University of Western Ontario Staff Association

There are a number of issues about which I'd like to report, briefly. These include:

• Position Eliminations
• Seniority List
• Steward Vacancies

As always, I invite comments, suggestions, or concerns about these or any issues. Feel free to contact me by email or phone (x85041) at any time.

Bulletin Subscription

With this Bulletin, we have created a new system for its delivery. Rather than use our usual mailing list, we have created a subscription system connected to each member's website account, and you have been automatically subscribed. In addition to this bulletin, other UWOSA information will be provided in similar documents distributed using the same system. We hope that this method will prevent these messages from being identified as SPAM by the UWO mail server. In addition, it allows us to include more interestingly presented content.

There is an unsubscribe link in the email containing this Bulletin, and you can follow it to unsubscribe. However, we strongly encourage you not to do so - a great deal of important content will be sent using this system, and most of it will not be delivered in any other way.

Update: Position Eliminations

We are now waiting for the Administration to identify the correct positions for the 25 members who have chosen to displace (or "bump"). We do not know with certainty when the process will begin, but believe it will do so by the end of this month. I know that this is a very stressful time for all UWOSA members, and that it is difficult to cope with the uncertainty layoffs impose. We will provide any information we can as soon as is possible. It is, however, a reality that the process will take some time - likely months - to complete. At this point, it is unlikely there will be any new information until the displacement process begins.

Seniority List

We have received a number of questions concerning an updated seniority list. Because of the importance of the list at the present time, both UWOSA and the UWO are taking great care to ensure the list is accurate. As the result of issues raised by UWOSA, it is currently being audited to ensure it is accurate. We expect it to be posted in the next couple of weeks, and will inform all members once that happens.

UWOSA Needs You!

There are 3 vacant areas which need a steward. You do not necessarily have to work in an area in order to be appointed a steward for that area. Stewards attend 2 Council meetings a month (over lunch), answer questions from members, and are involved in helping to resolve problems in their areas. The vacant areas are:

• Area "D": NSC, TL, PAB, MG;
• Area "E": UCC, GSB, LH, BaH, BeH, AuH, SMHR, WR 93; and
• Area "K": TC, MB, DHR, AHR, MHR, ElHR, SYHR, BMAC.

In addition, we continue to seek alternate stewards for most areas. Alternates fill in for stewards when they are unavailable. If you are interested in becoming a steward or an alternate, or in receiving more information, please get in touch! These are important roles, and are also a great way to get involved.

Interesting Reading About Universities

I've recently read a couple of interesting articles about the problems faced by universities and the workers at them. The Educational Policy Institute published a paper ("On The Brink: How the Recession of 2009 Will Affect Post-Secondary Education)" earlier this year which describes many of the problems faced by Canadian universities now, and suggests what the next few years may bring. Tyler Shipley, from CUPE 3903 at York University, has recently written a paper ("Demanding the Impossible: Struggles for the Future of Post-Secondary Education") which describes the historical context of the funding problems faced by universities, and what those problems may mean for workers. This paper is published by the Socialist Project, though is not dogmatic in its approach and offers much of value for readers from any political orientation. I recommend both of these articles.

Membership/Social Events

I'd like to remind you about a few membership/social events happening over the coming months.

• There are a number of Day-Trips planned in the summer and fall - the deadline to register for these trips is Tuesday, June 9.
• The next UWOSA volunteer opportunity is at the London Food Bank on June 20.
• The Summer BBQ will be held June 25 - don't forget to get your ticket on June 12 or 15!
• The warm weather means that the 9th Annual UWOSA Photo Contest has arrived - don't forget to enter!

Save Lives This Summer: Donate Blood at the UCC

Summer is also a high demand period for the blood supply. Please consider making a donation at the regular campus clinic:

Lower Level, Student Health Services, UCC
Every Monday, 11:00 am until 3:00 pm
Call 1-888-2-DONATE to book your appointment, walk-ins also welcome.