Passport National Call

Join the Conversation

🗓 Thursday, June 19, 2025

🕖 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM EST

We invite all Passport members to an important conversation on the recent news and developments affecting our members.

Your voice and questions matter — let’s come together, share updates, and discuss next steps.

🔗 Zoom link to join the meeting

Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:
https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/63090007624?pwd=7DzT1H3ZNWMcWduwqkJUYDiBEYXBTN.1
Passcode:967387

We Want to Hear From You – Participate in the UNE Structural Review Survey

Dear UNE Members,

As part of our ongoing independent structural review of the Union of National Employees (UNE), we are reaching out to gather your insights and lived experiences as a valued member of the union. Your voice is critical in shaping a structure that better serves all members across our diverse community.

We invite you to complete the UNE Members Survey, which will take approximately 30 minutes to one hour to complete. Your participation is completely anonymous, and all responses will be reviewed in confidence to help inform recommendations that reflect the needs, realities, and aspirations of our membership.

We ask that you please complete the survey before or by the latest 12 noon EST on the 4th July 2025, there after you will no longer be able to access the link to participate.

👉 https://forms.office.com/r/RLP0wTiSbC

Your feedback will directly support the development of a more inclusive, responsive, and representative UNE structure. This review is the first of its kind in 2 decades, and your voice will play a central role in building a stronger future for our union.

We also encourage you to share this survey with fellow members in your networks to ensure broad and diverse participation from across the country.

Thank you for taking the time to contribute to this important process. Your input is essential to ensuring UNE evolves in a way that truly reflects its membership.

Launch of UNE Structural Review Process

O’Siyo ᎣᏏᏲ “o-si-yo,” (Cherokee: I see you) Hello and Bonjour Union Sibling(s),

I hope this message finds you well.

I am writing to share an important development that will shape the future of our union. As many of you know, during our 2023 Convention, delegates passed a resolution calling for a comprehensive review of UNE’s structure. This resolution reflected a shared recognition that, as UNE continues to grow and serve a diverse membership across more than 60 employer types, it is critical that our structure evolves to meet the needs of our members today and in the future.

I’m pleased to let you know that the UNE Structural Review is now officially underway.

To support this process, UNE has engaged Intersol Group, a Canadian consulting firm with more than 30 years of experience in strategic facilitation, change management, and structural review—particularly within union and public service environments. Intersol is known for its collaborative and values-based approach, and they bring strong expertise in supporting organizations like ours through thoughtful, member-centered transformation.

This structural review is independent and impartial. Its purpose is not to impose a pre-defined solution, but to explore how our current structure is serving us—and where it may need to evolve to better support equity, representation, and service delivery across all regions and employer groups.

Over the coming months, Intersol will engage with members, locals, and regional representatives across the country to gather insights and ideas. One of the first steps will be a set of surveys tailored to each of these groups. These will be launched in the coming days, and we strongly encourage your participation. Your voice matters. The more perspectives we gather, the more grounded and effective the recommendations will be.

We understand that UNE has been through a time of significant change in recent years, and that trust is something we must earn—every step of the way. This review is an opportunity to reflect, to listen, and to build something stronger together.

Thank you in advance for your engagement and for all you do in support of our members.

Thank you, Merci, ᏙᎾᏓᎪᎲᎢ “di-da-yo-li-hv-dv-ga-le-ni-s-gv,” which means “Until we meet again”

Pronom: Elle iel/ellui

Pronouns: She/her they/them

Alisha Kang (nee Campbell)

National President  | Présidente nationale

Union of National Employees | Syndicat des employées et employés nationaux

150 Isabella Street, 9th Floor, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 1V7  | 150, rue Isabella, 9ième étage, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 1V7

Passport National Call

Join the Conversation

🗓 Wednesday, June 4, 2025

🕖 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM EST

We invite all Passport members to an important conversation on the recent news and developments affecting our members.

Your voice and questions matter — let’s come together, share updates, and discuss next steps.

Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:

https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/61052418115?pwd=ARWvJHa7iotVKe0WeS8Dhk0meLbvtR.1

Passcode:517444

Phone one-tap:

+17789072071,,61052418115#,,,,*517444# Canada

+12042727920,,61052418115#,,,,*517444# Canada

Join via audio:

+1 778 907 2071 Canada

+1 204 272 7920 Canada

+1 438 809 7799 Canada

+1 587 328 1099 Canada

+1 647 374 4685 Canada

+1 647 558 0588 Canada

Webinar ID: 610 5241 8115

Passcode: 517444

Join the UNE Family – Where Dedicated Service and Passion Converge

Visit our careers page to see all available positions!

Step into a role where every effort counts, and every contribution is celebrated. At the Union of National Employees (UNE), our diverse community is powered by committed and dedicated employees who provide exceptional service to our 27,000 members across 73 dynamic workplaces. Together, we champion workers’ rights, human rights, and social justice with unwavering passion.


Since 1967, UNE has stood as a beacon for empowering voices and embracing unique perspectives across public, private, and non-profit sectors. We believe that our strength lies in our diversity, and we foster an inclusive environment where every idea is valued and every individual can thrive.

By joining our team, you’ll enjoy:

  • Generous Time Off: Kickstart your journey with three weeks’ vacation, plus extra paid leave to support your wellness.
  • Flexible Work Arrangements: Experience a dynamic hybrid model with a minimum of two days per week at the office.
  • Outstanding Benefits: Benefit from competitive group plans—including Health, Dental, Life, and Disability Insurance—fully paid by UNE.
  • Financial Security: Secure your future with our Defined Benefit Pension Plan featuring balanced (50/50) contributions.
  • Continuous Growth: Receive robust support for professional development and a wellness allowance of $1,600 per year.

If you’re driven by a commitment to service and ready to contribute to a legacy of positive change, UNE is the perfect place for you. Join us and be part of a team that makes a real difference in the lives of 27,000 members and beyond.

Discover your next career chapter with UNE – where your passion meets purpose!

Learn more about the UNE’s Mission, Vision and Values.

Visit our careers page to see all available positions!

Hybrid TownHall with the UNE National Leadership

The National President and National Vice-President are pleased to invite you to a Hybrid Town Hall taking place on Thursday, May 29th , 2025 in the Grand Salon Boardroom at 340 McLaren in Ottawa. You will have the option to attend in person or virtually via Zoom.

To confirm your attendance in person or virtually, please click here. This form will allow you to specify any questions you may have as well as identify any dietary restrictions if applicable. For those coming in person, diner will be served starting at 5:00 EST.

You are invited to a Zoom webinar!

When: May 29, 2025 6:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Topic:  UNE Townhall (11275)

Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:

https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/69067961716?pwd=YvCyFTkeOEmcPk3VjumJuB8mYlbQcx.1

Passcode:488468

Phone one-tap:

+15873281099,,69067961716#,,,,*488468# Canada

+16473744685,,69067961716#,,,,*488468# Canada

Join via audio:

+1 587 328 1099 Canada

+1 647 374 4685 Canada

+1 647 558 0588 Canada

+1 778 907 2071 Canada

+1 204 272 7920 Canada

+1 438 809 7799 Canada

Webinar ID: 690 6796 1716

Passcode: 488468

👉 Please don’t hesitate to reach out to Bernadeth Betchi, Co-ordinator, National President’s Office, with any questions at: Bernadeth.betchi@une-sen.org

We look forward to connecting with you — whether in person or online!

1,100 jobs cut at Service Canada and CRA, threatening vital public services

The recent announcements of job cuts at Employment and Social Development of Canada (ESDC) and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) threaten the public services that workers and families across the country rely on every day.  

On Thursday, ESDC informed workers that 800 term jobs at Service Canada will be eliminated as of June 27. Earlier that same day, CRA announced it will cut nearly 300 jobs, with another 400 workers undergoing a retention process. 

“Throughout the election, the Liberals promised ‘caps, not cuts,’ but each week, hundreds of federal workers are receiving notice that their jobs are being eliminated,” said Sharon DeSousa, PSAC National President. “Prime Minister Carney needs to make good on his word and stop slashing the services people depend on – especially without proper analysis or solid evidence to support these decisions.” 

Passports cuts will mean longer wait times 

PSAC and its component unions, the Union of National Employees (UNE), Canada Employment and Immigration Union (CEIU), warn that these cuts will significantly impact Service Canada’s wait times and services. 

“Cutting hundreds of jobs at Service Canada across the country means there won’t be enough staff to provide the passports people need, when they need them,” said Alisha Kang, UNE National President. “These cuts will only result in longer wait times and backlogs – not the ‘government efficiency’ that we were promised by Prime Minister Carney and his new cabinet.” 

“Instead of building a stable and well-trained workforce, the government is fostering uncertainty and chaos,” said Rubina Boucher, CEIU National President. “Workers deserve respect and security, and the public deserves a service they can count on.” 

CRA cuts undermines services to taxpayers and businesses

The latest announcement significantly weakens the CRA’s internal capabilities, particularly in analysis, compliance and operational support services and brings the total to more than 3,000 jobs cut at the CRA in the past six months. 

“These successive cuts hit our members hard, but they also greatly impact the Canadian population and businesses. With every position eliminated, processing delays grow longer, calls go unanswered, files pile up, and citizens are left behind in uncertainty. Those who remain are being pushed beyond their limits — expected to do more with less, while working under mounting stress and growing job insecurity,” said Marc Brière, Union of Taxation Employees (UTE) National President. 

It’s time to invest in public services 

PSAC is calling on Prime Minister Carney to stop these job cuts, consult with unions, and develop a plan to strengthen the public service. Reckless cuts without proper consultation and planning will only hurt people in Canada who need to access vital services. 

We will continue to hold the government accountable and fight to ensure the protection of Canada’s safety net. 

Parks Canada delegates set priorities and elect new bargaining team

Parks Canada delegates set priorities and elect new bargaining team 

Nearly 30 Parks Canada members representing more than 4,000 workers across the country, gathered in Gatineau on May 7-9, to review bargaining input, set priorities, and elect a new bargaining team for the next round of negotiations.  

At the conference, delegates discussed bargaining proposals submitted by Parks members and discussed priorities received through an online survey. Particular attention was devoted to critical issues such as job security, equitable wages and premiums, group specific working conditions and flexible telework arrangements.   

Delegates also participated in a solidarity action at Parks Canada Headquarters in Gatineau. This show of unity underscored the collective determination of Parks Canada workers to secure a fair contract for members. 

Delegates also elected their new bargaining team, ensuring broad representation from across Canada with a clear mandate for the upcoming negotiations.  

Meet the Parks Canada bargaining team 

  • Kevin Alldread 
  • Shilla Johnson  
  • Birch Howard  
  • Christopher Waldinsperger  
  • Daniel Toutant  
  • Angela Decker  
  • Josée Tremblay  

Alternates 

  • Mohamed Zaid  
  • André Miller  
  • Jonathan Jeet  
  • Hunter Lemon 
  • Adelaide (Ady) King 
  • Ellen Cross  
  • Michael Kvern  

The bargaining team will be supported by PSAC Negotiator Laneydi Martinez Alfonso.

The team will now caucus to review key demands and prepare a comprehensive package to present to the employer. 

Parks Canada members play a vital role in protecting Canada’s natural and cultural heritage. They work in a variety of fields, including architecture, commerce, engineering, finance, forestry, general labour and trades, historical research, program administration, as well as seasonal work. Parks Canada members also include park wardens, canal workers, and office staff. 

Parks Canada workers at PSAC are members of the Union of National Employees (UNE) and the Union of Canadian Transportation Employees (UCTE).  

Stay engaged and informed by keeping your contact details up to date and signing up for updates from PSAC. 

Exciting News: Local Engagement Fund Now Available!

Did you know? UNE members now have access to a Local Engagement Fund (LEF) to bolster member engagement!

At a recent special national executive meeting, a motion was passed to create the LEF, allowing Locals to access a monthly minimum of $600 to a maximum of the equivalent of $2.00 per member per month. These funds are available until July 30, 2026.

The LEF can be used for:

✅ Member engagement events & social gatherings
✅ Travel to UNE, PSAC, and CLC events, rallies & protests
✅ Equipment & supplies (e.g., laptops)
✅ Giveaways (max $100 per member, $300 per event)
✅ Reimbursement for travel & accommodations to national executive meetings
✅ UNE Promotional items

💡 Do you have another idea? Submit it for preapproval! Email us at LEF-FMSL@une-sen.org.

How It Works:

1️⃣ Local members approve an expenditure plan at a scheduled meeting.
2️⃣ Submit it to the UNE Standing Finance Committee. LEF-FMSL@une-sen.org
3️⃣ Upon approval, carry out the activity with an advance or reimbursement.
4️⃣ Submit receipts—claims are required to access future funds.

🚨 LEF cannot be used for honorariums or strike funds.
Unused funds return to UNE’s surplus after July 30, 2026.

Take advantage of this opportunity—get engaged, get funded!

Parks Canada: A guide to workforce adjustment protections

PSAC’s Workforce Adjustment guide for workers at Parks Canada is an essential resource to help members understand their rights and protections when changes to the workforce, including layoffs, are being contemplated. It is designed to reduce uncertainty, provide clarity, and empower members to make informed decisions. 

Recent announcements of federal public service cuts have been triggered by the federal government’s Refocusing Government Spending Initiative which outlines $15 billion in public service cuts over the next four years, and has left thousands of workers uncertain about their future. 

PSAC is committed to ensuring members have the resources they need to navigate potential workforce adjustment situations. 

Download the guide

The WFA Guide explains the processes that govern workforce adjustment with Parks Canada. Whether you are directly affected or want to stay informed, the guide outlines: 

  • Employer and employee responsibilities under the Workforce Adjustment Appendix. 
  • Steps to navigate workforce adjustment scenarios, including layoffs, relocations, and alternative delivery initiatives. 
  • Options available to workers, such as the guarantee of a reasonable job offer, voluntary departure programs, and the alternation process. 

Download the guide

Facing workforce adjustment may be one of the most stressful experiences in your career. The WFA Guide equips you with the knowledge to navigate this process while highlighting the protections PSAC has negotiated on your behalf. 

If you have questions or need assistance with workforce adjustment, contact your local representative, PSAC regional office, or your component, the Union of National Employees, for support.