President’s Message: When it comes to AWAs, delay is a denial

It has been a month now since a few AMAPCEO members in the Ontario Public Service (OPS) first reported receiving responses to alternative working arrangement (AWA) requests. At the time, we had hoped that these would signal movement from the Employer, even while expressing frustration with the ongoing delays and lack of transparency. 

Unfortunately, there has been little progress with other AWA requests. That is still almost 6,000 AMAPCEO members who have submitted requests, and have still not received a response. 

The Employer is attempting to stonewall us. And when it comes to AWA requests, delay is denial. 

Hundreds of AMAPCEO members have already filed grievances over the Employer’s delay in responding to their AWA requests. If you have filed an AWA request, have not heard back from your Director, and have not yet filed a grievance, we encourage you to do so. It may take time for grievances to be heard, due to the volume of members filing, but it is an important step.

Requesting an AWA and having that request considered in good faith—which includes in a timely manner—is our right under Article 47. And we need to exercise our rights to the fullest extent possible. A strong, widespread response from AMAPCEO members demonstrates to the Employer that we know our rights and we are willing to act to defend them. 

We also continue to encourage you to ensure that your workplace meets all health and safety standards and to alert your manager if you have any concerns. The Employer has a legal obligation to provide and maintain a safe and healthy work environment for all employees—including meeting ergonomic standards for computer workstations under Article 25 of the Collective Agreement. 

The Employer is refusing to consider AWA requests while patently lacking the space and resources to implement their own return to office edict. That doesn’t entitle them to neglect their legal obligations or to ignore your Collective Agreement rights. 

If you have any questions about initiating a grievance or about health and safety in the workplace, we encourage you to reach out to a Workplace Representative or Health and Safety Representative, respectively. 

We will continue to share updates on AWA requests, the return to office, and health and safety in the workplace. 

Stronger together,