Members need a better understanding of how their Dues are being spent and the services they receive for their contributions to the PIPSC Budget. I have been advocating for the implementation of more rigorous financial accountability and sound fiscal practices.
Budget development should never be last minute. Members should have a good understanding of the budget before it is presented for approval at the PIPSC AGM each year. The new budget should be formulated earlier in the year to take into account all inputs and current trends.
In addition, there should be proper reviews of our actual expenditures monthly or quarterly to identify trends and anticipate shortfalls or surpluses. Once reviewed by the Finance committee and Board of Directors, they should be presented to the membership for examination.
Also, there should be proper controls in place to ensure money is spent properly and there is good oversight and fiscal governance. There should be a proper delegation authority matrix developed to ensure that oversight function. All project expenditures and new capital projects should be presented to the board and the AGM if needed.
Finally, we should have a good understanding of PIPSC staffing levels and how staff contribute to advancing member priorities. We want and need to know that our hard-earned dues are being spent in a proper manner and that members are getting good value for what they contribute to our union.