Ongoing tariff disputes with the United States are threating economic stability and job security. CEIU members will feel these impacts, not just in their workplaces, but in their daily lives and communities.  

In moments like these, solidarity is our greatest strength. We stand with Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress, in answering the call to unite. 

At the same time, the federal government has announced austerity-driven measures to cut billions over the next four years. These cuts put thousands of jobs on the line and weaken the public services that all Canadians rely on. 

But we know the truth: job cuts to public services are not the answer. Public services are the backbone of this country, keeping our economy steady and our communities strong, especially in times of uncertainty. 

CEIU members are at the heart of these services. We process Employment Insurance and pension claims, expedite immigration in high-priority industries, and support families and businesses across the country.  These services must be protected and strengthened.  

Solidarity is more important now than ever. This is our time to imagine a better future and to fight for the public services that hold our communities together. Solidarity is not just a word – it is our power. Together, we will stand strong!  

Your vote matters 

A federal election is around the corner. 

CEIU members have a unique opportunity to elect their own bosses. Elections shape government priorities, and that means they directly impact what policies are implemented and whether public service cuts will continue. Every federal budget and policy decision affects public service jobs, working conditions, and job security. 

Federal policies also shape our communities. We must ensure everyone in our communities are supported, including members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, racialized, Black, and Indigenous people, and people with disabilities.  

Your vote helps determine: 
 

• Whether job security is prioritized in government decision-making. 

• Whether public services are adequately funded or face further cuts. 

• Whether we encourage equity in our communities.  

Decisions about our jobs and communities should not be made without worker voices at the table. Voting is one way to help ensure that government decisions reflect the needs of CEIU members.  

Stay tuned for ways to get involved in the federal election.  

Taking action on Workforce Adjustment (WFA) 
 

We have challenged employer narratives around WFA and demanded meaningful consultation before job cuts take effect. Working with the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC), we have developed rapid WFA training for stewards across CEIU, ensuring that our 160+ stewards are trained and ready to support members.  
 
PSAC provided fast-action WFA training to our staff, and we held information sessions for affected members. 

We have filed a policy grievance against Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as another avenue to push back. 

Our approach has been multifaceted and mobilized, ensuring support reaches those who need it most.  

Your CEIU National Executive has collaborated across regions to support IRCC members receiving affected letters. We also secured IRCC employer-paid leave for our stewards so they can assist members on the ground. 

Beyond direct support, we have been vocal in the media, ensuring the public understands the importance of the services our members provide. We have also joined forces with fellow PSAC components, including the Union of Safety and Justice Employees, to take a unified stand against job cuts. As further budget cuts loom, we continue pushing all departments to engage in proactive consultation. 

During this time, we encourage you to support one another. Think about your fellow members. Recognize how the employer and systemic divides weaken us. Only together do we win! 
 

Visit our workforce adjustment and term webpage to learn about your rights and connect with your union for support. 

You can also listen to Rubina’s interview as part of the Union Safety Net podcast series hosted by the USJE. 

Bargaining: a year-round effort 

 
Bargaining doesn’t just happen at the table—it happens every single day as we build worker power.  

Members have been at the core of our bargaining efforts: we started with over 4,000 bargaining survey responses and over 1,200 member-submitted demands, with members refining these down to 25 priorities at our CEIU national bargaining conference in November 2024.  

Our key demands remain: 
 

• Fair telework arrangements 

• Real pay increases in line with inflation 

• Improved working conditions 

CEIU had a strong presence at the PSAC’s national bargaining conference this past February, ensuring that we are well-represented in the PA Group negotiating our new collective agreement with the employer. 
 

We are proud to be part of the most diverse PA bargaining table in PSAC history. A special congratulations to the CEIU members who will be representing us in the upcoming round of bargaining: 
 

• Francesca Dorvilier (Quebec) 

• Charito Humphreys (Prairies) 

• Missy Taylor (Ontario) 
   

Learn about how bargaining works.  

As we navigate the challenges ahead, we remain committed to leading CEIU with integrity, determination, and a clear focus on being a leading component in the labour movement.  

This is our moment to organize, mobilize, and push forward. CEIU has the power of its members behind it, and together, we will build a stronger, more just future for all. 

In solidarity, 

Rubina Boucher (she/her/elle) 
Your National President 
 

Helen King (she/her/elle) 
Your National Executive Vice-President