Following a recent development where the largest union in Yukon was placed under trusteeship, leaders from the overseeing union conducted a virtual town hall to provide clarification and address concerns from members. The newly appointed trustee and administrator, Josée-Anne Spirito and Chris Aylward, are affiliated with the Public Service Alliance of Canada, the parent organization of the Yukon Employees’ Union (YEU).
The decision to take control of YEU was made by the Public Service Alliance, resulting in the suspension of YEU’s bylaws and the removal of the president, vice-president, and directors from their positions. Spirito emphasized that the trusteeship was not due to any individual’s actions or financial misconduct within the union.
Aylward, who is being funded by YEU for his salary and by PSAC for his role, reported on his efforts to address the union’s issues during his tenure. However, he encountered obstacles and resistance from executive members, leading to a standstill in progress and ultimately prompting the recommendation for trusteeship.
Despite initial skepticism from some members, Spirito stressed the importance of rebuilding YEU and ensuring representation in the upcoming leadership convention. She reiterated the commitment to transparency by organizing town halls for members to engage with the corrective measures being implemented during the trusteeship.
Looking ahead, Spirito emphasized the continuation of bargaining efforts to secure favorable deals for YEU members, reassuring that the trusteeship will not impede negotiations.