Sisters and Brothers,
We have been informed that several CIU members received a message from the CSN (UBO-SAF-CSN). The message was an invitation to join their union and it was sent to our members at their personal email address or to their CBSA mailbox.
Many of you complained that you did not provide your personal email address to the CSN and you objected to receiving this information at work.
Let me assure you that we take the CSN’s actions very seriously. Confidentiality of your information and your security is paramount to us. Only the CIU as your union and the PSAC as your certified bargaining agent are entitled to have and use the list of CIU members and their contact information. Neither the CIU nor the PSAC has shared this information with the CSN. We are conducting an investigation to identify the source of the leak and we will react accordingly.
Insofar as the use of the employer’s network is concerned, I believe CIU members are well aware that they are not permitted to use it for union-related matters. In fact, this is considered a breach of the Values and Ethics Guide (Electronic Monitoring Policy) which can result in discipline. We will let the Agency conduct its own investigation as it seems that their list of employees was shared with the CSN. For members who are upset by this situation, we ask that you contact the Agency.
It appears to us that the CSN is using its website and the electronic card posted there to collect the personal and professional information of CIU members and is using this information without members’ consent, to create a CSN database.
CIU members’ concerns regarding the raid itself as well as suggestions we have received to counter the CSN are being examined and we will be providing you with an update on this in the near future.
In the meantime, and if you have questions about the raid, the CSN, have information about the data leak, or if someone from the CSN reaches out to you either at home or at work, please contact your Branch Executive, the National office or send us an email at raid-maraudage@ciu-sdi.ca.
The FB bargaining team is back at the table next week and an update will be provided before March 13. We will also keep you apprised of possible legal avenues regarding the use of your personal information.
Now more than ever, we need to stay united. Let’s not get distracted by the CSN and its raid campaign. That’s what the CSN wants. What we want is to negotiate the best possible contract for you and to continue fighting for your rights.
In solidarity,
Jean-Pierre Fortin
National President
Customs and Immigration Union