Spring has (hopefully) sprung by the time you’re reading this, and with it comes a noticeable shift in the rhythm of the university. As a large portion of the student population heads off until the fall, campus activity changes. While faculty presence is reduced, many of us remain, recognizing as well that this is a popular period for members to take vacation.
The work of ASPA continues, however, as a new Executive prepares to take on leadership of the association, and I look forward to working closely with them.
I want to take a moment to share an important reminder that may be helpful for members. I am not an employee of the university. I report to the ASPA President and, by extension, the ASPA Executive. If this season gives you the time, space, or inclination to raise concerns, I strongly encourage you to reach out for a conversation. Discussions with me are not shared with the employer.
Below are some general updates on my work and on current labour relations activity within ASPA:
- Implementation continues on the Memorandum of Agreement that brought Online Facilitators (online instructors) back into ASPA.
- Collective bargaining work is ongoing.
Without getting into specific details, matters currently being discussed with the employer at various stages include:
- Probation failures
- Layoff follow up
- Disciplinary actions
- Letters of expectation
- Work plans
- On‑call status
- Interpersonal challenges between supervisors and members
While you are always welcome to contact ASPA regarding a wide range of workplace matters even if you are not sure if ASPA is the right place, it is completely fine just to check in to see.
You can contact us by email at aspa@aspasask.ca or by phone at 306.966.2471.
In solidarity,
Shayne Meggs