Anti-Discrimination Systemic Change Program

'We are now in the second year of this initiative within youth justice.'

Toronto (17 Aug. 2009) - The Youth Justice Services Anti-Discrimination Systemic Change Committee is a joint initiative by the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/NUPGE) and the provincial ministry of justice. The purpose of the committee is to ensure that workplaces are inclusive and free from discrimination and harassment.

"We are now in the second year of this initiative within youth justice," says OPSEU.

"So far we have been able to meet with most of the local employee relations committees and regional employee relations committees across the division in order to introduce the forthcoming initiatives. Work is underway as we continue to design, develop and implement the programs to eliminate barriers and provide full workplace participation for all youth justice services division staff."

OPSEU says the following accomplishments have been achieved to date:

• The official launch of the program.
• The establishment of an OPSEU assistance line for questions and complaints regarding harassment or discrimination at 1-800-268-7376 Ext. 8789.
• Fixed-term contracts for youth services officers are being extended on an annual basis as applicable.
• All staff have access to information electronically through computers located at all worksites across the province.
• Ongoing conflict resolution training (interest based problem solving) is nearing completion.

"We will continue to provide updates as various other initiatives are implemented," the union says. "An information brochure will soon be available for all youth justice staff."

NUPGE

The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 340,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE