Nominations Committee
A Nominations Committee election will be held during the union’s annual convention May 26 – 28, where delegates will vote for five members to serve on this non-partisan electoral body.
General Information
What is the Nominations Committee?
The Nominations Committee is a BCNU committee, which oversees the general and special elections of elected officers for BCNU.
Why does BCNU have a Nominations Committee?
To ensure fair and transparent election processes which are managed by BCNU members.
Who should consider becoming involved with the Nominations Committee?
The Nominations Committee works on behalf of all BCNU members.
All members may want to consider if they would like to be part of this important democratic work.
A more diverse and inclusive committee will lead to a greater understanding of membership thoughts, perspectives, and appreciation in respect to general management of elections and problem-solving lection issues.
Election to the Nominations Committee
What is the makeup/composition of the Nominations Committee?
The Nominations Committee consists of five (5) members who have been elected by the delegates at the annual Convention in the year preceding the BCNU general province-wide elections.
What kind of member is suitable for the Nominations Committee?
All members who have an interest in fair, neutral elections and value democracy and elected representation.
Members would benefit from having a basic understanding of the BCNU elected structure and how the various roles work together.
Members must be willing to maintain neutrality in all election matters.
Members will have the time and energy to fulfill the work of the committee during the general election period, roughly three to six weeks once during the term, and as needed to assist with special elections.
How long is a term for the Nominations Committee?
The term is three years, starting Sept. 1 of the year preceding a general election.
If I want to run as a candidate for the Nominations Committee, what are the rules in campaigning for this election?
The election is conducted without any kind of campaigning, it is based solely on the biographical materials submitted. Members running for the positions on the Nominations Committee are expected to remain neutral, not campaign or lobby on their own behalf, and not organize any election campaign. Any infraction may result in a candidate being removed from the ballot.
Can I be on the Regional Executive and also be a member of the Nominations Committee?
No. Candidates for the Nominations Committee cannot hold any BCNU office or full-time position above that of worksite steward.
How many members are on the Nominations Committee?
There are five positions on the Nominations Committee.
How are candidates vetted?
Candidates are vetted by the Provincial Returning Officer, who will ensure that members are in good standing and that they do not hold any prohibited positions within the BCNU.
How is the election conducted?
The election is conducted online through a third-party vendor. Members attending the annual convention will receive their voting credentials during the convention.
Nominations Committee Roles and Responsibilities
What is my role on the Nominations Committee?
To work as part of the committee to conduct elections of the BCNU and assume responsibility for a fair and transparent election process.
Can I vote in BCNU elections if I am a member of the Nominations Committee?
Yes, a member of the Nominations Committee can vote but shall NOT state a political preference or endorse in any way a candidate in any provincial or regional BCNU election.
Are there more details relating to the work of the Nominations Committee?
You can find more information in Article 5 of the BCNU Constitution and Bylaws, and Policies 5.4.6 and 5.4.7.
Does the Nominations Committee only conduct the general election?
No, the Nominations Committee also supports special elections that occur during its mandate and between general elections.
How do the candidates appear on the election ballots?
The Nominations Committee is responsible for determining the eligibility of all candidates for the Provincial Executive Committee and for regional council members.
What if there are complaints around the election?
The Nominations Committee is responsible for establishing rules and procedures concerning the filing, receipt, investigation, resolution, determination and remedying of any complaints from members regarding an election process (Election Complaints) subject to the approval of Council.
Does BCNU staff assist the Nominations Committee in any way?
Staff who are appointed to assist the committee are not voting members of the committee and are directed in their work by the committee.
Who is the chair of the committee?
The committee members will elect a chair from amongst themselves.
How much of a time commitment is the Nominations Committee?
Based on previous election cycles, the Nominations Committee schedule and/or time commitment would include the following:
- One (1) full day of orientation;
- Two (2) full days of nomination vetting for the general election;
- Four (4) full days for the Annual Convention (election activities);
- Four (4) full days for the voting period for the general election; and
- Any additional time that may required for the committee to communicate, hold additional zoom meetings, investigate election complaints, participation in election complaint related hearings, and management of any special elections that may arise during the term.
The Nominations Committee chair role requires a more substantive time commitment versus the other committee members.