June Update

Layoffs
Another seven APSA members have lost their jobs since last month’s newsletter, bringing the total to 78 job losses in the past 19 months (an average of around one per week). This continued drip of redundancies is taking a serious toll on member morale and productivity. Nobody at SFU should have to work under the constant shadow of job insecurity for such a sustained period of time. Whilst we acknowledge that these are precarious times in the higher education sector, the sense of precarity is only amplified by the current decision-making process. It is time for senior leadership to set clear deadlines for layoff decisions to be made by and/or impose a temporary layoff freeze to provide some much-needed stability and respite.

I would like to acknowledge that the VPPEI, Labour Relations, and Human Resources have worked to improve the layoff process in response to the feedback provided by both APSA and CUPE. These changes include ensuring that unit leaders remain present throughout layoff meetings, considering individual preferences for virtual or in-person meetings, and fostering a more empathetic tone. On a human level, these improvements matter to the individual affected, and so we appreciate the efforts being made to handle layoffs with greater sensitivity. 

Lastly, APSA firmly rejects the scarcity mindset — we have never, nor have any intention of, advocating for the laying off of colleagues from other labour groups. As recently as February, another employee group on campus publicly advocated for job cuts in specific areas, where employees are primarily APSA members — unfortunately, there have now indeed been layoffs in said areas to individuals who earn less than the base salary of any faculty rank. This approach is divisive and ultimately counterproductive. In these difficult times, it is more critical than ever that we stand together as public sector workers to protect the values of SFU and to navigate through these volatile times for the betterment of our students and the wider community. 

Organisational Capacity
The APSA Executive continues to explore solutions to reduce staff workload and ensure all key obligations to members are met. With numerous layoffs over a prolonged period, our four staff members are managing cases that can take months and, in extreme cases, years to resolve, leaving them with little time for work outside of advocacy. Our dedicated volunteers are facing increased workload and pressures in their day jobs too, yet receive no officially recognised volunteer time from the University, like in the other labour groups. We are at full organisational capacity, but we remain deeply grateful for the competence and dedication of our staff – ensuring they are adequately supported and valued is a top priority.

Harbour Centre Campus (HCC) Space Consolidation
The University has begun the process of relinquishing space and reconfiguring the Harbour Centre Campus. Whilst it is still early in the process, we are already hearing concerns from members — particularly regarding communication around these changes. 

Additionally, given the University’s reluctance to enshrine remote work in policy, it is unclear why this is not a key aim of theirs, if space is indeed such a pressing issue — especially when a reduction in dedicated workspace for staff is likely to impact their ability to carry out their responsibilities effectively.

Community Fund Donation
The APSA Board has approved a $250 donation from our community engagement fund to the Filipino Canadian Community & Cultural Society of British Columbia in support of those affected by the tragic event in Vancouver in late April.

Bargaining 2025
The Salary and Benefits Committee for this bargaining cycle has been approved by the Board. Bargaining with the University is anticipated to begin in August, and the committee will meet regularly in preparation. Bargaining is contingent on the PSEC mandate being published this month. A survey will soon be sent to all members to help establish key bargaining priorities. 

Finance Committee
The Board has approved a new Finance Committee composition, chaired by Secretary-Treasurer Patrick McClarty. The committee is responsible for recommending financial strategies to the Board, ensuring integrity, efficiency and prudence in APSA’s financial management. Current priorities include developing the FY26 budget and improving financial and accounting processes for the upcoming year.

Strategic Plan
APSA Vice President Stephanie Stewart is leading the development of a new strategic plan and establishing a working group to initiate this effort. This plan will shape the long-term goals and aspirations of APSA.

Joint Compensation Review Committee (JCRC)
APSA recently sought an opportunity to present directly to the SFU Board of Governors regarding the JCRC impasse and our concerns about unmet obligations. Unfortunately, this request was denied, and we will continue to explore alternative options for recourse. For historical context, please see here.

AGM Motion to Investigate Unionisation:
No updates to report this month. As noted previously, capacity and workload constraints continue to be a factor in APSA's ability to address multiple competing priorities.

If you have any comments or suggestions for the Board, or if you're interested in learning more about what volunteering with APSA involves, feel free to reach out to me directly at president@apsacentral.ca.

Cheers,

Ben