FB strike vote: the real rules around union activity in the workplace

PSAC-CIU members have the right to promote and build our union in the workplace and be kept informed on the employer’s premises — during non-work time, before or after shifts, and during paid or unpaid breaks and lunch periods. This is the law.

Members have the right to:

  • Participate in strike votes. All CBSA employees (including FB-2s) have the right to participate in strike votes and information sessions. You can attend outside of work hours and off the employer’s premises either while off-duty or on lunch. Managers can’t deny you this right.
  • Read union literature. Members can also sign petitions and share information about the union’s campaigns during non-working time.
  • Talk union. Members can talk to co-workers about the union at work as they would any other subject – and help keep everyone informed about PSAC activities.
  • Hand out leaflets before and after work. Members can distribute materials outside or inside the workplace. Even if the entrance is in a commercial area, members have a legal right to engage in this activity. The employer is prohibited from interfering with these lawful union activities.
  • Post information on union bulletin boards. Collective agreements generally allow members to use workplace bulletin boards for union purposes. Make these boards “communication central” for the union by keeping them up to date. Remember to include contact information for local representatives.
  • Wear the union message. Non-uniformed members can wear buttons, lanyards, stickers, t-shirts and other items that communicate the union’s message. PSAC also won a court case allowing Border Services Officers to wear union-branded shoelaces, epaulets and velcro patches to
    support their bargaining team. Wherever you work, there are ways of wearing a union message!

If management interferes with the rights of members or discourages them from participating in our union in any way, your union will have your back and take legal action if necessary.

Our right to participate in union activity and strike votes is protected by law, and the employer can’t stand in our way. This is our chance to make CBSA a better place to work, and we deserve it.

If you want to know more about your rights, FB strike votes or the grievance process, please contact your Customs and Immigration Union branch president or your PSAC regional office.