Union FAQ – Understanding Your Professional Union

1. What is a union?

A union is an organization formed by employees to collectively represent their interests in the workplace. Through collective bargaining, unions negotiate with the employer on wages, benefits, job security, working conditions, and professional standards.

2. Why do professional staff have a union?

Even in professional environments, employees benefit from having a structured, collective voice. A union helps ensure fair treatment, transparent policies, competitive compensation, and consistent application of workplace rules across departments.

3. What does the union actually do?

Your union:

• Negotiates the collective agreement (contract)
• Enforces the contract and resolves disputes
• Supports members in workplace concerns and grievances
• Advocates for fair compensation and benefits
• Provides representation in disciplinary or policy matters
• Promotes professional standards and workplace improvements

4. What is a collective agreement?

A collective agreement (or contract) is a legally binding document negotiated between the union and the employer. It outlines salary structures, benefits, workload expectations, job security provisions, leave policies, and dispute resolution processes.

5. How does collective bargaining work?

Union representatives gather member input, develop bargaining proposals, and negotiate with the employer. Members vote to approve the final agreement before it takes effect.

6. Do unions only step in when there’s a problem?

No. While unions assist in resolving disputes, much of their work is proactive — improving compensation, updating policies, protecting professional standards, and ensuring fairness before problems arise.

7. How are union dues used?

Union dues fund:

• Negotiation and contract enforcement
• Legal and professional representation
• Member support and advocacy
• Operational and administrative costs
• Dues ensure the union can effectively represent members.

8. Can I have a voice in the union?

Yes. Members can:

• Attend meetings
• Vote on agreements and leadership
• Serve on committees
• Provide input during bargaining

The union is member-driven.

9. Does being in a union limit individual performance recognition?

No. Collective agreements set minimum standards and frameworks. They do not prevent merit recognition, promotion, or professional growth.

10. How does the union benefit the university community?

By promoting fair working conditions and professional stability, unions help attract and retain skilled staff, support institutional continuity, and contribute to a respectful, accountable workplace culture.

11. How does Disability work at Concordia University?

1. Submission of Medical Documentation

Employees must submit medical documentation directly to the Medical Absence/Disability Team. Documentation may include:

• A medical note or certificate; and/or
• An Attending Physician Statement (APS), if already available.

2. Review of Medical Information

The medical documentation will be reviewed within 5 business days to determine whether sufficient information has been provided regarding:

• The medical condition;
• Functional limitations;
• Treatment plan; and
• Expected duration of absence.

3. Decision on PSL Approval

If enough information is available, a decision will be made regarding approval of Paid Sick Leave to a specified date.

4. Requests for Additional Information

If further clarification is required:

• An Advisor may contact the employee to discuss functional limitations and abilities; and
• If necessary, an APS may be requested if it was not submitted initially.

5. Written Confirmation

Once a decision has been made, the employee will receive written confirmation outlining:

• The status of the PSL request;
• Any next steps; and
• Any required follow-up medical documentation or updates.

6. Ongoing Case Management

Throughout the leave period, follow-up emails or calls may occur as updated medical information is reviewed. This may include discussions regarding:

• Return-to-work (RTW) planning;
• Updated medical restrictions; or
• Additional medical follow-up requirements.
• Application to Long Term Disability with Sunlife if applicable

Generally, approximately one month prior to the commencement of LTD benefits, LTD application forms are sent to the employee for completion. In certain situations, such as cases involving neoplasms or other serious conditions where progression to LTD is anticipated early in the process, the application may be initiated earlier. As discussed, each case is assessed individually, as medical circumstances, severity, prognosis, and operational considerations can vary significantly. While the general process remains consistent, certain steps and timelines may differ depending on the specific situation. As such, I can confirm that the case of Amy Vincent the Sick Leave form was requested to confirm the diagnosis and prognosis, but the case was approved after all for the duration of the full Paid Sick Leave. The LTD form will however be required, and Sun Life will solely determine if they support the file.