My union is my backbone

Name: Ajay Sharma

Employer: Ministry of Justice

Job Title: Court Registry Clerk

Union: BCGEU

Ajay Sharma is no stranger to union membership. As a workplace steward for the past five years, he is well aware of the advantages of working in a unionized environment.

For Ajay, perhaps one of the most important reasons for joining a union is because it means job security.

“It’s good to know that the union is always in your corner fighting for your best interests,” says Ajay.

Ajay says the biggest difference between working in a unionized and non-unionized workpalce is having a collective agreement.

Having a collective agreement with your employer means your rights as an employee, working conditions and compensation are spelled out clearly and are enforceable.

The collective agreement is a legally binding contract that clearly states working conditions.

Ajay says that the language in a collective agreement is very clear and concise, leaving no room for ambiguity.

It’s a document that clearly spells out things like benefits, sick time and vacation.

When it comes to his role of workplace steward, Ajay does not take this lightly.

“I value the fact that my colleagues trust me and can confide in me, and that is certainly something I take very seriously.”

He embraces workplace leadership and appreciates the fact that working in a unionized environment is good for both employer and employee.

As a result, he has developed a strong relationship with both management and staff.

This has fostered very effective communication within the workplace, as Ajay is effectively acting as a bridge between employer and employee.

“In a non-union environment, you are unsupported, and there is always a feeling of uncertainty in terms of your job security,” says Ajay. “The union is my backbone.”

Ajay says that being a member of a union means that there is always an element of safety in terms of job security.

“I know that I have my union brothers and sisters in the union are always there for me and that is a comforting fact.”

For more information about joining BCGEU, visit  www.bcgeu.ca