CHECKOUT MAGA ZINE FALL 2020 - VOL XIX NO 3
What’s Inside UFCW LOCAL 175
UFCW LOCAL 633
President Shawn Haggerty
President Marylou Mallett
Secretary-Treasurer Kelly Tosato
Secretary-Treasurer Brian Kozlowski
Recorder Karen Vaughan
Recorder Julie Hinsperger
Executive Assistants Rob Armbruster Sylvia Groom Jim McLean HEALTH & SAFETY, WORKERS' COMPENSATION, and PAY EQUITY: Director: Sharon Kempf; Pay Equity Representative: Orsola Augurusa, Matt Davenport; Health & Safety Representative: Mary Shaw; Workers' Compensation Intake Representative: Georgina MacDonald; Workers’ Compensation Representatives: Joanne Ford, Phil Hames, Sarah Neath, Courtney Salomons
145 Union News
Labour Day Contest, Staff retirements & new staff!
78 Negotiations
First Choice Beverage, Wendy's, Pano Cap, Metro Kanata & more
12 20 Welcome New Members Bee-Clean, Jollibee & Canterbury Place
LEGAL: Director: Jane Mulkewich; Counsel: Shauna Fabrizi, Mary Hurley, Matthew Jagodits, Silvia Neagu ORGANIZING: Director: Rick Wauhkonen; Organizing Representatives: Ricardo Bocanegra, Tim Hum, Jeffery Lu, Lionel MacEachern, Amy Tran; Organizing Apprentice: Ayesha Jabbar TRAINING & EDUCATION: Coordinator: Kelly Nicholas; T&E Representative: Russel Evans; Engagement & Media Relations Strategist: Tim Deelstra COMMUNICATIONS: Communications Representative: Laurie Duncan; Senior Communications Representative: Jennifer Tunney REGION 1: Director: Sandra Rogerson; Union Representatives: Alexander Stubbs, Tracy Stubbs REGION 2: Director: Angela Mattioli; Union Representatives: Farman Ali, Rick Daudlin, Casey Magee, Christina Mayberry, Tony Nigro, Sabrina Qadir, Meemee Seto
14 10 Training & Education
14 Member Feature
16 Workers Comp
18 22 Community
19 18 Members' Assistance Program
20 18 Outstanding Member Achievement
webCampus On-the-Go
Meet Union Steward Charlene Ellis
WSIAT Hearings
REGION 3: Director: Daniel Mercier; Union Representatives: Shannon Epp, Paul Hardwick, Kimberly Hunter, Dean McLaren, Joe Tenn; Servicing Representative: Sandra Proulx REGION 4: Director: John DiNardo; Union Representative: Tim Kelly; Servicing Representatives: Colleen Cox, Virginia Haggith, Jennifer Hanley, Nabeela Irfan, Arlene Robertson, Chris Watson REGION 5: Director: Jehan Ahamed; Union Representatives: Joce Cote, Ashleigh Garner, Mario Tardelli; Servicing Representatives: Rolando Cabral REGION 6: Director: Rob Nicholas; Union Representatives: Sam Caetano, Matt Davenport, Dave Forbes, Jason Hanley, Lee Johnson-Koehn, Mike Mattioli, Brad Morrison, Melody Slattery, Fred Teeple REGION 7: Director: Chris Fuller; Union Representatives: Diane Sanvido, Steve Springall; Servicing Representatives: Dan Bondy, Todd Janes REGION 8: Director: Derik McArthur; Union Representatives: Jeff Barry, John Beaton, Richard Eberhardt, 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
Year-end LLSC fundraising total & van donated to Shelter House Thunder Bay 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
Contact info & details OTTAWA OFFICE 102-177 COLONNADE ROAD OTTAWA, ON K2E 7J4 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)
Award nomination info
SUDBURY OFFICE 230 REGENT ROAD SUDBURY, ON P3C 4C5 TEL: 705-674-0769 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-1722 FAX: 705-674-6815
THUNDER BAY OFFICE UNIT 206A 1000 FORT WILLIAM RD THUNDER BAY, ON P7B 6B9 TEL: 807-346-4227 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-6932 FAX: 807-346-4055
UUWO
President’s Message
Shawn Haggerty
Pandemic premiums and planning for what's ahead In the early days of the pandemic, members at more than 50 employers welcomed the financial boost that came with additional premiums. And, I know premiums would have been a welcome bit of help to every member to ease some financial worries and provide a morale boost through this difficult time. Some employers called those premiums ‘hero pay' and spoke of their employees on the front lines of this battle with COVID-19. Those employers told members and the public just how vital their employees' work and commitment to the job was. Calling it hero pay made it that much harder to understand why employers arbitrarily decided to take that extra pay away.
There is no profit without your labour. And when it comes to COVID-19, those profits require a lot extra from employees. I was happy to see the government call for those in charge of the big grocery chains to explain how it was they “independently” came to a simultaneous decision to end those premiums. I was disappointed, though not surprised, that no changes resulted from those talks. Adding insult to injury, we’ve seen some companies rake in record profits, and some actually increase
shareholder payouts. Sobeys/ Safeway, much like other grocery chains, saw their profits skyrocket in the first few months of 2020 — by 43% ($181 million) in its fourth quarter compared to last year. Yet Sobeys/Safeway announced, just days after ending Hero Pay, that they were raising the quarterly dividend paid to shareholders from 8.3 cents to 13 cents per share. Chartwells, Sienna and Extendicare – all of which employ members of Local 175 at some of their longterm care homes – are expected to pay out up to $59 million to shareholders even while their homes were, and remain, understaffed and underfunded. Ford’s recent announcement of a $3 per hour temporary increase for Personal Support Workers (PSWs) in some facilities is an important step but it’s not enough. As a Union, we’ve long advocated for higher rates of pay and better funding throughout the healthcare industry. COVID-19 didn’t create the crisis in understaffing and underfunding – it just shone an undeniable spotlight on problems that have existed for years. Please visit bit.ly/HealthCareCampaignOct2020 to send a message to your Member of Provincial Parliament to make substantial permanent improvements for all employees in the healthcare sector. The Union is using every avenue available to address lost premiums, wages, health and safety, and col-
lective bargaining rights; not only to try and recoup the lost premiums but to plan for the future when it comes to COVID-19 and any similar circumstances that arise. When employers ended the premiums, the Union filed policy grievances where the membership expressed an interest in doing so. To date, we have filed dozens of grievances and more than half dozen have already been referred to the Union’s legal team to move forward with legal action. Pay Equity is another avenue the Union will review. Pay equity plans deal with the value of work and require, in part, that the elements of work performed, or traditionally performed, by women be made visible. This is particularly important in the retail, grocery, hospitality, and health care industries. The Union’s team will review existing plans, assess changes to working conditions, and ensure employers have established and maintained pay equity. To be clear, the Local Union cannot guarantee that the grievance procedure will result in the reinstatement of pandemic pay, or that the pay equity approach will yield any adjustments. But we continue to move forward and use every means available to fight for better compensation for our members through this pandemic. This is more important ... continued on page 5 Fall 2020
3
Secretary-Treasurer’s Message
Kelly Tosato
Executive Board endorses food bank and shelter donations We know that many in our communities have suffered: from job loss or layoff, reduced hours, food insecurity, and the general stress and worry of learning to live in new ways and stay connected to those we love and care about. Many who have never visited a food bank before have found themselves suddenly in need of vital community support in these hard times. Back in April, the federal government announced a $100 million Emergency Fund for Food Security in response to the increase in food bank usage during the early months of the pandemic. It's also important to note that Canada has no enshrined right to food in our Constitution or the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms1. This year, in lieu of Labour Day giveaways, the Local Union Executive Board voted in favour of donating to food banks in 20 communities across the province. In total, $60,000 is being distributed to food banks from Windsor to Thunder Bay, Kenora to Ottawa, and many places in between. Your Executive Board wanted to help ensure that families – our neighbours, friends, family, and co-workers – who need the assistance of food banks can continue to rely on those services. We know it’s a cause close to the hearts of many members and I was very proud to see our Board endorse the donation.
In a Fall 2019 study – before COVID-19 was on anyone’s radar – a group called Voices United did a survey2 of food bank clients in Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry and Grenville Counties in eastern Ontario. The study found a “majority of respondents are severely food insecure, with more than 50% stating they are personally hungry on a regular basis. A shocking 41% are going whole days without eating.” And just like our workplaces and lives, COVID-19 brought changes to how food banks operate. Many of these operations have adapted to provide things like delivery and drive-thru services. Food Banks Canada has a COVID-19 Response Fund, which to date has helped distribute almost 15 million meals across the country3. Visit www. foodbankscanada.ca for information on programs and locations. Your Executive Board also voted unanimously to donate the Union’s van to Shelter House in Thunder Bay. Shelter House plans to use the van to help get their Street Outreach Service (SOS) Program back up and running. At the start of COVID-19, Shelter House had to repurpose their resources and the SOS program had to shut down. The SOS Program sends teams of two people out every day between 2 p.m. and 2 a.m. to offer services to individuals who are homeless and at high
Checkout Magazine
You can find more information on Shelter House and the important work they do on page 18. Many charities, unable to hold regular events for most of this year, will likely see a significant decrease in their fundraising for 2020. If you’re in a position to donate and would like to, please check with your local Food Bank or charity of choice on the best way to show your support. If you’re already a volunteer or thinking about volunteering, please ensure the organization follows good health and safety procedures to keep their volunteers and clients safe. Our Local Union is a part of many communities across this province through our members and our staff. The pandemic has turned a spotlight, more than ever before, on the value of community and supporting one another. I am so proud to be a part of this Local Union and see our members and Executive Board continue to be generous and giving in these difficult times. In Solidarity, Kelly Tosato treasurer@ufcw175.com
Who's Hungry 2019 (Rep.). (2019) (p7). Retrieved October 5, 2020, from Daily Bread Food Bank website: https://www. dailybread.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/DB-WhosHungry-2019-Final-WebLR.pdf Ashby, C. (n.d.). Voices United 2020: Raising the Profile of the Hungry in Stormont, Dundas, Glengarry and Grenville Counties. Retrieved October 05, 2020, from https://hol.community/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/2020-Voices-United-ReportFinal-1.pdf 3 Food Banks Canada Donor Accountability Statement. (n.d.). Retrieved October 05, 2020, from https://iate.ca/ foodbankscanada-covid19/media/documents/FBC-Donor-Accountability-Statement.pdf 1
2
4
risk in the community. Anyone in the community can contact the Program to assist someone in need. The group hopes the new van will allow them to redeploy those teams.
... continued from page 3
than ever right now, too, as we enter the second wave of the virus in many municipalities. From mid-June to Labour Day, we ran an online petition to keep pandemic pay. That petition saw more than 8,500 people fill out the form. We mailed the completed petition and letter to employers and the government in September. Thank you to those who signed and shared the petition and made your voices heard. Ultimately, this pandemic has revealed that the undervaluing of work continues to be a major issue for many workers across almost every sector of employment. This has all been – and will continue to
be – a challenge. Addressing the value of your work with employers and the government will take time and there will be hurdles. As we press forward, your Union Negotiating Committees must use bargaining as a chance to address these issues as well. From monetary improvements to better health and safety language, and specifically, language regarding pandemic plans; there are always opportunities available to improve working conditions through collective bargaining. COVID-19 has been difficult for everyone. Our members on the front
lines – from those dealing with the public in retail stores, to those caring for the elderly and ill, and those maintaining the supply chain from manufacturing to packaging and shipping – are valuable. You are valuable. Thank you for your work and dedication, and thank you for taking care of each other through these troubling times. Please reach out to your Union Rep or the Member’s Assistance Program (see page 19) if you need guidance or support. In Solidarity, Shawn Haggerty president@ufcw175.com
Happy Retirement! Over the summer, Union Rep John Di Falco began his retirement from a UFCW career that spanned more than 40 years. John was introduced to UFCW in July 1979 when he became a part-time clerk at Miracle Food Mart on Bathurst Street in Toronto. His Union membership began just days after UFCW was officially created through a series of mergers. In 1981, his Union Rep encouraged John to become a Union Steward at the store; and he did. As a Steward, John represented the members at his store successfully and took part on negotiating committees as well. His role in bargaining included negotiations that led to a 95-day strike at Miracle Food Mart from November 1993 to February 1994. For every day of that strike, John picketed and coordinated picket duty for his co-workers. After the strike ended, the Union filed more than 1700 grievances against the company. The Union brought John in, along with several other stewards, to assist with resolving those issues. In May 1995, John began working as a Special Projects Union Representative (SPUR) to assist in organizing, which included helping Zellers workers achieve Union representation. Following his success in that role, the Union hired John as an Organizer in January 1997. Later, John was assigned as a Union Representative in the Windsor area and then, later to the Central East Region
(Region 2) where he worked until retirement. “I’ve tried to do my best at all times, even when it was difficult. My passion was in bargaining and I think I did my best work at the negotiating table,” added John. “I cannot believe how fast the time has passed.” “I’ve seen a lot of members, executives, and staff over my years,” said John. “It has been a privilege and an honour to work with and learn from them all. I will miss working for the members – especially when I’ve been able to help them when their rights have been abused. I’ll also miss working with all the Union staff: they’re the most dedicated, passionate, and hard working people I know.” “Thank you to everyone that I’ve had the pleasure of serving and working with. As long as we work together to protect workers’ hard-won rights, I know we will be strong as a Union.” “I know John built many friendships over his years with the Union,” said President Haggerty. “His expertise and dedication will be missed and we wish him all the best in his retirement.” 5
Welcome New Staff Nabeela Irfan is the newest Service Representative in Region 4. Nabeela brings a wealth of experience and dedication to social justice to her new role. Nabeela has been a member of Peel ACORN, a not-for-profit dedicated to social and economic justice, for a few years. In this role, Nabeela has petitioned for housing rights, protested against Bill 184, worked to secure no evictions during COVID-19, and more. She also worked to make the low-income bus pass pilot a permanent program for MiWay transit. Other groups Nabeela has worked with include the Income Security and Economic Opportunity Taskforce in Peel and the Peel chapter of Social Action.
Earlier this year, the Local Union welcomed Kimberly Hunter as a Union Representative in Region 3. Kimberly has been a UFCW Member for almost 40 years. She was a JHSC member at her Loblaws store for more than 10 years and became a Certified Member Co-Chair, and Union Steward. As a JHSC member, she notified the Ministry of Labour about an issue which led to an order for ergonomic changes to reduce soft tissue injuries for cashiers and deli clerks. She was an instructor for the Workers Health & Safety Centre (WHSC) and she served as a Local 175 Executive Board VP. Kimberly has lobbied the government on a number of important issues and she took part in the member-to-member campaign for the 2019 federal election. Kimberly is a regular at many rallies and events such as Day of Mourning, Pride, Labour Day, and the Community Action Network barbecue.
Most recently, Nabeela worked at The Mississauga Food Bank. She was instrumental in planning and implementing a city-wide grocery delivery program for homebound residents who are unable to visit their local food bank. Nabeela graduated from Humber College with a diploma in International Development and she has an International Bachelor of Business from York University’s Schulich Business School. She taught English as a Second Language (ESL) in Gwangju, South Korea for several years where she enjoyed the city's rich history of democracy. “I believe in the power of people and worker solidarity,” said Nabeela. “I am inspired by Martin Luther King, Jr. and his words – that all labour has dignity and that it is poor working conditions that make jobs degrading and undignified.” “Nabeela has a clear passion for people and fighting for an equitable society,” said President Haggerty. “Her dedication and experience make her an excellent addition.”
The Ottawa Labour Council and WHSC recognized Kimberly by giving her the Jeff Adam’s Health & Safety Activist Award in 2017. In 2018, Kimberly was a SPUR for several months at the Union and, recently, she was elected Executive Member at Large on the Ottawa Labour Council and appointed Chair of the Education Committee. “I look forward to utilizing all of my experience and skills to advocate for the members of this Local,” said Kimberly. “I want to welcome Kimberly,” said President Haggerty. “She’s proven herself to be a dedicated advocate of working people and is a great addition to the staff.”
If you contract COVID-19, contact your Union Rep for questions about your job, seniority, income, and any government support you may be eligible for. Find your Rep by scanning the code with your phone’s camera 6 Checkout Magazine
Labour Day Contest Thank you to everyone who submittted a video for our Labour Day contest. While Labour Day looks much different this year, we were happy to see more than 70 members submit messages for the video, which we published on Labour Day. You can find the video online at bit.ly/UFCW175LabourDay or scan the barcode with your smartphone camera. Congratulations to our contest winners: Nicola Eggleton-Sodenkamp, Zehrs Bolton Amandeep Kaur Brar, Loblaws College Square Mary Lauriola, Rexall 8191 Dan Gratton, Pepsi Hamilton Maria Sara, Rexall Spadina & College Amita Ahuja, Fortinos Upper Middle Gloria Almonte, Olymel Cornwall
7
Negotiation Updates Members at First Choice Beverage ratify first contract To achieve this agreement, the members and Union Negotiating Committee faced a very challenging round of bargaining and the parties spent three days in conciliation. The ratified four-year deal includes wage increases and other improvements for the 60 employees at the plant.
Language in this first agreement provides protection for the workers, including against favouritism, and establishes policies for seniority. It also lays the ground work for future negotiations in a number of ways. All bargaining unit employees at First Choice Beverages will receive a signing bonus of $200. Wage rates will go up by: • • • •
1.5% in year one, 1.5% in year two, 1.75% in year three, and; another 1.75% in year four.
statutory holiday pay will now count as hours worked for overtime calculations. The Union Negotiating Committee locked in the existing health and welfare plan to ensure its benefits continue for the duration of the contract term. Employees at the First Choice Beverages plant, which is in Mississauga, voted to join the Union in early 2019.
Full-time employees with six months’ service will receive an additional paid day off each year. Other monetary improvements include an increase to the shoe allowance, and
Union Negotiating Committee: Ali Ayoub, Jun Zhao, and Union Reps Lionel MacEachern and Mike Mattioli.
You can find more negotiations online at myunion.ca 8
Checkout Magazine
Workers at Wendy’s in Thunder Bay ratify first renewal On July 27, 2020, the unionized employees at Wendy’s in Thunder Bay ratified a new collective agreement. The Union Negotiating Committee achieved a number of important improvements in this round of bargaining, which marks the first renewal agreement for these members. The number of hours needed to pass the probationary period is now 290 hours or five months, down from 320 hours or six months. Bereavement leave entitlement improves to two paid days, instead of the previous one day. Vacation pay improves to 8% for those employees with eight years of service or more. Wages also improve over the three-year agreement term. Each rate will increase by 25 cents per hour in each year of the agreement. This collective agreement covers 29 employees at the Wendy’s restaurant. Union Negotiating Committee: Patty Collins, Charlene Ellis, and Union Rep Tracy Stubbs.
Pano Cap members ratify new three-year agreement Members at Pano Cap in Kitchener have achieved a new three-year collective agreement. Throughout bargaining for the renewal agreement at Pano Cap, the Union Negotiating Committee remained strong and united to achieve a good outcome. Following four days of bargaining, the Union requested conciliation to reach agreement on several issues. The resulting recommended settlement was presented to the members for their vote on August 11. The ratified agreement includes a number of improvements to compensation and language for the Members at Pano Cap. Wages under Appendix A will improve by 65 cents per hour in year one, 60 cents per hour in year two, and another 55 cents per hour in year three. The Committee achieved improved shift premiums as well. This includes: • 90 cents per hour, up from 78 cents, for the afternoon shift; • $1.68 per hour, up from $1.46, for the night shift; and, • $3.50 per hour, up from $3, for supervisory pay relief in the first year, $3.75 per hour in the second year, and $4 per hour in the third year.
Members will benefit from achieving one paid sick day per year, whereas before they had none. Plus, bereavement leave language now provides five days off, instead of four, for the death of an immediate family member. Going forward, the employer will pay 100% of the lost wages for one member of the negotiating committee, and 50% of the lost wages for the remaining two members of the committee. Previously, the employer only paid 50% for all three committee members. The Committee also achieved a guarantee that the employer will contribute $250 per year toward the UFCW Local 175 Training & Education Fund instead of its previous one-time contribution of $250. This collective agreement covers more than 60 employees at the Pano Cap facility in Kitchener, where they make plastic caps and closures for all types of products and packaging. Union Negotiating Committee: Osama al-Jeibat, Susan Phillips, Linda Trider, and Union Rep Joce Cote.
Fall 2020
9
Marek Hospitality members achieve pandemic pay language and other improvements in new agreement Recently, the 77 full-time and 53 part-time employees of Marek Hospitality ratified a new three-year collective agreement. Members at Marek work in cafeterias and restaurants, such as Tim Hortons, in various hospitals and other facilities. Ratification meetings took place over five dates, ending on August 13, 2020. To achieve some of the improvements in this agreement, the Union requested the assistance of a conciliation officer. The three-year term of the ratified agreement includes wage improvements, including pandemic pay language, additional health benefits, and more. New language in the agreement provides pandemic pay of $2 per
hour in addition to an employee’s regular rate. This pay will apply should the federal or provincial government declare a pandemic or outbreak-related Canada-wide or Ontario-wide State of Emergency. This will also apply to a declared second wave of the current COVID-19 pandemic. The Union Negotiating Committee achieved language to ensure the employees’ rates go up with any future increases to minimum wage to ensure their rates stay ahead. The agreement also includes pay equity language. Wages will increase by 2% per hour across the board in each of the three years of the agreement term. In addition, on October 1, 2020, all employees will receive an additional increase of 25 cents per hour as
per the negotiated minimum wage gap language. Other monetary improvements include an increase to how much the employer will pay toward medical notes. Previously the employer paid $25 per note and it will now pay $50 per note. The shoe allowance improves to $50 per year, up from $25, as of January 2021. New language provides employees with coverage for physiotherapy, massage therapy, orthotics, and outof-country medical. Further improvements ensure that a work schedule shall be posted bi-weekly on Thursdays at noon. Union Negotiating Committee: Judy Nickson, Margaret Rocheleau, and Union Representatives John Di Falco and Meemee Seto.
Victoria Retirement members ratify; contract includes health & safety pandemic plan language On August 25, 2020, the members at Victoria Retirement in Cobourg ratified a new two-year collective agreement. The Union Negotiating Committee achieved several improvements that were important to the membership at Victoria Retirement in this agreement. Going forward, employees will receive improved uniform allowances of $130 per year for full-time and $95 per year for part-time. The committee also achieved an increase to $275 for vision care coverage, up from $225, every 24 months. Language improvements provide enhanced Health & Safety provisions utilizing the precautionary principle and a pandemic plan. Members will see across-the-board wage increases of 2% for all classifications effective April 18, 2020. In addition, members will see another 2% increase in April 2021. The 10
Checkout Magazine
premium for Unregulated Care Providers (UCPs) also improves by 25 cents per hour. In addition, members will benefit from improved bereavement of two days, up from one, for the death of an aunt or uncle. This agreement protects the 15 members of the bargaining unit at Victoria Retirement. Union Negotiating Committee: Donna Byatt, Debbie Hodgkins, and Union Rep Dean McLaren.
Metro Kanata members secure first collective agreement Earlier this summer, the employees at Metro Kanata voted to join Local 175. On August 24, the 109 members secured their first collective agreement. In this first agreement, members are protected by the grievance and arbitration procedure. This important part of Union membership, provides employees with the opportunity to file a formal complaint if the employer violates the terms of the agreement. Paid sick leave for full-time employees increases to 48 hours per calendar year. In addition, full and part-time employees receive an additional annual floater holiday. Part-time employees now receive $1 per hour paid for all hours worked over 28 hours per week. The Negotiating Committee achieved a premium increase for those employees assigned as Lead Hand or Express Cash; by the end
of the agreement term, that premium rate will reach 60 cents per hour. The night crew will also see improvements to their shift premiums; the rate increases to 80 cents per hour in 2021, and to 95 cents per hour in 2022. Employees relieving a Department Manager or Assistant Department Manager shall receive a premium of $1 per hour. A bargaining unit member assigned as responsible for the store in the absence of a manager will be paid $10 per day worked as such, in addition to their regular rate. All full-time employees, and part-time employees promoted to full-time, as of August 30, 2020 and who are not at end rate, will receive increases totalling a minimum of $2 per hour over the three-year collective agreement. Full-time at the end rate of that same date will receive a minimum increase of 90 cents per hour over the agreement term.
The employer will contribute 75 cents per hour worked per employee to the Canadian Commercial Workers Industry Pension Plan (CCWIPP). All full-time employees with three months’ service and part-time employees with one year of service will benefit from a dental plan and health care benefits paid for entirely by the company. Union Negotiators: Union Rep Kim Hunter, and Region 3 Director Daniel Mercier.
Premiums & raises among improvements at Saturn Integrated Logistics On September 14, 2020, the members at Saturn Integrated Logistics ratified a renewal collective agreement that will see them through to July 2023. All employees will receive a raise of 2% in each year of the agreement. Employees will also receive a signing bonus of $300 plus a COVID allowance bonus of $468. Employees will benefit from improved shift premiums of 70 cents per hour for afternoon shift, up from 60 cents, and 90 cents per hour for night shift, up from 70 cents. Members also receive an
increased boot allowance of $200 per year, up from $175. A new table premium has been set at 50 cents per hour. Another new premium will provide additional payment for time worked before and after an employee’s regular shift: 90 cents per hour before shift, and 70 cents per hour after shift. Plus, employees with nine years of service will receive an annual payment of $1,000 for their long service. Further language improvements will increase the number of employees allowed to take vacation at
the same time at some points of the year. The Negotiating Committee also bargained to introduce double time language and reduce the waiting period to exit a job down to three months instead of six. In addition, seniority will now apply for preference on job selection. The collective agreement covers 135 bargaining unit members at the Saturn Integrated Logistics facility in Etobicoke. Union Negotiating Committee: Tiras Nyajure, Leo Perez, Nigel Sterling, and Union Rep Tony Nigro.
Fall 2020
11
Welcome New Members Jollibee employees vote yes to joining UFCW Local 175
Canterbury Place employees vote yes to gain the Union advantage Some of the workers at Canterbury Place who approached our Organizers recognized the benefits of belonging to a Union as they knew of other health care workers who were already members. Despite having a workers’ association previously, the employer did not act upon most proposals put forth by the workers.
Recently, 65 employees at a Jollibee fast food restaurant in North York became some of the newest members of UFCW Local 175. Following a two-month campaign, the workers voted on whether they wanted to join the Union on March 26, 2020. The company challenged the victory with the Ontario Labour Relations Board, but the Board issued its decision on the matter in July, giving the workers the win they deserved. A number of concerns brought these workers to the Union. The members had their first proposal meeting and are excited to begin bargaining their first contract. The employees want to work toward better wages and achieve health and welfare benefits. In addition, they want to establish language for proper scheduling by seniority, and to clarify worker classifications and hours. Overall, they want a workplace with fair treatment and job security. These new members are employed as cooks, servers, cashiers, and cleaners at the restaurant.
12
Checkout Magazine
Wages at this retirement home lag behind what their counterparts in homes unionized with Local 175 make. Another major concern was seniority and hours of work. Even employees with significant lengths of service could receive the worst shifts if, for example, they took a leave of absence because they would lose their competitive number of hours. The members look forward to putting forth proposals to improve the workplace in their first collective agreement. This includes better wages, benefits, health and safety language, and a grievance procedure. In addition, the members hope to work toward better seniority rules, establishing firm job duties, holding management accountable to its commitments, and of course, gaining job security through their Union membership. The new bargaining unit is comprised of about 60 employees who work as: • Health and wellness attendants; • Dining Services attendants; • Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs); • Unlicensed Care Providers (UCPs) and Team Leaders;
• • • • •
Reception staff; Cooks; Housekeepers; Dishwashers; Life Enrichment Assistants; • Maintenance; and, • Temporary workers.
Bee-Clean Building Maintenance workers in Algoma District join the Union After a three-week campaign, the employees at Bee-Clean Building Maintenance in Algoma District voted overwhelmingly to become members of UFCW Local 175. The crew and cleaners at Bee-Clean joined the Union to help secure better working conditions: from wages and benefits, to health and safety and job security. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, it became apparent to many of the employees that their voices were not being heard. As the amount of work the employer tasked them with increased, employees received no additional compensation. In addition, the employer allocated wage rates inconsistently and employees had no
clear trajectory for job advancement or guaranteed increases. Through negotiating their first collective agreement as Union members, the employees at Bee-Clean look forward to achieving better health and safety provisions – including proper personal protective equipment (PPE) – plus a process for discipline, Steward representation, and a grievance procedure. And in addition to standardizing and improving wages, the employees hope to achieve health benefits and a pension as well. This victory welcomes 50 employees of Bee-Clean working in Wawa, Blind River, Spanish, and Sault Ste. Marie.
Successful grievance ends ageist health benefit policies for members at Loblaws Earlier this year, on behalf of two members working for Loblaw-banner stores in the Ottawa area, the Union filed grievances against the employer regarding its policy on benefits coverage for employees over the age of 65. Specifically, the grievance challenged the company’s denial of benefits coverage to two employees aged 65 and over. The two employees work full-time for Loblaws. Together, they have a combined total of more than 79 years of service with the company. When those employees reached the age of 65, the company terminated their benefit coverage. It was the Union’s position that this practice was discriminatory and unfair, especially to employees
who have dedicated their careers to working for Loblaws. The Union argued that this policy demonstrated age-based discrimination contrary to the collective agreement and the Ontario Human Rights Code. Ultimately, the Union and the company entered into Minutes of Settlement which detailed a resolution where full-time employees who have reached the age of 65 will continue to be eligible for most benefits under the health and welfare plan provided for in the collective agreement. “We’re pleased that this grievance resulted in a tremendous success,” said President Haggerty. “This agreement marks a true advancement of fairness and equality in workers’ rights.”
Members who have any questions regarding this issue should contact their Union Representative. You can use the Find Your Rep search or send us an email at membership@ufcw175.com. Fall 2020
13
webCampus On-the-Go Even though we continue to keep our social circles to a minimum, learning doesn't have to be put on hold. Members of Locals 175 & 633 have access to the online webCampus through UFCW Canada — for free. This summer, a new set of courses called 'On-the-Go' launched to help busy Union Members continue their learning in modules of 15 minutes or less. Each module is designed to provide opportunities ideal for workers ‘on-the-go’ between work, family, and community to learn well-organized lessons and new skills. With no tests, or exams, your time can be dedicated to enjoying what you learn. Short videos combined with ‘to the point’ course material provides learners with encouragement and the knowledge they need – when they need it.
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Responding to Discrimination Solving Problems Effective Responses to Unreasonable Managers Be Assertive - Not Aggressive Avoiding Meeting Disasters Public Speaking: Managing Your Nerves Mental Health Check-In Mental Health - You're Not Alone Time to Lead The Basics of WHMIS/GHS Taking Effective Notes During Important Meetings PPE: The Last Line of Defence Basic Health & Safety Rights Money Matters Retirement and Me Career Crossroads Keep Calm Media Smarts
Visit https://webcampusmenu.ufcw.ca/program/17/webcampus-on-the-go or scan the QR code with your smart phone
14
Checkout Magazine
Charlene Ellis has worked for Wendy’s in Thunder Bay for about 23 years. Charlene is a new steward. Char has sat on the negotiating committee and advocated for members during both sets of bargaining for her workplace. Char enjoys gardening, fishing and camping. Her favourite things are her solar lights and chimes, and she has a lot! She loves how her collection makes people smile as they walk by. Her energy and smile are contagious - we love your smile Char! Thank you for being an advocate for the members and a valued member of the Union.
15
Workers' Compensation What do WSIB appeals hearings look like now? As workplaces and offices shutdown earlier this year, organizations had to rethink and rework how they performed their day-today functions. To support efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19, the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) and Workplace Safety and Insurance Appeals Tribunal (WSIAT) postponed all in-person hearings. During the last few months, both the Board and Tribunal have been using alternative hearing methods such as teleconference, videoconference, written submissions, alternative dispute resolution, and mediation, to prevent undue delays in resolving matters. The WSIB has made no announcements as to any changes to these altered procedures. Internally, however, the Workers’ Compensation Department has heard that the WSIB offers three options: • Postpone until in-person hearings are available (though Members should keep in mind that there are NO guarantees on when this will happen); • Teleconference; and, • Videoconference.
16
Checkout Magazine
By mid-August, on a limited basis, the WSIAT resumed some in-person hearings which falls in line with the Province’s Framework for Reopening. With the health and safety of their employees in mind, as well as hearing participants, the WSIAT is scheduling in-person hearings only for time-sensitive matters that are not suitable for the alternative methods. These in-person hearings will take place in the WSIAT Toronto location. As stated on the WSIAT website : Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the WSIAT’s operational decisions have been guided by the following values and commitments: 1. Protecting the health and safety of employees, OICs (Order In Council adjudicators) and stakeholders; 2. Ensuring access to justice; and 3. Delivering excellence in adjudication, which includes conducting fair hearings in accordance with the principles of natural justice and issuing well-reasoned decisions in an efficient manner.
Regardless of which method a worker chooses, a worker can make a request for accommodation related to their hearing at any point in the adjudicative process. Accommodation requests should be made as early as possible and should include as much specific information as available.
Moving Forward Your Workers’ Compensation Representative will continue to work on Members’ workplace injury appeals. They will discuss availability and how comfortable each injured Member is with the methods available for hearings. Your Workers’ Compensation Representative will gather and distribute all pre-hearing information so that each participant has the same documents that will be relied on at the hearing. On the next page, you'll find some things* that the WSIAT recommends to those having tele/videoconferencing hearings.
General Recommendations for all Teleconference or Videoconference Hearings
There are pros and cons as to which method is best suited for each case. • People or communities may have limited Internet access and/or devices for telephone and videoconferencing; • Childcare and normal home interruptions may interfere; • If a Member has not met directly with their Workers’ Comp Representative, they may not be comfortable with them. Your Workers Compensation Rep will do their best to assist you if access to technology is a barrier for you.
* This page adapted from http://www. wsiat.on.ca/english/print/documents/ VideoTipSheet.pdf
• Write down all the information you need to dial-in to your teleconference or connect with your Zoom videoconference. • Try to find a quiet, private space to sit during your tele/videoconference. Keep background noise to a minimum. • Make sure your phone is working well. If you're using a smartphone or other device to dial in or connect, a headset with a mic or earphones may help enhance sound for you and other participants. • Maintain a respectful tone toward all participants. • Speak clearly and slowly, and directly into the mic or phone. • Let the Vice-Chair/Panel know if you can't hear someone. • Indentify if you have any observers at the start of the hearing. • Ask for a break if you need one. • Follow any directions given to you by the Vice-Chair/Panel on what to do if you get disconnected from the hearing.
If you're taking part in a videoconference, you should also: • Use a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a functioning webcam. • Have high speed internet. • Clear the space visible on your camera of any personal items you don't want others to see during the videoconference. • Make sure your device is plugged in to maintain a charge/battery throughout the hearing. • Close any other programs or apps on your device, and turn off any other devices using the Internet, to free up your connection for the hearing. • Mute notifications on your device. • Dress appropriately. • Be patient with interruptions, delays, or technical difficulties as you would expect others to be patient with you.
Important things to remember: • You may not reproduce or record any portion of the hearing (no screenshots, video capture, photos, or audio recording). • Don't communicate with anyone else about the case when you are testifying. • Look only at the documents you're instructed to look at by the Vice-Chair/ Panel.
Your Workers Compensation Rep can be contacted at workerscomp@ufcw175.com or 1-800-565-8329. 17
Community $1.4M for blood cancer research
Union donates van to Shelter House
In June, the UFCW Canada National Office revealed that over the last year, members of the Union had helped raise more than $1.4 million for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC).
Over the summer, the Local Union Executive Board voted to donate the Local's Sprinter Van to Shelter House Thunder Bay to assist with their valuable work.
Of that total, Locals 175 & 633 was able to donate $111,756.33 thanks to the ongoing generosity and dedication of our Members through payroll deduction and at various events throughout the year. The LLSC has been the charity of choice for UFCW Canada for more than 30 years now. In that time, members nation-wide have raised more than $45.1 million. That money has been used to research blood cancers and develop new treatments and therapies, and to provide an overall better quality of life for patients and their families. This year's fundraising — for all kinds of charities that rely on events — will certainly take a hit. If you are able, please consider donating to a charity that's close to your heart or community. Local Food Banks and Shelters are always in need, and many could use support now more than ever. *All photos from events held pre-pandemic.
“This donation means a lot to our clients that struggle in our community and are in crisis. For the program, it allows us to have a secondary option when the other van requires maintenance,” said Michelle Jordan, Executive Director of Shelter House. “This also gives us the opportunity to reevaluate the program needs and how we may be able to expand.” Even while adhering to pandemic precautions, Shelter House still serves about 800 individuals every day through their feeding program, emergency shelter, and 24-hour walk-up window. Shelter House can accommodate up to 62 people in its emergency shelter, with segregated spaces for men, women, and youth. They are the only shelter in Thunder Bay that will accept people who are under the influence of alcohol or other substances. Visit www.shelterhouse.on.ca for more information.
MEMBERS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM CONFIDENTIAL REFERRAL SERVICES
YOUR UNION OFFERS A MEMBERS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (MAP) THROUGH LABOUR COMMUNITY SERVICES The MAP is available to help members through difficult times by connecting you with the appropriate professional assistance as close to your community, and 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, mental wellness, financial stress, grief, child care, affordable housing, and more.
CALL SHARON @ LABOUR COMMUNITY SERVICES 416-977-6888 OR 1-877-801-7762 FRENCH LANGUAGE SERVICES ARE ALSO AVAILABLE
W W W.U F C W175.C O M/A S S I S TA N C E
Fall 2020
19
membership achievement award
Do you know a Member of the Union who deserves recognition for their leadership and contributions to their workplace or community? Nominate them for an Outstanding Member Achievement Award and
they could win $500! Find full details and info on eligibility plus the nomination form online at
ufcw175.com/MemberAwards Deadline for all nominations is November 1, 2020.
MYUNION.CA
Return postage will be paid by: United Food and Commercial Workers Locals 175 & 633 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga ON L5N 2K7
Canada Post Corporation Publication Agreement No. 40064671
Moving?
Please make sure you notify the Union Office at membership@ufcw175.com or call 1-800-565-8329
