Frequently Asked Questions

Being a Union Member

What is a union and why are they important?

How do I keep up to date with CUPE 391?

What does CUPE mean?

What is seniority?


Collective Agreement

What happens when our collective agreement has expired?
Our contract with the employer (the Collective Agreement) expired at the end of 2024. This is normal for unionized workers since contract negotiations can take many months and don’t usually start until a contract is expiring or has already expired. The terms and conditions of employment in our expired 2022-2024 Collective Agreement continue to apply until we have ratified a new one


Shop Steward

How can I find out who my Shop Steward is?

What are the duties of a Shop Steward at VPL?


Part-time and Auxiliary

Who is a part-time worker?

Who is an auxiliary worker?

How is the work week calculated for part-time and auxiliary?

How do I get booked for auxiliary shifts?


Performance Appraisals

What do I do if I don’t agree with my performance appraisal?


Long Term Disability

LTD Fact Sheet
General LTD Procedures – revised August 2006


Retirement Planning

How does the union assist me with retirement planning?