John MacLennan

John's involvement with the Union of National Defence Employees began in the fall of 1983. He started at the grassroots of the organization as a shop steward, eventually progressing to several positions on the National Executive, including Regional Vice-President and Executive Vice-President. Brother MacLennan was elected National President at the 1999 Triennial Convention in Victoria, BC, and acclaimed at both the 2002 Triennial Convention in Montreal and the 2005 Triennial Convention in Halifax.

In his capacity as a national officer, he was also the union's liaison with the Department on two major programs: Operation Excelerate and Alternate Service Delivery. As the representative for the UNDE membership, he ensured they were major stakeholders and were not omitted from an equal and fair process.

As an employee, John began his career with National Defence in September 1979. He was first employed as a storesperson at the Canadian Forces Publication Depot and held several other positions within the Canadian Forces Supply system, primarily at CFB Ottawa. He was responsible for the safe storage of hazardous wastes and PCBs pending disposal action respecting federal and provincial legislations.

At the early stages of John's involvement with UNDE, he was instrumental in implementing the BEST program (Basic Education and Skills Training) in some areas of the Department. This assisted affected civilians, providing them with reading and writing skills, who were seeking alternate employment when the restructuring and downsizing process began.

Recognizing that National Defence is a 'most affected' department, John has practised a pro-active approach to secure continued employment for his members.