Archive for the ‘member emails’ Category
Resignation of Rob Parker, AESES President
Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025
The AESES Executive Council would like to share that Rob Parker has stepped down from his role as President and from his committee positions effective December 2, 2025. Rob has been an incredible asset to AESES, serving as President since September 2024 and contributing meaningfully in several capacities over the years, including in his work as UM Contract Administrator. His dedication, leadership, and commitment to supporting our members have had a lasting and positive impact on the organization.
Rob will be greatly missed, and we extend our sincere gratitude for his service and our very best wishes as he moves forward.
During this transition period, our Executive Vice-President, Karen Simpson, will serve as interim President. The Executive Council and AESES Business Office will continue to support members and carry out the work of the union without interruption. Further information about next steps will be shared with the membership as it becomes available.
In solidarity,
AESES Executive Council
2026 Proposed Budget
Monday, December 1st, 2025
Below is the AESES Finance Committee’s proposed budget for 2026. These estimates are subject to approval by the Board of Representatives at their meeting on December 9, 2025. AESES Proposed Budget 2026 (PDF)
President’s Message – December 2025
Monday, December 1st, 2025
Greetings, awesome AESES Members, and welcome to December – also known as “the month where we pretend we’re organized.”
The holiday season brings thoughts of family, whether near or far. And at holiday time, every family is a little loud, messy, and occasionally wonders who ate the last Quality Street (spoiler: it was absolutely someone in HR). Our union family is no different – we debate, we disagree, but when it matters most, we show up for one another. That’s what unions do. And ours does it pretty darn well.
For some of us, “home” means a packed living room full of relatives and one very confused dog. For others, it’s a phone call, a video chat, or sharing a moment across oceans and time zones. For many AESES members, it’s right here… on campus, in the office, in the classroom -standing shoulder to shoulder with coworkers who long ago stopped being “colleagues” and started being “the people who understand your workday horrors better than your actual family.”
Our membership includes folks from every background imaginable—different races, genders, languages, identities, faiths, and traditions. Some light candles. Some decorate trees. Some celebrate holidays at times the rest of us are unaware. Some celebrate by ignoring the holidays entirely and catching up on sleep (a noble and underrated custom).
We all share universal hopes – things like safety at work, dignity and respect, fair wages, and most importantly, time with the people we love and a future that is not just “surviving until Friday.”
Diversity isn’t a challenge – it’s our superpower. If the employer ever tries to divide us, they quickly discover it’s like trying to separate Tupperware lids from the containers: good luck, friend.
We’ve started or soon will start bargaining at both Universities. Together, we’re pushing for:
- Better wages, so members can enjoy the holidays without needing a spreadsheet to calculate gift affordability.
- Better benefits, so no one must choose between seeing a doctor and paying rent.
- Safer workplaces, so everyone goes home in one piece and not “creatively patched together with office supplies.”
Behind every bargaining proposal is a real person with a real family and real worries. A parent trying to say “yes” to a school trip. A worker caring for their aging parents. A member simply trying to make it through December without Windows updating at the worst possible moment (miracles do happen).
This season isn’t easy for everyone. Some members face illness, financial strain, grief, or isolation. A strong union family doesn’t forget them. We check in. We help. We make sure no one is left behind – because solidarity is more than chants and picket signs. It’s everyday acts of kindness, like sharing overtime fairly or welcoming a new co-worker instead of forcing them to find every elf on a shelf we’ve hidden in the Dean’s Office.
We don’t all experience the workplace the same way. Some members face racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, or barriers due to disability or immigration status. Ignoring those realities doesn’t make us a family – it makes us a sitcom family that pretends everything’s fine while the house is literally on fire.
Listening, making space, and standing up for one another is what makes us strong. It is so important to:
- Honour our families – however they are made. We must keep fighting for the wages, protections, and time needed to care for them.
- Celebrate our diversity – not just in words, but in action, policy, contracts, and leadership.
- Live our solidarity – by supporting members who are struggling and showing up for one another with open hearts (and maybe baked goods).
In a world that tries hard to divide working people, let’s continue proving the opposite: that people with different stories can share one purpose and one fight.
Now, to wrap things up (see what I did there?)
Thank you for everything you do.
Thank you for the strength you bring.
And thank you for making AESES not just a union, but a family— … you know, the kind you might actually want to spend time with.
Wishing you peace, joy, good eats, cool treats, and time with the people (and pets) you love.
Here’s to new victories in the year ahead – won together, as one diverse and powerful union family.
I hope you all have a very happy holiday!
In Solidarity,
Rob
AESES Fall Education Seminars – Register Today!
Monday, October 20th, 2025
Fall Education Seminars
The AESES Education Committee would like to offer members additional seminars to help you welcome fall.
Registration is open.
- Understanding Credit & Debt Solutions (Virtual) | Thu., Nov. 6 | 6:30 – 8:30 pm
- Fall Prevention | Thu., Nov. 13 | 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Introduction to Archery | Sat., Nov. 15 | 2:30 – 4:30 pmFULL- Labour Relations – Sick Leave and the Medical Accommodation Process (Virtual) | Tue., Nov. 18 | 6:00 – 8:00 pm
- Healthy Brains | Thu., Dec. 4 | 6:30 – 8:30 pm
Can You Tell Me: What is a Position Discontinuance?
Wednesday, October 1st, 2025
A Position Discontinuance refers to the removal of a particular job by the employer once they determine, for a variety of possible reasons, that it is no longer necessary. However, it is important to clarify for the member in the position that it is not the same as being fired or dismissed. A Position Discontinuance is about the removal of the job, not the member.
The Position Discontinuance process is described in Article 10 of both the AESES-UW and -UM Collective Agreements, and is similar but not exactly the same for each University. It begins when the employer provides written notice to the member that their position will be discontinued, notifies AESES, and schedules a meeting with the member and a union representative to discuss the process and the various options available through Article 10.
The notice period is 56 calendar days at UM and 40 working days at UW. During this period, the member continues to be paid normally, and may or may not continue to work. The primary goal during the notice period is to make the member whole by transferring them into a vacant job within the same classification, hours of work, and position category as the discontinued position. The member should also be able to perform the job with a minimal retraining period: 60 working days at UW, or 420 hours at UM. HR actively searches through job postings throughout the notice period to match these criteria.
If a transfer is not accomplished as outlined above, there are other choices and options available through Article 10. The details are similar between UW and UM, and also depend on the specific circumstances of the discontinued position. Some choices could include opting for the exercise of seniority or bumping, opting for severance based on the member’s seniority, either as a lump sum or biweekly payment period, or opting for a period of lay-off of up to a year in which the member retains their seniority.
A representative from AESES is available to the member for guidance starting from the initial Position Discontinuance meeting and throughout the process. The representative can help interpret the various decisions and their consequences provided under Article 10. AESES provides guidance and interpretation, but the choices are ultimately up to the member to make; there is no single, correct answer for every scenario.
AESES will always, furthermore, scrutinize the rationale provided by the employer when they discontinue a position. Legitimate reasons within the employer’s rights for discontinuing a position might include operational changes, organizational restructuring within a department, advances in technology, redundancy or reassignment of duties, expiry of grant funding, or budgetary constraints. AESES looks at each discontinuance on a case-by-case basis. It is important that AESES examines and understands the reason the decision was made in order to best inform and advise the member.
We encourage our members to reach out to the AESES Business Office with any questions or concerns related to the Position Discontinuance process or otherwise, at labourteam@aeses.ca or 204-949-5200.
President’s Message – October 2025
Wednesday, October 1st, 2025
Hello, and a happy fall to all, fellow AESES members!
As we begin another academic year, I want to extend a warm welcome back to all our members. September always seems to bring a fresh sense of excitement and anticipation, along with energy and renewal. Whether you’ve been away on vacation, enjoying time with family, or simply chilling at home, I hope your summer brought rest and renewed energy. Now, as we step into the Fall Term, AESES continues to work in support and advocate for the issues that matter most to members.
We’re excited to offer several upcoming opportunities to connect and learn together. Our Brown Bag Session: Classification Administration, will provide members a chance to ask questions to our knowledgeable Labour Relations Team regarding how classifications are initially set and the process of getting reclassified. These sessions are always well attended and can show you how to ensure you’re being compensated appropriately!
As well, members should watch for announcements of additional Fall Education Seminars. We plan to offer archery, as well as an ice fishing outing – complete with instruction and participation. These educational sessions are a great opportunity to meet and connect with other members who share the same interests.
With apologies in advance (I know, I know – it’s only OCTOBER for crying out loud!), I feel I should also mention that planning is already underway for our Annual Children’s Winter Holiday Extravaganza! This event is a highlight of the year, bringing families together for an afternoon of fun, laughter, and celebration. While the snow hasn’t arrived (yet), it’s never too early to mark your calendars for November 30th and anticipate the joy this gathering brings to our AESES family. Registration details are found in this issue of insideAESES.
With regard to bargaining, at The University of Winnipeg, bargaining is moving forward. With the Essential Services Agreement recently settled, the path is now clear to begin formal negotiations. This milestone is a significant one, and we will approach this process with the same diligence and determination that defines AESES’ work across both institutions.
Meanwhile, at the University of Manitoba, our Negotiation Committee has begun its important work. Meetings are currently taking place, and discussions will continue until the core bargaining proposals are finalized. Once this stage is complete, the smaller bargaining committee will be struck from the negotiations committee to carry forward the negotiations. These early steps are vital in setting the tone for bargaining, and we remain committed to ensuring that members’ voices and priorities guide every decision.
As always, we are reminded that the strength of AESES lies in its members – your contributions, insights, and willingness to stand together and support each other. Whether you join us at an educational outing, share your feedback at a Brown Bag Session, or attend the Children’s Winter Holiday Extravaganza or a Members’ Day Lunch, your involvement matters.
Thank you for your time, consideration, and support. All the best for a safe, happy, and productive Fall Term.
In Solidarity,
Rob
New Members, Union Dues, and Being a Signed Member
Wednesday, October 1st, 2025
Welcome to the over 600 new members from the beginning of this year! We are truly excited for you to join AESES because of your employment with the University of Manitoba, The University of Winnipeg or St. Andrew’s College.
Now that you are a member, you might have some questions about the union dues that are listed on your pay statement. Here’s the story behind how these dues were introduced, what it means to be a signed member and why they contribute to the strength of a union.
Union dues are deducted automatically from every unionized worker’s pay according to a legal precedent set in 1946 called the Rand Formula. The case involved a strike at a Ford auto manufacturing plant in Windsor, Ontario, by the United Auto Workers. Canadian Court Justice Ivan Rand acted as arbitrator in resolving the issues of the strike. As part of his remedies in the dispute, he established this practice of automatic deduction of dues from the wages of all workers in order to pay the union collectively. Prior to his decision, only signed union members paid dues, but non-members who did not pay still benefited from the union’s negotiated contract. Furthermore, the union had to approach signed members individually to collect dues monthly.
New AESES employees are often asked to become a signed member, and the distinction of signing membership may not be immediately clear. All AESES employees benefit from the provisions of the Collective Agreements negotiated with the employers, and therefore pay union dues, automatically deducted from their pay. Signed membership, however, is voluntary. Signing allows the member to participate fully in union activities (attend certain Association events, such as the annual Members’ Day Lunch, Children’s Winter Holiday Extravaganza, Spring and Fall Education Seminars, and the Annual General Meeting), hold roles on committees, and vote on collective decisions. This distinction ultimately derives from the Rand Formula and the precedent set in 1946.
AESES members currently contribute 1.00% of their gross pay as union dues, as per AESES By-Law 4.1. This rate is among the lowest in Canada. These dues are the way in which members of our bargaining unit collectively fund the work and functions of the union. Your dues provide the necessary funds to retain legal counsel for grievances and arbitration, and to provide education to members. AESES has created a substantial Defence Fund in order to support economic action and to cover legal costs that may arise in our ongoing efforts to defend the rights of our members.
If you are interested in becoming a signed member, please visit our membership information page and submit a membership form.
September 30th is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Monday, September 29th, 2025
It’s 10 years since the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), when Canadians and Indigenous peoples were invited to “climb a mountain” together and forge a relationship that will solve a growing social, economic and climate crisis and unveil what kind of country we will raise our children in. While work on several of the TRC’s 94 calls to action is underway – such as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30 – there is much work and a long journey yet to go. As one of this country’s most important institutions, unions must offer visions and tangible ways that all of us can participate in this country’s most important conversation and create workplaces of inclusivity and action. In this way, we can create a Canada with a collective, prosperous future that will show us things we have never seen before.
Dr. Niigaan Sinclair
Professor, Department of Indigenous Studies, University of Manitoba
Niigaan’s words remind us that there is much work to do towards reconciliation, and that while it’s important to reflect on the past, it’s our effort and work going forward that truly makes an impact. We accept this responsibility.
We will commit to ensuring that our union is a positive place, where reconciliation moves forward via education and advocacy, while ensuring that it strives to be a safe and inclusive place for our Indigenous members. We will listen intently, act with integrity and compassion, and take ownership of our actions and attitudes as we navigate calls for justice and for change.
The journey for reconciliation is a shared one. On this, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we recognize that while it’s important to remember, we must recommit to building a shared and equitable future with dignity and respect.
Rob Parker
President, AESES
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2025 Events Listing
Bursary Opportunities – Deadline October 2025
Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025
October is fast approaching, and it is also the deadline for the AESES Bursary, CCU/CSC John St-Amand / Madeleine Parent Bursary. To ensure your dependent child is included in the selection process, please apply before the deadline.
AESES Bursary
Dependent children (who are under 25 years of age prior to enrollment in the current academic year) of signed AESES members studying at either The University of Winnipeg (UW) or the University of Manitoba (UM) may be eligible to apply for one of our $1,000 bursaries. The deadline for both UW and UM is October 1, 2025.
Details for UW Students
Three $1,000 bursaries are available at UW. More information is available here: UW’s Office of Awards and Financial Aid. Apply here: uwinnipeg.ca/awards/apply-for-awards
Details for UM Students
Seven $1,000 bursaries are available at UM. More information and to apply is available here: UM’s Financial Aid and Awards Office. The application form is available here: umanitoba.ca/financial-aid-and-awards/bursaries under “Bursaries requiring application”
CCU/CSC John St-Amand Bursary and Madeleine Parent Bursary
The Confederation of Canadian Unions provides annual bursaries of $1,000 for dependent children of members of unions belonging to the CCU/CSC for the purpose of furthering their post-secondary education.
Visit the John St-Amand / Madeleine Parent Bursary page for more information and to apply. The deadline is October 10, 2025.
New
Manitoba Unions Indigenous Bursary in Labour Studies
The bursary has a value of $5,000 and will be offered for the first time in 2024-2025 to an Indigenous undergraduate student in the Labour Studies department at the University of Manitoba.
Visit the Manitoba Federation of Labour page for more information and to apply.
AESES Volunteers’ Appreciation Banquet 2025
Friday, August 1st, 2025
Annually, AESES acknowledges, thanks, and celebrates its Board of Representatives and longstanding volunteers. This year’s event took place at the Norwood Hotel at the end of April. Rob Parker, AESES President, presented the following pins and awards after supper:
Bronze Pin – 5 Years of Service
- Michaela Ablaza*
- Joey Pothe
Silver Pin – 10 Years of Service
- Debbie Armstrong
- Tessa Pearen*
- Melinda Sasek
- Colleen Thompson
Gold Pin – 15 Years of Service
- Lynne Wichenko
* pictured
Dedicated Service Award
The Dedicated Service Award was posthumously awarded to Anne Ferenc and presented to Anne’s close friend, Louise Sabourin. Anne’s consistent and unwavering dedication to AESES was recognized with this award. Anne’s contributions to AESES started over 15 years ago with the Board and various committees over the years, ending with the Activities Committee that oversaw the Children’s Winter Holiday Extravaganza, among other events.
Honourary Life Member Award
An Honourary Life Membership is the ultimate recognition by AESES and, therefore, should be considered as being somewhat restrictive. Honourary Life Membership will be granted only to those who have contributed outstanding or meritorious service to the Association over a substantial period of time. This year, Gloria Saindon was recognized with an Honourary Life Membership award at the banquet. Unfortunately, Gloria was unable to attend.
Past-President Memorial
The final presentation of the evening was by Laurie Morris in memory of Chris McCann. Laurie retold stories of Chris’ achievements for AESES and how proud she was to have known him. Laurie then presented Chris’ wife, Karey, a bronzed bison statue in honour of his commitment and past presidency to AESES. The plaque on the statue read, “Chris McCann Thank you for your tenacious commitment to AESES and its membership since 2000, culminating as president in 2024. AESES celebrates your positive and lasting legacy.” Sarah McCann then took the stage for an emotional thank you on behalf of the McCann family.
After the presentations and speeches, the night ended with fun-filled casino games.
A huge thank you to all our volunteers who provide their time and expertise to help the organization and the members. Volunteers are the lifeblood of AESES and essential to continued success and support for members.
If you are reading this and would like to volunteer, visit these respective pages: Board of Representatives or Committees, or email aeses@aeses.ca.