Resolution Guidelines

A good resolution…

  • uses clear simple wording;

  • is concise and focused – respects the word limit (i.e. 150 words for the PSAC Convention)

  • deals with just one topic (problem) and has one major objective;

  • clearly identifies the problem;

  • specifically outlines the required action;

  • builds in accountability i.e. deadlines, who will be responsible for implementing the proposed action, what resources will be required;

  • ensures the action proposed is within the jurisdiction of the organization to implement;

  • isn’t something that is constitutionally dealt with in another way (i.e. bargaining demands)

  • allows for flexibility in implementation – it’s the end result that accounts;

  • is submitted on time (is not a late resolution);

  • isn’t about something that is already enacted;

  • applies the WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHY and HOW test.

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Good Example of a Resolution in Traditional Format

TITLE:

Membership rights: Expanding the definition of discrimination

WHEREAS

human rights have evolved and expanded since Section 5 of the PSAC Constitution was last amended; and

WHEREAS

family status, social and economic class, and gender identity are recognized as prohibited grounds of discrimination in human rights legislation in at least some jurisdictions in Canada; and

WHEREAS

PSAC has adopted an expansive definition of human rights and has taken leadership positions to protect members from discrimination based on family status, gender identity and social and economic class:

BE IT RESOLVED THAT

Section 5 (b) of the PSAC Constitution dealing with Membership Rights be amended as follows to include family status, social and economic class and gender identity among the enumerated grounds against which members are protected from discrimination:

SECTION 5 MEMBERSHIP RIGHTS

Every member in good standing as defined in Section 5, Sub-Section (2) is entitled:

  1. to be free from any act or omission on the part of the Union, or other members, that would discriminate against the member on the basis of age, sex, colour, national or ethnic origin, race, religion, marital status, family status, criminal record, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, language, political belief, social and economic class or employer;

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Good example of a resolution in clear language format

Action on climate change

The PSAC will take a firm position in favour of public services as a necessary part of the global response to climate change and global warming, and will speak out for investments and public services in key sectors including water, energy, waste management, affordable and energy efficient housing, sustainable agriculture, public transit, health care, and environmental regulation as part of the solution; and

The PSAC will support those public sector workers who are on the front lines of climate change work; and

The PSAC will provide tools to educate our members and the general public on the global warming crisis, the environmental impacts and the importance of taking action now; and

The PSAC will highlight the specific impacts of climate change on First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples;

Because the evidence on the destructive impacts of climate change is overwhelming; and

Because global warming is a Union issue.