Northern New Brunswick Branch 2023 AGM Minutes – May 18, 2023
Location: Goodie Shoppe Restaurant, Miramichi NB
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Branch President’s Welcome
Gilles Comeau welcomed those present. He advised that translation services were not available due to unknown circumstances. After a short discussion on the options, it was agreed by all those present to conduct the meeting in English but attendees were encouraged to speak in the language of their choice.
Agenda
The agenda for the meeting was distributed. It was proposed by Gilles that due to all positions on the executive being up for election that the terms specified in the agenda be modified for this election only so as to stagger the terms going forward. It was discussed by those present and unanimously agreed that the terms for president, secretary and 1 members at large be 2 years and the vice president, treasurer and 2 members at large be 1 year terms for this election and going forward with revert to 2 year terms for all positions.
Motion for adoption of the agenda by Jolene Underhill and seconded by Shelley Russell. Motion carried.
Approval of the 2019 AGM minutes
Minutes from the 2019 AGM were distributed and reviewed by attendees. No proposed additions/corrections
Motion for adoption of the minutes by Chantal Ricard and seconded by Brooke Casey. Motion carried.
President’s Report
Gilles expressed that he was happy to restart meetings post pandemic. This is our first AGM since the pandemic, many members have retired over the last few years, and many new members have been added. He stated he was looking forward to moving forward. He briefly touched on the recent PSAC strike, more to come on this topic.
Motion submitted by Gilles Comeau to accept report and seconded by Michel Basque. Motion carried.
Treasurer’s Report
Gilles circulated the treasurer’s report. As the previous treasurer has retired and the position is unfilled, Gilles prepared and presented the report to those present.
Motion submitted by Gilles Comeau to accept report and seconded by Jolene Underhill. Motion carried.
Guest Speaker (Manny Costain, Atlantic Regional Director)
Manny Costain addressed the attendees with a range of topics including:
- Return to office- PIPSC national has submitted 7 labour complaints and 6 policy grievances related to the newest direction from the employer. Members advised to refer to the PIPSC website for additional information/updates.
- Ongoing Phoenix issues/overpayments.
- Switch over from Sunlife to Canada Life- reminder that members should have received an invitation to enrol. If not call 855-415-4414.
- Bargaining ongoing for many groups, PSAC tentative deal briefly discussed.
- Issues pertaining to the NB provincial groups including advocating for a Fredericton office. Approx 1000 members in this group.
- Young Professionals Committee- will be a call letter coming out this summer for 4 new members (1/province).
- Upcoming ARC in NFLD.
- PIPSC AGM- Montreal Nov 26-29, will be a combination of guest speakers, training and business. Overview of delegate process reviewed. NNB has 1 delegate this year.
- Legacy scholarships for child or grandchildren of PIPSC member entering their 1st year of post secondary education.
Time was given for any questions from those present. Gilles thanked Manny for attending and for the informative presentation.
Elections
The election was chaired by Manny Costain. All positions were up for election. President, secretary and 1 member at large for a 2 year term each and Vice president, treasurer and 2 member at large for 1 year terms. The election procedure was reviewed for those present and the floor was opened for nominations.
President: Gilles Comeau nominated by Michel Basque and accepted. Jolene Underhill nominated by Shelley Russell and declined. Gilles elected by acclamation.
Vice President: Jolene Underhill nominated by Shelley Russell and accepted. Jolene elected by acclamation.
Secretary: Brooke Casey nominated by Jolene Underhill and accepted. Brooke elected by acclamation.
Treasurer: Chantal Ricard nominated by Shelley Russell and accepted. Chantal elected by acclamation.
Member at large ( 1 year term): Michel Basque nominated by Gilles Comeau and accepted. Michel elected by acclamation.
Member at large ( 1 year term): Shelley Russell nominated by Jolene Underhill and accepted. Shelley elected by acclamation.
Member at large ( 2 year term): Anna Dumberton nominated by Brooke Casey and declined. Hillary Donovan nominated by Jolene Underhill and declined. Position left unfilled at this time.
Upcoming Activities
Gilles advised the attendees of 2 upcoming activities planned. There is a lunch and learn ( PIPSC 101) planned for June with Manny Constain presenting. There will be an English session in Miramichi on June 21 and a French session on June 20 in Bathurst. An invite will be sent to members
There is also a social event planned for August 12 with Miramichi boat tours, which will include a river cruise and snacks. An invite will be sent to members.
Other Business
No other business proposed. Gilles requested the new executive stay after adjournment for a brief meeting.
Door Prizes
Door prizes were distributed to those present.
Adjournment
Motion for adjournment proposed by Gilles Comeau and seconded by Jolene Underhill.
Meeting adjourned at 1915.
Minutes prepared by Jolene Underhill