Observers Welcome at Annual Council
Annual Council has changed a lot over the years, but it remains the governing body of the NSTU. Delegates gather for healthy debate and make decisions about issues that matter to NSTU members.
For me, the Council Workbook feels like getting the Christmas Wishbook —something I look forward to every year. I’m always excited to read through and find out what options have been put forward by NSTU members from across the province. I make notes, mark things I really want, and jot questions where I need more information. I note arguments that will help me get up to speak at the microphone in order to convince my colleagues that these resolutions should move forward (or be amended, referred, etc.).
I recall being completely overwhelmed at my first Annual Council. I regularly attended Local union meetings and was an active member of our Social Committee. Folks suggested I put forward my name as a delegate to Annual Council. Frankly, I was a little surprised to win. I really had no what to expect having never attended or had opportunity to observe. Thankfully a good friend was in the same boat and together, with the support of more experienced delegates, we navigated our way through all the resolutions and voting process.
So, I’m going to suggest that any NSTU members near Annual Council (held in Halifax) this weekend take some time to attend as observers. This comes with no responsibility to have studied the Council Workbook in advance and no voting privileges. However, it does allow members to observe first hand how decisions are made that will direct NSTU policy and operations in the future.
As often happens, I am finding it hard to locate the procedures about how to attend as an observer. Some Locals elect observers, but it is not necessary to be elected to attend as long as one is an active member (dues paying) of the NSTU. I do know where you will be seated as an observer–check out the seating plan!
My best advice at the moment is to check out the agenda (see images below) and make plans to be nearby at times that are of interest to you. I believe one just needs to check in with someone to verify that one is a member of NSTU. If/when I find out more, I will add to this post.
NSTU Annual Council 2018
Date: May 4 – 6, 2018
Location: Nova Centre Market St, Halifax, NS B3J 2C4 Ballroom Level B1 & B2
Schedule:
Friday, May 4th, 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Saturday, May 5th, 8:30 AM – 12:15PM
Saturday, May 5th, 2:00PM – 5:00PM (Presidential Candidates Forum @ 2:00pm)
Saturday, May 5th, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Sunday, May 6th, 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM