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How AUPE Can Help You
The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees is the largest union in the province, and for good reason.
Over 73,000 employees in government services, healthcare, education and in boards and agencies have chosen AUPE to represent them. Together, we have successfully fought for the wages, benefits, job security and respect that working Albertans deserve.
When you are a member of AUPE:
- Your rights and dignity are respected at all times, not only if your boss likes you.
- Contracts are negotiated and voted on by you and your coworkers, not decided secretly or individually.
- Your boss is legally bound to follow the contract.
- Raises are bargained for EVERYONE, not just for the favorite employees.
- You are recognized for your service and experience.
- You are defended against discipline and dismissal. You are never on your own.
- You have a real voice in your workplace, instead of “their way or the highway.”
Did you know that full-time unionized workers make an average of $21.07 an hour, compared to the $17.71 an hour paid to a non-union employee?
AUPE members have negotiated some of the best contracts in the province, and we will continue to demand all of the advantages that our members deserve.
AUPE Advantages
When you are a member of AUPE, you can expect:
A Collective Agreement
A collective agreement is a contract that employees and the union negotiate with the employer. You and your coworkers will elect your own Bargaining Committee, decide upon bargaining priorities such as wages, benefits or workplace dispute procedures, and vote on whether or not to accept the agreement.
Once the employees have approved the contract, it is legally binding. This means your employer must follow the collective agreement or risk a legal fight with AUPE.
Labour Relations
AUPE’s labour relations staff are trained to solve problems in a wide range of areas. Among their areas of expertise are: interpreting contracts, insurance appeals, benefit plan issues, assistance to disabled and injured workers, issues concerning a return to work after a period of receiving long-term disability benefits, pensions and many other employment issues that may arise.
They have the legal and technical expertise to make sure employers observe the terms of the contract, and to represent you in appeals when a resolution to a dispute cannot be reached. They may also advise AUPE members in obtaining fair and just treatment in appeals to the Workers Compensation Board.
Democracy
As a union member, you will vote on everything from your collective agreement to your Christmas party. In your chapter, your local, in committees or at the bargaining table, you have a vote and a voice.
And AUPE members vote for their leadership at all levels. You can vote or you can run for a position… either way, it’s your union.
Education
Union activists are the strength and future of AUPE. With that in mind, we provide a range of continuing labour education opportunities to our members. From one-day seminars, to conferences, to our annual AUPE Labour Education School, all members have the opportunity to enhance their union experience and keep AUPE the most successful union in the province.
Other Members Resources
In addition to helping you get a collective agreement you deserve, giving you a voice in your workplace and your union, AUPE provides other important resources.
Contact an AUPE Organizer
Our organizers are happy to answer any questions you may have about organizing your workplace, your legal rights and the union certification process. All calls are completely confidential.