Almost 25 years ago, the Supreme Court of Canada confirmed that federal public service employees have a constitutional right to engage in political activity. At that time, the Public Service Employment Act did not allow these employees to take part in any political activities except casting their vote. The Court agreed that political activity is consistent with the Charter of Rights and Freedom’s guarantee of freedom of expression to individuals.

PSAC is very pleased to announce that it has reached an agreement with Treasury Board on the establishment of a joint task force on mental health. PSAC tabled the proposal in January to ensure a more proactive approach to improving mental health. Following negotiations this week with Treasury Board, the parties agreed on the makeup, responsibilities and timelines for the task force on mental health.

A new study published by the Canadian Center for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) entitled Narrowing the Gap: The difference that public sector wages make reports that there is less wage discrimination for women, aboriginals, and visible minorities in the public sector compared to the private sector.

British Columbia Harold Larsen works as a B.C. based program officer in consumer protection and is also a treasurer for his local component. He believes the union is under attack and needs to protect what it has achieved in past negotiations.