Representation vote & Access update
As mentioned in our last newsletter, in response to CUPE Ontario pushing for a quick vote at the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB) OPSEU/SEFPO fought back to ensure every member has fair, in-person access to information across multiple days and locations. This will help you make a fully informed decision.
This vote represents one of the largest geographic labour restructurings in Ontario’s history, impacting thousands of staff across 14 regions—from Kenora to Windsor, Ottawa to Niagara.
On August 12, 2025, the OLRB agreed: a vote date should not be set before access is resolved. We return to discuss this on October 8, 2025, with a backup date in November if needed.
In-person meetings at every site
OPSEU/SEFPO is planning visits to all 53 locations, holding separate sessions for Professional and Administrative/Technical staff. These on site meetings will be had with all Unions involved. This is your chance to ask direct questions, and you should attend these meetings with all the Unions know the facts before you vote!
Help lead the campaign:
Become a Member Organizer!
We’re looking for passionate members in all roles (professional, administrative, and technical) who are ready to speak with coworkers and help win the vote for OPSEU/SEFPO.
Some roles involve travel (you may be away for a few days or more), and others can be done locally by phone. If you’re released from work to travel, you’ll continue receiving your full OH atHome pay. All expenses will be fully covered.
Click this link to sign up!
Why OPSEU/SEFPO?
Lowest union dues
OPSEU/SEFPO: 1.375% of wages
CUPE Ontario: 1.8% of wages (This is based on Champlain’s current CUPE dues rate. That rate is set locally and potentially it could be higher.)
ONA: $1,500/year
Top-tier benefits and working conditions
- Comprehensive health and dental coverage
- Paid leaves beyond the Employment Standards Act (including union leave for local involvement)
- Fair, transparent processes for job postings, promotions, and seniority
- Strong protections through a robust grievance procedure
- Flexible options like remote work, job sharing, and alternative arrangements
Better wages and contract language
OPSEU/SEFPO has negotiated some of the strongest wages and contract language at Ontario Health atHome:
- Paid mileage at higher rates
- Professional practice protections
- Full-time protections and strong seniority rights
- Robust mental health & workplace safety provisions
You control your grievance (carriage rights)
- As compared to other unions where your grievance may not proceed unless the union agrees, OPSEU/SEFPO gives members full control of the grievance process.
- If you choose to do so, OPSEU/SEFPO will carry your grievance all the way to arbitration if needed.
You’re not left fighting the employer alone. You lead, we support.
Province-wide infrastructure and experience
OPSEU/SEFPO represents:
- 200,000+ members across Ontario.
- Thousands in Ontario Public Service and the Broader Public Sector, including Crown agencies.
- The largest number of health care workers outside of hospitals, including:
- Home care
- Community health
- Mental health and addictions
- Long-term care
- Developmental services
Member-led, member-powered
OPSEU/SEFPO is run by its members. That means:
- You elect your own local leaders.
- You approve your own bargaining demands.
- You vote on your own contract.
You’re not just a number – you’re a strong voice at the table!
A plan for unity
In this province-wide PSLRTA vote, OPSEU/SEFPO is offering:
- A clear, credible plan to unify regions under one strong agreement
- Consistency in wages, benefits, and protections
- A real strategy for equity, fairness, and future gains
OPSEU/SEFPO is the only union with a clear vision for all classifications (clerical, technical, professional), under one roof.
THE BOTTOM LINE
- You keep more of your pay.
- You have a real say in your union.
- You’re backed by strong infrastructure and a proven track record.
- You’re part of a member-led movement that knows your sector and will fight for your future.
Questions?
Reach out to:
Julie Lenko
HNHB Ontario Health atHome – OPSEU/SEFPO Temporary Organizer
Lois Boggs
OPSEU/SEFPO Organizer
416-557-2853
lboggs@opseu.org
Phil Pollard
OPSEU/SEFPO Organizer
416-522-7826
ppollard@opseu.org