Employment Insurance Update for DECE Members

ETFO has been working behind the scenes for several months to try to influence Service Canada’s approach to DECE claims. In December, ETFO presented a legal brief to Service Canada staff outlining the reasons why DECEs should not be classified as teachers for E.I. purposes. Very recently, ETFO asked staff from the Canadian Teachers’ Federation to initiate some discussion on the DECE issue with Senior Staff in Ottawa.

On March 4, 2011, ETFO, CTF, and other union representatives participated in a teleconference meeting with Service Canada Staff and the Commissioner for Workers, Trish Blackstaffe.  We were advised at this time by Service Canada that if DECEs do not indicate that they are teaching on the EI application, they should not be denied benefits on those grounds. This was very good news for our DECE members.

College of ECEs Launches Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice

In a media release today, the College of Early Childhood Educators announced the launch of its Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice for ECEs.

The new document came into effect on February 28, and is available on the CECE website. The College is Canada's first professional self-regulatory body for early childhood educators.

International Day of Pink

At the June 2010 Executive meeting, a motion was passed to support an organization called "Jer’s Vision" (www.jersvision.org) by promoting the International Day of Pink (www.dayofpink.org). This day is marked for April 13, 2011 and is the International Day Against Bullying, Discrimination, and Homophobia. It is a day to wear a pink shirt and join with others around the world doing the same action.

We are encouraging locals and schools to also support Jer’s Vision. There was an article in the October 2010 edition of Voice highlighting this important day and the surrounding campaign. This flyer was included in the January Stewards' Mailing, with hopes that schools will become involved.

If you require further information, please do not hesitate to contact Kelly Hayes at khayes@etfo.org.

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