The Association/University Committee (A/U) is a joint committee, with the University and the Chapter each appointing up to four members. The Chapter is generally represented by the Chair, the Staff Officer, one other member of the Chapter Executive and a member from the previous Bargaining Committee who is not on the Executive. Current members are Catherine Franz, Lynn McCaughey, Sandra Guerreiro and Tony Bute, . The current University representatives are Phil Reusing, Director of Labour Relations, and Steve Gorham, the Human Resources Advisor for PEA staff.
The A/U is mandated by the Chapter’s Collective Agreement under Article 3.01, which sets out its purposes:
a) to foster good relations between the parties;
b) to discuss and attempt to resolve any issue relating to the administration of the Agreement that is not currently the subject of a grievance pursuant to Article 9.
It also acts as an appeal body for decisions of the Joint Central Professional Development Committee.
The A/U generally meets once a month. However, meetings are usually suspended during bargaining, unless an urgent issue arises that is outside the bargaining context. Responsibilities for chairing and taking minutes at meetings alternate between the PEA and the UVic members.
This committee plays a key role, not only in the administration of the collective agreement, but in fostering a collegial and collaborative relationship with the University administration.