AFS Ontario Region Report for the 2019 AFS AGM

I would like to thank the Subgroup Presidents for their dedication and support as this has been a very busy year. 2019 is yet another year on which we are in contract negotiations. The AFS executive and bargaining team is working hard to improve the working conditions for our members as well as negotiate a fair pay raise befitting of professionals. Over the course of the last year I have managed to visit all of the offices in the region and speak at the AGMs and contract ratification town halls.

1.Regional Consultations – Among the many issues dealt with at regional consultation, (both Ad-Hoc and RUMCs) were staffing, performance management issues, issues with Workplace 2.0 and other ergonomic and office set up, lack of opportunity and the shrinking of the smaller offices in the region, GTA reorganization and workplace flexibilities. We are continuing to bring up concerns about the lack of transparency and effective recourse on both internal and external staffing competitions.

2.Regional Union Management Working Group – This working group consists of our Toronto and Ontario AFS Reps and management reps from HR and Programs.  It deals with issues in more detail than is possible at Regional UMCs. Numerous resourcing and work related issues were discussed at this form.

3.Subgroup Presidents meetings and calls- The subgroup Presidents meeting in 2018 was held in conjunction with the AFS AGM. Ad-Hoc conference calls are also held throughout the year to give both bargaining updates and to hear concerns around the region.

Negotiating and ratifying new contract will be a priority in 2019. Other priorities include making staffing more transparent and having proper recourse. Continue to pressure Management to better utilize the smaller TSO’s to allow all AFS Members proper career progression.

Respectfully submitted,
Shawn Gillis
PIPSC AFS Ontario Regional Representative
Phone: 519-567-8983
Email: sgillis1077@gmail.com