Corrections/Criminal Justice

NAPE serves notice to commence public sector collective bargaining

dduffy — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 10:50:48 -0500

“We are ready to get to the bargaining table to negotiate collective agreements that reflect the value of the vital services our members provide to the people of Newfoundland and Labrador.”

BCGEU bargaining 2012 kicks off today with master agreement talks in Vancouver

dduffy — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 08:49:59 -0500

"We’re prepared for any action we have to take to get our members the improved contracts they’ve earned,” said BCGEU President Darryl Walker.

Ottawa police highlight crisis in mental health services

lbush — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 10:36:16 -0500

In 2011 the Ottawa police responded to more than 4,000 calls that were related to a mental health issue. This is an increase over reported cases in 2010 with a large increase in mental health related arrests.

New Labrador benefits agreement reached

dduffy — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:13:31 -0500

“This is a positive first public sector agreement reached with the newly elected Dunderdale administration,” said Bert Blundon, NAPE Secretary Treasurer and chief negotiator.

B.C. Auditor General’s report calls for staffing and caseload review for probation officers

dduffy — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 11:21:14 -0500

“We welcome the Auditor General’s report, which clearly evidences the workload strain faced by probation officers in our province,” says BCGEU President Darryl Walker.

SGEU meets with Premier

dduffy — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:49:33 -0500

“We look forward to meeting with Premier Wall to discuss issues that affect our members, many of whom are employed by the government of Saskatchewan,” said Bymoen.

BCGEU members meet to develop bargaining priorities for 2012

dduffy — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 13:43:08 -0500

Key items identified for 2012 bargaining by BCGEU/NUPGE members.

Women 4 Change organize around public services important to life/work balance

dduffy — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 10:43:01 -0500

All Together Now! women activists to focus on public services key to achieving life/work balance.

National Union releases report on long-term care: Dignity Denied 2011

dduffy — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 10:36:32 -0500

Dignity Denied 2011 illustrates the flaws in our current system of long-term care and offers common sense solutions for positive change.

NUPGE stands in solidarity with UNISON in pension fight

dduffy — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:05:05 -0500

"Workers are being told to work longer, pay more and receive less," said James Clancy, NUPGE National President. "We stand in solidarity with each and every UNISON member in the fight for decent pensions. Enough is enough."

Huge cost of tax evasion revealed as campaign to tackle tax havens launches

dduffy — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 08:49:26 -0500

New research published by the Tax Justice Network shows that tax evasion costs governments around the world more than US$3.1 trillion annually.

B.C.'s anti-democratic Bill 18 discriminates against union activists

dduffy — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 10:00:35 -0500

Help push back B.C.'s antidemocratic legislation. Fight Bill 18!

November 25 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

dduffy — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 13:01:01 -0500

At least one out of every three women around the world has been beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused in her lifetime - with the abuser usually someone known to her.

November All Together Now! Campaigner is out!

dduffy — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 12:45:24 -0500

"So bailing out the banks while punishing workers is not, in fact, a recipe for prosperity." - Paul Krugman, Nobel Prize winning economist.

Supreme Court unanimous decision supports pay equity claim against Canada Post

dduffy — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 09:58:26 -0500

"This 30 year struggle shows that Canada needs to improve its pay equity laws to ensure this injustice never happens again. Women must be treated and compensated fairly in every workplace." - James Clancy, NUPGE President

NSGEU correctional workers vote in favour of joining civil service

dduffy — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 08:05:08 -0500

“We are excited about what this may mean for our members in corrections,” says Jessome.

Health care activists gather in Halifax for meeting of health ministers

dduffy — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:58:22 -0500

"We need to work together to force them to put people before tax cuts and excessive corporate profits." - James Clancy, NUPGE President.

NSGEU supports NDP’s first contract labour legislation

dduffy — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 13:35:22 -0500

"This is good for all workers in Nova Scotia," says NSGEU President Joan Jessome. "Eighty per cent of Canadians already have labour legislation like this. Our workers deserve the same kind of supports."

New report shows political environment has greater impact on unionization rates than economy

dduffy — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 14:50:41 -0500

Politics, more than the economy and technology, has a greater impact on rates of unionization.

B.C. Solicitor General to announce Okanagan prison soon

dduffy — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 11:24:53 -0500

The BCGEU/NUPGE supported this consultation process and is now calling on the government to make a decision on the new facility which would help alleviate the chronic overcrowding in the existing prisons.

President's Commentary: Speaking truth to power - The Occupy movement has already won

dduffy — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:24:23 -0500

The Occupy movement is here to stay. It will morph into something else. But it’s not going away until there are serious reforms to our economy and democracy.

Manitoba establishes new memorial for fallen workers

lbush — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 10:19:59 -0400

Memorial will pay tribute to brothers and sisters who lost their lives while on the job.

NUPGE / OPSEU file complaint with CBC Ombudsman over offensive anti-union comments by Kevin O’Leary

dduffy — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 11:55:15 -0400

“Mr. O’Leary’s wilful promotion of contempt and hatred towards unions reflects a viewpoint that has often ended in violence perpetrated against union members and leaders around the world.”

President’s Commentary: Harper government denying fundamental human rights

dduffy — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:25:20 -0400

It is the role of a democratic government in a civil society to defend all human rights. Human rights cannot flourish where labour rights are not enforced.

BCGEU president demands meeting to address escalating violence

dduffy — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 10:34:46 -0400

"Violence is not part of our members' jobs. They have the right to go to work without fear of being punched, stabbed, kicked or spit on. And their employer has a legal obligation to ensure their workplace is safe."

Leaked Vancouver Police report highlights continued crisis in mental health services

lbush — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 11:44:25 -0400

Key finding of 2008 Lost in Transition report that a lack of capacity in the mental health system is failing Vancouver's mentally ill and draining police resources remains true.

BC adds 36 new sheriffs to partially address court backlog

dduffy — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 09:58:38 -0400

"We are pleased the government has listened to the concerns from sheriffs, judges and the public about the need to have proper security in our courts," said BCGEU President Darryl Walker.

Correctional Officers and Sheriffs join forces to make a wish come true

dduffy — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 19:59:01 -0400

Whether it is hockey or baseball, it is great to see Correctional Officers and Sheriffs come together, have some fun for such a good cause,” says Joan Jessome, NSGEU President.

Justice Minister Swan meets with MGEU members

dduffy — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 09:29:24 -0400

“What’s even more rare is the opportunity to have the Minister of the department come and meet with frontline staff to talk candidly about what the department is prepared to do with the information they’ve been provided.” - Lois Wales, MGEU President.

McGuinty begins biggest wave of layoffs in Ontario since the Mike Harris era

dduffy — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 11:08:16 -0400

“The lesson of the Mike Harris era is that cuts to public services hurt us all,” said Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) President Warren (Smokey) Thomas.

Manitoba creating mental health court

lbush — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 13:58:36 -0400

News that the Manitoba government is creating a mental health court in 2011 is being greeted as a small step forward by the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE).

BCGEU members rally against critical Sheriff staffing levels

dduffy — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 10:08:11 -0400

Deputy Sheriffs around the province are having their hours cut dramatically by the provincial government, which will cause more problems keeping courts running, says the British Columbia Government and Service Employees' Union (BCGEU/NUPGE).

Harassment policy victimizes government workers

dduffy — Tue, 24 May 2011 13:29:55 -0400

“The government must take action to ensure that the basic rights of its employees are safeguarded, and that no one is penalized for trying to stop workplace harassment,” Sid Wonitowy, a member of SGEU’s Public Service Negotiating Committee, concludes.

Arizona State corrections finds little to no savings with private prisons

lbush — Tue, 24 May 2011 10:18:16 -0400

Points to a problem with private jails ‘cherry-picking’ healthy and easy prisoners and leaving state facilities with more difficult and costly inmates.

Ontario Public Service members meet to plan fightback

dduffy — Tue, 24 May 2011 09:46:59 -0400

Planning gets underway for public service fightback campaign in Ontario.

Statistics Canada: inmates in remand outnumber those serving sentences

lbush — Tue, 17 May 2011 11:07:15 -0400

Increase in remand numbers contributing factor to over-crowding in provincial correctional facilities.

OPSEU campaigns to preserve community based jails

lbush — Mon, 16 May 2011 22:18:07 -0400

Closures move province closer to flawed US model of superjails.

NAPE: implement adult probation services report recommendations immediately

dduffy — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 12:59:54 -0400

"Of grave concern to us is the unacceptable fact that adult probation officers often find themselves working alone in unsafe conditions, a situation which must be rectified immediately." - NAPE President, Carol Furlong.

Making the connection: Labour rights, good jobs, tax fairness and quality public services

dduffy — Tue, 05 Apr 2011 18:18:05 -0400

The pretense for the attacks is that state governments are broke and radical measures are required to eliminate budget deficits. This is a false argument.

All Together Now's letter-writing campaign builds support for tax fairness and quality public services

dduffy — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:51:12 -0400

"We may be retired but we are huge in voter numbers so we are pleased to see how the efforts of NUPGE to reach out have been so successful. Grey power may not rule, but it sure does have an impact." Dave and Bonnie Scott, winners.

Ontario budget squeeze ignores key realities as corporate tax cuts drain public purse

dduffy — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 21:46:58 -0400

“How can the government identify Children’s Aid as a source of savings at a time when programs for abused and neglected children need a major infusion of cash just to keep afloat?” - Warren (Smokey) Thomas, OPSEU president.

Government's own consultant can't demonstrate value of anti-drug program

lbush — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 15:56:56 -0400

Report comes as the government is facing a challenge for their prior refusal to release to the Commons finance committee cost estimates for their crime bills.

MGEU civil service members ratify agreement

dduffy — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:38:09 -0400

Fifty-six percent of civil service members voted with sixty-seven percent of those who cast a ballot voting to accept the offer.

President's Commentary: Tories aren't tough on crime; they're dumb on crime

lbush — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 22:28:56 -0400

The Conservative government’s "tough on crime" agenda is a waste of resources and is actually making the real problems in our justice system worse.

BCGEU supports report calling for legal aid changes

dduffy — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 18:04:24 -0500

“The BC government has a legal, moral and ethical duty to ensure that their citizens have basic access to the justice system,” said Walker. “On every count, by every measure, they have failed spectacularly to provide these services to their citizens." Darryl Walker, president, BCGEU/NUPGE

The Unfinished G20 story

dduffy — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 07:29:15 -0500

"Trust in public institutions and in the police are essential to a well - adjusted society. Police brutality affects us all: it is a betrayal of the rule of law as people bound to maintain the law abuse it. "- Canadian Civil Liberties Association (CCLA) and the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE)

Here they go again - federal transfers up for negotiation

khawley — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 11:55:06 -0500

Stable funding for Medicare, social programs and post-secondary education should not be sacrificed for today's corporate tax cuts.

President's Commentary: Time for tax fairness, not more corporate tax cuts

dduffy — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 17:31:01 -0500

There's very little evidence these tax cuts will lead to more jobs. In fact, they come with no strings attached so companies that eliminate jobs are actually rewarded - James Clancy, NUPGE national president.

Traffic duties for sheriffs put on hold

lbush — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 14:31:39 -0500

Delay announced despite more than 7,700 outstanding bench warrants and 25,000 other warrants continue to go undelivered because police services are stretched to limits.

Civil service gets final offer from Manitoba gov't

lbush — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 09:57:42 -0500

The Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union (MGEU/NUPGE) will now be arranging times and locations for ratification meetings.

MGEU corrections members voting on final offer

dblaikie — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 17:36:00 -0500

'It’s been a particularly long and difficult round of negotiations.'

Tentative deal rejected for 14,000 Manitoba workers

dblaikie — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 12:22:53 -0500

MGEU requesting a return to the bargaining table as soon as possible.

B.C. sheriff services staffing level at critical low

dblaikie — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 17:40:00 -0500

Correctional officers will be called upon to help deal with demands for increased security at provincial courts in the coming months.

Mentally ill man gets four years on weapons charges

dblaikie — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 17:31:00 -0500

Case illustrates the inadequacy of mental health services in Canada and the lack of flexibility courts now face because of mandatory sentencing laws.

British Columbia sheriffs to handle 'Con Air' duties

dblaikie — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:40:00 -0500

Province finally agrees to expanded role for sheriffs to relieve some of the demands now being handled by police departments.

OPSEU launches social services division newsletter

dblaikie — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 17:35:00 -0500

Bringing together nearly 17,000 members who work in developmental services, children’s aid societies, child treatment areas, youth corrections and community agencies.

President's Commentary: An appeal to Ontario political leaders - listen to public sector workers

dblaikie — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:50:00 -0500

Tim Hudak is misleading voters by pretending that an attack on public sector jobs and wages will deal with a financial mess that the financial sector has caused, says James Clancy, NUPGE's national president.

OPSEU will appeal to finance committee for fairness

dblaikie — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:49:00 -0500

Warren (Smokey) Thomas will present a brief on behalf of 125,000 OPSEU members across Ontario.

New jails needed to address inmate overcrowding

dblaikie — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 17:36:00 -0500

Expansion of existing facilities welcome but new correction facilities are badly needed, says MGEU.

Inmates with cell phones a growing threat to guards

dblaikie — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:40:00 -0500

129 known instances over three years in federal prisons indicates likelihood of much larger problem across Canada.

Ratification vote set for 14,000 Manitoba employees

dblaikie — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 17:46:00 -0500

'The four-year deal includes a general wage increase of 2.75% in each of the last two years and a no lay-off clause.'

B.C. jail guards again appeal to province for help

dblaikie — Tue, 04 Jan 2011 17:45:00 -0500

Address critical overcrowding situation in correctional facilities before someone is killed, BCGEU demands.

B.C. slow to act on expanding duties for sheriffs

dblaikie — Wed, 15 Dec 2010 17:45:00 -0500

'Police services have serious crimes to deal with, such as gang activity, and having sheriffs take on some traffic duties would free up a great deal of their time.'

NSGEU supports report into death of Howard Hyde

dblaikie — Sun, 12 Dec 2010 05:01:00 -0500

'The report is in many cases complimentary of our members and the good work they do.' - Joan Jessome.

BCGEU raises key issues at meeting with Coleman

dblaikie — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 17:29:00 -0500

'While the ministry has been doing some work to improve workload conditions, there is still a long way to go.'

Consultations begin on a new jail in the Okanagan

dblaikie — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 17:31:00 -0500

'We support the move by the government to consult.... No one, including ourselves, wants a jail forced on a community.' - Darryl Walker.

Assault on guard a symptom of overcrowded prisons

dblaikie — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 17:31:00 -0500

Explosive tensions exist at the North Fraser Pretrial Centre in B.C. where 650 inmates are packed into facilities meant to house a maximum of 300 prisoners.

OPSEU blitzing Ontario to fight Liberal wage freeze

dblaikie — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 17:45:00 -0500

Dozens of events will be held across the province on Friday (Dec. 3) to fight back against the McGuinty government's plan to scapegoat public sector workers.

OPSEU video takes apart McGuinty wage freeze

dblaikie — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 17:55:00 -0500

The impact on public employees will stretch far beyond the two-year freeze proposed by the province – all for the benefit of already-wealthy corporations.

MGEU reports agreement on non-monetary issues

dblaikie — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 17:50:00 -0500

'Needless to say, this had been a difficult bargaining climate.'

Judges highlight inadequate mental health funding

dblaikie — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 12:00:00 -0500

'More than one-third of individuals in custody in Ontario suffer from some sort of mental illness.'

Study calls tough on crime agenda a costly failure

dblaikie — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 17:55:00 -0500

A new study by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives says rationale for Harper's crime agenda defies 20-year downtrend crime rates.

Broken B.C. legal aid system needs major overhaul

dblaikie — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 17:45:00 -0500

'A rights-based system makes sense, because it removes politics from the justice system.' - Darryl Walker.

Prison ombudsman sounds alarm on double bunking

dblaikie — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 17:35:00 -0500

'We are criminalizing, incarcerating and warehousing the mentally disordered in large and alarming numbers.'

Correctional officers picket over slow progress

dblaikie — Sun, 07 Nov 2010 09:01:00 -0500

'A message that government negotiators need to discuss members’ concerns, particularly about the issue of overcrowding.'

NSGEU launches province-wide television campaign

dblaikie — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 18:29:50 -0400

'Polling has told us the public values the public services they receive.' - Joan Jessome.

New report on protecting women from serial predators

bhildahl — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 11:37:10 -0400

Report makes recommendations to protect women from serial predators who traget victims because of their availability, vulnerability and desirability.

Jail no place for FASD offenders, ministers told

dblaikie — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 18:35:00 -0400

'It's not good for them, it's not good for the community, it's not good for the justice system and it's not good for the health system.' - Justice Minister Alison Redford of Alberta.

Wretched morale problems at B.C. jail in Kamloops

dblaikie — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 18:40:00 -0400

Worst score among nine British Columbia correctional facilities in Workplace Environment Survey.

Alzheimer's patient spent weeks in Winnipeg jail

dblaikie — Sun, 10 Oct 2010 12:58:00 -0400

'He doesn't remember any of the family now. He doesn't know my mom.'

Ottawa announces $155.5 million prison expansion

dblaikie — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 18:44:30 -0400

Tories blame "unacceptably high" crime rate even though Statistics Canada reports that crime rates have fallen.

Federal crime bills swelling Alberta jail population

dblaikie — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 18:44:00 -0400

23% increase in inmate count forecast over next five years, says Alberta's solicitor general.

New sentencing law will cost taxpayers $640 million

dblaikie — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 18:44:00 -0400

Elimination of two-for-one pre-sentencing credits will add 160 days to two years to the costs of keeping federal inmates behind bars.

New Tory sentencing law hits Aboriginals harder

dblaikie — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 18:31:00 -0400

Preliminary data suppressed by government during Commons debates reveals impact of abolishing two-for-one remand credits when inmates are sentenced to prison.

Peace and police officers honoured in annual tribute

lbush — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 17:35:48 -0400

Thousands of peace and police officers from across Canada participated over the weekend in annual ceremonies remembering those who have died in the line of duty.

B.C. could be forced to build two additional jails

dblaikie — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 18:51:00 -0400

Harper government's tough-on-criminals agenda means province will have to build additional facilities to hold a wave of new inmates sentenced by the courts, BCGEU says.

Feds blew cash with no plan for mentally ill offenders

dblaikie — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 18:43:00 -0400

'There will be a less safe environment in Canadian penitentiaries.' - Howard Sapers.

NUPGE calls for action to preserve gun registry

dblaikie — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 10:44:00 -0400

Canadians encouraged to e-mail, fax and phone MPs in advance of critical Commons vote on Bill C-391.

Corrections workers meet to chart path forward

lbush — Tue, 21 Sep 2010 18:44:00 -0400

Activists from across the country will be meeting to discuss a broad range of workplace and public policy concerns.

SGEU demands better security at Saskatchewan jails

dblaikie — Wed, 15 Sep 2010 18:38:00 -0400

'You know, you're playing with a ticking time bomb.... The government has to get a handle on this.' - Bob Bymoen.

Pilot B.C. project approved to expand sheriffs' duties

dblaikie — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:45:30 -0400

'This is about improving road safety for all British Columbians and working to provide additional resources to police forces.' - Dean Purdy.

Nova Scotia rallies support for deputy sheriffs

dblaikie — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 18:35:00 -0400

'Now is a good time for all civil service members — and all NSGEU members — to speak up about the vital importance of having enough workers to do the work.' - NSGEU.

Sept. 1 NSGEU rallies to support deputy sheriffs

dblaikie — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 12:59:30 -0400

Rallies planned at noon on Wednesday in Sydney, Halifax and New Glasgow.

New contract for 7,700 N.S. civil service workers

dblaikie — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 10:48:38 -0400

Two-year deal ratified after 'a lot of hard work' by NSGEU negotiators who were constrained by a climate of 'ongoing program review' within the government.

Tentative settlement with B.C. Legal Services Society

dblaikie — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 18:30:00 -0400

Ratification recommended after two-year deal reached by parties with assistance from a provincial mediator.

NSGEU working to resolve deputy sheriff cutbacks

dblaikie — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 18:31:00 -0400

Smoothing process may allow scheduled of 40 hours one week and 30 hours the next.

B.C. prisons all but bursting after arrival of refugees

dblaikie — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:31:00 -0400

Already packed Fraser Regional Correctional Centre now required to house up to four times the number of inmates it was designed to accommodate.

NSGEU welcomes new policy on stab-proof vests

dblaikie — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 18:30:00 -0400

'It's about time," says Jim Gosse of NSGEU correctional Local 480.

Harper must foot bill for new prisons, says PEIUPSE

dblaikie — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 13:02:00 -0400

Tough on crime sentencing laws causing prison population to soar. Inmates 'quadruple-bunked and sleeping in hallways.'

Weapons a problem at courthouses, say N.S. sheriffs

dblaikie — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 10:01:00 -0400

NSGEU holds province-wide meeting to discuss issues related to staff cuts and safety on the job.

BCGEU seeks mediation to resolve LSS dispute

dblaikie — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 18:40:00 -0400

'No one should doubt our members’ resolve to make employment security our top priority in this round of bargaining."

N.S. justice department employees reject contract

dblaikie — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 18:29:00 -0400

NSGEU committed to 'achieving the best possible collective agreement' for more than 450 workers.

NSGEU fighting any cuts to deputy sheriff services

dblaikie — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 18:40:00 -0400

'Our deputy sheriff members have made it very clear that public safety is at risk if these cuts go ahead.' - Joan Jessome.

Parliamentary Budget Officer confirms NUPGE's fears

lbush — Thu, 24 Jun 2010 18:30:30 -0400

'Inmates are not just being double-bunked in some places they are triple-bunked and sleeping on cots in every available bit of floor space. To add to this problem is a recipe for disaster.' - James Clancy.

Hundreds of Manitoba workers stage rally for justice

dblaikie — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 18:45:00 -0400

'These workers do an incredible job under unbelievably difficult circumstances each and every day, but they have reached a breaking point.' - Peter Olfert.

MGEU corrections component holding rally June 9

dblaikie — Wed, 26 May 2010 18:30:00 -0400

"The number of disturbances and injuries continuing to rise and the risk to corrections staff is at an all-time high.'

Okanagan correctional centre needed, says BCGEU

dblaikie — Wed, 19 May 2010 18:31:00 -0400

'Our jails are operating at 180% above capacity.' - Darryl Walker, BCGEU president.

Canada's rank and file Mounties want a real union

dblaikie — Thu, 13 May 2010 18:32:00 -0400

National poll finds widespread support for a staff association with real bargaining power or a traditional trade union.

Number of women in federal prisons rises by 55%

dblaikie — Mon, 10 May 2010 18:31:00 -0400

Federal women inmates are primarily poor or homeless, undereducated and suffering from addictions or mental health problems.

BCGEU members ratify agreement with province

lbush — Sun, 02 May 2010 21:45:56 -0400

'The results show that employment security was key for our members, but they have also said that when we are at the table in two years they will want us to negotiate a wage increase.' - Darryl Walker.

Correctional Officers take message to Ottawa

lbush — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 13:10:22 -0400

Correctional Officers speak with political and organizational leaders about the growing problem of people with mental health problems in provincial correctional facilities.

Probation Officers unfairly targeted

lbush — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 22:13:46 -0400

The following Opinion Editorial by Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union (MGEU/NUPGE) Social Sciences Component Director, Jan Henley, was published in the April 28th edition of the Winnipeg Free Press.

BCGEU says contract talks are on collision course

dblaikie — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 13:00:00 -0400

'Unless the government mandate changes soon we will be at an impasse.' - BCGEU president Darryl Walker.

More than patchwork changes needed to fix YCJA

dblaikie — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 18:33:00 -0400

NUPGE calls for thorough review of legislation with the involvement of front-line workers in the sector rather than piecemeal approach to changing the law.

Sheriffs and corrections officers want workout time

dblaikie — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 17:30:00 -0500

MGEU says 'bulked-up criminals' pose increasing problem to peace officers and employers should assist them in keeping in shape.

Contract talks open for 29,000 B.C. public employees

dblaikie — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 17:30:00 -0500

'Our proposals will focus on winnable issues that resolve long standing inequities.' - BCGEU president Darryl Walker.

BCGEU reaches agreements on Olympic secondments

dblaikie — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 12:00:00 -0500

Covering employees called into service for the winter games next month in Vancouver.

Half of Manitoba's medical examiner investigators resign over low wages

lbush — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 12:08:03 -0500

“It’s unacceptable that these specialists are being treated like this,” says MGEU President Peter Olfert.

Time running out to fix problems at youth 'superjail'

dblaikie — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 12:00:00 -0500

'It is only a matter of time before a tragedy occurs in this jail …a tragedy that is completely avoidable.' - Warren (Smokey) Thomas.

Walkout by prison guards spreading across Britain

dblaikie — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:32:00 -0500

Officers strike in protest as tensions ignite over bullying and harassment by supervisors.

NUPGE probation officers meet Oct. 15-16 in Ottawa

dblaikie — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 12:01:00 -0400

'The main goal has to be public safety. Providing support, supervision and rehabilitation programs upon an offender's release into the community is critical.' - James Clancy.

Front line justice workers focus on the mentally ill

dblaikie — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 18:50:00 -0400

Increasing incarceration of people with mental issues is cruel and unusual punishment – NUPGE.

Brandon riot underscores need for more facilities

dblaikie — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 22:20:18 -0400

'Inmate counts at provincial jails continue to significantly exceed capacity – in some cases by as much as 100%.'

Fallen peace and police officers honoured in Ottawa

dblaikie — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 06:33:37 -0400

Thousands join peace and police officers in annual ceremonies remembering those who have died in the line of duty.

The mental health crisis in Canada's justice system

dblaikie — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:31:30 -0400

Experts from across the country will join representatives of Canada's justice workers to assess the growing crisis posed by mental health problems in correctional facilities.

Anti-Discrimination Systemic Change Program

dblaikie — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 18:29:00 -0400

'We are now in the second year of this initiative within youth justice.'

Tentative NSGEU deal for Cape Breton police

dblaikie — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 13:12:00 -0400

'The union welcomes the achievement of a tentative agreement without having to go through binding arbitration.' - Joan Jessome.

BCGEU continues lobby to expand sheriff duties

dblaikie — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:30:00 -0400

'There are over 40,000 outstanding warrants waiting to be served in B.C. .' - BCGEU's Dean Purdy.

Big wage and reclassification gains for N.S. sheriffs

dblaikie — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 18:31:00 -0400

Approximate raises of $9,000 and $6,500 won by NSGEU.

MGEU welcomes expansion plans for Manitoba Correctional facilities

lbush — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 10:32:04 -0400

“This is an encouraging sign that the Government is working towards creating a safe and secure environment for our members and the offenders housed in these facilities” - Peter Olfert, President MGEU/NUPGE.

Major campaign launched to save prison farms

dblaikie — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 18:30:00 -0400

Dating back to the 1880s, the program includes two operations in the Kingston, Ont. area, and others near Dorchester, N.B., Stony Mountain, Man., Prince Albert, Sask. and Innisfail, Alta.

OPSEU tells McGuinty to stop destroying corrections

dblaikie — Wed, 27 May 2009 18:29:00 -0400

Warren (Smokey) Thomas calls on the province to come up with a joint plan to deal with overcrowding, safety and other issues affecting front-line workers.

Program will help Manitoba women awaiting trial

dblaikie — Thu, 07 May 2009 18:29:00 -0400

Similar programs are already operating in Ontario and Saskatchewan.

French corrections strike highlights big prison issues

dblaikie — Tue, 05 May 2009 18:29:00 -0400

Murders, escapes, drug-dealing, overcrowding, underfunding and suicide behind unauthorized strike by thousands of correctional officers in France.

NSGEU disappointed at police conciliation failure

dblaikie — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 18:30:00 -0400

'This clearly shows a lack of respect for the members who provide police services.' - Joan Jessome

Public service workers safeguard Saskatchewan

dblaikie — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 18:30:00 -0400

Province-wide SGEU campaign features firefighters, highways workers, social workers and corrections workers.

'Two-for-one' sentencing overshadows larger issue

dblaikie — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 18:30:00 -0400

NUPGE urges federal justice minister to use stimulus money to begin "massive investment" in new and upgraded correctional facilities across Canada.

BCGEU says sheriffs could ease police workload

dblaikie — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 13:15:00 -0400

'We can train sheriffs much quicker than police officers and there are substantial cost savings for taxpayers in this model.' - Dean Purdy

SGEU welcomes resources and training promise

dblaikie — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 09:00:00 -0400

'We have been asking for these changes for decades.... We hope the government carries through.' - SGEU president Bob Bymoen.

Correctional officers break off talks in Nfld.

dblaikie — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 18:10:00 -0400

Province demanding long list of unacceptable concessions, including the issue of sick leave which nearly led to a province-wide strike by Ontario correctional workers.

Ontario correctional workers ratify new contract

dblaikie — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 18:30:52 -0400

Now is the time to fix long-standing problems within the system - Warren (Smokey) Thomas.

OPSEU corrections unit reaches tentative deal

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 15:09:45 -0500

'The bargaining team asked the members for support and that’s exactly what we got.' - team chair David Kerr.

Man in jail in Ottawa highlights crisis in mental health and criminal justice systems

lbush — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 11:27:25 -0500

The National Union sees the detention of a 30 year old Ottawa man with Down syndrome and bipolar disorder as highlighting the national crisis in mental health and criminal justice systems.

Ontario correctional workers vote 89% to strike

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 14:22:30 -0500

Remaining 35,000 Ontario Public Service members ratify settlement.

N.S. correctional workers lag national standards

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 19:00:00 -0500

Interest arbitration award affects employees at five provincial facilities.

Australian correctional officers oppose privatization plans

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 19:00:00 -0500

'Selling off prisons to big business is abhorrent.... assaults on officers increase, the welfare of inmates plummets and community security is compromised.'

Ottawa must upgrade or replace 'Dickens' novel Nfld. prison

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0400

'The current set-up at HMP is a time bomb waiting to explode.' - NAPE president Carol Furlong

Sheriffs eligible for Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0400

'Sheriffs and correctional officers put their lives on the line each day.' - BCGEU

NUPGE delegates join thousands at Parliament Hill memorial

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0400

31st annual Police and Peace Officers Memorial Service

Jail overcrowding fuels contraband problem, says OPSEU

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Overcrowding in Ontario jails continues to be a major contributor to the smuggling of contraband by inmates, says the president of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE).

NUPGE brief to Mental Health Commission of Canada

admin — Mon, 26 May 2008 00:00:00 -0400

'Profound change is essential if people living with mental illness are to receive the help they need and deserve.' - James Clancy

NSGEU says key N.S. correctional issues not yet resolved

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Meeting with justice minister on terms of reference for independent audit of facilities in Nova Scotia

NUPGE urges government to maintain flag-lowering traditions

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0400

The Maple Leaf should be lowered on the Peace Tower for soldiers killed in the line of duty and for other special days designated by Parliament

NAPE chooses binding arbitration for correctional officers

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0400

Union president expects ruling by May 9

Feb. 28 is awareness day for overcrowded European prisons

admin — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0500

NUPGE president James Clancy says Canadian correctional workers coping with similar issues

National Union sends Bill C-25 submission to Committee

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Serious concern for state of youth justice system infrastructure. In many provinces the facilities and resources no longer exist should an amended YCJA result in an increase of the number of youth placed in custody.

Staffing crisis prompts protests at B.C. correctional centres

admin — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0500

'Jeopardizing safety in provincial prisons.' – BCGEU president George Heyman

NUPGE seeks pension changes for public safety occupations

admin — Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Probation and parole officers, sheriffs, highway safety officers and conservation officers should be given the same pension accrual rate as police, correctional officers and paramedics

OPSEU says threatening hate mail must stop at Don Jail

admin — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0500

More than 30 officers invoke safety provisions in Occupational Health and Safety Act

NUPGE probation and parole officers meet in Ottawa

admin — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 -0500

'These workers play an important role in Canada's criminal justice system.' - James Clancy

Manitoba correctional officers blindsided by legal tactics

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

'They are understandably as mad as hell.' - MGEU president Peter Olfert

NUPGE urges amendments to Youth Criminal Justice Act

Wed, 05 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

'The goal is not to simply incarcerate or punish more youth but to help them become contributing members of Canadian society.' - James Clancy

Canadian Police and Peace Officers

Sat, 29 Sep 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Annual service on Parliament Hill is not about death but respect for the fallen

Ambitious agenda for national justice workers' meeting

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Coincides with Canadian Police and Peace Officers' Memorial Service Sept. 30 on Parliament Hill

A national commitment to protecting our communities

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Justice workers represented by NUPGE seek greater role in shaping public policy

Violence a growing concern for Canadian court officials

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 20:00:00 -0400

Doesn't require 'rocket science' to understand the threat

Wages, safety and overcrowding B.C. correctional priorities

Fri, 09 Mar 2007 14:19:36 -0500

Urgent action needed by the province to address critical issues, says BCGEU president George Heyman

Long strike finally ends for workers at Kennedy House

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 15:29:53 -0500

Wages, safety and hours of work key issues at young offender facility in Ontario's Durham Region

National Union supports provincial justice ministers call for funding

khawley — Thu, 12 Oct 2006 13:13:14 -0400

The proposed 'tough on crime' legislation would exacerbate an already critical situation in our provincial correctional facilities.

Liberals ignore death threats to black Correctional Officers

Fri, 06 Oct 2006 14:14:19 -0400

Calling for a full public inquiry into the threats and the resulting poisoned work environment

Superjail staff become public employees again in November

Tue, 26 Sep 2006 20:00:00 -0400

"Our members have been through a lot of uncertainty over the past five years." - Sean Wilson

Justice workers struggle to be heard at all government levels

Thu, 21 Sep 2006 20:00:00 -0400

'The system has some excellent people working in it and Parliament and provincial legislatures need to hear from them.' - MP Joe Comartin

Hard-line Harper Tories blink, safe injection site gets reprieve

Tue, 05 Sep 2006 20:00:00 -0400

Announcement by health minister likely delays final decision until after next federal election

MGEU must be part of probation talks with Manitoba government

Wed, 16 Aug 2006 20:00:00 -0400

By Peter Olfert
President
Manitoba Government and General Employees' Union

Overcrowding so bad that 75% of B.C. inmates now share cells

Wed, 05 Jul 2006 17:34:19 -0400

Cutbacks by Campbell government have escalated tensions within institutions and are making life more dangerous for guards and staff

National Union criminal justice workers meeting in Ottawa

Tue, 09 May 2006 20:00:00 -0400

Recently-introduced federal legislation makes conference especially timely

Violence escalates with overcrowding in Saskatchewan jails

Wed, 29 Mar 2006 09:47:39 -0500

'The counts are up in all centres and are over-capacity.' - SGEU spokesperson Barry Nowoselsky