Constitution And Bylaw
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) Constitution and local bylaws serve as the foundational documents that outlines the fundamental principles, structures, and procedures governing the union’s operations and its relationship with its members.
Crafted through a consultative process and amended periodically to reflect the evolving needs of its members, these documents enshrine the rights, duties, and responsibilities of both the union and its members. It delineates the framework for democratic decision-making, including the election of officials, governance procedures, and mechanisms for member participation.
Additionally, it establishes the core values guiding the union’s actions in advocating for fair wages, better working conditions, and defending the rights of its membership.
History
OPSEU was officially formed in 1975 through the amalgamation of various public sector unions in Ontario, uniting to create a stronger collective voice for public service employees. In its early years, OPSEU operated under a constitution that underwent several revisions and amendments as the union grew in membership and influence.
The first constitution of OPSEU laid the groundwork for its organizational structure, outlining principles of democratic decision-making, the roles of elected officials, and the rights and responsibilities of its members. Over time, the union faced challenges and changes within the labor landscape, prompting updates to its constitution to address emerging issues and better represent the needs of its diverse membership.
Throughout the years, OPSEU’s constitution has seen revisions to reflect advancements in labor laws, shifts in societal norms, and the changing nature of work. These revisions often involved extensive consultations with members, democratic debates, and voting processes to ensure the constitution aligned with the values and objectives of the union.
Each revision of the OPSEU constitution marks a milestone in the union’s journey, demonstrating its commitment to democratic governance, member empowerment, and the pursuit of a fair and balanced system. As OPSEU continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of labor relations, its constitution remains a living document, evolving to meet the needs and aspirations of its members while upholding the union’s core values and principles.
Vote Or Amendment
13.8 Resolutions and constitutional amendments may be submitted by any Local, Area Council or Division, by the Executive Board, by the Article 19 Provincial Committees and by the executive of the Retired Members’ Division. They shall be attested to by two officers of the Local, Council, Division, Board or Committee and, except for resolutions and amendments from the Board, shall be forwarded so as to reach Union Headquarters not later than 45 calendar days prior to the opening of the Convention.
Resolutions and constitutional amendments submitted contrary to this procedure may be dealt with by the Convention only with the consent of the majority of the delegates and only after all regularly submitted resolutions and constitutional amendments have been dealt with, except that the delegates may accept a resolution but not a constitutional amendment, as an emergency and deal with it immediately.