Re: CRA Classification Reform/Agency Classification Standard (ACS)-SP

By now you should have read the Message from the Commissioner announcing that the CRA is going to move forward with ACS with an anticipated implementation date of the new SP Classification of April 2006. We have fought for this change for a very long time and are pleased to see the Agency moving on this issue.

Although the standard is not negotiable the CRA has committed to include your Union, the Union of Taxation Employees (UTE), in consultation in the finalizing of the standard that will be used for the ACS-SP Classification. Two of the members of our National Staffing Committee, Kent MacDonald (Chair) and Linda Cassidy (member), are ready to meet with the CRA officials to commence this work. Your Bargaining Agent (PSAC) is also ready to supply a Classification Officer to assist in this initiative.

Once the ACS-SP Standard has been finalized we will move on to the implementation phase and this part is negotiable and will entail re-opening of the Collective Agreement to negotiate the rates of pay. The CRA has indicated that they are ready to re-open the Agreement but only for the rates of pay of the ACS-SP Classification. The Bargaining Agent (PSAC) has also agreed to the re-opener for this purpose.

We have yet to meet with the CRA to commence this work so there is little else to advise you at this time. Over the course of our consultations we will keep you informed of the progress. You can receive updates from your local executive, our website, bulletins or by “subscribing” to news lists on our website, which will give you direct e-mails on this and other issues to your personal e-mail address.

In Solidarity,

Betty Bannon
National President, UTE