What are the steps?

Support workers at CMHA Edmonton Region are signing union cards to win job security, ‘just cause’ standards and health and safety protections, fair job posting and hiring processes, and a stronger voice at work. Here’s how you can join:

  1. Sign a card to apply for membership in the union. Your card is confidential. Your employer does not see who signed cards.
  2. When a majority of workers at CMHA – Edmonton Region sign cards, the union will submit an application to the Alberta Labour Relations Board (ALRB). The ALRB will arrange a vote as soon as possible to confirm if workers want a union.
  3. The ALRB will hold a secret ballot vote of all workers in the bargaining unit. If the majority of workers who vote say YES, the union is certified.
  4. CUPE would serve notice to your employer to negotiate your first contract. You will nominate and elect a bargaining committee made up of your CMHA co-workers who will be trained.  This committee will be supported by a professional CUPE representative who has experience in collective bargaining.