August 2010

It has been quite some time since my last message.  As mentioned in my previous message, we visited members at IOT in St-John’s, IMB in Halifax, IMI in Boucherville and BRI in Montreal.  Discussions on parking fees, dues increases, Public Service Health Care Plan, classification review and bargaining status took place.  We are presently scheduled to visit institutes in Edmonton, Saskatoon and Winnipeg. The travel dates are on the website.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all members who voted in favour of the proposed dues increases.  I would also like to thank all the institute representatives for their support. I am aware that this was a difficult decision, but I firmly believe it is something that the RCEA needs in order to fulfill our mandate of member representation.

In preparation for the upcoming AGM, Joan and I will begin looking at scheduling institute visits in the national capital region.  Once we have tentative dates, institute representatives will be contacted for availability and to arrange for a meeting.

At the last Joint Consultation Committee meeting, I had the opportunity to meet the new NRC President, Mr. John McDougall.  Following the JCC meeting I invited Mr. McDougall to visit our offices and have an informal meeting. He graciously accepted and we met on July 14. We had a productive meeting and we both agreed on the need to maintain ongoing communication.

The implementation of parking fees at various NRC sites has created concern and outrage from members. We understand this and will continue to raise concerns with the Parking Committee. 

I find it hard to believe that I am at the end of my second term as President of the RCEA.  I will be putting my name forward again to run for President of the RCEA.  Members of the Executive with 2 or more years of service on the Executive are also eligible for nomination.  The nomination form can be obtained from Laurette Ernst and must be returned to the RCEA office by close of business on September 15, 2010.

On a final note, do take advantage of the great summer weather and enjoy some quality time with family and friends.

Sincerely,

Serge Croteau
President