Day Four - Thursday, August 11

A gentle rain greeted the delegates as they scurried about to make an early 0800 start to the Convention. The Finance Committee continued to present the budget. Questions were asked, suggestions offered and slight adjustments made here and there. A caution was issued that each $5220 increase in the budget equated to a one cent increase in members’ dues.

The highlight of the morning focused on a proposed amendment to increase Line Item # 11 (UNDE Apparel & Other PR) from $100,000 to $150,000 in order to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the birth of UNDE. Suggestions were made to prepare special memorabilia such as T-shirts, pins and hats to popularize the occasion. As one delegate put it – “Money to motivate people is money well spent!” Others felt that activism, not giveaways, was the way to promote the Union. On the one hand, it was hoped that promotional funds could come from an anticipated budget surplus. On the other, it was feared that a deficit might occur because of the anticipated future fight against the Public Service Modernization Act and staff cutbacks. When the dust had settled, the amendment was defeated.

Just before lunch, two life time memberships were presented – one to Brother Doug Brown and the other to Brother Peter Cormier. It was also time for an emotional good bye to Peter because he is not standing for re-election as Executive Vice-President. He was presented with an UNDE leather jacket. Additionally, Brother John MacLennan and several other members spoke from their hearts about their time spent with Brother Peter. He may be retiring from office but will always hold the rights of workers dear to his heart.

Nycole Turmel, National President of PSAC, gave an inspiring speech to close the day’s proceedings. She highlighted the leadership that would be required to face the challenges of the future, particularly noting the need to involve the youth. Since she will be retiring next May, she thanked all the UNDE individuals with whom she had been involved over the years. Despite any differences in the past, she expressed particular appreciation to Brothers John MacLennan and Peter Cormier for their unrelenting resolve to make the Union a strong voice for its members.