Committees
The Agriculture Union may structure either standing (permanent) or temporary committees to carry out our union ‘s business or advance the interests of our members. National Vice-Presidents are assigned to chair Standing Committees, which, despite their titles, can and do deal with other important issues. At this point in time, there are four Agriculture Union Standing Committees established by the National Executive in operation:
- By-Laws and Education
- Collective Bargaining and Health and Safety;
- Finance and Communications;
- General;
- Human Rights; and
- Agriculture Union Social Justice Fund Committee.
Our Human Rights Committee is mandated by the National Council.
Current Committees are listed below.
Information can be accessed by clicking on the specific Committee name:
By-laws and Education
Mandate: The Standing Committee on By-Laws and Education is tasked with ensuring that our Union ‘s By-Laws – our operating principles and practices – are carried out and updated as required. Education and training within the Agriculture Union also fall within this Committee’s jurisdiction.
Current Committee members are:
Chair:
- Randy Olynyk
Members:
- Jannick Beaurivage
- Don Jeansonne
- Curtis Veale
Collective Bargaining and Health and Safety
Mandate: The Standing Committee on Collective Bargaining and Health and Safety deals with all aspects of the negotiations process within the authority of the Agriculture Union. The Committee is also responsible for health and safety, another high-profile issue for our membership.
Current Committee members are:
Chair:
- Aaron Swerdlyk
Members:
- Jan Pennington
- Bralavan Krishnakumar
- Séverine Guérineau
Finance and Communications
Mandate: The Standing Committee on Finance and Communications is the watch-guard over the expenditures of our Union. It ensures the budget is respected and that members’ dues money is spent wisely. Internal and external communications are also within this Committee’s mandate.
Current Committee members are:
Chair:
- Patrick St-Georges
Members:
- Sherry Hunt
- Nadia Sokal
- Dorothy McRae
General
Mandate: As its name would suggest, the General Standing Committee covers all matters not dealt with by the other three Standing Committees. In addition, it is responsible for questions dealing with Human Rights.
Current Committee members are:
Chair:
- Audrey St-Germain
Members:
- Gus Mardli
- Kasia White
- Stewart Spence
Human Rights
The Agriculture Union Human Rights Committee is mandated to promote awareness of equity and human rights issues by providing resources, information and educational opportunities for all members.
Current Committee members are:
Chair:
- Gus Mardli
Members:
- Krysty Thomas
- Robinson Joseph
Learn more about the Agriculture Union Human Rights Committee
Agriculture Union Social Justice Fund Committe
The Agriculture Union Social Justice Fund is governed by the National Executive and is fully transparent. A special Committee administers the AUSJF and approves specific projects and programs proposed by Agriculture Union members within the parameters approved by the Executive.
Current Committee members are:
Chair:
- Patrick St-Georges
Members:
- Krysty Thomas
- Sherry Hunt
- Jannick Beaurivage
Learn more about the Agriculture Union Social Justice Fund Committee