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Frequently Asked Questions - Workplace Rights FAQ

What is a bargaining unit?

A bargaining unit is the union's term for a group of people who are covered by the same contract. In most cases, your bargaining unit is the same as your workplace. For example, if you work at the Happy Joy Help Home, then your bargaining unit is Happy Joy Help Home. It is a little different for direct government (Public Service) employees, who share the same contract and belong to one bargaining unit called Public Service/Government Employment (PS/GE). For example, if you work for the Department of Learning, your bargaining unit is PS/GE, the same as someone who works for the Department of Highways.

What is a Collective Bargaining Agreement?

A Collective Bargaining Agreement is a negotiated agreement between appointed union representatives and employers, which outlines the conditions of employment, including wages, hours of employment, benefits and other conditions.

What if I disagree with my job classification?

If you feel your job is incorrectly classified you can ask for a classification review. The review will be performed by the employer or a joint committee, depending on your collective agreement. If you are not satisfied with the re-classification decision, you may appeal or grieve the outcome.

What is a job classification?

Your work is classified. Your job classification describes the work you do. It’s important because your wages are linked to your job classification. Classification procedures vary from contract to contract. You can get specific information on your job classification by consulting your collective agreement, contacting human resources, your employer or your steward.

What do I get for my union dues?

WHAT ARE MY UNION DUES DOING FOR ME?

  • As a full-time worker, I’m earning 18% more than my non-union brothers and sisters. *
  • As a part-time worker, I’m earning 63% more than my non-union brothers and sisters. *
  • When my spouse or children need dental work, my dental plan pays the bill.
  • When I’m ill, I have paid sick leave so I don’t have to worry how I’ll pay my bills.
  • If someone in my family dies, I have paid bereavement leave.
  • I will have a pension when I retire.
  • If my job is abolished, I have bumping rights or I will receive severance pay.
  • When I’m treated unfairly at work, my union will represent me.
  • When our collective agreement is ignored or broken by the employer, we can file a grievance or use problem-solving approaches to address the situation.
  • When our governments bring in legislation that take away social benefits for workers and the unemployed, I know that my union will fight for justice.
  • Not only do my union dues deliver all of this and more, they are tax-deductible, too.

* Stats Canada 2002

What’s your union card worth?

Average Hourly Wage Non-Union
Full-time $17.22/hr
Part-time $10.60/hr

Average Hourly Wage Union Member
Full-time $20.29 (18% more)
Part-time $17.31 (63% more)

* Stats Canada 2002

How much are my union dues?

Union dues are 1.9% of earnings as of July 1, 2011. They’re tax deductible!

What contact numbers do I need to get more information?
  • about safety, call 1-800-567-7233 (Regina) or 1-800-667-5023 (Saskatoon)
  • about labour standards, call 1-800-667-1783
  • about unions, call 306-787-0817 (Regina)
  • about any Saskatchewan Labour service, visit www.labour.gov.sk.ca
  • if you are injured on the job, call the Workers' Compensation Board at 306-787-4370 (Regina), 306-933-6312 (Saskatoon), or visit www.wcbsask.com
  • about the Ready for Work program, contact the Education and Training Services Branch, Saskatchewan Labour, at (306) 787-3151 (Regina) or toll free 1-877-419-3510
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