Each month, our advocates answer your questions about workplace challenges, the AD 10 policies, and how they're applied. Questions? Submit them anonymously here. These questions will be answered in a monthly advocacy corner issue. For an immediate answer, please contact APSA.
Hello, I'm Tracey Ferris, APSA's Senior Labour Relations Officer and an advocate on our Advocacy Committee. I'm answering your questions related to our AD 10 policies.
An APSA employee has been working at SFU on a temporary basis for approximately four years, with the contract renewed annually. While the employee enjoys the work and would like to continue at SFU, the ongoing temporary status creates uncertainty around job security and the future, which has affected overall well-being and the ability to perform at the best level. After four years of continuous employment, clarification is requested on the following:
- Are there any APSA provisions or SFU policies regarding employees who remain in temporary positions through repeated annual renewals?
- Is there a pathway for a long-term temporary position to be reviewed for continuing/permanent status?
- Can APSA provide guidance or advocacy regarding options available in this situation?
We understand that it's difficult to have a contract that's renewed year to year, especially given what's been happening with post-secondary institutions in Canada. Many on the APSA team are also very familiar with job precarity in previous roles outside of APSA. Unfortunately, there are no current APSA provisions or SFU policies on repeated annual renewals of temporary contracts. APSA raised the issue of creating a path to continuing status in both compensation negotiations and JUAC, but the University has been unwilling to address the issue. SFU says temporary work often depends on grants that may renew year to year; still, the cost savings for employing temporary workers versus continuing ones are an obvious incentive for SFU to maintain the status quo. We advise contacting APSA to see whether we can provide specific, confidential advice about your situation.
APSA advises, supports, and represents its members on matters relating to their employment, rights, and workplace issues. If you are unsure whether your situation is covered, it is always appropriate to contact APSA for confidential advice and guidance.
If you have any specific questions or concerns about your terms and conditions of employment, please contact APSA. Your call or email is confidential.