Steps to Unionize Your Workplace in Saskatchewan
1. Workers contact the union and meet with a union organizer (Saskatoon office: 306-382-4355)
2. Workers sign cards applying for membership in the union, and authorizing the union to represent them in negotiations with their employer.
3. If at least 45 per cent of the workers sign membership cards, the Saskatchewan Labour Relations Board will hold a vote to see if workers want a union.
4. The SLRB (Saskatchewan Labour Relations Board) holds a secret ballot vote. Anyone who is in the bargaining unit the union applied to represent can vote. If the majority (50%+1) of workers who cast ballots vote to unionize, the union is certified.
5. The union will serve notice to your employer to begin bargaining your first contract.
6. The local certification process is confidential. Employers are not entitled to know who signed cards. Votes are held by secret ballot.
Why Unionize?
Collective Bargaining – Contracts are bargained on our members behalf that have several stipulations regulating wages, safety and other valuable terms.
Access to Training – Our Members have access to all of the training available at our centers at no out of pocket cost. We will also sponsor you on your way to Journeyperson status through Sask Apprenticeship.
Pension & Benefits – Our signatory contractors submit money to both of these plans, on your behalf, for every hour that you work. Benefits include $700 for eye glasses/ year / family member, 80% off prescription drugs, 100% routine dental procedures.
Advocacy – We strongly believe in a fair day’s work for a fair day’s pay, equal access to employment, and a balance between work and family.
Power in Numbers – Our strength comes from each of our members standing together to keep the standards that were fought for years ago.
We’ve Got Your Back – If one of our signatory contractors is not following our Collective Agreement, we will stand up for your rights.
Weekly Pay – As per our Collective Agreement, our contractors pay their employees every week!
Right to Vote Internally – Once you have reached 1 year as a member, you can vote on internal matters with the organization.
International Organization – You can relocate anywhere in Canada or the U.S. and remain a member.
92% of union workers have job-related health coverage
On average, union employees make 30% higher wages than non-union employees
Union members are more likely to have guaranteed pensions