CHECKOUT MAGA ZINE
MARCH 2018 - VOL XXVII NO 1
Our Members at Work: Home Hardware Home Building Centre page 12
Apply now for 1 of 88 Solidarity Scholarships!
page 22
More jobs added as Olymel invests $30 Million page 11
UFCW LOCAL 175
UFCW LOCAL 633
President Shawn Haggerty
President May Chalmers
Secretary-Treasurer Kelly Tosato
Secretary-Treasurer Marylou Mallett
Recorder Karen Vaughan
Recorder Brian Koslowski
Executive Assistants Sylvia Groom Luc Lacelle Jim McLean HEALTH & SAFETY: Health & Safety Representative: Mary Shaw WORKERS’ COMPENSATION: Intake Representative: Georgina MacDonald; Workers’ Compensation Representatives: Joanne Ford, Phil Hames, Sarah Neath, Karen Pitsadiotis
What’s Inside President’s Message
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LEGAL: Director: Fernando Reis; Legal Counsel: Saranjit Singh Cheema, Matthew Jagodits, Jane Mulkewich
Secretary-Treasurer’s Message
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ORGANIZING: Director: Rick Wauhkonen; Organizing Representatives: Joce Cote, Linval Dixon, Tim Hum, Jeffery Lu, Meemee Seto, Amy Tran
Union News
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Welcome New Members
Page 8
Negotiation Updates
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TRAINING & EDUCATION: Director: Rob Armbruster; Coordinator: Kelly Nicholas; Engagement & Media Relations Strategist: Tim Deelstra COMMUNICATIONS: Communications Representative: Laurie Duncan; Senior Communications Representative: Jennifer Tunney REGION 1: Director: Kelly Tosato; Union Representatives: Colby Flank, Tracy Stubbs REGION 2: Director: John DiNardo; Union Representatives: Farman Ali, Orsola Augurusa, Mona Bailey, Rick Daudlin, John DiFalco, Anthony DiMaio, Casey Magee, Tony Nigro, Mark Stockton, Dave White REGION 3: Director: Daniel Mercier; Union Representatives: Shannon Epp, Paul Hardwick, Dean McLaren, Jacques Niquet, Joe Tenn REGION 4: Director: Chris Fuller; Union Representatives: Dave Forbes, Ron McGuire; Servicing Representatives: Virginia Haggith, Jennifer Hanley, Tim Kelly, Christina Mayberry, Sabrina Qadir, Arlene Robertson, Chris Watson REGION 5: Director: Angela Mattioli; Union Representatives: Jehan Ahamed, Ashleigh Garner, Brad Morrison; Servicing Representative: Rolando Cabral
Our Members at Work
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WSIB Update on NEL Reviews
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Altered Lives Project
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Members Assistance Program
Page 19
LLSC Fundraising
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Solidarity Scholarship Application
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Training & Education
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REGION 6: Director: Rob Nicholas; Union Representatives: Wendy Absolom, Sam Caetano, Matt Davenport, Jose De Melo, Jason Hanley, Lee Johnson-Koehn. Lionel MacEachern, Mike Mattioli, Melody Slattery, Mario Tardelli, Fred Teeple REGION 7: Director: Sharon Kempf; Union Representatives: Diane Sanvido, Steve Springall; Servicing Representatives: Dan Bondy, Todd Janes REGION 8: Director: Sandra Rogerson; Union Representatives: Jeff Barry, John Beaton, Matt Belanger, Jim Hames, Derek Jokhu
PROVINCIAL HEAD OFFICE 2200 ARGENTIA ROAD MISSISSAUGA, ON L5N 2K7 TEL: 905-821-8329 TOLL FREE: 1-800-565-8329 FAX: 905-821-7144
CAMBRIDGE OFFICE 6628 ELLIS ROAD, CAMBRIDGE, ON N3C 2V4 TEL: 519-658-0252 TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-1977 FAX: 519-658-0255
HAMILTON OFFICE 412 RENNIE STREET HAMILTON, ON L8H 3P5 TEL: 905-545-8354 TOLL FREE: 1-800-567-2125 FAX: 905-545-8355
LEAMINGTON OFFICE 261 ERIE STREET SOUTH LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3C4 TEL: 519-326-6751 TOLL FREE: 1-888-558-5114 FAX: 519-326-0597
OTTAWA OFFICE 20 HAMILTON AVENUE N. OTTAWA, ON K1Y 1B6 TEL: 613-725-2154 TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-5295 FAX: 613-725-2328
ISSN No. 1703-3926 CHECKOUT is an official publication of Locals 175 & 633 of the United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW)
SUDBURY OFFICE 230 REGENT ROAD SUDBURY, ON P3C 4C5 TEL: 705-674-0769 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-1722 FAX: 705-674-6815
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UUWO
President’s Message Shawn Haggerty
Can 4,640,538 votes make a difference on June 7? For everyone who believes their vote doesn’t matter, take a look at that number: 4,640,538. That’s how many registered voters didn’t take part in the 2014 Ontario election. Image if they had shown up. To give you a bit more perspective. Here was the breakdown for the three major parties: • NDP - 1,144,822 • Liberal - 1,863,974 • PC - 1,508,811 Now take another look at the unbelievable number who didn’t vote and tell me it wouldn’t make a difference. We face another election on June 7. Now is the chance to make that difference. It’s been said many times that democracy is messy: It’s imperfect and fragile. But without the partic-
2014 Ontario General Election
9,526,031 Registered Voters
4,885,493 Votes Cast
Percentage Votes Cast
51.3%
ipation of its citizens, democracy becomes just another way for the powerful to stay powerful. And I know many people are tired. Tired of having unimpressive candidates from which to choose. Tired of politicians who seem to be all the same. Tired of being sold a bill of goods by a candidate only to have them run away from those promises once elected. But the process is in all of our hands. So, we must show up and exercise our right and our responsibility to vote. We may not always like our options, but our system generates the candidates that we allow and it’s still our choice to make. Voters must scrutinize the promises and platforms put forth by every single candidate. Their words have been tested with focus groups, turned into statistics, and churned through a public relations machine to tell candidates exactly what to say to satisfy their voting base and entice others for their votes. No matter who you elect, they are accountable to the citizens in their riding, their province, and their country. Ultimately, the goal for many politicians is to be re-elected. To achieve that, they need your vote. And our role in our democracy doesn’t end at the ballot box. Merely checking a box and walking away with fingers’ crossed until the next election isn’t enough. While they’re in office, if your elected candidates actually hear from the voting citizens in their riding, they will listen.
You are the only reason a politician gets to be in office. And you are the only reason they get to stay there. So, vote. And after you vote, stay involved. Sometimes that might mean a protest. It might mean signing petitions and writing letters. Many people get involved in social media movements too. It might even mean running for office yourself. If you dislike what you see from your elected representatives then you need to do something about it. Speak to your friends, family, and neighbours about your concerns. Form groups to lobby your Municipal, Provincial, and Federal representatives. Be professional about it and be willing to sit down and discuss your concerns in person. Your vote does matter and it can make a difference, but only if you use it. Recognize your power as a voter and show up on June 7. We don’t all agree on the best path forward for our province, I know that. But we have to start down that path with a first step – and that first step is your vote. In Solidarity, Shawn Haggerty president@ufcw175.com March 2018
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Secretary-Treasurer’s Message Kelly Tosato
Marking an amazing year for women’s rights This year’s International Women’s Day, celebrated worldwide on March 8, came at a time of great progress and upheaval in the status quo. Since the incredible Women’s Marches in 2017, through the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements of recent months, to this year’s marches and more. We are witnessing a movement that is long overdue. Staff and members took part in several marches and events in January including Kitchener, Hamilton, Toronto, Muskoka, and Windsor too.
Muskoka
Kitchener Even recent legislation recognizes the importance of this momentum. Bill 148 includes emergency leave plus specific 10-day job protected leave for those who experience or are threatened with domestic or sexual violence – the kind of violence that overwhelmingly affects more women. 4
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These steps are important but they are only the first of many. We have a long way to go to truly reconcile issues of inequality and oppression that have been deeply embedded in our systems and ways of thinking for a long time. The movement is evolving constantly and change is happening. The progress isn’t perfect but it’s dangerous to expect it will be because we’re also human. The stories that are emerging have ignited a worldwide spark. We can use this fiery momentum to create change in the systemic inequities that affect other minoritized bodies and groups too. Many people face deeply entrenched barriers throughout our society, our systems, and our institutions that we must confront. We must take up the torch of everyone who fought before us for equality and justice. It’s why I was happy to see Viola Desmond chosen as the Canadian to be featured on the $10 bill. Viola is the first woman to appear on the $10 bill and an African Canadian woman who fought against racism and segregation. Her battle against the government and ideology of the time began in Nova Scotia in 1946. She was strong, tenacious, and an inspiration, and recognizing her contributions and those of other leaders like Viola is long overdue. Unions have been a part of the fight for equality and justice since their inception. And as a Union, we continue to do our part to move
the conversation and the solutions forward. Your Union bargains strong anti-harassment and anti-discrimination language into our Members’ contracts. The local union policy against harassment and bullying is also very clear. We read it at every conference and convention the Union holds. We take the policy and every complaint seriously. But language is only as powerful as you make it. That means speaking up when you see something happening that shouldn’t be happening. It means finding someone you trust to tell when something happens to you so that you can take the steps toward coming forward and reporting incidents. The process can be difficult and frightening for victims but coming forward is the only way we can move forward. So, I urge you to read the stories being told. Seek out the hashtags like #MeToo, #TimesUp, and the International Women’s Day tag #PressForProgress. Read the histories of powerful women and change-makers like Viola Desmond as well as those that came before her, and the many that have followed. We will continue the fight for justice and equality as Union Sisters, Brothers, and Friends as we move toward a better future for all. In Solidarity, Kelly Tosato treasurer@ufcw175.com
March 2018
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Welcome New Staff Sabrina Qadir is a new Servicing Representative in Region 4. Sabrina’s involvement with the Union began when she helped organize her co-workers at H&M at Square One. That successful campaign introduced Sabrina to UFCW Local 175 and it’s where her interest in the labour movement began to grow. She took part in the Youth Internship Program (YIP) through UFCW Canada and President Haggerty invited her to speak at the 2013 UFCW International Convention as a youth representative. Sabrina enjoyed those experiences and she welcomed the opportunity to share her story. She worked on the Target campaign through UFCW Canada too. Sabrina assisted with the Democracy at Work program which allowed her to visit high schools and some colleges to speak about workplace rights and what it means to be Union. “I enjoyed the chance to help the students broaden their understanding of their rights and introduce them to how a Union can improve their work life,” she said. Local 175 hired Sabrina as a Special Projects Union Representative (SPUR) to help with organizing campaigns. “I really liked the campaigns, they were fun and inspiring. My passion for this work grew and it’s when I discovered that this is what I wanted to do.” “My father is very pro-union,” explained Sabrina. “He’s very passionate about workers’ rights and he’s really happy for me. I look forward to this experience and the opportunity to educate our members on their rights. I want to have their backs and make sure their voices are heard. The Union isn’t just around in bad times… I want them to know I’m there to support them all the time.” “Sabrina’s passion for workers’ rights has been evident from the time we first met her,” said President Haggerty. “I welcome her to our staff and I know the members will appreciate her experience and dedication.” ”In February, Karen Pitsadiotis joined the Workers Comp department as a full-time Representative. Karen had been assisting in the department on a temporary basis to help with the caseload. For 22 years, Karen worked at Mr. 6
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Christie’s where she was a Union Steward and Health & Safety Rep. The membership at The Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers & Grain Millers’ International Union (BCTGM) Local 426 elected her to the Union’s executive board. Karen was also elected as the WSIB and Health & Safety Rep. For 20 years, until the plant closed in 2013, Karen gained extensive experience with WSIB appeals, tribunals, arbitrations, and the Return to Work process. In addition, she instructed courses on compensation and health and safety issues. “I love this work. People who are injured on the job need someone in their corner to stand up and advocate for them,” said Karen. “I’ve always wanted to fight back against things that weren’t right or fair as far back as when I was in high school.” Karen completed most of her education through Mohawk College’s labour and health and safety programs. She took all training at the Ontario Federation of Labour’s (OFL) Occupational Disability Response Team (ODRT) as well as WSIB training at Canadian Labour College. “No one wants to be injured at work and have their lives changed forever,” said Karen. “I want our members to know they have a WSIB advocate they can rely on to help them through a difficult time.” “Karen is a dedicated advocate for injured workers and workplace safety,” said President Haggerty. “She is a great addition to this department and I know she will work hard on behalf of the members of this Local. Todd Janes is now a Servicing Rep in Region 7. Todd worked for the Union over the years as a SPUR to help out where needed. He became a UFCW member in 1989 when he worked at Zehrs markets as a Customer Service Manager/Bookkeeper. At that time, he was a member of UFCW Local 1977, which merged with Local 175 in 2011. Todd is a Conestoga College graduate and completed the Labour College of Canada program through the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC). Todd facilitated at the UFCW Clifford Evans Training Centre and was a Union Steward too. “I had a desire to be more involved,” said Todd. “The more I got involved, the
Happy Retirement! wider the variety of Members I met, and the more I knew it was what I wanted to do.”
After 15 years on staff with the Union, Brenda Simmons began her well-earned retirement on March 1, 2018.
He took part in grievance committees, and sat on the Executive Boards for Locals 1977 and 175. His involvement with Loblaws included overseeing store conversions, sitting on the 2015 negotiating committee, and helping out during the Windsor-area strike in July 2015. Todd was part of the Kitchener Labour Council as well, and has taken part in labour day and other events. He has also volunteered at fundraising events such as Canal Days.
Brenda started as a full-time grocery clerk in The Barn Markets in the early 90s. During her employment, Brenda advocated for her workplace to be unionized. In 2000, that hard work paid off as she was successful in unionizing the store. She became a full-time Union Steward and was an instrumental part in helping the Members find work when the Barn closed in 2001.
“I really enjoyed being a Steward and taking part in negotiations,” he said. “When I’m able to resolve a grievance, improve an agreement, or provide an answer to a question, the Members can see the tangible results and it gives me a great sense of accomplishment.” “Todd has been a great asset to Local 1977 and Local 175 over the years,” said President Haggerty. “His determination and drive to help working people will go a long way to making him a great Rep.” Tim Kelly has been a UFCW member for 42 years and a Union Steward for 35 of those years. Now, he is a full-time Servicing Representative in Region 4 where he has worked on a temporary basis for the last little while as a SPUR. As a Local 175 Executive Board Vice-President for 24 years, Tim has been an active Member both inside and outside of the Metro store where he worked. He participated in 13 sets of negotiations with A&P and Metro and volunteered for many fundraising causes over the years too.
Brenda worked in the Action Centre from 2001 to 2003 where she assisted all the Union Members who were displaced by the closure. The Action Centre had a success rate of 98% in finding work for those Members. Brenda came to work for Local 175 in 2003. She started in clerical and then moved to work as the Intake Representative in the Workers’ Compensation Department. In 2005, Brenda moved to the then-South Central Region to work as a full-time Union Representative for the Members at Metro-owned stores as well as Rexall Pharma Plus and more, in South West Ontario. Brenda’s commitment to the membership in the retail sector was undeniable. She never failed to take part in fundraising events for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). This included events like Canal Days, Super Bowl nights, and she was the Union Coordinator for the annual Metro Payroll Deduction campaign which has continued to raise more than $60,000 every year. In her retirement, Brenda looks forward to spending more time with her husband and grandkids. “I know Brenda will be missed by many,” said President Haggerty. “On behalf of the Members and the staff at the Union, I wish her all the best for a long and happy retirement.”
Tim was a regular participant in the Metro Leukemia Payroll Deduction. He helped organize Leukemia walkathons, collected donations during Canal Days in Port Colborne, and joined numerous rallies in the name of workers’ rights. “I have loved being a Union Steward. Even though the position has its ups and downs, I find it extremely satisfying being able to help people,” said Tim. “Now as a Union Rep, I can help more of our members on a daily basis.” “Tim brings years of experience as a Steward for his co-workers in the retail grocery industry,” said President Haggerty. “I know he will apply his first-hand knowledge to assist the members in enforcing their rights.”
Union Stewards Michael Collins (left) and Steve Belanger (right) from the Holiday Inn & Suites in Windsor present Brenda with a photo of the hotel signed by all the staff there. March 2018
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School announces closure less than a day after teachers vote Yes to joining the Union Fifteen teachers at the North American Muslim Foundation School in Scarborough became Members of Local 175 on January 29, 2018. Less than a day later, the school sent letters to parents and staff, and reached out to reporters, to claim it had to close due to “extreme financial stress.” “Instead of dealing with the concerns of their employees, they decided it was better to close the school, force their students and families to find alternate schooling with no notice, and throw these 15 teachers out of work,” said President Haggerty. “All because these hardworking educators exercised their right to join a Union. We are outraged.” Parents and staff received letters dated January 30 stating the school would cease operations effective immediately. That left parents with no time to make arrangements for their children’s care. The Union did not receive any formal notice from the school. Since the Members only just voted to join, there had been no bargaining proposals taken or dates set to even meet with the employer. “How can they claim they must close when they don’t even know what’s on the table yet,” asked President Haggerty? Since the closure, the Union pursued a settlement for the affected workers. Each teacher will receive three months of wages plus a commitment to rehire them should the school reopen in Toronto within the next five years. The Union continues to represent nine other employees at the Foundation who were not affected by the closure. 8
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Welcome to Your Union Erie Glen Manor Votes to Join Union! Employees at the Erie Glen Manor Retirement Residence in Leamington contacted the Union because they wanted improvements in their working conditions. The approximately 38 new members, employed as RPNs, cooks, dietary aides, housekeepers, and team leaders, join the HOPE sector of Local 175. These workers had an existing employee association at their workplace but felt they had no real voice. They believed their input was neither wanted nor valued. The workers recognized that a contract they all vote on would give them the voice they seek, and will be valuable in ending favouritism, and scheduling problems. The workers want good contract language to provide job security, a harassment free workplace and competitive wage improvements. They also want a grievance procedure with enforceable language and to end the current process of settling workplace issues. Union YES for more Amazon drivers Welcome 65 employees at All Canadian Courier who are delivery providers for Amazon at two Mississauga locations. Workers voted on November 27, 2017 but the employer attempted to stall the process by claiming that the scope should include an additional location in the vote count. Ballots were segregated and the issue went to the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB). On January 8, 2018, the parties agreed to the scope for the bargaining unit, which includes the City of Mississauga. In addition, the parties agreed to not count some ballots cast by agency workers for purposes of the final tally. “Our Key at the workplace was amazing,” said Organizer Tim Hum. “He worked hard to help his co-workers win. It paid off with a quick campaign!” Some of the issues facing the workers included: lack of job security and respect at work; low wages, and; access to benefits. Health and safety concerns were also on their minds, as a number of employees work long hours and the vehicles they drive are often in disrepair. Country Estate Retirement workers vote YES! In January, an employee at Country Estates Retirement Home in Lindsay reached out to our Organizers to help them bring the benefits of the Union to their workplace. At the meeting that followed, 66% of the staff – everyone who attended – signed a Union card. The next day, Organizers put in the application to the OLRB. “This was a difficult work environment for a number of employees,” said Organizer Ricardo Bocanegra. “Employees were concerned for their job security because of favouritism, and they had a number of other pressing concerns that brought them to the Union as well.” Employees voted on January 22, 2018, but the employer insisted on segregating some votes which delayed the outcome. Legal representatives for the Home reached out to the Union in the weeks following to release the segregated votes. The parties need to discuss some outstanding issues, which arose during the campaign, but the 15 employees can now move toward bargaining their first agreement as members of UFCW Local 175.
Negotiation Updates First contract for Wendy’s workers The 29 restaurant workers at Wendy’s in Thunder Bay ratified their very first collective agreement on January 16, 2018. Rates for those with fewer than 1200 hours since April 1, 2017, will be minimum wage plus 25 cents per hour. The hourly rate for those with more than 1200 hours since April 1, 2017, will be minimum wage plus 50 cents per hour. Workers with more than 4500 hours of service after January 1, 2017 receive a Long Service Premium of 30 cents per hour on top of any other adjustments. Employees now have a basic insured health benefit plan. Workers will split premium costs for the plan 50/50 with the employer. The negotiating committee achieved one day paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer will continue its practice of allowing employees to purchase meals at half cost while on shift. The 33-month contract will see the fast food employees through to the end of 2019. Union Negotiating Committee: Char Ellis, Taylor Voth, and Union Rep Colby Flank.
3-year deal for members at National Diabetes Trust Members of Local 175 at National Diabetes Trust in Toronto achieved several improvements in a ratified new three-year agreement. Wages increase by 2% in each year. Members benefit from a $250 signing bonus as well. In addition, members receive an increased boot allowance of $150 per year. The negotiating committee achieved new language that restricts the use of agency workers at the workplace and ensures job protection of the current employees. Additional language maintains vacation entitlement for existing employees, which the employer had attempted to eliminate. Union Negotiating Committee: Nicholas Dimakos, Union Rep Ali Farman, and Region 2 Director John DiNardo. Parmalat North Bay ratifies The members at Parmalat Dairy in North Bay have a new three-year collective agreement in which all classifications will receive a $.50/hr increase in each year of the collective agreement. There are improvements to the health and welfare plan which include an increase to vision care coverage from $195 every 24 months to $225. Eye exam fee allowance will increase from $75 to $100 in a 24-month period as well. Other monetary improvements include an increase in the boot allowance to $225 up from $200, and the employer will reimburse up to a maximum of $150 per year for the renewal of an AZ/DZ license. This set of bargaining also settled the ongoing issue of the employer contracting out the Sudbury run
which was a violation of the collective agreement. The run will now be done by a bargaining unit member as a result of these negotiations. Members ratified the contract on December 19, 2017. Union Negotiating Committee: Ken Cox, Union Reps. Jeff Barry and Derek Jokhu. Agreement ratified at Kenora’s Clarion Lakeside Inn
The 83 hospitality sector Members at the Clarion Lakeside Inn in Kenora achieved a new agreement on November 21, 2017. The three-year agreement includes improvements to wages of 1.5% retroactive to September 1, 2017. Subsequently, wages will improve along with minimum wage in years two and three of the contract. Plus, employees receive an additional adjustment to maintain rates above provincial increases. Shift premiums increase to 75 cents per hour, up from 50 cents. Employees also benefit from an increase in sick days to 30 hours per year, up from 24 hours. Other language adds a new sunset clause, and provides enhanced bereavement of four days, up from three. Lastly, the agreement includes provisions for delayed internment as well. Union Negotiating Committee: Barry Byington, Charlotte Donnelly, and Union Reps Colby Flank and Tracy Stubbs.
Overtime & Temp workers key issues in Horizon Plastics negotiations The 200 employees at Horizon Plastics in Cobourg secured a new agreement on December 13, 2017. The parties reached the agreement with the assistance of a Conciliation Officer on December 7. A strike deadline had been set for 12:01 a.m. December 7. Key issues that caused the strike vote and led to conciliation included overtime distribution and the use of temp agency workers. Through conciliation, the parties agreed to clarify and elaborate on the overtime scheduling system. Overtime allocation had led to a number of grievances and frustration among the Members at the plant. In addition, there was no consequence to the employer for improper scheduling of overtime hours. As a result, going forward an employee that should have received
overtime will inform the employer of the day and time they wish to work the available hours. It may be over and above regular work hours for that day as it does not have to be a day the employer requires someone for overtime work. This process will not displace another worker or prevent another worker from completing already scheduled overtime on that day. In effect, now any overtime not scheduled properly will cost the employer financially. Temp agency use was the second main issue in these negotiations. Throughout the year, the employer made use of temp agency workers. The Union negotiating committee achieved language that limits temp agency use in the facility. The agreement now limits the number of times a temp worker can be scheduled before they become permanent and
part of the bargaining unit. The four-year contract contains 2% increases in each year, plus a signing bonus of $200 as well. In addition, shift premiums improve for work in the evenings and on nights. Members benefit from an increase to their health spending account in each year of the contract term. All new hires receive a 15-minute orientation meeting. Lastly, other language improvements provide enhanced bereavement leave, plus better vacation options and a clarified request process. Union Negotiating Committee: Tom Bell, Jamie Hickman, Brian Davey and Union Reps Paul Hardwick and Joe Tenn.
Union Members at Primo ratify deal with no concessions The 65 employees at Primo Foods in Toronto voted on November 19, 2017 to ratify a deal negotiated following a strong strike mandate from the Members. At the start of bargaining, the employer came to the table demanding wage cuts of $2 per hour and the elimination of six weeks’ paid vacation. In addition, they refused to participate in the employee’s pension plan. The employer also wanted language removed that prevented them from contracting out work. The employer also wanted to freeze seniority after extended absences, and reduce benefits along with mandatory co-pays and mandatory generic drugs. Just a few hours before the strike deadline, the parties came to an agreement through conciliation. 10
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Members at the Primo ratification meeting The four-year ratified agreement contains no concessions. “Taking strike action is never an easy decision,” said President Haggerty. “These Members showed how committed they were to achieving an agreement with only improvements, and they succeeded. I congratulate them on this hard-earned contract.” Wages will increase by 30 cents per hour in each year of the contract term. The first increase provides retroactive pay for hours worked since June 22, 2017. In addition, the afternoon and night shift premiums
each increase by 10 cents per hour to reach rates of 55 cents and 70 cents per hour, respectively. Millwrights and Electricians receive an additional wage adjustment of $2 per hour. Stationary Engineers receive $1.50 per hour on top of regular rate increases as well. The Members benefit from enhanced Life Insurance and AD&D coverage of $50,000, up from $45,000. Physiotherapy, chiropractic, and dental benefit coverage all improve by $100 per year reaching rates of $550, $350, and $1,600 respectively.
Finally, the Union Negotiating Committee achieved language improvements regarding shifts. As a result, existing rotating shifts have been replaced with shift selection by seniority with language on fixed shifts for days, afternoons, and nights. Union Negotiating Committee: Enzo Arboritanza, Massimo Bottiglieri, Anthony DeGroot, and Region 2 Director John DiNardo.
New contract for members at Bearskin Airlines Details include progression rate increases of 1.5% in years one and two, and 1% in year three. In addition, top rates improve by 2% in years one and two, and 2.5% in the third year of the contract term. Full-time employees benefit from Sick Bank improvements. Workers may bank up to 80 hours. Any unused hours will be paid out if an employee resigns. The employer will pay a shoe allowance of $50 in year one, $55 in year two, and $60 in year three. The Training Premium improves to $1.50 per hour, up from 50 cents. Improved language states the employer will pay out pay cheque errors over $50 within three days. Members ratified the three-year agreement on February 3, 2018. Union Negotiating Committee: Emilia Honke, Anna Maria Santorelli, Union Rep Tracy Stubbs, and Region 1 Director Kelly Tosato.
Members at Aramark in Peel ratify 3-year agreement Aramark Canada employees at the Peel District School Board have achieved a new three-year contract. In each year of the contract, wages will increase across the board. The first increase is retroactive for hours worked since expiry of the previous contract: • 3% in Year 1 • 1.5% in Year 2 • 1.5% in Year 3 General Help rates will increase substantially with new minimum wage plus language as well. The contract provides for 45 cents per hour over the $15 minimum in January 2019. Full-time employees receive four personal/sick days per year, inclusive of the two mandated under the ESA. Part-time may use their two emergency leave days, with no doctor’s notes required, for school closures affecting their children. The contract recognizes Easter Monday as a paid holiday now. Improvements to the Sunset Clause remove discipline 12 months from the date of issue. The committee achieved the deletion of mandatory inoculation language as well. The employer will now pay 50% of the cost for the negotiating committee’s lost wages, as well as the cost of printing contract books. Each employee receives three uniforms from the company too. In addition, the employer will contribute $300 per year, up from $250, toward the Local 175 Training & Education Fund. The 14 full-time and nine part-time workers ratified the agreement on February 3, 2018. Union Negotiating Committee: Clare Iaccheo, Joanne Stewart, and Union Rep John DiFalco. Find more updates on page 15...
More jobs added as Olymel invests $30 Million Late last year, Olymel announced the completion of a $30 million investment in its Brampton Orenda poultry facility. That new two-building facility now employs more than 500 members of UFCW Local 175 who process and manufacture breaded and frozen chicken products. This large investment means an increase to the company production capacity and the purchase of a second plant in Brampton, which adds 50,000 square feet to their facilities. This expansion equals more Union jobs. The Orenda plant added a fourth breading line and can now produce gluten-free products at all times. The company refurbished the new facility and moved the raw side of production, including deboning, to the Westwyn plant. The reorganization of work and tasks meant the creation of more than 100 new jobs. Currently, there is one Chief Steward and 12 Stewards working as a team at the two plants.
The company sees great popularity in breaded poultry products and its new 50,000 space still allows for further development. Employees, the Union, and the company cooperated through the early reopening of the collective agreement to allow for the reallocation of jobs at the new plant to be included. The new agreement includes wage increases and pension improvements. March 2018
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Our Members at Home Hardware Home Building Centre Home Hardware Home Building Centres are 100% Canadian-owned and they are very proud of that fact. If you are in need of materials for building or renovating your home, cottage, or camp, then stop by your local Home Building Centre. If you’re lucky enough to live in Thunder Bay, your visit to the store means you might get to meet Members of UFCW Local 175. At the Memorial Ave Home Building Centre in Thunder Bay, 25 Union members are available to talk to customers about their projects and requirements. They are all extremely knowledgeable about the products they sell from plumbing supplies to cabinets for your kitchen or bathroom, or even just paint, hammers, and nails.
Combined, the Members at the Memorial Ave store have well over 200 years of service. Approximately 40% of the Members working in the 22,000 square foot store are full-time employees. The store has been around for more than 40 years, first as a Beaver 12
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Lumber, and then Home Hardware Building Centres purchased the store in 2000. Recently, Elaine Wos, who was the Shop Steward for many years, retired from Home Building Centre. Her co-workers will miss her knowledge, experience, and friendship. The Steward role is now in the capable hands of Tara Sylvester who brings 27 years of service as a Sales Clerk and Stock Floor Clerk to the table. Tara is the Health & Safety Committee person too. Members in the lumberyard are happy to help you find what you’re looking for – anything from 2 x 4s to drywall. When working in the yard, Members can face temperatures anywhere from +40C to -40C, so good protective clothing is essential along with a strong back to lift all the materials. One full-time warehouse worker, Joe Tallari, who has 33 years of service with the company, moves about 14,000 pounds of material manually every time the store receives an order. When they are out on deliveries, Members could be anywhere from Atikokan to Upsala, Geraldton to Armstrong, or just in Thunder Bay.
Union Steward Tara Sylvester - Thunder Bay
From sales and stock clerks on the floor, cashiers to ring up your purchases, yard and warehouse workers to get you the materials you need, and delivery drivers to bring your purchases to your door, the Members of Local 175 at Home Hardware Building Centre provide great customer service and a true Canadian shopping experience every time.
March 2018
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Inside the Home Hardware Building Centre in Thunder Bay. 14
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Negotiation Updates continued... Retail workers at Sirens vote yes to new agreement On February 10, 2018, the 15 retail employees at the Sirens clothing store in Brampton ratified a new 18-month agreement. This renewed agreement contains a number of language improvements to better the work-life for these Members. The main issue for these employees was not being able to leave the store for their lunch and breaks. Through bargaining, the Members rectified this and now employees may leave the store at those times if they wish. Bargaining also achieved better visitation language to allow the Union Rep improved access. In addition, the employer agreed to reduce the sunset clause for discipline to 12 months, from 18 months. Members also benefit from improved language covering vacations, Bill 148, and pay equity. The employer implemented a wage grid to reflect the new and pending minimum wage improvements. For
Holiday pay, part-time employees will receive four hours’ pay at their regular rate or what is provided for under the Employment Standards Act (ESA), whichever is greater. Finally, employees with more than one year of seniority will receive a $100 company gift card. Union Negotiator: Union Representative Orsola Augurusa.
Lococo’s Members ratify first contract renewal Members of Local 175 working at Lococo’s Wholesale in Hamilton ratified their first renewal collective agreement on February 1, 2018. The 55 employees benefit from a number of improvements in the three and a half year contract. A new wage grid includes a gap of 50 cents to $2.75 per hour ahead of minimum wage rates. In addition, members receive retroactive pay of 40 cents per hour for hours worked since the expiry of the previous agreement. The supervisory role receives an
improved shift premium of 50 cents per hour. The contract contains important language establishing meeting time for new Members to receive orientation. Stewards also benefit from language stating they can meet with each other during paid time. Effective as of ratification, the employer will implement a healthcare spending account of $200 per 24-month period for each member. While this does replace the current vision care coverage, the program account allows members to spend the $200 for other health purposes which were not covered in the previous agreement. Vacation entitlement provides four weeks after 10 years of service. Lastly, the employer will contribute $500 per year toward the Local 175 Training & Education Fund as well. Union Negotiating Committee: Nick Cabras, Mike Cianciolo, Alveena Francis, Union Rep Lee Johnson-Koehn, and Region 4 Director Chris Fuller.
Westboro Beach Ottawa
Join Your Union for this year’s
Community Action Network 2018 BBQ & Family Day
Labour Day
September 3, 2018 More Details to Follow Visit ufcw175.com/can2018 for updates. Free BBQ, beverages, bouncy castle, music & entertainment!
Mark it on your Calendars! March 2018
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ATTENTION INJURED WORKERS WITH WSIB NELs An Update on Non-Economic Loss (NEL) Reviews Finally, the WSIB has acknowledged that they have been making illegal and inappropriate deductions to NELs based on preexisting conditions. This stems from the preexisting condition policy enacted in 2012. So, due to immense pressure from the compensation community, and the WSIAT overruling WSIB decisions, the WSIB will be reviewing and reassessing NELs. According to the WSIB website: • Starting December 15, 2017, the WSIB will no longer reduce benefits for people with an asymptomatic preexisting condition if it is non-measurable. • The WSIB will also reconsider the approximately 4,500 decisions that were made between January 2012 and December 15, 2017 where there was a reduction because of an asymptomatic preexisting condition.
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What does this mean to you?
What should you do?
If you received an NEL award after January 2012, which was reduced because of a preexisting condition, it is likely you will have your NEL determination reviewed.
The WSIB says it will notify you when/if it reviews your NEL before June 2018. If you believe, however, that your claim should be reviewed as a result of the clarification, either before or by June 2018, you can call WSIB at 1-800-387-0750.
Your current NEL will not be reduced by this process. But, for those that were inappropriately penalized for preexisting conditions, you may see an increase to your NEL determination. Who does it apply to? The WSIB is reviewing NEL decisions for two time periods: 1. Decisions made from 2012 to October 2014 (Under former Policy 18-05-05 – Effect of Preexisting Impairment), and 2. Decisions made from November 2014 to date (Under current Policy 18-05-03 Determining the Degree of Permanent Impairment). Visit bit.ly/NELUpdate for the full update from WSIB.
When you contact the WSIB, have your eight-digit claim number ready. Please note that even though the UFCW Workers Compensation office completed some of these claims, your UFCW Comp Rep may or may not still be considered your Representative. Therefore, we may not know if your review has been conducted, or what the outcome of any review is. If you have questions or need help from our office, please contact the Worker’s Compensation Department 519-658-0252 1-800-267-1977 workerscomp@ufcw175.com
altered livesproject
ufcw175.com/alteredlivesproject
Richard’s Story Richard is a long-time employee at a manufacturing facility in South Eastern Ontario. Over his years of employment there, Richard suffered two significant injuries. He had the last joint of his baby finger on his right hand amputated when he was 29 years old. More recently, a doctor diagnosed Richard with significant noise-induced hearing loss. The accident that took part of his finger happened in a packaging machine. The injury was very painful and required two surgeries, including removal of his fingernail, which had grown through the closed wound. Fortunately, he is left-hand dominant. But, to this day, Richard finds it difficult to grip and pick up things with his right hand, and he sometimes has phantom pain. What bothers Richard the most is that the finger is very sensitive to cold since the bone is just below the skin. Typically, he wears gloves most of the day in winter. Richard wasn’t the only worker to sustain hand injuries in that way. As a result of his injury though, the employer installed additional guarding on that type of machinery. More recently, Richard received a diagnosis of significant noise-induced hearing loss. So, now he requires hearing aids. While Richard did suspect he had some hearing loss, it didn’t hit home until his employer advised him to seek medical attention due to results of a workplace test. Specialists confirmed the diagnosis. Richard’s work environment is very noisy with levels varying between 85 dB(A) and 105 dB(A). In Ontario, the maximum permitted exposure levels for 8 hours is 85 dB(A). Throughout his years at the facility, Richard wore hearing protection. He also wore hearing protection during at home activities like mowing the lawn, using a chainsaw, or working in his workshop. Prior to getting hearing aids, Richard had difficulty hearing things properly, which frustrated him and his family. In addition, he found background noises distracting and he
would try to watch mouths to understand what others said. He recalls no longer hearing the high notes in music either. Hearing aids have helped a lot, but they are not without problems. Often, background noises can be more amplified than expected. Richard has a significant hearing loss at a young age and he has had difficulty accepting it. He is not an old man and he worries what his hearing be like in another 20 years. Richard’s advice: “Don’t assume someone else is looking out for you. Follow proper procedures, don’t take short cuts, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Tools are replaceable, your fingers are not.” “My employer has been active in trying to reduce employee exposure to the noise hazard. Workers should request this of their employers when they recognize a health hazard. Use personal protection wherever it is required, not just at work, and have your hearing tested. You need to preserve what you have. Lastly, I want to remind kids of the dangers of constantly wearing ear buds too.”
International Noise Awareness Day is on April 25, 2018. Visit ohcow.on.ca/avoidnoise for more info. March 2018
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April 28
DAY OF MOURNING • In 2015, 852 workplace deaths were recorded in Canada. • 15 of those workers were under the age of 25. • In 2016, 904 workplace deaths were recorded in Canada: * 592 from occupational diseases * 312 from fatal injuries April 28 marks the International Day of Mourning to commemorate family, friends, and loved ones who were injured, made ill, or killed on the job. Sudbury Unions first adopted the day in 1984 to publicly acknowledge the lives forever changed by workplace injuries, accidents, and occupational diseases. They chose April 28 because that was the day in 1914 that Ontario passed the Workers’ Compensation Act. Since 1984, the international community has come to mark the day as well. Somber, commemorative ceremonies and events, as well as panel talks and more, take place on April 28 in communities across Canada. A number of cities have statues or parks dedicated to the cause of worker safety, many of which were commissioned by local labour councils and advocates. Please take your health and safety at work seriously. If you see a hazard or believe something to be unsafe, report it to your Union Rep, your Union Steward or Health & Safety Rep, and your Supervisor.
Day of Mourning Events ufcw175.com/2018Mourning
*Statistics Source: Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC) awcbc.org 18
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M E M B E R S A S S I S TA N C E P R O G R A M CO N F I D E N T I A L R E F E R R A L S E RV I C E S YOUR UNION OFFERS A M E M B E R S A S S I S TA N C E P R O G R A M ( M A P ) THROUGH LABOUR COMMUNITY SERVICES. The MAP is available to help members through difficult times by connecting you with the appropriate professional assistance close to your community as soon as possible. Locals 175 & 633 members have access to this confidential service providing counselling referrals to professional services for issues such as • • • • • •
Substance abuse Spousal abuse Depression Stress & anxiety Marital counselling Financial problems
• • • • • •
Legal issues Grief Anger Child care Affordable housing Other concerns
CALL SHARON LABOUR COMMUNITY SERVICES 4 1 6 - 97 7 - 6 8 8 8 O R 1 - 8 7 7 - 8 0 1 - 7 7 6 2 DES SERVICES EN FRANÇAIS SONT AUSSI OFFERTS
W W W.U F C W175.C O M/A S S I S TA N C E
March 2018
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Tee up for the Annual UFCW Local 175
Golf Tournament
Saturday, May 12, 2018 Lionhead Golf & Country Club 8525 Mississauga Road, Brampton Registration & Lunch @ 11 a.m. Shotgun Start/Four Person Scramble Tee Off @ 1 p.m. You could win:
Closest to the Keg Closest to the Pin Premium Raffle Prizes Details & sign up info at
ufcw175.com/2018golf 20
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Register by April 27.
Leukemia Fundraising Holiday Party On November 18, 2017, the 4th annual Metro Store #106 fundraiser for Leukemia took place in Whitby. Executive Board Vice-President, long-time Union Steward, and dedicated activist Colleen Cox hosted this amazing night filled with great food, prizes, friends and lots of dancing!
Apply now for a
Solidarity Scholarship Applications now open! Are you or your children attending college or university this year? Each year, Sister Cox volunteers as a Metro Leukemia payroll deduction coordinator for her store where she asks her retail co-workers to sign up for the Leukemia payroll deduction program. Metro #106 was one of the top three stores for sign-ups last year, so they won $1,000. The money went toward the annual party. About 100 people attended and they helped raise $2,295! This money will be donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). The LLSC funds research to end blood cancers and improve the quality of life for patients.
Did you know the average Canadian tuition increased by 40% over the last 10 years?
A special thank you goes out to Colleen for her hard work and dedication to this worthy cause. Thank you as well, to all the members who signed up for payroll deduction, and everyone who attended the event for your support.
You can apply online at ufcw175.com/scholarshipapp
Your Union offers 88 post-secondary scholarships of $1,000 every year to members or their children and/or their dependents.
Applying for a Solidarity Scholarship is easy!
OR You can fill out the form on the back of this page then mail or fax it to the Training & Education Centre. Congratulations to Nicole Wessel (centre) from Metro The Barn 141 who won an iPad in the Leukemia Payroll Deduction campaign for the LLSC. Also pictured are Steward and campaign contact for the store Dianna Riberdy (l) and Carolyn Martin (r) who is a an Exec Board VP, Steward and also the area coordinator for the payroll campaign.
We select 88 winning applications randomly from all the eligible entries! We’ll let the winners know who they are in the early part of September. Deadline to apply is August 1, 2018. March 2018
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SOLIDARITY SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION
Also available online at ufcw175.com/scholarshipapp starting April 1, 2018. APPLICANT INFORMATION FULL NAME:
_______________________________________________________________________________________
PERMANENT HOME ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________________________ STREET, CITY, PROVINCE & POSTAL CODE TELEPHONE #: ( ____ ) ____________________ E-MAIL:
CELL PHONE #: ( ____ ) ____________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
I AM A MEMBER OF UFCW LOCAL 175 OR LOCAL 633 I AM THE ____________________________________ OF A UFCW LOCAL 175 OR LOCAL 633 MEMBER IF APPLICANT IS NOT A MEMBER, SPECIFY RELATIONSHIP OF APPLICANT TO MEMBER (I.E. SON, DAUGHTER OR DEPENDENT)
UFCW LOCAL 175 OR 633 MEMBER INFORMATION MEMBER NAME: _________________________________________
MEMBER SINCE: ______________________
EMPLOYER: ______________________________________________
STORE OR UNIT #: ______________________
EDUCATION INFORMATION Only students enrolled in full-time studies are eligible NAME OF COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: ______________________________ PROGRAM OF STUDY: _______________________ START DATE: ______________________
THIS IS A ________ -YEAR PROGRAM. I AM ENTERING YEAR ______________
EXPECTED COST OF TUITION (PER YEAR) IS $______________________________ I HEREBY CONFIRM THE INFORMATION SUBMITTED HEREWITH IS TRUE & COMPLETE. APPLICANT’S SIGNATURE
_______________________________________________
Send by mail to Attn: Training & Education Committee 6628 Ellis Road Cambridge, ON N3C 2V4
DATE: ____________________________
OR Send by fax to: 519-658-0255
Deadline for all Solidarity Scholarship applications is August 1, 2018.
You must be a Member, or the child/dependent of a Member of either UFCW Local 175 or Local 633 in good standing for at least 6 months prior to the scholarship deadline. Winners are drawn randomly from all eligible entries. Winners will be notified in early September 2018.
A return to weekend Stewards Seminars for 2018 This year, Stewards will have the opportunity to attend a weekend training seminar in the Spring. “Last year’s trial run at one-day cell training across the province was a great success,” said President Haggerty. “We saw Stewards who hadn’t had the opportunity to attend a weekend seminar before.” Stewards should watch their mail in the next month or so to receive their invite. If you’re a Union Steward, especially a NEW Steward, and don’t receive an invite by mid-April, please contact your Union Rep.
webCampus
Toronto & Thunder Bay May 5 & 6, 2018 Hamilton & Kingston May 26 & 27, 2018
FREE ONLINE COURSES FOR UFCW MEMBERS • Health & Safety • Food & Retail • Labour Studies • Skills Development • Computers & Technology • Personal Development
ufcw.ca/webcampus
London & Sault Ste. Marie June 2 & 3, 2018
Be sure to apply for one of the 2018 Weeklong PAID Training Programs! The Members’ Weeklong Class of 2017
These courses take place at the Union’s office in Mississauga. The Local Union covers the cost of the course, materials and instruction as well as the members’ lost wages, per diems, transportation costs and accommodations as per Local Union policies. Member’s Weeklong October 15 – 19, 2018 Steward’s Weeklong October 22 – 26, 2018 Health & Safety Weeklong October 22 – 26, 2018
Apply online by June 30, 2018. The application window will open April 1. Only those selected to attend will be notified, approximately four weeks before the course start date.
For details & to apply online go to ufcw175.com/weeklong Or ask your Union Steward or Union Rep for a form. March 2018
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2/9/18 7:42:11 AM
