Steward recruitment at Local 1703 - BCGEU members at Gateway Starlight Casino

Stewards are the face of the union at the worksite. The steward's role is to enforce the Collective Agreement and protect member's rights.  A steward does not just deal with grievances and complaints at the worksite:

• They are often the liaison between the worksite and the Local and the area offices.
• Sign up new members to the union at the worksite.
• Assist in understanding member's rights under the Collective Agreement.
• Talk to members about what is happening within the Local and the Union as a whole such as bargaining and educational activities.
• Ensure the union bulletin board is kept up to date.
• Refer members to committees on specific issues such as the LabourManagement Committee or Occupational Health and Safety. Also refer members to union counselors as necessary.
• Listen to concerns and issues.
• Can advise or refer members to the appropriate people with regards to WCB appeals, STIIP/LTD issues, Unemployment Insurance issues, and Classification Appeals.

The union does not expect that you would have any prior knowledge or experience.  We will provide you with a 3 day Basic Stewards Course. The Collective Agreement provides for your leave of absence if the course falls on a scheduled work day. Therefore, you will not loose any money or tips.  We will also provide a lunch on those days.

The course covers a variety of subjects including:

Labour History                                                              Know Your Collective Agreement

BCGEU Structure                                                        Effective Communication

Workplace Leadership                                                 Workplace Discrimination and Diversity

Roles, Rights & Responsibilities                                  Scenario/Role Plays, Field Trip

The First Steps of The Grievance                                Question and Answer

After your training is complete you will have the support and guidance of a BCGEU Staff Representative as you continue to develop your skills as a Shop Steward.  Further training will be provided after you have gained some experience as a Shop Steward.

There are 12 positions available and ideally we would like representation on all three shifts. If you are interested, please fill out the nomination form located in the envelope. Please follow the directions on the nomination form.

If you are interested in being a steward in your worksite, please fill out a nomination form and return it to my attention via fax 604.215.1410 or mail back to my attention, or dropped off at the address noted below by June 16, 2010.

Click here for the nomination form. If additional forms are required, please contact the BCGEU Area Office.

Click here for instructions on how to fill out the Nomination Form.