All support staff at Seneca College, except for students working in co-op positions, are members of either the full-time or part-time bargaining units. As bargaining unit members, you are all entitled to fair representation from the Union, wages and benefits negotiated by the Union, and to participate, democratically, in contract and strike votes. In return, all bargaining unit members must pay dues (once you have a First Contract).
However, not all bargaining unit members are Union Members. To be a Union Member, you must voluntarily join the Union, by signing a Union Card. Union membership has further rewards. A Union Card is a promise to do no harm to other members. It entitles you to attend Union Meetings and vote on how your dues are spent, on what activities the Union is involved in, on rules and by-laws, on bargaining demands, and to vote for the people who lead your Union or run for a position yourself. A union card also entitles you to group benefits, like cell phone and auto insurance deals, quality education and training, helpful resources in times of need, and most important: Strike Pay in the event you choose to strike or are locked-out by the employer, during bargaining.
Sign a Union Card Here
To sign a Union Card, print and sign the linked card here, or open it in a PDF viewer and complete and sign it electronically. Mark CAATS as your category of employment. For Part-Time, also indicate whether you are a student or regular PT worker. For Hire Date, please use the first day you began working at Seneca, not the beginning of your current contract. Bring the signed card to our Union Office, Room B4060, or inter-office mail it to OPSEU Local 561, Newnham Campus, or email to opseu561@gmail.com. You can slide envelopes under the door – only elected union officers have the keys.