North Central Vancouver Island Branch Report

The North Central Vancouver Island (NCVI) Branch currently represents approximately 250 PIPSC Regular members and 15 Retired members, spanning most of Vancouver Island except for Victoria. Our membership is mainly in the Nanaimo area where we have almost 180 members, most of whom work at the Pacific Biological Station. The remainder of the membership is spread between Port Hardy, Campbell River, Courtenay, Comox, Parksville, Ucluelet, Fanny Bay, and Nanoose. The membership has fluctuated slightly throughout the year with a few retirements, but overall we have grown approximately 30 members.

The NCVI executive is currently 10 members strong, with 3 new Members at Large and 3 retired members. Having strong experienced members that continue into retirement is something that may be unique in our area, but it makes for a great Exec, as they are often able to take on actions such as lobbying that may be difficult for those of us still in the workplace. The flip side is one of our struggles continues to be engagement of new members, and young members. Some of our Exec is up for election this year, and we hope to enlist some new members at large or perhaps some will run for the positions we have up for election.

We have met 4 times since our last AGM and continue to work well together discussing current workplace issues, PIPSC updates, and how to better serve the membership. Of course we are always discussing new ways to engage in our Branch and we borrow from the successes of other Branches. We hosted 2 Pension and Wellness Plan Info sessions, which were both met with huge success. Our Branch was also involved in a PIPSC and PSAC joint Phoenix rally, continuing our Better Together with sister Unions. This year we had the pleasure of supporting some other successful member events including: The Pacific Biological Station BBQ; Bike to work week; and the DFO children’s Christmas party.

As we head into an election year I am sure we will be busy with Branch activities, and already have started plans for Labour Day.

In Solidarity,
Carl Cahoon NCVI President