New dues policy approved

The UWSA Board of Directors has recently approved a dues policy to clearly document the types of payments to which our membership dues apply. The policy creates a transparent framework for dues, formalizes existing practices, and ensures our approach is consistent, equitable, and aligned with common practices across labour organizations.

For most members, there will be little or no change. The policy largely reflects how dues are already deducted today and provides a clear reference for members, the University, and future boards.

As part of this review, we identified some situations where dues had not been applied consistently to certain forms of employer-paid income, including stipends and some paid leaves and employer-paid leave top-ups. The new policy clarifies that dues apply to regular compensation, and to employer-paid earnings that replace regular compensation, while continuing to exclude items such as overtime, expense reimbursements, severance payments, honoraria, and long-term disability benefits. We will also stop collecting dues during salary continuance to retirement.

Under this policy, dues will apply to employer-paid earnings that replace regular wages, such as certain paid leaves and employer-paid leave top-ups.

Importantly, members who are currently on an employer-paid leave or who are receiving a stipend will not see an immediate change. The updated policy will come into effect on April 1, 2027, and will not be applied retroactively.