Equal Opportunities Committee Terms of Reference

Equal Opportunities Committee
Equal Opportunities Committee Terms of Reference

1. Policy Statement:

The UTE Component supports equal opportunities for all members regardless of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, mental or physical disability, race, colour, ethnic or national origin, religious belief, political belief, marital status, family status or conviction for which a pardon has been granted or in respect of which a record suspension has been ordered.

2. Aims and Objectives:

  • To provide support and guidance to members regarding equal opportunities issues.
  • To promote a greater understanding of issues relating to equal opportunities (EO).
  • To consult and collaborate with the employer on all aspects of Employment Equity and to ensure abidance of the legislation by the employer.
  • To identify emerging Equity/Diversity issues of concern to union members and to recommend action as necessary.
  • To develop and deliver Regional and National Equal Opportunities Conferences.

3. The Committee shall consist of:

  • Two (2) National Officers of which one (1) shall be appointed chairperson.
  • One (1) member elected by the Local Presidents.
  • One (1) member representing each of the designated equity groups to be selected by a Committee, consisting of the two (2) National Officers and the member elected by Local Presidents, for ratification by the Executive Council. The selection shall be done utilizing the application forms of interested members.
  • One (1) Labour Relations Officer assigned as the Staff Advisor to the Committee.

4. Duties of the Chairperson:

  • In general, be responsible for equal opportunities issues.
  • Co-ordinate the efforts of the EOC.
  • Represent the Component on the PSAC EOC.
  • Ensure that the minutes of all meetings and all relevant correspondence are issued to the members of the committee.
  • Provide advice to the Component on EO issues.
  • Responsible for approving all official communications by the EOC.
  • Responsible for recommending the expenditure of the EO budget on behalf of the Committee.
  • With the assistance of the Committee, organize and deliver Regional and National Equal Opportunities Conferences.

5. Duties of EOC Members:

Under the direction of the EO Chairperson;

  • Initiate a network and maintain contact with members who belong to the representative group and disseminate information to said members on a national basis.
  • Actively participate in and promote UTE and PSAC campaigns involving EO issues.
  • Keep the EOC informed of their activities.
  • Provide input to the development of the Regional Conferences and the National Conference.
  • Participate in the Regional Conferences as required.
  • Participate in the National Conference.

6. Meetings:

  • The Committee shall meet at the call of the chairperson of the committee and approved by the National President.
  • The Committee shall meet with the employer as required.

 

Updated June 2017