Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Annual Convention and when is it held?

The Annual Convention is held within ten (10) weeks of August 31 (the Union's fiscal year-end). The location of the meetings usually alternates between Regina and Saskatoon. The meeting normally commences at 12:30 p.m. with a guest speaker, followed by the business meeting and concludes with a social to welcome new members into the Union.
(Constitution and By-Laws Article 3.1 - Annual Convention)

Who can attend the Annual Convention?

All HSAS members are entitled to attend the Annual Convention, however, only delegates shall be entitled to vote on matters at such meetings. Each delegate shall be entitled to one (1) vote.
(Constitution and By-Laws Article 3.4 - Delegate Status, Attendance And Voting)

Who provides HSAS members with a Collective Agreement?

Article 4.01 of the HSAS Collective Agreement requires the employer to provide new employees with a copy of the contract at the beginning of their employment.

What is Executive Council and how are they elected?

Executive Council is the governing body that conducts the business of the Union between Annual Conventions. It is made up of eighteen (18) seats comprised of seventeen (17) seats representing a profession or group of professions and the President. Members are elected by mail-in ballot for a two (2) year term. Elections are staggered with one half being elected just prior to the Annual Convention. Executive Council members are not union stewards. The role of the  union steward is part of the duties of HSAS Labour Relations Officers.
(Constitution and By-Laws Article 4 - Executive Council)

How are the Executive Officers of HSAS (President, Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer) elected?

Commencing in September 2001, the President has been elected for a two (2) year term by the general membership via mail-in ballot. The Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer are elected for a one (1) year term from among Executive Council at their first meeting following the Annual Convention.
(Constitution and By-Laws Article 6 - Officers)

What is the Board of Governors and how are they elected?

The Board of Governors provide guidance and counsel to Executive Council on all matters regarding administration of the Union. Any member having served at least four years on Executive Council and having held an Executive Officer position for at least two years, is eligible for appointment to the Board of Governors, by Executive Council, for a seven (7) year term.
(Constitution and By-Laws Article 9 - Board of Governors)

How do new members receive information about HSAS?

When someone is hired into an HSAS position, the employer is to provide them with an HSAS Member Form to complete. Upon completion, the employer forwards the HSAS portion to the Saskatoon office and the member is mailed an orientation package.

How many members does HSAS represent?

HSAS represents approximately 3,400 health care professionals working in twelve (12) Health Regions, several privately owned ambulance services in the province of Saskatchewan, and Canadian Blood Services in Regina.

How much are the union dues and initiation fee?

HSAS members pay union dues in the amount of 1.5% of their gross (before deductions) on their regular earnings each month. Overtime and Premium Pay (Evening/Weekend premiums) are not included. The initiation fee is $25.00. In the event a member terminates employment and is subsequently re-employed within two (2) years by an employer covered by an HSAS contract or is on an approved leave of absence, no new initiation fee is levied.

Is HSAS a member of the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour?

As an independent trade union, HSAS does not belong to a central labour body. However, twice yearly HSAS meets with unions from across the country who represent health care professionals through an organization called the Canadian Health Professionals Secretariat (CHPS). Additionally, HSAS works cooperatively with other health care unions in Saskatchewan for the benefit of health care workers. For more information, please visit the CHPS website.