July 2008

Many of you have expressed concerns and frustration with respect to the length of time it takes to get to the table and begin bargaining.  The bargaining process, as always, remains a slow and frustrating process.  All 6 bargaining units have served notice to bargain.  Demands have been submitted for several groups and we have also received NRC’s demands for the TO group.  As always, the mandate process is taking a great deal of time.  There have been very few awards or settlements in the greater public service and this is having an impact on our ability to get to the bargaining table. Preliminary bargaining for the TO group is scheduled for October and we certainly hope that NRC will have a mandate by this time.  It is important to remember that even though your collective agreements have expired, the terms and conditions have been frozen and are still in effect. 

The announcement of the classification review at NRC is good news; it is indeed time that all RCEA classifications be examined and brought up to date.  Our complete role in this process has yet to be determined, however this review will definitely put a strain on existing RCEA resources.  Staffing action may be required.

The Constitution Committee has met several times and its members continue to work hard on the full review of the RCEA constitution.  The proposed amendments to the constitution, which will be brought to the full membership for a vote after the AGM, should reflect more of today’s realities.

During the summer months we are preparing for the upcoming AGM in October.  As always, I hope that more members will attend this year’s AGM.  It is a good opportunity for members to raise issues and ask questions about the Association’s current business and future plans.  Your Institute representative(s) are always your source of information.  Suggestions and/or comments from the members are always welcome; you can direct them to your Institute representative(s) or directly to the RCEA office. 

I appreciate hearing from any member at any time and I encourage everyone to visit our website on a regular basis. I would like to wish you a warm and safe summer.

Sincerely,

Serge Croteau
President