May Update

  • APSA Layoffs:
    The University has informed us that, whilst no further mass layoffs are currently expected, some position eliminations may still occur due to ongoing structural changes. In today’s volatile world, certainty remains in short supply, and we are most definitely not out of the woods yet – but we hope this signals some cause for (very) cautious optimism. Since last month’s update, two more APSA members have been laid off, bringing the total since November 2023 to 71.
  • Bargaining 2025
    The Board is currently finalising the composition of the Salary and Benefits Committee in preparation for this year’s bargaining cycle. As of now, the Public Sector Employers’ Council (PSEC) has not released the bargaining mandate for 2025, which typically sets the parameters for compensation negotiations for public sector workers across the province.
  • Job Redefinition and Volunteerism:
    SFU Labour Relations has recently reaffirmed its commitment to investigating any complaints we bring forward. They have also reiterated that workload assignments must align with job descriptions and that duties resulting from position eliminations cannot simply be reassigned to APSA members without proper recourse through official HR channels. If you’ve been asked to take on additional responsibilities, please notify the APSA team (any concerns raised will be treated with utmost confidentiality).
  • Strategic Plan, Policy Review and Committee Terms of Reference:
    Updated terms of reference are currently being developed for both our Finance Committee and Salary & Benefits Committee. In parallel, we’re working with our legal advisors to identify policy gaps and updates that will help ensure APSA remains compliant, responsive and focused – enabling volunteers and staff to concentrate on our core mandate outlined in our constitution. As for the strategic plan, we’re actively seeking facilitators to support this important commitment, and the Board will soon be making a determination on the best way to move forward. I have also reached out to the AAPS Executive, our counterpart at UBC, to hopefully meet to share knowledge and best practices as we endeavour to continuously improve as an organisation.
  • Employee Joint Pensions Committee (EJPC)
    Our Pension Advisory Chair (PAC), Jeff Bryer, along with representatives from CUPE and Poly Party, will meet with SFU Pensions on May 9th to discuss various items related to our jointly held pension plan. Any updates that can be shared will be included in next month’s newsletter.
  • APSA/SFU Executive Meetings:
    Since the last newsletter, the APSA Executive has met with the VPPEI and representatives from Labour Relations and Human Resources twice. These forums are important for addressing issues such as the aforementioned workload issues, as well as other pain points and matters of interest for APSA members. It is important that members drive APSA’s priorities, so please reach out if there are items you feel the Executive needs to raise with SFU Senior Leadership.
  • Joint Compensation Review Committee (JCRC)
    As mentioned last month, the JCRC has reached an impasse due to fundamental disagreements between APSA and the University regarding unresolved obligations tied to the 2015 arbitration award and the 2021 mediated settlement. APSA is currently exploring options for recourse. For historical context on this matter, please see here.
  • AGM Motion to Investigate Unionisation: There are no updates to report for this month. Rest assured, this remains a priority.

If you have any comments or suggestions for the Board or are interested in learning more about volunteering with APSA, please contact me directly at president@apsacentral.ca.

Cheers,

Ben