Dear members,
I hope that everyone is enjoying the warm summer weather and staying cool and hydrated. Things are slowing down a bit for the summer, but I know many of you are busy with packing to move this summer and I wish you a smooth and efficient move.
FSD 33 / Lycée Fees Update
As noted within my previous message, a few weeks ago, we were made aware of that the Lycée in Ottawa changed its fee structure for the coming year, and this was causing possible shortfalls between the fees and the FSD allowances. I am pleased to report that, following PAFSO’s intervention via conversations with officials at TBS and GAC, GAC has now confirmed that the fees will be covered through FSDs. This is a significant success for our members attributable to strong advocacy efforts by our PAFSO team.
I would also like to remind you, as moving season kicks into high gear, to read the NJC FSD directives thoroughly to ensure you clearly understand your entitlements. It would also be worth reviewing our recent webinar led by Paul Raven, the head of our Labour Relations team, especially if you are heading out on your first posting. If you experience any problems, pleased contact info@pafso.com to be connected with a labour relations advisor.
Staffing Changes at PAFSO
July is a busy month at PAFSO on the staffing front. This week we have had two new people join our team. Welcome to Justin Prest who is taking on the role of Communications Officer and Andrew Elliott who has joined us as the Advocacy and Stakeholder Relations Officer.
As well, Marty Johnston is transitioning to a new role as part of the Labour Relations team. Tam Ames and Farhana Cynthia are now moving into part-time roles focussed on the final production steps and launch of our 60th Anniversary book I told you about in the last message.
PAFSO Policy Grievances – Fertility Treatments and WFA
PAFSO has filed a policy grievance relating to the Employer’s failure to provide coverage or funding for fertility treatments for members while serving outside Canada. These treatments are covered in Ontario, but the employer is arguing that since they are not funded under OHIP per se, they do not count as part of their health care obligations. PAFSO intends to argue that this constitutes discrimination and is prohibited under our collective agreement and the Canadian Human Rights Act. Some members have already shared their experiences, and we would encourage others to send us an email if they are willing to provide evidentiary support for the grievance.
Additionally, PAFSO has filed a policy grievance relating to the WFA process facing FS-04s at GAC. The grievance will lay out arguments that GAC has incorrectly interpreted and administered the Work Force Adjustment Directive by subjecting FS‑04 employees at Global Affairs Canada to work force adjustment on the ground of “discontinuance of a function,” when no discontinuance of that function has occurred (as demonstrated by the fact that FS-04 positions continue to exist and be staffed).
Grievance processes take some time to move forward, and significant results are unlikely in the short term. That said we will continue to update the membership on developments on these matters.
Watch our webinar with the National Association of Federal Retirees (NAFR)
Last Tuesday, Steve Chapman, former GAC MCO and President of the Ottawa Chapter of NAFR, joined me for a very interesting and lively discussion of the issues facing federal retirees in the Ottawa area and the ways his organization can help. You can find the recording here.
Annual General Meeting
The 61st PAFSO Annual General Meeting, is scheduled for Monday, October 19, at 1600, Ottawa time. The meeting will be held virtually, so, if you would like to participate, please let us know by sending an email to agm-aga@pafso-apase.com with your name and department. A formal meeting invitation with the full agenda and all related documents will be sent to registered participants at a date closer to the event.
Nominations for ExCom for 2026-2028
There are four (4) positions of the Executive Committee to be filled this year in the following streams: Trade – 1 vacancy, Political – 1 vacancy, International Assistance – 1 vacancy, Member at Large – 1 vacancy. Elections to these positions will be held in accordance with Section 7 of the PAFSO Constitution.
Nominations of candidates for election to the Executive Committee shall be in writing and supported in writing by at least three regular members and must reach the Secretary before 5pm (Ottawa time), August 28, 2026. Please check the email of July 16 for full details and links to the nomination form.
Serving on ExCom involves attending the monthly virtual meetings on Thursdays from 1200-1400 Ottawa time as well as working with at least one committee, for a total of about 6-8 hours per month. You can get more information about the role of ExCom members and commitment required in our YouTube video on the subject.
Nominations for Randy Orr Memorial Award
Immediately following our AGM, we will be holding a ceremony to present the Randy Orr Memorial Award, which recognizes exceptional volunteer service to the foreign service community. Nominations are open to anyone, including PAFSO members, their families, and other colleagues who have contributed outside the framework of their paid employment to improving the lives of those who serve Canada abroad.
The deadline for nominations is August 28 in order to give you a chance to nominate such an exceptional person. Please send an email to info@pafso.com outlining who they are, what they have done, when, and why it made a difference. Your nomination should be supported by three people, including at least one current regular PAFSO member.
As always, should you have any other concerns at work, do not hesitate to reach out to us. That’s what we’re here for. Are you having issues with your pay? Do you feel harassed or discriminated against? Do you have a grievance or a staffing complaint? Or do you just want some clarifications on our collective agreement or the FSDs? Whatever the case, PAFSO is here for you. Just send us an email with your name, department and a detailed description of your concerns. You can click here to learn more about all the member services PAFSO has to offer. For anything and everything else, please send us an email at info@pafso.com and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
A short message this week but know that PAFSO continues to advocate for our members year around. I’ll be taking some holidays at the end of the month, so unless something urgent arises, your next message from me will arrive on August 21. Until then , please take care of yourselves and each other.
Pamela Isfeld
President of PAFSO