CUPE Ontario Convention
The CUPE Ontario Convention is an annual gathering (May of each year) where delegates from locals across the province come together to shape the direction of our union. Through resolutions, elections, and strategic discussions, members work collectively to strengthen public services, advance workers’ rights, and build solidarity across sectors. It’s a vital forum for connecting, learning, and mobilizing for a stronger CUPE in Ontario.
CUPE Ontario Spring & Fall School
CUPE Ontario’s Spring and Fall Schools offer union members hands-on training, workshops, and networking opportunities to build skills, strengthen locals, and support each other. Whether you’re new or experienced, these schools are a great way to learn, grow, and stay active in the union movement.
- For information about other events check the CUPE Ontario Calendar: cupe.on.ca/calendar
CUPE National Convention
Held every two years, the CUPE National Convention (October of each year) is the highest decision-making body of the Canadian Union of Public Employees. Delegates from coast to coast gather to debate policies, set the union’s priorities, and elect national leadership. The convention empowers members to have a voice in building a fairer, more inclusive, and worker-focused Canada, reflecting CUPE’s commitment to equity, justice, and solidarity at a national level.
- For information about other events check the CUPE National Calendar: cupe.ca/events
Interested in Attending?
There are multiple union education opportunities offered annually. However, in some cases, attendance is limited due to delegate caps or cost restrictions. To ensure transparency, equity, and that these opportunities provide maximum value to the union and its membership, participation will be considered by the Education Committee. If you are interested in attending or have any questions send us an email at info@cupe1883.ca
Attending an Event, Education & Conferences
As a CUPE member you are eligible to attend pre-approved events, conferences, education and trainings. Below is what you need to know when traveling for the union.
Travel
The union will pay all reasonable costs to travel to and from the event. We will make all the travel arrangements. We encourage carpooling. This includes:
- Mileage at $0.61 a km from your home or meeting place to the event or hotel.
- Lowest cost economy airfare.
- Bus or train.
- Car rental is at the discretion of the executive and depends on circumstances.
- Reasonable costs of mileage to and from the hotel or event locations but not personal activities that you do outside of the hours of the event.
- Reasonable costs of taxis/Uber to and from the event with a receipt.
- Cost of getting to the airport or station.
Parking
- We do not pay for parking in advance. To be reimbursed you must submit receipts. If the hotel does not have parking please park at the closest lot.
- We do not pay for Valet parking.
- If you have any mobility issues or cost is a barrier to your attending, contact our Administrative Officer at secretary@cupe1883.ca.
Accommodations
- Will be pre-paid by the Local. At times they ask for a credit card or deposit for the file for incidentals. Let us know in advance if you do not have a credit card. We pay for the room charges only. If you charge anything to your room, please pay for it at checkout.
- If there are additional charges you will be asked to reimburse the Local.
- Always ensure you get a receipt for the room. It can be emailed from the hotel to secretary@cupe1883.ca but you must request it.
Meals
- Members attending a week-long school where meals are included will receive out-of-pocket expenses of $20.00 a day.
- Members staying in a hotel will receive $75.00 per full day. If it is a part day you will receive $25.00 per meal than you need to purchase.
Salary
- Your regular salary will be paid for events Monday through Friday or any regularly scheduled work day. We reimburse the employer so there will be no change in your pay.
Childcare
- If childcare prevents you from attending events, please reach out to the union to discuss. Childcare is available at some events. Please let us know as soon as possible if childcare is required.