Universal Classification Standard (UCS)

The impending implementation of the UCS initiative continues to be a subject of great speculation, concern and debate for FIs, APSFA, and all public servants throughout government. Throughout the process, Treasury Board has stated that it remains committed to classification reform.

Despite Treasury Board's commitment to classification reform, the Association is still quite concerned about many aspects of UCS. Some points of concern include interdepartmental relativity, generic and super-generic work descriptions, salary protection and ultimately, whether UCS can, from a compensation perspective, adequately address market forces for skills that are in great demand in the private sector.

The most important thing for members at this time is to be certain that their work description accurately describes not only the work that they do, but also the level at which it is done. Many departments are commencing the final stages of sore thumbing, and will soon be ready to release, pending approval from Treasury Board, their Advance Position Notifications (APNs) to all staff. Speculation regarding when this will happen varies, but in any case, it is not too late to ask your supervisor or manager to review your work description and to make any corrections or adjustments, as needed. Departments have indicated they prefer to resolve any issues prior to conversion. If you have any concerns regarding your work description, please feel free to contact the Association.

The Association also strongly urges you to use the UCS Reference Tool for Financial Officers to aid you in reviewing your work description. This reference tool was developed jointly by FIs, your Association, and representatives from the board, and has been officially endorsed by the UCS division of TBS.

As always, your Association will continue to monitor developments as they occur, to ensure that the concerns and interests of the FI community are recognized and addressed.

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