2^nd Vice President

Report for the 2010 Annual General Meeting

Local 20002

First, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the membership of Local 20002 for making the past year successful when it came to serving as your 2^nd VP.

The health and safety of all members remained a priority of mine during the past year. I participated on the OHS committee to ensure the issues and concerns relating to your health and safety while at work were addressed. I was able to attend the 2009 PSAC National health and safety conference. The ability to participate at the National level was significant as it allowed me to network with a variety of individuals, with health and safety being our focus.

To ensure career progression and the protection of your rights it is critical to obtain as much education and training as possible. The Local may be able to assist in obtaining the education and training that will assist when you face challenges to your rights. For those of you that want to explore the education, it is available either locally or out of town depending on what you want. I would also like to remind you of the scholarships that are offered by UTE National. Please encourage your children to apply for the scholarships so they have the opportunity to help further their education.

As you are all aware 2010 will see the expiry of our contract with the employer. This will certainly be a challenging time to negotiate a fair and reasonable contact and can only be accomplished if we stand unified. I believe we are sending a strong message by proceeding with the grievance with regards to breaking of the last contract; however the road ahead will not be easy. It will be extremely important that all members contribute when it comes to demanding that we be treated in a fair and equitable manner.

The Local had several new faces on the executive but with determination and cooperation was able to face the challenges brought before it. With the right mix of people at the executive table I believe that they will have a significant impact when it comes to serving you, the membership.

I certainly enjoy the opportunity to be involved in attempting to ensure that each and every member is heard so that we can best meet the needs and desires that you have. A well represented membership is best served by having a variety of personalities serving on your executive.

In closing I am taking this opportunity to thank you for supporting of my involvement with Local 20002.

Floyd Knelsen