have been concerns raised by PM-02 members regarding the actions of PM-03s and PM-04s, who at times may seem aligned with management. However, it’s important to emphasize that our union’s responsibility is to represent and defend the rights of all its members, including PM-03s and PM-04s.
While we acknowledge that there may be differences in roles and responsibilities within the organization, it’s crucial to remember that union protection extends to every member, regardless of their position or seniority. Our union is committed to ensuring fair treatment, addressing grievances, and advocating for the rights of all our members.
I want to make it clear that the union does not possess powers of investigation into individual actions or behaviors within the workplace. It is management’s responsibility to ensure a safe workplace. However, we your CEIU Local 541 team are here to support and defend our members if their rights are violated or if they face any form of unfair treatment as a result of management action or inaction.
As a public servant, you are responsible for ensuring compliance with the ESDC Code of Conduct and the Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector and exemplify, in all your actions and behaviors, the public sector values. As such, you must conduct yourself in a manner that reflects the values of respect for democracy, respect for people, integrity, stewardship, and, of particular importance, the value of Respect for People encompasses the importance of treating all people with respect, dignity, and fairness and contributing to a safe and healthy work environment that promotes engagement, openness, and transparency.
Respect for People
• You are expected to be open, tactful, and respectful in your dealings with others, including with those who hold different opinions, and to display good interpersonal skills. Good interpersonal skills include listening, offering constructive criticism, and contributing to the team.
• You are to demonstrate respect for colleagues’ points of views and guidance.
• When you believe that you are right and others are wrong or misguided, you are expected to communicate in a calm, respectful, and non-accusatory tone. You are expected to discuss the issue with the concerned person and with your supervisor, by sharing your point of view, references, or suggestions in a calm, professional, and respectful manner. Refrain from making accusations or “pointing fingers”.
Asking objective questions, sharing your concerns, and/or explaining how the situation affects you and what you propose to remedy the situation will help everybody make better-informed decisions and help build a healthier, more productive workplace.
That said, you have the right as an employee to express your concerns; the way to communicate must be respectful and professional at all times. Taking the time to reflect and edit your message before sending may be helpful.
Additionally, I would like to remind PM-03s and PM-04s that while they may serve extended roles of management, they are not considered as part of the management team. It’s important to maintain this distinction to ensure that your rights as CEUI Local 541 union members are fully protected.
If any member, regardless of rank, feels that their rights have been infringed upon or if they require assistance or representation, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to support you and ensure that your rights are upheld against employer actions or inactions.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. Together, we will continue to strive for fairness, equality, and solidarity within our union.
In solidarity,
Sunil Deonaraine, President, CEIU Local 541