
Members of HSA,
I would like to thank Val Avery for her years of service as president. She has built strong relationships between HSA and other labour partners including BCFED, NUPGE, CLC and the NDP. She brought recognition to HSABC as an important player in the labour movement. Her work will be recognized for many years to come.
Achievements could not have been made without the assistance of HSA staff. Staff continues to build and nurture these relationships.
Leading HSA may appear daunting, but while sitting in the board room, observing the transformation of a president from the beginning of her term until the end, I can assure you that HSA is prepared to support and guide a new leader.
Why am I seeking to represent you as President of HSA? I want to put members at the front of the list of labour partners.
A president is both CEO and Board Chair. Administratively, we are well represented with staff that continue to build on past successes. Legislatively, there is much more that can be done to support a board that fulfils its role as a legislative body representing its members and ensuring that the resources paid by members are used for the benefit of the members.
There is a disconnect created between our activists and the members we represent. I want to bridge this gap and make the union more relevant to its members. Too often, delegates justify voting differently than our members because they believe they are more informed. Our delegates at convention should reflect the values of those we represent. Rather than assuming what is best for others, prior to convention, HSA should provide opportunities for all members to be informed.
I sit on provincial and regional OHS committees, populated by unions, employers, doctors, and government officials, where there is chatter about improving relationships. Everyone is in agreement that change is needed, but each time actions are delayed. Actions need to be brought to the words that are spoken.
We need better relationships between HSA, members, and employers. It’s my belief that the grievance system is broken. Delays resolving grievances are contributing to dysfunction where workers are abandoning grievances rather than submitting themselves to a process that like a dark cloud, often hovers on for years.
Just by running for office, I make a difference. I can make more of a difference if you elect me as your President.
Derrick Hoyt
HSA Presidential Candidate.
OurHSA@hotmail.com