AGM Resolutions 2025

Sponsored by the Board of Directors

Whereas the size of the Annual General Meeting (AGM) has grown significantly, and

Whereas the size of the AGM significant limits the locations able to support the meeting, and

Whereas the financial cost of such a large AGM reduces the amount of money available to support

members

Be it resolved that the PIPSC Bylaws be revised as follows:

13.2.6.2 Groups Each Group Executive shall be entitled to the greater of:

a) one (1) delegate for each two four hundred (200 400) of the Group’s members, rounded to the nearest two four hundred (200 400), based on its national membership as at December 31, immediately prior to the notice of the meeting, or

b) one (1) delegate.

13.2.6.2.1 GROUPS shall allocate delegates on the basis of the Regional distribution of its membership.

13.2.6.3 Regions Each Region shall be entitled to one (1) delegate for each two four hundred (200 400) of its members, rounded to the nearest two four hundred (200 400), residing in the Region as at December 31 immediately prior to the notice of the meeting.

13.2.6.5 Retired Members Guild The Executive of the Retired Members Guild shall be delegates to the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The Retired Members Guild shall be entitled to one (1) delegate for each four hundred (400) of its members, rounded to the nearest four hundred (400), based on its national membership as at December 31immediately prior to the notice of the meeting.

RSC: No Comment

Finance:
Regions @ 213
Groups @ 230
Consultation Presidents @ 43
RMG @ 6
Board @ 15
Total = 506

2026 AGM @ $2.76M
Revised @ $2.57M

Legal: A separate class vote is required pursuant to s. 199(1) of the CNCA because of changes to the number of delegates which impacts voting rights of the class.

13.2.6.2 Groups Each Group Executive shall be entitled to the greater of:

a) one (1) delegate for each two four hundred (200 400) of the Group’s members, rounded to the nearest two four hundred (200 400), based on its national membership as at December 31, immediately prior to the notice of the meeting, or

b) one (1) delegate.

13.2.6.2.1 GROUPS shall allocate delegates on the basis of the Regional distribution of its membership.

13.2.6.3 Regions Each Region shall be entitled to one (1) delegate for each two four hundred (200 400) of its members, rounded to the nearest two four hundred (200 400), residing in the Region as at December 31 immediately prior to the notice of the meeting.

13.2.6.5 Retired Members Guild The Executive of the Retired Members Guild shall be delegates to the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The Retired Members Guild shall be entitled to one (1) delegate for each four hundred (400) of its members, rounded to the nearest four hundred (400), based on its national membership as at December 31 immediately prior to the notice of the meeting.

Sponsored by the Board of Directors

Whereas bylaw 17.7 is using outdated language and,

Whereas the modernized Employment Equity Act identifies 6 groups of equity deserving groups which are not appropriately reflected in the current wording of bylaw 17.7.

Be it resolved that the following section be updated to read as follows:

17.7.2 (b) Advocate, via subcommittees, for groups of people subject to discrimination, workplace violence, and harassment, including but not limited to women, Aboriginal Indigenous peoples, visible minorities racialized groups, black people, the disabled people with disabilities, and LGBTQ members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

RSC: No Comment

Sponsored by the Board of Directors

Rational:

A complete review of the PIPSC BY-LAWS will be done during the BOD 2025 to 2027 term.

For the AGM 2025, the BOD is presenting the review of BY-LAWS 1 to 9 (as revised at the AGM 2024). Consultation was done with the AC, the BLPC, the BOD and PIPSC staff

The only change proposed in the English version of BY-LAWS 1, 2 and 3 is the following: 

• BL 2.3 would be renumbered as BL 3.2

Please note that the proposed changes in the French version may be different as we will take this opportunity to make sure the English and the French versions are the same.

Be it resolved that the Institute Bylaws be revised as follows: (please refer to Resolution B03 on the AGM App)

RSC: No Comment

ONLY renumbering, no wording revision.

Sponsored by the Board of Directors

Rational:

A complete review of the PIPSC BY-LAWS will be done during the BOD 2025 to 2027 term.

For the AGM 2025, the BOD is presenting the review of BY-LAWS 1 to 9 (as revised at the AGM 2024). Consultation was done with the AC, the BLPC, the BOD and PIPSC staff

Please note that the proposed changes in the French version may be different as we will take this opportunity to make sure the English and the French versions are the same.

Be it resolved that the Institute Bylaws be revised as follows: (please refer to Resolution B04 on the AGM App)

RSC: No Comment

Sponsored by the Board of Directors

Rational:

A complete review of the PIPSC BY-LAWS will be done during the BOD 2025 to 2027 term.

For the AGM 2025, the BOD is presenting the review of BY-LAWS 1 to 9 (as revised at the AGM 2024). Consultation was done with the AC, the BLPC, the BOD and PIPSC staff

Please note that the proposed changes in the French version may be different as we will take this opportunity to make sure the English and the French versions are the same.

Be it resolved that the Institute Bylaws be revised as follows: (please refer to Resolution B05 on the AGM App)

RSC: No Comment

Sponsored by the Board of Directors

Rational:

A complete review of the PIPSC BY-LAWS will be done during the BOD 2025 to 2027 term.

For the AGM 2025, the BOD is presenting the review of BY-LAWS 1 to 9 (as revised at the AGM 2024). Consultation was done with the AC, the BLPC, the BOD and PIPSC staff

The only change proposed in the English version of BY-LAW 9 is the renumbering, actual BL 9 would be now BL 5 and 9.1 would be 5.1

Please note that the proposed changes in the French version may be different as we will take this opportunity to make sure the English and the French versions are the same.

Be it resolved that the Institute Bylaws be revised as follows: (please refer to Resolution B06 on the AGM App)

RSC: No Comment

Sponsored by Advisory Council

Be it resolved that PIPSC By-law 10.4.2 be amended as follows:

10.4.2 Mandate The Advisory Council is charged with the responsibility of dealing with matters referred to it by the Board, the Executive Committee, Group Executives, Consultation Teams or a general meeting of the Institute. It shall serve as a forum for an exchange of ideas and information among Groups and Consultation Teams. Some of the prime functions shall be information sharing on collective bargaining issues, professional concerns, national consultation and policies under consideration. In addition, the Advisory Council shall review PIPSC Annual Priorities and make recommendations to the Board of Directors prior to their finalization the second Board of Directors meeting of the calendar year.

RSC: Reflects current practice.

Sponsored by Advisory Council

Be it resolved that Bylaw article 13.2.6 be revised as follows:

13.2.6.2 Groups and Retired Members Guild

Each Group Executive and the Retired Members Guild shall be entitled to the greater of:

1. one (1) delegate for each two hundred (200) of the Group’s members, rounded to the nearest two hundred (200), based on its national membership as at December 31, immediately prior to the notice of the meeting, or
2. one (1) delegate.

13.2.6.5 Retired Members Guild The Executive of the Retired Members Guild shall be delegates to the Annual General Meeting (AGM)

RSC: Current numbers increase RMG delegates from 8 to 11

Finance:

Regions @ 427
Groups @ 433
Consultation Presidents @ 43
RMG @ 11
Board @ 15
Total = 929

2026 AGM @ $2.76M
Revised @ $2.81M

Legal: A separate class vote is required pursuant to s. 199(1) of the CNCA because of changes to the number of delegates which impacts voting rights of the class.

Sponsored by Advisory Council 

Be it resolved that the following be added to Bylaw 13.2.6

13.2.6.4. (new) Should the total number of delegates under 13.2.6 to 13.2.6.7 exceed 500, then Group, Regional, and Retired Members Guild entitlements be reduced pro rata to reduce the number of delegates to 500, subject to a minimum of one (1) delegate per group or region.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: As proposed the Board and consultation Presidents AGM allotment remains at 43 and 15 delegates respectively.  Based on these 434 delegates seats remain.  New allocation would be Regions reduced to 215 from 427, Groups reduced to 219 from 433 and the Guild from 8 to 8

Cost saving of elimination 350 virtual delegates would be $190K

Sponsored by Advisory Council 

10.4.6 Sector Council The Advisory Council (AC) Steering Committee shall oversee and monitor all activities pertaining to Sector Councils and shall, through application of the Policy Statement on Sector Councils, make recommendations both to the AC and the Board on such activity. Responsibilities of the AC Steering Committee shall include:

a)    advising the AC on all new Sector Council proposals,

b)    making recommendations to the AC for or against the establishment of new Sector Council and on follow-up activity by previously established Sector Councils,

c)    seeking a decision from the AC to approve or deny permission for the proposal to proceed to the Board of Directors (BOD) for funding, and

d)    providing a recommendation to the BOD regarding Sector Council formation and funding.

10.4.6 (new) The Advisory Council shall have entities in support of Advisory Council member specific needs. Advisory Council (AC) Steering Committee shall oversee and monitor all activities pertaining to these entities.

10.4.6.1 (new) Working Group on Consultation

10.4.6.1.1 (new) Mandate of the Working Group on Consultation

The Working Group on Consultation mandate shall facilitate the work of its Consultation Teams, ensuring a unified voice to the Employer on Institute positions, and improve the Institute’s consultation capabilities.

10.4.6.1.2 (new) Membership

Membership of the Working Group on Consultation shall consist of Consultation Team Presidents in the Federal Government, appointed by the PIPSC President, or their designate.

10.4.6.2 (new) Separate Employers Group

10.4.6.2.1 (new) Mandate of the Separate Employers Group

The Separate Employers Group mandate shall be to provide a forum to exchange ideas and information specifically impacting separate employer groups.

10.4.6.2.2 (new) Membership

Membership of the Separate Employers Group shall consist of Group Presidents of employers that fall under the Canada Labour Code Part I or provincial labour code, or their designate.

10.4.6.3 Sector Council (formerly 10.4.6) The Advisory Council (AC) Steering Committee shall oversee and monitor all activities pertaining to Sector Councils and shall, through application of the Policy Statement on Sector Councils, make recommendations both to the AC and the Board on such activity. Responsibilities of the AC Steering Committee shall include:

a)    advising the AC on all new Sector Council proposals,

b)    making recommendations to the AC for or against the establishment of new Sector Council and on follow-up activity by previously established Sector Councils,

c)    seeking a decision from the AC to approve or deny permission for the proposal to proceed to the Board of Directors (BOD) for funding, and

d)    providing a recommendation to the BOD regarding Sector Council formation and funding.

DEFINITIONS:
Consultation (new) refers to union management consultation between PIPSC and Employer representatives. Consultation with Federal Department or Federal Agency, where there are multiple Bargaining Groups, is managed by the appointed Consultation Team President. In cases where there is only a single Bargaining Group, Consultation with the employer is managed by the Group President of that Bargaining Group on behalf of the Institute.

Consultation Team President (new) is appointed by the PIPSC President as the official PIPSC representative to a Federal Department or Federal Agency for the purpose of leading union-management consultation on behalf of the Institute.

National Consultation Team (new) is a departmental or agency focused team created, pursuant to the Policy on Consultation and the individual departmental or agency teams internal Terms of Reference, for the purpose of supporting the Consultation Team President in the execution of consultation activities on behalf of the Institute.

RSC: These meetings are already being held on a regular basis. This change will simply enshrine the current practice into the bylaws. No additional meetings will be required.

Sponsored by Advisory Council 

10.4 ADVISORY COUNCIL

10.4.3 Steering Committee The Advisory Council shall have a Steering Committee comprising the Chair, the Vice-Chair, the AC Director, Chair of the Working Group on Consultation, Chair of the Separate Employers Group, a representative of Group Presidents from the Treasury Board Groups and a representative of the Group Presidents from the Federal Government Agencies other than the Treasury Board. one (1) representative from each of the three (3) categories of employers elected from amongst Group and Consultation Team representatives employed by each category of employers: one (1) from Treasury Board, one (1) from Federal Government Agencies other than the Treasury Board and one (1) from the separate employers.

10.4.4 Elections

10.4.4.2 AC Steering Committee (Except AC Director) Each year, there shall be an election of Officers of the Advisory Council. The newly- elected Officers shall take office immediately following the meeting at which they were elected. The Chair, the Treasury Board representative and the Federal Government Agencies representative shall normally be elected in even-numbered years. The Vice-Chair and separate employers’ representative shall normally be elected in odd-numbered years.

AGM 2015

10.4.4.2 AC Steering Committee (Except AC Director)(New) In same year as the election of the AC Director, all positions of the AC Steering Committee shall be elected for a three year term at the meetings preceding the PIPSC AGM. The Chair, Vice Chair, representative of Group Presidents from the Federal Public Services, Chair of the Working Group on Consultation and Chair of the Separate Employers Group shall be elected at the Advisory Council meeting or their respective meetings. The newly- elected Officers shall take office immediately following the meeting at which they were elected.

10.4.4.5 Vacancy – AC Steering Committee If a position, other than the position of AC Director, becomes vacant during the term of office, the remaining members of the AC Steering Committee shall act to fill the vacancy until the expiry of the original term of office. the next meeting where a member will be elected to complete the term of the vacant position.  If the position of Chair becomes vacant, it shall be filled by the Vice-Chair, until the end of the term. If the position of AC Director becomes vacant, it shall be filled as provided for in these By-Laws. If a member of the AC Steering Committee is no longer eligible to be a member of the Advisory Committee, then their position will be vacated automatically.

RSC: Aligns bylaw with current practice and does not change the number of members on the steering committee.

Sponsored by Prairie-NWT Region

Whereas in 2018 there was a resolution that passed to remove the cap on the maximum number of delegates that could attend the AGM.

Whereas the 2018 resolution increased the number of delegates and thus created logistical challenges such as hotel space, convention space, and transportation between the venues.

Whereas since the delegate size was increased there has been a major change in the hospitality industry and the ability to find a venue to accommodate the increase in delegates is challenging and costly.

Therefore be it resolved THAT the following bylaw be amended to decrease the number of delegates for the PIPSC AGM.

13.2.6 Delegates Delegates shall be apportioned according to the following:

13.2.6.1 Board of Directors Every member of the Board shall be a delegate to an Annual or Special General Meeting.

13.2.6.2 Groups Each Group Executive shall be entitled to the greater of:

a) one (1) delegate for each two hundred (200) three hundred (300) of the Group’s members, rounded to the nearest two hundred (200) three hundred (300), based on its national membership as at December 31, immediately prior to the notice of the meeting, or

b) one (1) delegate.

13.2.6.2.1 GROUPS shall allocate delegates on the basis of the Regional distribution of its membership.

13.2.6.3 Regions Each Region shall be entitled to one (1) delegate for each two hundred (200) three hundred (300) of its members, rounded to the nearest two hundred (200) three hundred (300), residing in the Region as at December 31 immediately prior to the notice of the meeting.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: 
Regions @ 284
Groups @ 297
Consultation Presidents @ 43
RMG @ 8
Board @ 15
Total = 648

2026 AGM @ $2.76M
Revised @ $2.65M

Sponsored by NR Group 

Whereas the size of the delegation (number of delegates) at PIPSC AGM s overwhelming many hotels and meeting rooms capacity (838 according to the 2025 AGM delegates counts);

Whereas a general balance between the number of regional delegates and group delegates as described in PIPSC’s governance is desired (that used to be 200 + 200 as per BL 13.2.4 Size of Annual General Meeting that was deleted at the 2018 AGM by resolution B-8);

Whereas we should strive for equity and fair representation between large and small groups rather than equal ratios, the minimum ratio (1:200) and minimum group delegation of 1 should be maintained for 39 groups (those with less than 2,000 members each), the total delegations size reduction would be achieved most effectively by reducing the number of delegates from the 4 largest groups and a balanced reduction from the 3 medium sized TB groups;

Whereas using the membership size as of 31 December 2024 to illustrate with this proposal, there would have been 51 delegates from IT, 43 from AFS, 31 from SP, 24 from CP, 18 from NR, 17 from SH, 11 from RE, and no change from every other groups, a total of 260 group delegates, a 133 reduction from 393 group delegates this year;

Whereas to maintain a balance between groups and regional delegations’ size, the ratio for regional delegations would be changed from 1:200 to 1:300 (which is common with other AGM size resolution proposals);

Whereas using the membership size as of 31 December 2024 to illustrate with this proposal, there would have been 126 delegates from NCR, 23 from Atlantic, 26 from Québec, 37 from Ontario, 26 from PNR, 19 from BC/Yukon for a total of 259 regional delegates, a 129 reduction for regions; and an overall reduction from 839 to 578 delegates to this AGM which is well within the size of 2019 AGM that was held at Lac Leamy;

Be it resolved THAT PIPSC By-Laws 13.2.6.2 be amended as following:

13.2.6.2 Groups Each Group Executive shall be entitled to the greater of:
a)  one (1)  for each two hundred (200) of the Group’s members, rounded to the nearest two hundred (200), based on its national membership as at December 31, immediately prior to the notice of the meeting, or
b) one (1) delegate.

13.2.6.2 Groups Each Group Executive shall be entitled to the greater of:
a) one (1) delegate; or
b) based on its national membership as at December 31, immediately prior to the notice of the meeting, one (1) for each two hundred (200) of the Group’s members, rounded to the nearest two hundred (200), of the first two thousand (2,000) members, plus one (1) for each three hundred (300), rounded to the nearest three hundred (300), of the next three thousand (3,000) members, plus one (1) for each five hundred (500), rounded to the nearest five hundred (500) of its membership above five thousands (5,000) members.

Be it further resolved THAT PIPSC By-Laws 13.2.6.3 be amended as following:

13.2.6.3 Regions Each Region shall be entitled to one (1) delegate for each two three hundred (200 300) of its members, rounded to the nearest two three hundred (200 300), residing in the Region as at December 31 immediately prior to the notice of the meeting.

For reference: 

Historical data pipsc.ca/about/governance/agm/2017/2017-agm-delegate-count is the oldest delegate count readily available, (both 2017 & 2018 AGM had 200 regional and 200 group delegates  as per then BL 13.2.4 ). Here is the last line of that 2017 web posting :

“Delegates: Regional 200, Group 200, Retired Members Guild 8, Board of Directors 15. Consultation Team Presidents 35. Total Delegates: 458”

RSC: No Comment

Finance:

Regions @ 284
Groups @ 281
Consultation Presidents @ 43
RMG @ 8
Board @ 15
Total = 632

AGM @ $2.76M
Revised @ $2.64M

Sponsored by NR Group

Whereas the election of the Advisory Council Director (called the “AC Director” in By-Laws 10.4 & 17.3.2) is conducted during an Advisory Council meeting and is specifically excluded from By-Laws 17.3.2 – Conduct of Elections;

Whereas the election of Officers and Regional Directors requires a voting system to enable every PIPSC members exercising their right to vote and at least 4 months to set-up elections; the first day of September is way too late for a fall election (typically held in November);

Whereas the Groups’ and Institute’s Officers and Directors should refrain from campaigning when performing their official duties but without an officially declared electoral campaigning period it is impossible for members to distinguish when candidates are campaigning and when they are not;

Whereas there have been election offenses of campaigning before the elections notice or the list of candidates was published but without an official electoral campaigning period set by the Board, it is difficult to judge offenses or apply corrective measures;

Be it resolved that By-Law 22.1 of the Institute be amended as following

BY-LAW 22 ELECTION OF OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS OF THE INSTITUTE
22.1 Date of Election/Commencement of Office There shall be an election of Officers and Directors of the Institute every three (3) years. On or before the first (1st) day of July in an election year September, the Board shall fix the dates of the electoral campaign and for the election of Officers and Regional Directors which, except of the AC Director, shall take place at the Annual General Meeting. The newly elected Officers and Directors shall take office on the first (1st) day of January, following the election. (Refer to 10.4.4 of these By-Laws for election of the AC Director)

RSC: No Comment

Legal: No issues, conforms to the CNCA.

Sponsored by the RE Group

Whereas retired members’ contributions to PIPSC are significant and varied, including volunteering, mentoring and sharing of organizational knowledge, and

Whereas the PIPSC by-laws do not support a retired member re-joining after an interruption in their membership, and

Whereas several retired members were removed following late payment of dues in 2025 without a means to re-join the Institute,

Be it resolved that the PIPSC by-laws be amended as follows:

14.2.4.3 (new) A member whose membership was terminated for fees in arrears may apply for reinstatement to their last category of membership once they have paid the amount owed before termination, and such application shall not be unreasonably denied. A person whose membership is reinstated in this way shall resume their membership on January 1 immediately following the acceptance of their application, or immediately if their application is accepted within the first 90 days of the calendar year.

RSC: Existing bylaws give the Board approval on applications; the new text could reduce that discretion.

Legal: Members do not lose their membership status when on leave without pay.

Sponsored by the SP Group

Whereas PIPSC strives to lead by example to reduce its carbon footprint;

Whereas the number of delegates attending the PIPSC Annual General Meeting has increased the financial and logistical burden of organizing this event;

Whereas virtual meetings help to eliminate barriers to participation for members;

Be it resolved that by-law 13.2 be amended to add a new clause for virtual AGMs and their frequency:

13.2.9 Virtual Meetings The Annual General Meeting will be held virtually once every three (3) years. Delegates will participate in the virtual Annual General Meeting by means of a telephonic, an electronic or other communication facility in accordance with the Act.

RSC: Intent is ambiguous but admissible.

Finance:
2026 AGM in person = $2.76m
2026 Virtual AGM      = $1.28M
Savings                      = $1.47M

Whereas PIPSC strives to lead by example to reduce its carbon footprint;

Whereas the number of delegates attending a Special General Meeting has increased the financial and logistical burden of organizing this event;

Whereas the timeframe for organizing a Special AGM is much shorter than it is for the Annual General Meeting;

Whereas virtual meetings help to eliminate barriers to participation for members;

Be it resolved that by-law 13.3.6 be amended so that all delegates will participate by electronic means:

13.3.6 Meeting by Electronic Means Any All delegates may will participate in a Special General Meeting by means of a telephonic, an electronic or other communication facility in accordance with the Act.

RSC: No Comment

Whereas the AGM is the highest decision-making body at the Institute;

Whereas such a large number of participants makes it difficult to discuss and reach decisions;

Whereas the total number of Institute members is constantly growing;

Whereas the number of delegates to the AGM will likely increase with the current formula;

Whereas the AGM costs are constantly rising;

Whereas the hotels of several provinces cannot accommodate the members who were invited to the AGM;

Whereas the hotels that are still able to accommodate us are no longer able to prepare meals adequately for the members who were invited to the AGM;

Be it resolved THAT for the AGM 2026, By-Laws 13.2.6.2 Groups and 13.2.6.3 Regions be corrected as follows: That the number 200 be replaced by 250.

13.2.6.2 Groups

Each Group Executive shall be entitled to the greater of:

a) one (1) delegate for each two hundred (200) two hundred fifty (250) of the Group’s members, rounded to the nearest two hundred (200) two hundred fifty (250), based on its national membership as at December 31, immediately prior to the notice of the meeting, or

b) one (1) delegate.

13.2.6.3 Regions

Each Region shall be entitled to one (1) delegate for each two hundred (200) two hundred fifty (250) of its members, rounded to the nearest two hundred (200) two hundred fifty (250), residing in the Region as at December 31 immediately prior to the notice of the meeting.

RSC: No Comment

Financial:

Regions @ 341
Groups @ 352
Consultation Presidents @ 43
RMG @ 8
Board @ 15
Total = 759

2026 AGM @ $2.76M
Revised @ $2.71M

Whereas retired Members currently pay 8% of regular member dues to maintain their membership and participate in the Retired Members Guild (RMG);

Whereas Affiliate Members pay 25% of regular member dues to maintain limited engagement with the Institute;

Whereas Retired Members retain greater participation rights than affiliate members, including the ability to vote in RMG elections, stand for office within the Guild, and attend Institute meetings and events;

Be it resolved that the Institute amend its bylaws and/or regulations as required to increase the annual dues for Retired Members from 8% to 25% of regular member dues, effective January 1, 2026.

RSC: The RMG dues was set to 8% of regular member dues by a resolution at the 2007 AGM.

Finance: Currently $86.46 per year

Resolution would increase Guild member dues by $183.72 per year to $270.18

Legal: A separate class vote is required pursuant to s. 199(1) of the CNCA because an increase in dues changes the conditions of the class.

Whereas all individuals who qualify for membership in the professional institute should expect their membership to be respected and only removed under significant circumstances or wrongdoing;

Whereas bylaw 24 – discipline provides 15 situations where an individuals membership could be revoked, none are administrative. The bylaw also provides for the opportunity for members to appeal and be provided with the provisions of natural justice;

Whereas members who have had their membership removed as a result of an administrative issue such as a late payment of dues and not wrongdoing must be permitted to reapply for membership;

Therefore be it resolved that Bylaw 6.2.1.1 “A current or former member can apply only once under this article.” be deleted in its entirety.

Be it also resolved that the application for renewal of membership should not reasonably be denied unless the member conduct warrants the refusal of readmission.

RSC: Deleting 6.2.1.1 would allow multiple reapplications, but leaves unclear what standard applies for readmission. The resolution is admissible.

Legal: Does not impact disciplined members whose membership was removed, the wording is clear that the resolution relates to administrative and disciplinary removal membership. Reinstatement is also not automatic but should not be “unreasonably” denied.

Whereas bylaw 14.2.4.1 deals with members behind in their dues payment;

Whereas bylaw 14.2.4.2 is not consistent with the requirements under bylaw 14.2.4.1;

Whereas bylaw 14.2.4.2 is unnecessary as the late payment of dues is covered under bylaw 14.2.4.1;

Therefore be it resolved: bylaw 14.2.4.2 be deleted in its entirety.

RSC: Refers to section 14.2.4.2, which affects members who pay their dues personally (e.g., retired members or those on leave and not paying through the employer).

Be it resolved that the 2025 AGM receive the Institute audited financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.

RSC: No Comment

Be it resolved that the 2025 AGM approve the budget for the period of July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027.

RSC: No Comment

Whereas inflation is an ongoing concern in budgetary considerations for the Institute; and

Whereas PIPSC has a history of approving dues increases on an infrequent basis causing a detrimental impact on the services provided to members; and

Whereas the last dues increase resulted in seven years of inflation impacting the ability of PIPSC to provide services to its members; and

Whereas an inflationary based dues increase would resolve these concerns;

Be it resolved that PIPSC membership dues be indexed to CPI inflation annually, starting in 2026, with an indexing cap of 3.0% per year.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: A 3% increase would mean dues would increase by $2.70 to $92.76 per month or increase $32.42 in year 1 from $1,081 TO $1,113.  Annual increases to be recalculated.

Whereas PIPSC is a labour union comprised of members earning a wide range of salaries as well as ones who are retired,

Whereas fixed nominal dues for Regular and Rand members represent a varying fraction of members’ income and their buying power erodes, sometimes rapidly, with inflation, and the impact of nominal dues increases falls disproportionately on members with lower incomes who tend to be younger,

Whereas fixed nominal dues also result in long periods of frozen dues followed by significant increases,

Whereas the current system requires the Institute AGM to engage in periodic debates to merely keep up with rising costs associated with inflation,

Whereas many of our fellow unionists have successfully implemented dues as a function of income in a variety of pay systems including those of the Government of Canada,

Be it resolved that PIPSC change its dues as of July 1, 2027 to 0.95% of the maximum salary at the member’s group and level, pro-rated for part-time workers and discounted for affiliate and retired members as before. Where a member is not currently an employee in a PIPSC group, that the current salary grid for their last group and level be used to calculate dues. Members whose group no longer exists or who never had a group and level shall pay dues at the 2024 rate, adjusted annually and retroactively to 2025, in the same manner as the Canada Pension Plan, discounted for affiliate and retired members as before.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: Unable to quantify the impact of this change without a detailed study

Whereas PIPSC is a national labour union, necessitating cross-country member travel to carry out institute functions.

Whereas it is essential for organizations to take environmental accountability in the face of the climate crisis.

Whereas offsetting carbon emissions is a mechanism that allows individuals and organizations to address their environmental impact by mitigating their emissions associated with one activity (such as necessary air travel) with another activity elsewhere that reduces an equivalent amount of emissions.

Be it resolved that PIPSC purchase carbon offset credits from a reputable, audited, Canadian offset company, such as Less. Offsets shall be purchased in bulk for constituent body travel, including the AC and committees of the board, and individually for board member travel.

Be it further resolved that the cap be kept at $50000.

Note: The intent would be for emissions to be presented annually at the AGM. A policy should be created to this effect.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: The cost to buy 1 tonne of CO₂ from Less is $24. Per BCD travel, PIPSC members took 7,090,812 km of flights in 2024. Domestic flights emit around 254 g (0.254 kg) of CO₂ per passenger per km. Therefore, PIPSC member’s flights emitted 1,801,066 kg (1801 tonnes) of CO₂ in 2024. Using Less to offset this carbon from 2024 flights would cost PIPSC approximately $43,224.

Whereas the Human Rights and Diversity Committee (HRDC) plays a key role in shaping PIPSC’s equity and inclusion efforts;

Whereas the voices of diverse equity-deserving members are essential to guiding this work and their lived experience must be meaningfully included in these discussions;

Whereas the current regional selection model for HRDC members does not guarantee representation from each equity-deserving group, leaving a gap in considering the lived experiences of our diverse membership;

Be it resolved that PIPSC restructure the Human Rights and Diversity Committee to include one designated seat for a representative from each equity deserving group, per the Modernized Employment Equity Act (Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+, Racialized Persons, Black Persons, Women, Persons with Disabilities).

Be it further resolved that Each equity caucus (Indigenous, 2SLGBTQIA+, Racialized Persons, Black Persons, Women, Persons with Disabilities) shall select a spokesperson amongst the members of their respective caucus to be their representative member on the HRDC.

Be it further resolved that For the purpose of committee membership selection, demonstrated lived experience relevant to human rights, equity, diversity, and inclusion shall be considered the primary qualification. In addition, the committee should make every effort to ensure that candidates with such lived experience are considered with priority and selected to reflect representation from all regions across Canada.

Note: the intent of this resolution is to allow for each equity caucus to pick their “spokesperson” to be on the HRDC to represent their group. This shifts the focus from a regional model to an equity focused model. Regional considerations would come secondary to the equity focus. As a possible way to make this happen, we could ask for 2-3 recommendations from each caucus and can have the chair/board pick from those individuals while considering region.

RSC: No Comment

Legal: Privacy considerations are minimal because participation is voluntary and members choose to self-identify. For HRDC’s equity-deserving group representative selection, and consistent with PIPSC’s Policy on Privacy, the process to select representatives should clearly state the purpose, obtain express consent, collect only the minimum self-identification needed, and limit use and disclosure.

Privacy is also not expressly addressed in the By-Laws. PIPSC’s Policy on Privacy is the governing instrument for any privacy-related matters. That said, the By-Laws do make confidentiality enforceable (breaching closed-session details or another member’s personal information is disciplinable misconduct).

Be it resolved that the PIPSC Board Of Directors decide on the number of delegates sponsored to the CLC Triennial Conventions up to half of the amount of seats belonging to the Institute.  The Board will work together with the Advisory Council in how to fill the seats ensuring that the members of the CLC Committees are delegates.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: 
Cost savings = $486K
Maximum attendance of 170 @ $967K
Revised attendance of 85      @ $481K

Whereas the strike pay was last increased in 2005, and

Whereas the federal minimum wage rate at the end of 2024 was $17.30 (or $138.40 per day for a 5-day, 40-hour workweek), and

Whereas the Ontario Living Wage Network calculated that Ottawa had an hourly living wage of $22.80 in 2024 (or $159.60 per day for a 5-day, 35-hour workweek), and

Whereas $50.00 per day is insufficient for strike pay, and

Whereas strike pay should reflect inflation and PIPSC’s funding capacity, and

Whereas member fees are currently set to $90.06 per month per regular member, and

Whereas the strike fund is solvent and is substantially more than the minimum,

Be it resolved that the Policy on Negotiations and Labour Disputes be revised as follows:

7. Professional Institute

Strike Fund …

3. Disbursement of Fund

1. Each Regular member, whether a full-time or part-time employee, who suffers loss of pay arising solely from participation in legal and authorized strike activities, whether it be for a full day or a part day, shall be compensated at the rate of $50.00 $100.00 per for each day of pay lost. The value of the compensation per day of pay lost shall equal the monthly regular member fees. Picket line activity is required to be eligible for strike pay.

2. Strike activities, for example, rotating or sporadic strike activity, requiring the participation of not more than 10% of the members in the bargaining unit, may be funded on the following basis:

i. Size of Group membership determined as of December 31 of the  preceding year;

ii. Groups with up to 200 members – $15,000;

iii. Groups with 201 members or more – $80.00 per member per Group twice the monthly regular member fees per member per day of pay lost due to strike activity;

iv. Additional entitlements to be determined at the discretion of the Board of Directors.

3. If funds are advanced, the unused funds shall be returned to the Strike Fund

within ninety (90) days of the cessation of legal strike activities, accompanied by appropriate accounting of disbursements.

4. Claims

RSC: No Comment

Finance:

$90.06 per day @ 30 days = $2,702 per month multiplied by the amount of members based on picketing every day.

Projections for 5,000 members $13.5M per month

Strike activities $180.12 per day @ 30 days = $5,404 per month multiplied by the amount of members

Projections for 5,000 members $27M per month

Whereas members feel disconnected and disengaged from their union and we currently have limited opportunities for low-barrier member engagement; and

Whereas National Consultation and Groups need clarity on measures that they can exercise outside of grievance and adjudication processes; and

Whereas the labour movement, as a whole, is being marginalized by capitalism, anti-labour governments and the disenfranchisement of unions by employers; and

Whereas there is no time to waste in organizing and fighting back against anti-labour practices, and union busting:
Be it resolved that PIPSC develop four guides for activities

–       Front-Line Organizing to Protect Members’ Rights

–       Building Unity and Solidarity

–       Creative Tactics for Engaging the Employer

–       Formal Labour Actions When All Else Fails;

Be it further resolved that the guides clearly identify the potential risks, benefits, resources required, and steps to implement a given approach or activity as well as identifying any specific approval bodies needed to undertake the approach or activity;

Be it further resolved that a steering committee of 8 people be created, with no more than two members being from the Board of Directors, that will meet in-person a maximum of two times, and virtually for all other meetings;

Be it further resolved that the guides be ready for, and presented to, the next AGM for approval by the AGM body.

RSC: No Comment

Finance:

Meeting costs = $15,543 * 2 = $31,086

Assumptions – All meetings take place on a Saturday at the PIPSC office and maximum of four (4) virtual meetings during non-working hours.

Whereas we must have an engaged membership to support a difficult round of bargaining and to fight back against government austerity measures;

Whereas our hybrid work model makes it essential that local sub-group and branch executives have the ability to electronically contact their members on a timely basis;

Whereas the employer prohibits union communication with our members through their email systems or other electronic means;

Whereas the PIPSC national office has personal email addresses but does not share this information with its constituent bodies;

Whereas there are significant delays and restrictions on sending information to local sub-group and branch members through the PIPSC national office;

Whereas rules are already in place for the appropriate use of employee information by constituent bodies;

Therefore, be it resolved that the PIPSC Board change its current policy so that PIPSC will provide members personal email addresses to constituent body and Consultation Team presidents sub-group and branch presidents upon a request for this information.

RSC: Combined P06 from the AC with P10 from the AFS Group since both result in the same change to policy.

Whereas the PIPSC website is the main point of communication and,

Whereas the website is outdated and not easily navigable for members and,

Whereas members and activists have been promised a new website for years,

Be it resolved that the Board of Directors make production and release of a member focused website a priority and that the new member focused website be released and fully functional by January 31, 2026.  The website’s primary client would be PIPSC’s rank and file members, their needs for information and required services.   It should also contain up to date information on PIPSC positions and responses to current day issues and have the ability for members to access the information from the work sites regardless of location or employer security controls.

Be it further resolved that Governance, Executive, supports for stewards, etc. be scheduled for later releases or additional websites but be supported in the current form until the release of replacements.

RSC: No Comment

Whereas the PIPSC did have an annual lobbying event and,

Whereas PIPSC’s lobbying has deteriorated to the point that we are not able to influence politicians on issues important to our members,

Whereas PIPSC’s lack of a lobby program has left the organization unable to promote members issues during elections and respond to changes in government direction like Return to Office and Comprehensive Expenditure Review

Whereas the Advisory Council was promised a national lobbying program three years ago,

Be it resolved that the Board of Directors implement a fully functional lobby program that includes multiple annual engagements per year, which supports Federal and non-Federal  lobbying, tracks all contacts and engagements, builds the necessary skills amongst our activists and creates and maintains the required information on PIPSC lobbying topics to be used in our lobbying efforts by January 31, 2026.

RSC: No Comment

Whereas the stewards are the core of our organization and,

Whereas support for steward activities has decreased,

Whereas training and development of stewards differs from Region to Region,

Whereas there is a lack of tools, checklists, sample language and guidance documents to help stewards when they are trying to support our members

Be it resolved that the Board of Directors make fixing our current Steward Program a priority including clearly defining a steward and the role of a steward, implementation of a multiyear steward training and development program that will be implemented via Steward Councils and Labour Schools, and implementation of steward tools including info sheets on common issues for members and stewards, checklists for stewards to follow, sample grievance cases that can stewards can learn from and a sample grievance wording library for common issues by January 31, 2026.

RSC: No Comment

Whereas we must have an engaged membership to support a difficult round of bargaining and to fight back against government austerity measures;

Whereas our hybrid work model makes it essential that local subgroup and branch executives have the ability to electronically contact their members on a timely basis;

Whereas the employer prohibits union communication with our members through their email systems or other electronic means;

Whereas the PIPSC national office has personal email addresses but does not share this information with its constituent bodies;

Whereas there are significant delays and restrictions on sending information to local subgroup and branch members through the PIPSC national office;

Whereas rules are already in place for the appropriate use of employee information by constituent bodies;

Therefore, be it resolved that PIPSC provides members personal email addresses to subgroup and branch presidents upon a request for this information.

RSC: See P06. Conflicts with Policy on Membership Lists “work addresses”

Whereas Committees of the board meetings were reduced from six (6) to four (4) in person meetings.

Whereas There was no immediate budget impact to each committee.

Whereas The budget impact of a minimum audio visual cost of $4,300 – $6,200 per virtual meeting was not factored

Whereas Committee members span time zones from the Atlantic to British Columbia

Be it resolved that the Policy on Committees of the Board of Directors be amended as follows:

6. Meetings of Committees of the Board

The number, timing, and location of Committee meetings will be as per the budget approved by the AGM. Committee budgets will be calculated on the basis of six (6) in person meetings. A meeting will only be held if there is sufficient business to conduct. Committees can meet 4 times in person and have as many virtual meetings as their yearly budget allows. will meet a maximum of six (6) times during the year. Whenever feasible, Committee meetings should be held in Institute facilities.

In person Mmeetings will normally be 1 day and held on any of Fridays, Saturdays or Mondays and are normally held in the most cost-effective location. Virtual meetings can be held on any day of the week. To facilitate a balance between union activities and family life, the availability of the members of the Committee will be taken into consideration in addition to the Board’s schedule when scheduling Committee meetings. When and where feasible, Committees are encouraged to use electronic means (such as e-mail, teleconferences, and video-conferences) to conduct the business of the committee in order to reduce the burden of travel on Committee members, and to minimize cost.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: Committees are budgeted for six (6) in person meetings

Whereas there are 2 kinds of elections in the Institute: those conducted during a Council or a General Meeting where everyone with the right to vote can be present (including hybrid attendance) to exercise their rights to vote on the day of the election (similarly to be at a polling station in a federal or a provincial election); and those election where everyone with the right to vote may not be present to vote;

Whereas those unable to be present at the polling station or in a Council or General meeting on election day can vote by mailed-in ballot, which was the norm for elections of PIPSC officers and large groups  executives, first by mail (with colored envelopes and detachable back flap to identify voters) and then later by emailing single-use ballot keys;

Whereas the new PIPSC voting system acquired from NeuVote and in use for every election in PIPSC (other than those conducted during a meeting) since October 2024 does not send or receive ballots or ballot keys, instead the PIPSC voting system allows registered voters to access any election/ratification that they are eligible to vote for when the voting is open;

Be it resolved that the Guidelines on Constituent Body Elections which is Appendix A of the Policy on the Structure and Function of Constituent Bodies be amended for large size (nation wide) Groups that need to use the PIPSC voting software, to replace “ballots”, any reference to “ballots” and any deadline set on sending or receiving ballots with “voting opens” and “voting closes”.

Be it further resolved that large size Groups (nation wide) are reminded to review the nomination and voting procedures in their constitution.

RSC: Resolution is vague but not inadmissible. May need definitions for “large-sized group” and “nationwide.”

Whereas PIPSC email addresses all end with the domain name @pipsc.ca;

Whereas PIPSC is the English acronym for the Institute;

Whereas IPFPC is the French acronym for the Institute;

Whereas PIPSC is an organization that welcomes and supports bilingualism among its members;

Whereas Google Suite already allows the creation of email aliases with a different domain name like @ipfpc.ca;

Therefore be it resolved that PIPSC systematically assign email aliases with the domain @ipfpc.ca to all members who currently have, and who request in the future, a PIPSC email address, regardless of the user’s preferred language.

RSC: Implementation would be handled by staff

Whereas the consumer price index (CPI) has risen significantly in recent years, by 31% over the past 10 years:

(Source: Statistics Canada)

Whereas the branch and sub-group allowances have not been indexed to the cost of living for several years;

Whereas the allowances for the active branches and sub-groups are insufficient to cover the costs of mobilization activities for members;

Whereas mobilizing members is essential to the health of the union;

Whereas PIPSC increased membership dues by 25% last year;

Whereas it would be more effective and efficient for branches and sub-groups to each receive a sufficient operating allowance at the beginning of the year, rather than having to request additional funds from the group, region or Better Together during the year;

Whereas a sufficient operating allowance at the beginning of the year eases the administrative burden and simplifies activity planning for the current year;

Therefore be it resolved that allowances to branches and sub-groups be increased by 25% as of now, in order to alleviate the financial difficulties of the branches and subgroups.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: Branch and sub group bank balance as of 31/12/24 = $2.M

Branch allowances would increase by $1.19M

Sub group allowances would increase by $1.6M if all were entitled to a full allowance

Total hit $M1.15

Sponsored by the RE Group

Whereas it is more cost effective and time efficient for Presidents and Vice Presidents of geographically dispersed Groups to combine visits to multiple Sub Groups into one trip; and

Whereas a Group cannot reasonably expect that dispersed Sub Groups coordinate the timing of their AGMs to facilitate the schedule of the Group President; and

Whereas earlier versions of PIPSC policy reimbursed Presidents or Vice-Presidents for visits to meetings of 1/3 of Sub Groups per year, rather than their AGMs specifically;

Be it resolvec that the “Policy on Accessing PIPSC General Funds ” be amended such that “Group Executive Member(s) Attendance at Subgroup AGMs” become “Group Executive Member(s) Attendance at Subgroup Meetings”;

Be it further resolved that the description “President or VP of a group executive, or their designate / alternate from group executive, can be reimbursed for allowable expenses for attendance at up to 1/3 of the subgroup AGM” should be amended to allow reimbursement attendance at meetings of 1/3 of the Sub Groups in a year.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: This is restricted to one sub-group executive meeting or AGM per year, so no financial impact.

Whereas the purpose of a constituent body Annual General Meeting is to govern that constituent body; and

Whereas regular members of group should be able to meaningfully influence and modify the direction of the Group Executive and outvote the Group Executive as necessary; and

Whereas there are significant fixed costs to holding a Group AGM, regardless of delegate cost; and

Whereas Group Executive size is based on the need to represent regional and departmental diversity, which also applies to Group AGM delegates,

Be it resolved that for Group AGM meetings made up of delegates, the Policy on Accessing PIPSC General Funds be modified to make the number of accredited delegates funded from PIPSC general funds be the members of the Group Executive plus either: one delegate per two hundred (200) members of the Group, or, one greater than the size of the Group Executive as calculated in By Law 10.1.5, whichever is greater.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: Calculated impact is 16 additional delegate seats.  The total impact would range from $14,000 to $40,000 depending on local/out of town composition.  Assumes a Saturday AGM.

Whereas PIPSC strives to be transparent in how it conducts its affairs;

Whereas PIPSC members want to be informed of the decisions made by constituent bodies on their behalf;

Whereas constituent body meeting minutes must be accessible to its members;

Be it resolved that Section 8 of the Policy on Structure and Function of Constituent Bodies be modified to include guidelines on the publishing of constituent body meeting minutes:

8. Document Filing and Retention

Approved minutes of constituent body Executive Meetings and Annual General Meetings shall be filed with the Institute for long-term storage. Minutes will be published on the PIPSC website within one (1) month of being received from the constituent body.

Be it further resolved that the one month timeline for publication of meeting minutes will apply to meeting minutes received once this resolution goes into effect. For unpublished meeting minutes already received, the Institute will have until the end of the calendar year 2026 to publish them.

RSC: Timeline for posting on the website may be longer depending on staff availability and the level of work in translation. Some CB may not want certain information posted on the website.

Whereas the Policy on Financial Support for Member Participation provides accommodations the night of the meeting if that member cannot arrive home by 8pm (meeting location time zone). This applies whether the member is driving or flying from

the meeting and is predicated on the member traveling in the most direct manner including a one-hour meal stop; and

Whereas the Policy on Financial Support for Member Participation provides accommodations the night before the meeting if that member cannot arrive at the meeting location on time without leaving their home before 7 am. This applies whether

the member is driving or flying to the meeting and is predicated on the member traveling in the most direct manner without a meal stop; and

Whereas the distance travelling to the meeting location is the same as the distance travelling from the event; and

Whereas there is an unbalanced importance put on the evening accommodation and meal entitlements; and

Whereas some members may have strict meal requirements that would cause undue hardship to attend the event;

Be it resolved that the Policy on Financial Support for Member Participation be amended to include a meal stop when travelling to the meeting as follows:

Policy on Financial Support for Member Participation

1. Accommodations

The Institute shall establish a per-night city maximum for hotel stays and provide members with preferred rates where available.

Members attending a meeting will be entitled to accommodations the night before the meeting if that member cannot arrive at the meeting location on time without leaving their home before 7 am. This applies whether the member is driving or flying to the meeting and is predicated on the member traveling in the most direct manner without a meal stop including a one-hour meal stop.

Members attending a meeting occurring on two (2) or more consecutive days are entitled to accommodations, upon request, on the nights between the meeting days.

Members attending a meeting will be entitled to accommodations the night of the meeting if that member cannot arrive home by 8pm (meeting location time zone). This applies whether the member is driving or flying from the meeting and is predicated on the member traveling in the most direct manner including a one-hour meal stop.

Delegates attending the PIPSC AGM or a Group AGM are entitled to accommodations on the night prior to the start of the AGM, upon request.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: Unable to quantify

Whereas election transparency is essential to ensuring members are able to make an informed decision,

Whereas not all elections disclose the candidate’s current classification and membership status,

Therefore, be it resolved that the following addition gets incorporated into the proper PIPSC policy: For all PIPSC elections a candidate’s current classification and category of membership must be clearly identified, on all Bio’s, Candidate Election Material and Ballots.

RSC: No Comment

Whereas PIPSC is a union that supports strike action of its members to attain fair collective agreements and,

Whereas PIPSC supports and provides training to its members in mobilization activities and,

Whereas PIPSC supports member rallies as an opportunity to demonstrate union and public support for or against an issue and,

Whereas PIPSC’s greatest strength is our membership. Leveraging that strength requires engaging members on important issues, developing collective solutions, and empowering them to be change-makers and,

Whereas the purpose of the Better Together funding program only enables members to organize activities to support “member engagement with the union” and,

Whereas PIPSC has supported unions like PSAC and CUPW on the Strike Line,

Therefore be it resolved that PIPSC amend the Better Together Funding Program Policy to support the provisioning of funds to constituent bodies to provide support in the form of coffee, snacks, meals, etc. to other unions that are on strike.

RSC: No Comment

Finance: BT Funding is very limited.

Whereas the funding formula for constituent bodies has not changed since 2019 and;

Whereas there has been significant inflation since 2019 and;

Whereas smaller groups, branches and subgroups are more significantly affected;

Therefore be it resolved that the following changes be made to the policy for constituent body allocations;

Policy on Constituent Body Allocations

1. Funding Formula

Regions will receive $5.00 per member for the first 5,000 members plus $2.00 per member in excess of 5,000 members;

Groups will receive the greater between the following options:

Option 1 – Base amount of $1000 $2000, plus $10.00 per member per year for the first 5,000 members and $3.00 per

member per year in excess of 5,000 members.

Option 2 – $ 10 per member per year for the first 2,000 members and $ 8 per member per year if there are more than 2,000.

Sub-Groups and Branches will receive the greater between the following options:

Option 1 – Base amount of $750 $1500, plus $13.00 per member per year for the first 1,000 members and $4.00 per member per year in excess of 1,000 members. (AGM 2019)

Option 2 – $ 10 per member per year for the first 2,000 members and $ 8 per member per year if there are more than 2,000.

RSC: No Comment

Finance:

Change is an increase of costs of $265,238

Current

Regions @ $260,628

Groups @ $792,576 REVISED @ $835,776

Branch @ $952,035  REVISED @ $1,012,561

Sub group @ $957,184  REVISED @ $1,118,697

Whereas international labour unions should take a stand on safe and fair working conditions for all workers;

Whereas resource extraction of copper and cobalt in the Democratic Republic of Congo is mined by workers, including children, labouring in slave-like conditions;

Whereas PIPSC is a consumer of technologies that utilises copper and cobalt mined in inhumane conditions;

Whereas PIPSC members benefit from technology that utilises copper and cobalt mined in inhumane conditions;

Whereas advocating for positive change is an important part of the international labour movement;

Be it resolved that PIPSC lobby the Canadian Government to hold tech companies accountable for their supply chains for minerals such as copper and cobalt.

Be it further resolved that PIPSC make a statement educating members on the human rights violations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and demanding as a consumer that technology companies take accountability for their resource supply chain.

RSC: No Comment

Whereas the Board of Directors recently made the decision to amend the policy on Constituent Body Allocation limits on the acceptable use of Institute funds where any reference to a per person limit is now a “per member” limit;

Whereas this blanket change made to the policy restricts constituent bodies’ ability to run any event where funding could be used to include member’s family participation;

Whereas access to childcare or eldercare is not equitable across Canada, and this causes a barrier to member participation in union events that disproportionately affects women, particularly those living in rural areas;

Whereas PIPSC recognizes the importance of removing barriers to participation and recognizes the importance of increasing member engagement with the union;

Be it resolved that PIPSC reverse the changes to paragraph 7 of the policy on Constituent Body Allocation limits on the acceptable use of Institute funds under NETWORKING, RECOGNITION OR SOCIAL EVENTS to $50 per person per event.

Finance:

RSC: No Comment

Whereas the International Criminal Court of Justice has found reasonable grounds to believe that the state of Israel has committed the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare; and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts;

Whereas Canada is a signatory to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (Rome Statute), the Convention for the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (Genocide Convention), the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), and the Geneva Conventions, and is legally bound to act to prevent war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide (the most serious breaches of these are crimes of universal jurisdiction under Canada’s Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes Act (SC 2000, c. 24));

Whereas the Report of the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967: From economy of occupation to economy of genocide identified that many corporations profit from Israel’s economy of illegal occupation, apartheid and now, genocide in Palestine;

Whereas business and human rights obligations cannot be isolated from Israel’s illegal settler-colonial enterprise in the occupied Palestinian territory, and the corporate sector, including its executives, must be held to account, as a necessary step towards ending the genocide and disassembling the global system of racialized capitalism that underpins it;

Whereas PIPSC represents scientific and health service public servants, with professional obligations to science and healthcare integrity, both in Canada and globally, PIPSC must call on other labour unions to oppose Canada’s active support of international human right violations;

Whereas even in the absence of any legal or professional obligation, every conscionable person would still have a strong moral obligation to prevent and oppose genocide;

Whereas PIPSC likely retains investments that financially support the state of Israel and illegal occupation of Palestinian land, which may make PIPSC and its members complicit in severe human rights violations;

Be it resolved that PIPSC identifies and withdraws all investments from Israeli-owned companies and from all international companies that provide financial support to sustain the illegal occupation of Palestinian land. This includes the following actions and commitments:

1. Commit PIPSC resources to identify and withdraw from all implicated investments;

2. Review and assess all future investments for risk of financial implication in the illegal occupation of Palestinian land, according to Palestinian labour and civil society’s call for Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS);

3. Document the process of divestment and, in order to build transparency and collective knowledge, report progress to membership, annually at minimum; and

4. Demonstrate leadership by encouraging other Canadian labour unions to immediately divest their applicable investments.

RSC: No Comment

Whereas the current policy on accessing general PIPSC funds creates an inequity for shift workers attending branch and subgroup meetings and events. For example, at an AGM, this is when voting occurs. This puts shift workers at a disadvantage, forcing them to choose between using vacation leave or personal leave to attend an event that other members can attend no problem outside of their hours of work. To add further to this problem there is typically only a set number of leave spots allowed per worksite and once these are filled the member has no other option. The number of shift workers within PIPSC is low and thus the financial impact would be minimal, however the impact on morale and engagement within these small pockets of shift workers would be huge.

Be it resolved THAT the board of directors investigate ways for members that do shift work to equitably participate in subgroup and branch meetings and AGMs in a manner that is fiscally responsible.

RSC: Set number of leave spots not true for all work places.

Whereas social media can amplify political, ideological or social divisions and polarize union members and such divisions can negatively affect the reputation of a union and reduce its reach for mobilization, solidarity, and labour-related issues; and

Whereas the PIPSC Policy on conduct (2019) specifies that dealings with members shall be in accordance with values of Respect, including being sensitive and responsive to the rights of individuals, and Accountability, including being answerable to members for actions made; and

Whereas the PIPSC Equality Statement printed in the first pages of the “Leveraging union power for health and safety” Participant’s workbook states: “We neither condone nor tolerate behaviour that undermines the dignity or self-esteem or any individual or creates and  intimidating, hostile or offensive environment”; and

Whereas the PIPSC Policy on Communications (2019) specifies that The Institute expects all members to engage respectfully and to conduct themselves in accordance with the Institute’s Guidelines for Use of Social Media (Appendix 1), being mindful of their obligations to respect others and not post materials that may be considered racist, hateful, sexist, homophobic,

defamatory, abusive or threatening, humiliating or belittling; and

Whereas complaints and concerns directed to the President’s Office and Board of Directors (BOD) related to social media content deemed defamatory, divisive, and dangerous by multiple complainants have remained unresolved since August 2024; and

Whereas the PIPSC Policy on Representational Services (2019) does not cover Members who want to contest a decision or action by the office of the President or BOD;

Therefore, be it resolved that complaints related to PIPSC social media posts be swiftly acknowledged and formally reviewed by the PIPSC BOD and the Human Rights and Diversity Committee (HRDC), who will provide a written outcome assessment;

Be it further resolved that affected member(s) be invited to meetings between PIPSC BOD and HRDC to assess the potential human rights violations;

Be it further resolved that the President’s Office be directed to comply with the committee’s decision on appropriate course of action, including taking disciplinary measures and/or legal action, as necessary;

Be it finally resolved that the affected party is provided with the minutes of the meeting(s) in which the course of action was discussed, and that these minutes be made public at the discretion of the affected party.

RSC: Contrary to the Policy on Committees of the Board since the HRDC has no authority to direct the President

Recommendation: rule out of order on grounds of (a) conflict with existing disciplinary process/policy and (b) confidentiality/privacy/improper delegation of authority.

Legal: The HRDC is an advisory committee (makes recommendations), does not have decision-making power over complaints, and cannot direct the President’s Office, unless further By-Laws and the PIPSC Policy on Conduct are amended.