Credit union employee banks on his union

Name: Davin Lo

Occupation: Service Assurance Analyst

Employer: Vancouver City Savings Credit Union

Union: BCGEU

Vancity employee Davin Lo says that working in a unionized environment makes a workplace better in so many ways. For Davin, perhaps most importantly is for himself and his colleagues to have their voices heard. “People sometimes feel that the biggest advantage to union membership is job security and higher wages. For me, it’s about sharing a collective voice. If something is bothering you, you are not alone,” he says.

Davin Lo has been a steward for two and a half years. Despite his initial reluctance of taking of the role of steward, Davin has found that his role in his workplace has been both satisfying and worthwhile for him. “Knowing the impact that I have on my coworkers, and seeing the changes I can make is very rewarding,” says Davin. As a steward in his workplace, Davin not only has fostered good relationships with his colleagues, but he has also grown positive working relationships with management. “Working together makes for a more proactive environment for both management and employees.”

Davin also emphasizes the importance of having a collective agreement. “It provides an understanding between employer and employee, and very clearly lays out guidelines.” In a collective agreement everything is in black and white, leaving no room for ambiguity.

For Davin, union membership is not just about wage increases. He says that the ultimate goal is to work in a positive work environment, “because working in a positive, healthy work environment makes work more productive.”

With a collective agreement, you know what your rights are. You know what your employer can and cannot do, and by negotiating a collective agreement, you collectively have control over your working conditions. When you belong to the BCGEU, you are not alone when it comes to facing management and addressing issues at your workplace. Having a collective agreement with your employer means your rights as an employee, working conditions and compensation are clearly spelled out. “Having a union allows people to feel safe, knowing that they will be treated fairly.

For more information about joining BCGEU, call 604-882-0111 or visit www.bcgeu.ca.