THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2026 — AFTERNOON SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 1:20 p.m. by Marc Brière, President of the Union of Taxation Employees. He gave instructions for the translation devices.
He welcomed, Elder Irene Compton (Grandmother Irene) to perform the Land Acknowledgement.
The delegation sang the song Solidarity Forever.
He offered other administrative details.
President Brière asked the delegation to respect a moment of silence for our Brothers, Sisters and friends who have passed since the last conference.
He introduced the Complaint Administrators for the Harassment Policy: Doug Gaetz, Brian Oldford, Jennifer MacPherson and Shirin Amiri. He reiterated that the Policy applies in all the conference spaces.
He reminded participants that all UTE events are scent free and that it is expected that the policy be respected in all the spaces available to UTE.
He introduced the members that have the First Aid - CPR training: Josh Atwood, Ken Bye, Cosimo Crupi, Trixie Gorzo, Alex, and Jennifer MacPherson.
He asked other participants to stand to identify themselves if they have the First Aid-CPR training.
He encouraged participants to fill out or to update their information on the emergency form and to use the evaluation QR code provided in the participant kit.
Brother Eddy Aristil will assist participants who require assistance with the wireless microphone.
He introduced the members of the Executive Council: Eddy Aristil (Montréal Region), Patricia Sleczkowski (Greater Toronto Region), Cosimo Crupi (North-East Ontario Region), Gary Esslinger (RVP Prairies Region), Kimberley Koch (Pacific Region), David Lanthier (National Capital Region), Kevin Welgush (Rocky Mountains Region), Jérôme Martel (Québec Region), Brian Oldford (Atlantic Region), Jamie vanSydenborgh (South-West Ontario Region), Adam Jackson (2nd National Vice-President), Doug Gaetz (1st National Vice-President and himself Marc Brière (National President)
He introduced the National Office staff.
Finance: Liam Merrigan, Stephanie Wolff (absent), Mariela Monsalve
Labour Relations Officers: Shirin Amiri, Kristina Cooke, Henri Vodon, Richard Weintrager, Chantale Mercier.
Administrative Assistants: Christina Aristil, Alexandra Assad, Louise Dorion, Magalie Jean- Louis, Connie Nunez.
Information Systems Officer: Alex Thon
Web & Communication Officer: Mohamed-Ali Fakhfekh
Senior Labour Relations Officer: Manon Desormeaux
Administrative Assistant to the National President: Guylène Lepage
Executive Assistant to the National President: Daniel Camara
He thanked all staff members for the work done preparing for this Conference.
He asked the Local Presidents to introduce themselves:
Valerie Illingworth (virtual 40023), Wanda Dufty (50031), Kyle Berry (50021), Jennifer Scalabrini (40022), Stephanie Smilsky (50032), Kyle Berry (50021), Matthew Kastern (30024), Heather Kenny (20029), Avie Josan (20007), Tony McFetridge (30025), Trixie Gorzo (30022), Deoraj Mahabirsingh (20050), Jackie Robertson (20028), Sharon Cowie (20027), Ashley Snape-Local (20026) , Thaddeus Jones-20003 Kelowna, Laureen Harvey (20002), Sebe Pulickunnel (Alt 00013), Doron Jacob (00051), Lindsey MacLellan (90002), Darlene Bembridge (60005), Jonathan Jenkins (80004), Chris Gorman (90001), Sarah Snook (90000), J-P Gallant (90006), Stephane Turgeon (Alt 10027), Marc-André Gobeil (10004), Pattrell Jones (00001), Ken Bye (000952), Lee Pallotta (70000), Tracy Marcotte (70001), Terry Lloyd (70004), Valerie, Jean-Christophe Boulinguez (10006), Solène Boudrias (10110), Alexandre Dumont (70035), Kristine Leclerc (10007), Céline Germain (Alt 10008), Claude Flamand (10009), Annie Desruisseaux (Alt 10017), Pamela Salem (10028), Julien Nobert (10005), Jennifer MacPherson (00018), Tammy Veltri (00020), Miranda Papakiriazis (00012), Jacquelyn Whyman (00011), Iain Auld (00017) , Gina Degner (00014), Melanee Jessup , (00015), Zaineel Braun (00016), Pellow Matt (10028), Kyle Pharand (00042)
He introduced the new presidents elected since the last Conference:
- Sarah Snook – 90000 St. John’s TC
- Laureen Harvey 20002 Prince-George
He introduced the Life Members Brian Oldford, Doug Gaetz, Gary Esslinger
Brother Doug Gaetz provided finance and store information. He thanked the UTE staff associated to the store.
Brother Adam Jackson gave information for the Karaoke night. Brother Brière invited the conference participants to visit UTE’s new office location Thursday evening.
HOURS OF SESSION
m/s Alexandre Dumont (70035) / Ken Bye (00052)
That the hours of session be as follows:
- MOTION CARRIED
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
m/s Julien Nobert (10005) / Claude Flamand (10009)
That the amended agenda be adopted
- MOTION CARRIED
THURSDAY MARCH 12, 2026
01:15 pm – 03:00 pm Call to Order
Indigenous Land Acknowledgement
Administrative details
Hours of Session
Adoption of Agenda
Opening Remarks - National President
Highlights on Items dealt by the Executive Council
03:00 pm – 03:15 pm Health break
03:15 pm – 04:15 pm Honours and Awards Committee presentation
Ad-Hoc Strike Breakers Committee update
Bargaining Team update
04:15 pm – 05:00 pm Items submitted by Local Presidents
FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026
09:00 am – 10:15 am Items submitted by Local Presidents 10:15 am – 10:30 am Health break
10:30 am – 11:30 am Items submitted by Local Presidents
11:30 am – 02:00 pm Demonstration – Impasse in negociations
Lunch
02:00 pm – 02:45 pm Technological Change Committee update
Call Centre Committee update
02:45 pm – 03:15 pm Items submitted by Local Presidents
03:15 pm – 03:30 pm Health break
03:30 pm – 05:00 pm Items submitted by Local Presidents
SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026
09:00 am – 10:15 am Presentation Duty of Fair Representation
10:15 am – 10:30 am Health break
10:30 am – 11:45 am Items submitted by Local Presidents
11:45 am – 01:15 pm Lunch
01:15 pm – 01:45 pm Convention 2026 Update
01:45 pm – 03:00 pm Items submitted by Local Presidents
03:00 pm – 03:15 pm Health break
03:15 pm – 04:15 pm Items submitted by Local Presidents
04:15 pm – 05:00 pm List of follow up items
Closing remarks - National President
ITEMS SUBMITTED BY LOCALS - MARCH 2026
FRASER VALLEY TSO – LOCAL 20007
- Accommodations denials
WINNIPEG C.C.S.C – LOCAL 50032
- Scabs- what is being done with the names that were submitted over 2.5 years ago (withdrawn by local)
- The CCSC will no longer be taking calls from employees. Will only be taking calls from from managers and admins
VICTORIA – LOCAL 20028
- Lack of accommodations and untimely grievances (withdrawn by local)
PACIFIC REGION CALL CENTRE – LOCAL 20050
- Anchor day and work schedule in Contact Centres
- Vacation for MG03's
HALIFAX – LOCAL 80003
- Use of personal cell phone hotspot for connecting to VPN to work from home.
- UMA 103 virtual
SUDBURY TAXATION CENTRE – LOCAL 00042
- DTA & WAS (Duty to Accommodate and Workplace Accommodation Support)
- Union/6400 time
SAINT JOHN – LOCAL 60005
- Translating documents in Genni -Ruling
OUTAOUAIS – LOCAL 70035
- Dual remuneration issue when the primary employer is CRA, Treasury board policy concerning our members holding employment with another federal employer.
- New revised Code of Integrity, new limitations and danger to our member freedom of expression.
ST. JOHN’S – LOCAL 90001
- The Letter of Agreement between the CRA and UTE with respect to the use of call-out periods for the purposes of scheduling vacation leave specifically in CRA ABSB/ITE Contact Centres.
- ABSB Contact Centre Hours Matrix
WINDSOR – LOCAL 00018
- BEET structure - lack of roles filled as well and the use of e-concierge for tracking those positions filled.
- Safety around offices - safe entry and exit
SUMMERSIDE – LOCAL 90006
- The 6 a.m. start. Collective Bargaining Agreement states it's within operational hours but no one can start at 6 on-site.
MONTREAL – LOCAL 10008
- Accountability Framework
- Adherence to schedule
PACIFIC REGION CALL CENTRE – LOCAL 20050
- Accommodations
SUDBURY TAXATION CENTRE – LOCAL 00042
- Grievance timelines not being respected
OUTAOUAIS – LOCAL 70035
- Uncertainty about sites futures.
ST. JOHN’S – LOCAL 90001
- Four (4) day mandatory onsite presence, lack of space, and impact on morale with members. Withdrawn by local (withdrawn by the local)
MONTREAL – LOCAL 10008
- Vacation
OTHER ITEMS SUBMITTED BY THE PARTICIPANTS FROM THE FLOOR – MARCH 2026
SHAWINIGAN – LOCAL 10005
Compliance of on-site presence
OUTAOUAIS – LOCAL 70035
Removal of internal mailbox
SAINT JOHN – LOCAL 60005
Clear direction on action required by locals
HAMILTON – LOCAL 00014
Tracking of denied vacations and its consequences.
SOUTHERN ALBERTA– LOCAL 30024
Pheonix damages appeals delay
HIGHLIGHTS ON ITEMS DEALT BY THE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL
President Brière gave an update on the Executive Council business that was dealt with in MARCH 2026.
- Motions to move forward with the selection process for a Web/Communication Officer for a term of 12 months, an Office Manager in excluded indeterminate position, a Labour Relation Officer for an indeterminate position.
- Motion to add a new elected position as National Vice-president for Equal Opportunities.
- Motion for dissolution of Local 00048
- Standard Convention motions: Convention Nominations Committee, Convention Committees appointments, Terms of Reference of Convention Committees, Rules of Order, Convention Credential Committee
- Motion to reconvene Executive Council virtually if some Open Discussion Items are not dealt with.
OPENING REMARKS
President Brière welcomed all participants.
He mentioned his pleasure in seeing so many participants attending this Conference either in person or virtually.
He thanked the Political Action Committee and the Communications / Web officer for the strong campaign. There was appreciated collaboration with PSAC.
He spoke on the lack of action from the Commissioner. A meeting was held with Minister Champagne to discuss issues directly. On going discussions Secretary of State Wade Long to address the lack of consideration for our members and a great need for change.
He thanked local activists for their dedication and unwavering support to the union, their members in these hard times.
We wished everyone a great conference
HEALTH BREAK
The session resumed at 3:15 p.m.
HONOURS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE PRESENTATION
Brother Gary Esslinger Chair of the Honours and Awards Committee. He presented the committee members, Eddy Aristil and Darlene Bembridge. He presented a 20-year service pin to Brother David Lanthier, to Sister Kimberley Koch. Sister Sharon Cowie was presented with 25-year service pin.
He presented a Godfroy Côté Award to Sister Melanee Jessup (Local 10015, Kitchener). She thanked the assembly.
He announced a that Brother Daniel Gagnon (Local 10004 Jonquière) is also a Godfrey Côté Award recipient. He was unable to attend the Conference.
A Life Member Award was presented to Brother Cosimo Crupi for his years of Union activism and tireless devotion to members. Brother Crupi thanked the assembly.
AD-HOC STRIKE BREAKERS COMMITTEE UPDATE
Brother Adam Jackson gave an update and answered questions. There will be another round of letters sent out.
BARGAINING TEAM UPDATE
The Bargaining Committee Chair Adam Jackson and committee members Eddy Aristil, Kim Koch, Cosimo Crupi, Jamie vanSydenborgh, Jérôme Martel, Vanessa Erickson, Tracy Marcotte and Manon Desormeaux gave an update on bargaining.
ITEMS SUBMITTED BY LOCAL PRESIDENTS
FRASER VALLEY TSO – LOCAL 20007
Accommodations denials
large amount of accommodation denials regarding duty to accommodate for individuals that due to a medical condition cannot report to the office. Large number of denials all come from one director in our region. Even though this impacts multiple offices, it is just one director who is not able to approve accommodations.
Speakers: Avie Josan (20007), Jackie Robertson (20028), Chris Gorman (90000), Kyle Berry (50021), Heather Kenny (20029)
Henri Vodon (LRO): Said that they will try to work with locals to make it go faster. He does not encourage skipping level two or three, but it is our right if that is the right thing to do. Talk to your RVP and see if this is one of those exceptions where we can skip level two or three.
President Brière reminded the participants about the open visit at the National office.
The meeting adjourned at 5 p.m.
FRIDAY, MARCH 12, 2026 — MORNING SESSION
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m. with President Brière in the chair.
Brother Gaetz reminded that the AED is at the back of the room.
Brother Lee Pallota will be replaced by Sister Shannon O’Reilley for a part of the morning.
ITEMS SUBMITTED BY LOCAL PRESIDENTS
FRASER VALLEY TSO – LOCAL 20007 (continued)
Accommodations denials: Employer fails to accommodate and is weaponizing the process and the length of time to get to adjudication. Doctor’s notes are hard to get because of the lack of available physicians. Navigating the accommodation process is a hardship for members which most of the time aggravates their condition. Brother Brière was encouraged to speak to Minister Champagne on the issue.
Speakers: Laureen Harvey (20002), J-P Gallant (90006), Zaineel Braun (00016), Gina Degner (00014), Deoraj Mahabirsingh (20050)
Brother Brière reminded participants about the scent free policy.
Henri Vodon (LRO): He spoke about the 2009 case law Loyd vs Canada Revenue Agency which states that a six-month delay from start to finish is unreasonable. He reminded that the union needs to push back.
Manon Desormeaux (SLRO): Stated that she has been working the LROs’ team to offer Duty to Accommodate sessions. She encouraged local to attend thot sessions.
Marc Brière (National President): Stated that if a meeting with the Minister is not possible in the very near future we would speak to the Secretary of State and the Assistant Commissioner of HR. He encouraged locals to keep pushing on this issue.
WINNIPEG C.C.S.C – LOCAL 50032
Scabs-
what is being done with the names that were submitted over 2.5 years ago (local withdraws the item)
The CCSC will no longer be taking calls from employees
Will only be taking calls from managers and admins. Going from 4 to 1 phone queue which only managers and admins can call. Employees will be referred to the Compensations Services. If the employees are not in the already in the system or don’t have access, they will not be able to get help. Voice mails are not being followed up on at the CCSC. There is also confidentiality issue when members have to go through different channels for assistance. Affected locals do not get the same answers as to what is going on and are receiving conflicting information. More staff is needed at compensation; cases are very time sensitive.
Speakers: Stephanie Smylski (50032), Heather Kenny (20029), Trixie Gorzo (30022), Gina Degner (00014), Tracy Marcotte (70001), Josh Atwood (80003)
Richard Weintrager (LRO): LROs have observed an increase in pay administration grievances at the 4th step. Having clean communication record dealing with pay administration issues is crucial. E-mails sent are effective at recording communication attempts. A recommendation will be drafted for SLRO - to inquire with the Director of corporate compensation to provide an update on the changes at CCSC. Encouraged the affected locals to inquire through UMC.
Marc Brière (National President): A follow up will be made. He asked locals to send to Daniel and RVPs concrete information for the previous item Accommodations denials.
PACIFIC REGION CALL CENTRE – LOCAL 20050
Anchor day and work schedule in Contact Centres
Because of the lack of space, the employer is telling employees what their days are in office are. There is rotation of the days every 4 weeks. This created important issues for members, such as scheduling childcare. It was asked when the ULP will be heard. Employees have to book a desk outside of their work hours.
Speakers: Deoraj Mahabirsingh (20050), Chris Gorman (90001), Josh Atwood (80003), Rebecca Corley (60008), Sharon Cowie (20027)
Manon Desormeaux (SLRO): Stated a ULP was filed on Anchors Days a second ULP is in the process of being filed. Unfortunately, it may take a couple of months to be heard. Until dealt with, the employer will continue to use their management rights.
Henri Vodon (LRO): From coast to coast, they have very different strategies. Encouraged locals to inform about new instances.
Vacation for MG03's
Vacation for Team Leaders in Contact Centres are being treated the same as Phone Agents. Employer states operation requirements. Team Leader vacation leaves are being denied. The budget for acting is now limited. Operational requirements should not relieve the employer of its obligations according to a Case Law. Team Leaders are afraid of losing their position if they speak up.
Speakers: Deoraj Mahabirsingh (20050), Alexandre Dumont (70035), Kyle Berry (500021), Chris Gorman (90001), Céline Germain (10008)
Henri Vodon (LRO): Employer does not elaborate on the Operational requirements when asked for further information.
HEALTH BREAK
The session resumed at 10:30 a.m.
President Brière offered information about the demonstration. He thanked the participants that helped make some signs.
HALIFAX – LOCAL 80003
Use of personal cell phone hotspot for connecting to VPN to work from home
. Some members have to use their personal cell phones in their personal hot spot to connect to VPN. Two tier systems for those who can afford extra data and those that do not or do not have a cell phone. Situations when weather conditions do not permit the drive or there is power outage. The employer is hiding behind WAA day.
Speakers: Josh Atwood (80003), Alexandre Dumont (70035)
Chantalle Mercier (LRO): It is very situational, depending on if they have a work arrangement with employer.
Manon Desormeaux (SLRO): Layers of complexity to the issue, situational case by case. Have look at the employer policy on usage of hot spots to be able to determine what the recommendations would be.
UMA 103 virtual
Some members have to use their personal phones. Should not be attending a virtual session if you do not have any employees reporting to that office. Very disorganized sessions, check box exercise.
Speakers: Josh Atwood (80003), Kendra Bertin (60006), Iain Auld (00017), Sharon Cowie (20027), Kyle Pharand (00042)
Jamie vanSydenborgh (Chair of the UMA Committee): Important to speak to your RVPs about this. The committee is looking forward to having those discussions with employers.
Shirin Amiri (Technical Adviser UMA Committee): The committee had several discussions. Preferred method is in person. Virtual sessions should allowed for traveling issues, number of participants in the region etc.
SUDBURY TAXATION CENTRE – LOCAL 00042
DTA & WAS (Duty to Accommodate and Workplace Accommodation Support)
Process is problematic. WAS is pilot and then full lunch in spring 2026. Was is being used to ignore existing medical information. Used to force employees back to the office, management from other regions do not know what WAS is. Requests for family-related accommodation require intrusive information. What is the burden of proof? Lack of training and support for team leaders. They are not operating at a proper level of integrity. The success of WAS depends on the management and the support provided to the Team Leaders.
Speakers: Kyle Pharand (00042), Alexandre Dumond (70035), Zaineel Braun (00016), Darlene Bembridge (60005), Tony McFetridge (30025), Céline Germain (10008), Delyth Thomas (Observer-90001)
Shirin Amiri (LRO): The Well Being gave feedback on the directive, but it was ignored. Duty to Accommodate mental issues not adequate. They are not properly trained. Encouraged to speak to respective RVP.
Union/6400 time
Employer is over scrutinizing, ignoring jurisprudence. What efficient course of action can we take?
Speakers: Kyle Pharand (00042), Manda Dmytriw (00042)
Manon Desormeaux (SLRO): Employer is intruding into the Union’s work. UTE has a Policy grievance on this matter.
DEMONSTRATION AGAINST CRA BUDGET CUTS
The participants gathered to attend the rally against CRA budget cuts.
LUNCH
AFTERNOON SESSION
The session resumed at 2:00 p.m. President Marc Brière in the chair.
Brother Brière thanked the rally participants and gave instructions for the credentials.
TECHNOLOGICAL CHANGE COMMITTEE UPDATE
Brother David Lanthier, Chair of the committee, gave a update. He thanks the Committee members, Adam Jackson, Tony McFetridg and Chantalle Mercier for their great work.
The committee is trying to be on top of the technological changes. To better help with the discussions with the employer, the Committee asked for locals to give information and provide specifics as to newly used AI technologies or tools, to better help with the discussions with the employer.
The Committee answered questions.
CALL CENTRE COMMITTEE UPDATE
Brother Oldford Chair of the committee presented the committee members., Kevin Welgush, Trixie Gorzo and Richard Weintrager. Sister Gorzo explained that they sent a request for agenda items form Call Centres locals. She encouraged the locals to submit.
Brother Oldford gave a update on the committee’s work. The minutes of the meetings have not been received yet.
The committee answered questions.
HEALTH BREAK
The session resumed at 3:30 p.m. with President Brière in the Chair.
ITEMS SUBMITTED BY LOCAL PRESIDENTS
SUDBURY TAXATION CENTRE – LOCAL 00042 (continued)
Union/6400 time
This is a union right, we must grieve when employer impedes on the right to represent. Employer’s hard stance on adherence to schedule. Important to grieve everything the right is refused.
Speakers: Tony McFetridge (30025), Tracy Marcotte (70001), Stephanie Smylski (50032) Kyle Pharand (00042), Céline Germain (10008),
SAINT JOHN – LOCAL 60005
Translating documents in Genni -Ruling
. New AI tool to translate documents. Employer asks employees to translate with the tool. Concern that they start to not send translated documents because the tool is available? AI affecting language rights.
Speakers: Darlene Bembridge (60005), Kyle Berry (50021), Lee Pallotta (70000)
Chantalle Mercier (LRO): It should be a tool only, should not be used as a translation
mechanism. Important to push back.
OUTAOUAIS – LOCAL 70035
Dual remuneration issue when the primary employer is CRA
Treasury board policy concerning our members holding employment with another federal employer.
‘While we previously understood that the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) was self-funded because it is not regulated by Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat (TBS), we have confirmed that its primary funding source is annual Parliamentary appropriations, which come directly from the Consolidated Revenue Fund. Therefore, CRA employees are subject to the directive on dual remuneration. "
‘We therefore require approval of your delegated authority (usually your Director or Director General depending on the Ministry)’.
It was asked to bring this to PSAC.
Speaker: Alexandre Dumont (70035)
Kristina Cooke (LRO): The core public sector is different from those that are applicable to CRA employees. CRA is a separate agency and that takes precedent over the policy. The policy. Policy itself clearly states that it applies only to those in the core public sector public. We will push back but are limited in what we can do.
New revised Code of Integrity, new limitations and danger to our member freedom of expression
. The Code of integrity 3.0 seems to further curtail members ability to be involved as it expended the duty of loyalty from the Agency to the whole of the "Government of Canada". Changes to professional appearance, conflict of interest, loyalty to the employer and the government of Canada, conduct outside of the workplace.
Speaker: Alexandre Dumont (70035)
Kristina Cooke (LRO): The new Code of Conduct has not changed substantially. The Treasury board equivalent of the code ethics has always been implied. Public servants have a right to engage in political activities; we will make sure to fight for your right of freedom of expression.
Brother Jackson gave an update on the negotiation impasse. The decision was made to appoint a mediator.
ST. JOHN’S – LOCAL 90001
The Letter of Agreement between the CRA and UTE with respect to the use of call-out periods for the purposes of scheduling vacation leave specifically in CRA ABSB/ITE Contact Centres.
Why is it only the Call Centers that are affected? Who decides what a reasonable vacation demand is and what is considered a reasonable demand? How is it reasonable to plan for vacation 1 year in advance? Planned vacation may be canceled. The employer needs to be more flexible. Call Centers members are considered as second or third-class employees.
Speakers: Chris Gorman (90001), Zaineel Braun (00016), Céline Germain (10008), Deoraj Mahabirsingh (20050), Gina Degner (00014)
Manon Desormeaux (SLRO): Outcome of a grievance, letter of agreement that states that vacation of an exceptional nature will not be unreasonably denied. If there is something to be planned during the year outside of the call-out period, you do have the opportunity to apply for those vacations. This is part of discussions at the bargaining tables.
Marc Brière (National President) stated that the letter of agreement was negotiated by Brother O’Brien to better the issue of vacations between a negotiating round.
ABSB Contact Centre Hours Matrix.
Hours of operation are not the same from region to region. The rest of the country outside of the Atlantic can contact CRA before 9:30 a.m. Members have a right to work with the hours of the Collective Agreement. Hours are problematic and are a real challenge for members. Discrimination because of geography.
Speakers: Chris Gorman (90001), Josh Atwood (80003), Deoraj Mahabirsingh (20050), Céline Germain (10008)
Henri Vodon (LRO): This is disturbing, rational with statistics are lacking. CRA was supposed to provide UTE for rational, numbers and statistics.
Marc Brière (National President): Stated UTE National office was not expecting to receive such information from CRA. The Call Centre Committee receives all communication.
Brian Oldford (Chair of the Call Centre Committee): This was discussed often with the employer. Encouraged to speak to respective MPs and file discrimination grievances.
The session adjourned at 5:10 p.m.
SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026 — MORNING SESSION
The conference reconvened at 9:00 a.m. with President Brière in the Chair.
He reminded locals of the deadline to submit credentials and motions. He also reminded those wishing to put forward their names for elections.
PRESENTATION DUTY OF FAIR REPRESENTATION
Manon Desormeaux (SLRO) gave a presentation on Duty of Fair Representation and answered questions.
HEALTH BREAK
The session resumed at 10:30 a.m.
ITEMS SUBMITTED BY THE LOCALS’ PRESIDENTS
WINDSOR – LOCAL 00018
BEET structure
Lack of roles filled as well and the use of e-concierge for tracking those positions filled. (local withdraws the item)
Safety around offices - safe entry and exit
Weekly security incidents around the building. Safe entries and exits are problematic. Back and forth with the employer because they do not own the building. Security incidents reports are filled. This is brought often to National Health and Safety. Security incident report and to policy meetings without real action from the employer. Encouraged to file Security incidents reports and forward to the H&S Committee. Some buildings have their washrooms located in the public area of the building where unhoused individuals are often present either to shelter or use drugs. Public parking and pathways to the buildings are not safe. One member was assaulted on a break.
Speakers: Jennifer MacPherson (00018), Stephane Turgeon (10027), Alexandre Dumont
(70035), Rebecca Corley (60008), Kyle Berry (50021), Doron Jacob (00051), Jennifer
Scalabrini (40022), Jackie Robertson (20028), JP Gallant (90006), Stephanie Smilsky
(500032), Tracy Marcotte (70001), Mike Chartrand (observer-70000), Josh Atwood
(80003)
Doug Gaetz (Chair Health and Safety Committee): He urged locals to read the minutes of the Health and Safety Committee to get information. He encouraged to make a ESDC complaint. If Security Incidents Reports are canceled, he suggested informing the Committee.
SUMMERSIDE – LOCAL 90006
The 6 a.m. start
Collective Bargaining Agreement states it's within operational hours but no one can start at 6 on-site. Employer says they can’t ensure management is available to offices at 6 a.m. and other operational requirements excuses.
Speakers: JP Gallant (90006), Tammy Veltri (00020), Kyle Berry (50021), Kyle Pharand (00042), Mathiew Kastern (30024), Rebecca Corley (60008), Jean-Christophe Bouliguez (10006), Reshma Appalswamy (virtual observer 10008), Josh Atwood (80003)
Henri Vodon (LRO): Important to provide information for our Bargaining Team.
LUNCH
AFTERNOON SESSION
The session resumed at 1:15 p.m. with President Marc Brière in the chair.
CONVENTION 2026 UPDATE
The Convention Host Committee Pierre-Wilfrid Landry Chair of the Host Committee and Céline Germain Co-Chair provided information about the Convention Fun Night on July 22.
HONOURS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE PRESENTATION (continued)
Brother Eddy Aristil and Sister Darlene Bembridge presented the submission for the nomination of Daniel Gagnon (10004) as a recipient for the Godfrey Côté Award.
ITEMS SUBMITTED BY THE LOCALS’ PRESIDENTS
MONTREAL – LOCAL 10008
Accountability Framework
For the Average Call Handling Time score card, the calculation is not clear and the more agents are trained on several programs, the more difficult it is to achieve the objectives. For quality, the answers are not calculated in the score when it should be considered a correct answer. For quality, the score is cumulative while for the behavioral and productivity are for the period only.
For the behavior, we have recently learned that agents do not always receive the supporting document and when they want to discuss it they are told that it will not change anything in the bill since this part of the account only accounts for 10%. For the overall rating, this is a weighted rating. Productivity and quality at the same percentage 45%, it's impossible to play on both levels at the same time. We must give priority to one or the other.
No way to justify discrepancies or make corrections once the cards are issued.
Stress on most agents since it is a tool to extend certain contracts or not and also serves to place agents in a recall pool. The purpose of this tool should be to compile data in order to provide the necessary support for achieving the objectives, not an instrument of stress.
Stress on agents to respond in short time instead of aiming for quality. No supporting documents help the agents improve. Moral around the Accountability Framework is low. If you overserve the client, you are penalised. You sacrifice call handle time frame and accuracy because they are both worth the same points. If they refuse to correct or adjust scores, important to flag the situation.
Speakers: Céline Germain (10008), Chris Gorman (90001), Katrina Newport (Observer 00014), Alexandre Dumont (70035), Trixie Gorzo (30022), Catherine Majore (virtual observer 00014), Gina Degner (00014)
Richard Weintrager (LRO): This is a deeply micromanaged environment. Encouraged locals to contact the Call Centre Committee with the local issues and to keep the pressure up.
Adherence to schedule
Since December we no longer make adjustments for breaks, if an agent is caught on a call he is penalized. No way to justify or make changes to accurately represent reality.
Speakers: Céline Germain (10008), Trixie Gorzo (30022), Catherine Majore (virtual observer 00014), Gina Degner (00014)
Richard Weintrager (LRO): This issue was raised in December. In some areas there is a lack of understanding when there is a need for an adjustment on an exceptional basis. It can be adjusted. Should you encounter a refusal under exceptional adjustment request, respectfully write back to them and ask them to consult the section manager on this subject for process. If there is still a refusal inform the Committee.
PACIFIC REGION CALL CENTRE – LOCAL 20050
Accommodations
(local withdraws the item)
SUDBURY TAXATION CENTRE – LOCAL 00042
Grievance timelines not being respected
Grievance timelines not being respected: the employer repeatedly and frequently is not meeting the timelines in the collective agreement. When extensions have been granted, they do not meet those deadlines either. What can be done to hold the employer to the deadlines? I realize we can transmit to the next level after 15 days, but that's not always advantageous to the member, and does not seem to have any impact on the employer. What are clear actions we can take? Should grievance be filed every time a deadline is missed? Until a grievance number is issued it is difficult to proceed.
Speaker: Kyle Pharand (00042),
Kristina Cooke (LRO): You should not wait for a grievance number to proceed. There are clear timelines. Encourages to be proactive in scheduling hearings. You are allowed to deny extension to a timeline.
Brother Adam Jackson highlighted employer bargaining demand wanting to add to the delays.
OUTAOUAIS – LOCAL 70035
Uncertainty about site futures
Locals are told that their office is moving. No answers are provided to what is happening. Uncertainty and lack of transparency.
Speakers: Alexandre Dumont (70035), Jackie Whyman (00011), Kyle Berry (50021)
MONTREAL – LOCAL 10008
Vacation
The Memorandum of Understanding established brings several constraints to the approval of vacancies in Contact Centres. Agents must plan a year in advance and when requests are close to the deadline, response times can prevent employees from planning plane tickets, vacations abroad, etc.
Speakers: Céline Germain
Brother Brière reminded locals that the deadline for credentials and motions is at the end today’s session.
OTHER ITEMS SUBMITTED BY THE PARTICIPANTS FROM THE FLOOR
SHAWINIGAN – LOCAL 10005
Compliance of on-site presence: New building in Shawinigan, how does employer monitor who is effectively working from the office. Some book desks and do not show up at the office. Frustrating for members that are present at the office. No consequences to not adhering to presence. Teams Leaders are asked to monitor the presence of employees-members. Health and Safety concerns, if there is an emergency how do we know who are actually in the office.
Speakers: Julien Nobert (10005), Kyle Berry (50021), Kyle Berry (00052), Chris Gorman (90001), Tracy Marcotte (70001), Darlene Bembridge (60005), Josh Atwood (80003), Zaineel Braun (00016), Mathiew Kastern (30024), Stephanie Smylski (50031), Claude Flamand (10009)
Manon Desormeaux (SLRO): It is the employer’s responsibility to monitor presence at the office.
Doug Gaetz (Chair of the Health and Safety Committee): Discussions should be done at the local H&S level, BEET. There should be an action plan to resolve issues.
OUTAOUAIS – LOCAL 70035
Removal of internal mailbox: At the end of May all mailboxes will be removed resulting in reduction of work volume for mail clerks. The employer explained they are moving this way out of concern for Health Safety. Taxpayers are losing a service; they are forced to submit electronically.
Speakers: Alexandre Dumont (70035), Claude Flamand (10009), Josh Atwood (80003)
Doug Gaetz (Chair of the Health and Safety Committee): Confirmed that nothing was shared with the Health and Safety Committee for the mailbox’s removal.
SAINT JOHN – LOCAL 60005
Clear direction on action required by locals: Asked for further instructions and direction when action is required from locals ex. Plant Gate. No handbook for new activists. Knowledge needs to be transferred on. Local leaders should not only have to rely on the By-Laws for resources. It was suggested that locals have a cheat-sheet type of document.
Speakers: Rebecca Corley (60008), Kandra Bertin (60006), Chris Gorman (90001), Kyle Berry (50021), Laureen Harvey (20002), Heather Kenny (20029), Darlene Bembridge (60005)
Marc Brière (National President): RVP 101 will be updated
Kimberly Koch (RVP Pacific Region): stated that it is also the responsibility of the RVPs’ to guide their respective locals
Brian Oldford (RVP Atlantic Region): There are mechanisms in the PSAC organization to help out.
HAMILTON – LOCAL 00014
Tracking of denied vacations and its consequences: If you get sick on a vacation day, they ask for a doctor’s note.
Speakers: Gina Degner (00014), Céline Germain (10008)
Manon Desormeaux (SLRO): If you are denied, you should file a grievance.
SOUTHERN ALBERTA– LOCAL 30024
Pheonix damages appeals delay: There are members still waiting for appeals. Is there anything else that could be done?
Speakers: Mathiew Kastern (30024)
Marc Brière (National President): A follow up can be made. PSAC is dealing with the appeals with CRA.
LIST OF ACTION ITEMS – MARCH 2026
- Accommodations denials (follow up with CRA)
- The CCSC no longer taking calls from employees (follow up Corporate Compensation)
- UMA (follow up with next commissioner)
- ABSB Contact Centre Hours Matrix – Late start Atlantic Region (follow up with Secretary of State and next commissioner)
- Safety around the office and the rest rooms, well being. (follow up with Secretary of State and next commissioner)
- Removal of internal mailbox (follow up with Secretary of State)
- Pheonix damages appeals delay (follow up with PSAC)
CLOSING REMARKS
President Brière:
- Thanked all delegates and observers for their participation.
- Spoke on the importance to engaging with the membership.
- Thanked all the presenters.
- Expressed his appreciation for the debates and the great work being done locally.
- Encouraged to support the UTE Bargaining Team.
- Confirmed the following election notices: 2nd VP- no one came forward, 1st VP-Ken Bye, President -Adam Jackson and Marc Brière.
- Encouraged to support the UTE Bargaining Team.
- Thanked the UTE staff, the interpreters and the ELC team
- Highlighted and thanked 1st VP Doug Gaetz and other non returning RVPs.
- Asked to mobilise the members in these important and uncertain times.
The meeting adjourned at 5:00 p.m.