GRASSROOTS GOVERNMENT RELATIONS Be the difference Talk the difference Make a difference Co-operating to Build a Better West Conference Saskatoon, Saskatchewan 2 November 2012
Credit Union Central of Canada 359 credit unions and caisses populaires Provincial / Regional National Local
Explaining Ottawa Responsibilities Opportunities Challenges
Explaining credit unions Education
Getting heard in Ottawa 1. Hired lobbyists 2. In-house lobbyists 3. Grassroots advocacy
Federal government relations in 2010 Strengths Local, expertise, difference Weaknesses Misunderstood, perceived as not relevant, small reach Opportunities FCU, need for FI diversity, Bank Transfer day. Threats FCC & other Crowns, regulatory burden, response to crisis.
Why grassroots? Uses our strengths to build relationships with legislators.
Using our strengths LocalExpertiseDifference
Using our strengths Local A branch in almost every riding Responsive to constituents Expertise Understand local economy Authority Difference Memorable stories Connect
What is the CU Nation? A coordinated grassroots advocacy network for the credit union system.
Who is the CU Nation? Regular people with regular jobs at credit unions right across Canada who just happen to be passionate about the difference their credit union makes.
Who is the CU Nation?
Making a difference In-riding advocacy Hike the Hill at Home; BBQs; etc. Hike the Hill in Ottawa Arm-chair advocacy Messages by or Twitter
Supporting the Nation Information The Advocate e-newsletter Training Webinars, conferences Advocacy Action Alerts, briefing notes, messaging and info about your MPs.
Why now? You dont wait until you are thirsty to dig a well.
GRASSROOTS GOVERNMENT RELATIONS Co-operating to Build a Better West Conference Saskatoon, Saskatchewan 2 November 2012 Kevin Dorse Manager, Advocacy