YUFA
Exec
Exec discusses constitutional reform, labour-sponsored funds, and work plan
Executive Committee Meeting Summary
10 September 2001
Constitutional Reform
There was a lively discussion of a plan for Constitutional Reform. A new draft Constitution has been prepared by Brett Cemer. Present proposals include a new Stewards' Council of 50-60 people including the Officers and area representatives. It is intended that this body would have responsibility for some of the areas now covered by the Executive and some of those covered by the general meeting. The proposal is to be revised to specify more clearly the mandate of the Stewards' Council and to balance the goal of representing each unit with the goal of representation proportional to population.
Executives rejects link with Starting Start-Ups
Perry Sadorsky (Treasurer) presented a request for YUFA sponsorship from Starting Start-Ups, a "labour-sponsored" company set up to receive RRSP-type investments to support new ventures in the high tech industry. They operate under legislation which from labour unions and hence need sponsorship from a number of unions. After some discussion it was decided not to pursue a relationship with this company. On the one hand we would get $40 000 and some publicity; on the other hand, we would be supporting a sector that is not unionized and that does defense-related work, while linking our name to unions such as the police union, which has signed on to the project .
Chief Negotiator thanks Executive
Brenda Spotton Visano (Chief Negotiator) thanked the Officers and Committee for their role in achieving the settlement recently approved by the membership. The thanks was warmly reciprocated.
Executive Work Plan nearly ready
Penni Stewart (Chair) presented a final draft of a Work Plan which outlined ongoing and key projects to be carried out by the current Officers and Executive Representatives from July 1 to December 31, 2001. This included Bargaining (Executive and Bargaining Committees), Constitutional Renewal (Chair and Vice-Chair, Internal), T and P revision (Chair), Academic Labour Conference (Vice-Chair, External), All-Union Coalition (Vice-Chair, External), Nominations (Vice-Chair, Internal), Members' Handbook (Information Officer), Bargaining Support (Information Officer), Open Space follow-up (all officers). This does not include the routine work of the officers. The plan was approved.