Our PSAC-UTE bargaining team met with the Canada Revenue Agency on November 18-20 to continue negotiations for a new collective agreement.

Job security and workforce adjustment (WFA) were key topics discussed in this session. We again made it clear to the employer that these issues are priorities for us in this round of negotiations.

Job cuts

Considering the government’s budget announcement related to new voluntary departure programs, we reminded the employer that they have a legal obligation to consult with the union about such programs. 

The CRA indicated that it does not have details about what the government has announced but has committed to honouring its obligations under the law and under our agreement.

Job security

In negotiations this week, we made several proposals to enhance workforce adjustment language in our collective agreement and to expand job security provisions and protections as AI is introduced in our workplaces.

While we have not had a response concerning WFA, CRA rejected our proposals to enhance job security around AI. We told the Agency that we are maintaining our position on these matters, and that new protections for our members are vital in this round. 

We also informed the Agency that remote work is a critical issue for our bargaining team in this round of negotiations.

What’s next?

Bargaining will resume in December. To stay up to date, make sure to visit the UTE and PSAC websites for more information and to sign up for our newsletter. If you have any questions, please contact your UTE local.