Greetings fellow AUPE members.
It really is hard to believe that we are at the end of another year that, much like the previous few years, has been saturated with challenges and upheaval.
The fact that all of you on the front lines of services to Albertans have persevered, have struggled and still managed to ensure that services continue to be provided is testament to your ongoing professionalism, dedication, and commitment to the people of our province.
Despite constantly working short, despite the ongoing and mounting pressures on our health care and social safety net systems, despite employer disrespect at the bargaining tables, and despite a government that appears in disarray at times, you have shown amazing strength and fortitude. Your union recognizes that, and we sincerely want to thank you.
However, as we enter a new year with little relief in sight, let me be clear that we will be spending 2023 diligently preparing for the next major rounds of collective bargaining, which commence in early 2024. We will continue to encourage you and support you in taking worksite actions to improve your working conditions. We will continue to support the AUPE Locals with their strategic plans to build workplace power. We will continue to put pressure on government and employers to seriously address issues such as short staffing. And we will continue to fight any attempts to threaten your jobs through privatization or cutbacks.
This will need the ongoing strength and fortitude of all of us and it is important that we rebuild the energy to do be able to do so. During this holiday season, I encourage you to find peace and solace in the company of family and loved ones. To take the time to relax and enjoy whatever moments of sanctuary you can find. And to remember that no matter how hard things might seem, by supporting each other in our homes, workplaces, and communities, we will make it through the toughest of times.
I sincerely hope that you find true meaning and purpose during the holiday season in a way that strengthens you and your relationships with those around you – family, loved ones, co-workers, and friends. It is a time to reflect, rest and renew. It is a time for clarity and understanding. It is a time to celebrate the important things in life.
On behalf of the AUPE Executive, I wish you all the best for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling holiday season.
In Solidarity,
Guy