Dear members,
Where to begin? These last two weeks have been remarkably productive. There’s been a real sense of momentum as we move through many of our key action items for the year.
I have a bit of news to share on the COVID-19 front. Last week we launched our follow-up questionnaire on the pandemic and how it has affected our members mental health, workload, productivity and morale. I am very pleased to report that, only a few days in, an overwhelming number of you have already taken the time to respond. Your responses, anonymized and used in aggregate, will help us to refine our advocacy and programming to better meet your needs. So, if you are one of the many who has already responded, thank you. For those who haven’t yet, please take a few minutes to complete the questionnaire. The more responses we get, the better we can represent you and your concerns.
Last week, PAFSO joined other federal public service unions and the National Association of Federal Retirees to demand that Treasury Board immediately begin negotiations to update and strengthen the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP). In 2018 a Memorandum of Understanding was signed committing to a renewal of the plan by March of 2019. Two years on and the government is still refusing to come to the table. The PSHCP has not been meaningfully updated in over 15 years and is in need of major changes to reflect recent medical advances, increases in the cost of health services and emerging technologies. Some of the proposals we are putting forward include expanded coverage for vision care and paramedical services such as chiropractic care, physiotherapy, etc. In the face of the government’s repeated delays, PAFSO, PSAC and the other bargaining agents have submitted a final request demanding urgent action from Treasury Board and, if necessary, will begin legal proceedings to compel the government to negotiate.
Later this month, the Canadian Ambassadors Alumni Association will be adding ten former Canadian Ambassadors to their list of Ambassadors of Note. The designation recognizes their distinguished contribution to the advancement of Canada’s international standing and foreign policy interests. The announcement will be made virtually, via Zoom, on 18 February at 1600 EST and you are invited to join in. Please register in advance here. You can learn more about the awards and see a list of previous recipients here on the AMB CANADA website.
All next week, from 7 to 13 February, PAFSO is proud to celebrate International Development week 2021 with our International Assistance colleagues. This year’s theme “Go for the Goals,” once again sets its focus on gender equality, health and climate change. The theme is a reference to the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals. With less than a decade until 2030, this edition of the International Development Week is an ideal moment to reflect on how the global goals affect our realities both at home and abroad. Check out this site for a complete calendar of IDW2021 activities and much more.
I also want to recognize that February is Black History Month. This month, we reflect on how people of African descent have been a part of shaping our heritage and identity since the early 1600s. Black History Month is about honouring the enormous contributions that Black people have made, and continue to make, in all sectors of society. It is about celebrating resilience, innovation, and determination to work towards a more inclusive and diverse Canada—a Canada in which everyone has every opportunity to flourish. PAFSO believes in the importance of diversity in the Foreign Service. A Foreign Service that reflects its citizenry strengthens our overall effectiveness and provides a greater opportunity to forge more meaningful connections across borders. PAFSO is pleased to see the strides that have been made to increase diversity in our membership. But we know there is more work to be done. Please take a moment to visit the Government Canada’s Black History Month site to learn more about the legacy of Black Canadians and their communities.
Next Tuesday, 9 February, as part of our ongoing anti-racism efforts and our virtual PAFSO Breakfast series, I will have the honour of hosting Myriam Montrat, head of GAC’s Anti-Racism Secretariat, for a discussion on the role of her organization, the trends and issues she and her team have identified so far, and the ways in which PAFSO and its members can help make things better. Please register here to join our conversation, which will begin at 0800 EST.
And, as always, if you have questions or concerns about your current work situation, please contact our executive director, Kim Coles. She will put you in touch with someone on our labour relations advisor team. For anything else, just send an email to info@pafso.com at any time, and someone will get back to you as soon as possible.
Our virtual chats continue every Wednesday at 1030 Ottawa time. So, if you just feel like checking in over a coffee, just click here to join in.
It’s been a busy couple of weeks, and that’s really great. For a short month, February’s feeling pretty full. As best I can, I’ll try to keep you posted as developments warrant.
I’ll check back in with you in two weeks. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.
All the best,
Pam Isfeld
President