In order for you to have knowledge, co-determination and influence on decisions, certain conditions need to be in place. Having a collective agreement is one, having a local union association with elected representatives is another, and these two are closely linked.
Collective agreements ensure common rules and good conditions for all. Collective agreements are signed by the employer, but the union members can explore the scope for having a collective agreement at the workplace.
A local union association for employees with a graduate education represents members in the workplace, regardless of which Saco union they are a member of. The local association and its elected representatives give you and your colleagues greater influence over important matters.
Having elected union representatives at your workplace gives you great opportunities to create a better workplace. They have the authority to negotiate and cooperate with the employer.
When I became a union representative, I didn’t really know what it meant. I was committed to my workplace and our working conditions, but I had to grow into my role. My interest in people has been with me throughout my whole journey.