November 16, 2006

CFHA UMCC

2005 PSES Summary (PDF)

The following items were discussed at the CFHA UMCC held today.

Grievance and Appeal Statistics. CFHA HR Manager, Kevin Marchand, gave an update on the grievance and appeal statistics. He reported that recently filed grievances have been resolved at the first level. UNDE asked if there have been any competitions conducted since the implementation of the new PSEA and the Veterans’ Act. Yes, but no military persons applied for positions represented by UNDE or PIPSC.

CEO’s Approach to the Agency. Further to the discussion at the April 2006 meeting, the CEO, Allain Bastarache, stated that he has now visited 21 of the 26 sites, meeting with the employees and the Base/Wing Commanders. He plans to complete the visits to the remaining sites over the next four months, accompanied by the new ADM IE, Cynthia Bennington.

The CEO stated that there are still no firm decisions made in regards to CF transformation. However, he anticipates that CF transformation could have a major impact on CFHA. For example, a shortage of available accommodations has been recognized at one site identified for perspective growth. This could result in the construction of new PMQs, resulting in a need for additional staff to manage the new infrastructure.

Also announced at the April 2006 meeting, a hired consultant has conducted interviews with Managers and employees in regards to the overall review of the CFHA organization. Mr Bastarache re-emphasized that this is not a downsizing initiative, it is a realignment of how CFHA business is conducted. Consultation with stakeholders is ongoing and it is hoped that decision on the way ahead will be made by end-December 2006. UNDE stated that open and transparent communications will be required to assure the employees of the intent of the process.

Update on Workplace Assessment. The CEO announced that Mr Lavallee, former Champion of the process, has returned to his substantive position at the Department of Transport. Ms Carol Robinson has replaced him as the Workplace Assessment Committee Champion. The HR Manager [reporting on behalf of Ms Robinson] shared that some of the initiatives previously proposed by the committee have been implemented, ie CFHA website, CFHA Newletter and “Employees Corner” for the suggestion box and Q and A – http://fha-thu-a4/employeecorner/programs/wpa/reports_e.aspx

The CEO announced that CFHA has achieved Level one in the NQI Performance Program and should soon achieve Level 2 of 4. He went on to say that he is going to proceed with the NQI Healthy Workplace Environment Program to aid in resolving the findings and concerns of the Workplace Assessment. UNDE asked if the Action Committee will be dissolved. UNDE was advised that the committee would remain in place in an advisory role.

The CEO asked if the unions have had any feedback on the workplace environment. UNDE reported that typically only concerns are brought to the union’s attention, no news could be perceived as good news.

The HR Manager distributed copies of the results of the Public Service Employees Survey 2005 as it relates to CFHA. He reported that CFHA’s result were more positive than other areas of the government.

Reporting Workplace Wrong Doings. The CEO announced the CFHA is establishing their own confidential program in accordance with Treasury Board and DND policies. Employees can raise their concerns to the CFHA GM Housing Operations, Colonel Steve Tighe. The unions agreed that CFHA should be given an opportunity to resolve matters in house, however, employees might question the aspect of confidentiality and fear retaliation. Again communications will be important.

Round Table

PIPSC raised a concern that contract workers have again been extended contrary to a previous commitment from the CEO in support of Public Service Employees. The CEO responded that some functions are still required to be provided by contract workers. He assured the unions that his commitment to Public Service Employees has not changed,. However, until the way ahead for the realignment of the CFHA organization and its impacts are identified, he is not prepared to hire additional PS staff.

PIPSC also questioned the impact the IM/IT rationalization will have on CFHA. The CEO advised that the discussions are ongoing and the actual impact is not known at this time. UNDE stated that employees/members should be cautious about “jumping ship” until all the information is available. Some employees/members regret decisions made during the supply chain review.

Next Meeting: April 2007 (date to be confirmed).

M.L. Chamberlain
Executive Vice President