In mid-2009, the federal government objected to an arbitral award that provided for the reimbursement of the fees incurred by PIPSC Nuclear Regulatory Group (NUREG) members in professional organizations or governing bodies, a standard clause that plays a key role in ensuring that employees meet the highest standards of professional qualification
– Edited by April Murelio –
The critical importance of safe nuclear facilities regulated by thoroughly qualified staff was decisively underlined last week by the Federal Court's dismissal of an application for the judicial review of an arbitral award involving employees of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), the federal agency responsible for regulating Canada's nuclear industry. These government employees are represented by the Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada (PIPSC).
In mid-2009, the federal government objected to an arbitral award that provided for the reimbursement of the fees incurred by PIPSC Nuclear Regulatory Group (NUREG) members in professional organizations or governing bodies, a standard clause that plays a key role in ensuring that employees meet the highest standards of professional qualification. The government had also requested the review of an arbitration award involving the Institute's NR (Engineering, Architecture and Land Survey) Group regarding a similar provision. The Treasury Board had wrongly claimed that the reimbursement of these professional fees violated the Expenditure Restraint Act, the federal legislation that outlines remuneration limits for the government's employees.
Gary Corbett, President of the Institute, commented: "This is a great victory for CNSC employees and other professional members of the Institute. It is unfortunate that this matter has dragged on for so long. Membership in professional associations and recognition by governing bodies ensures that Canada's public service professionals meet exacting educational and work experience standards. It is a key element in the protection of public health and safety."
The Professional Institute of the Public Service of Canada represents some 57,000 professionals across Canada's public sector, including approximately 600 Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission employees.