THE NEWS MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF LOCALS 175 & 633 UFCW CANADA Volume XXIV No. 2 June 2015
Bylaw & Policy Conference page 6
Health Care Conference page 11
Local Union Elections page 16
See inside for info on Summer Fundraisers, Pride Events & Community Action Network BBQs! page 18
Contents LOCAL 175 Shawn Haggerty, President; Kelly Tosato, Secretary-Treasurer; Karen Vaughan, Recorder; Ray Bromley, Al McLean, Harry Sutton - Executive Assistants
®
LOCAL 633 Dan Bondy, President; Marylou Mallett, Secretary-Treasurer; Neil Hotchkiss, Recorder BENEFITS Georgina MacDonald - Intake Representative; Sherree Backus, Joce Cote, Joanne Ford, Jody Jones, Sarah Neath - Benefits Representatives COMMUNICATIONS Jennifer Tunney - Senior Communications Representative; Laurie Duncan Communications Representative; Meemee Seto - Servicing Representative HEALTH & SAFETY Mary Shaw, Chris Watson - Health & Safety Representatives LEGAL Fernando Reis - Director; Catherine Davis - Legal Advocate; Natalie DeHaney-Stewart, Maryanne Galati Legal Counsel; Natalie Wiley, Rebecca Woodrow - Senior Legal Counsel ORGANIZING Rick Wauhkonen - Director; Farman Ali, Mike Mattioli, Tony Nigro, Amy Tran - Organizing Representatives; Derek Jokhu - Organizing Apprentice. TRAINING & EDUCATION Rob Armbruster - Director; Kelly Nicholas - Co-ordinator
President’s Message Page 3
Health Care Conference
Secretary-Treasurer’s Message
Negotiations
Union News
Local Union Elections
Bylaw & Policy Conference
Community Action Network
Page 4
Page 5
Page 6
REGION 1 Dan Lacroix - Regional Director; Colby Flank, Jason Hanley - Union Representatives
Page 11
Page 14
Page 16 Page 18
Fundraising Page 19
REGION 2 Derik McArthur - Regional Director; Mona Bailey, John DiFalco, Anthony DiMaio, John Di Nardo, Rob Nicholas, Mark Stockton - Union Representatives; Melody Slattery - Servicing Representative REGION 3 Dan Lacroix - Regional Director; Simon Baker, Shannon Epp, Paul Hardwick, Dean McLaren, Daniel Mercier - Union Representatives; Jacques Niquet Servicing Representative REGION 4 Sylvia Groom - Regional Director; Ron McGuire - Union Representative; Orsola Augurusa, Rick Daudlin, Virginia Haggith, Lee Johnson-Koehn, Casey Magee, Arlene Robertson, Brenda Simmons - Servicing Representatives REGION 5 Jim McLean - Regional Director; Jehan Ahamed, Bob Kearney, Brad Morrison, Mario Tardelli Union Representatives REGION 6 Luc Lacelle - Regional Director; Wendy Absolom, Sam Caetano, Matt Davenport, Tim Deelstra, Joe De Melo, Jeffery Lu, Angela Mattioli Union Representatives; Ashleigh Garner - Servicing Representative REGION 7 Jim McLean - Regional Director; Sharon Kempf, Diane Sanvido, Steve Springall - Union Representatives; Dave Forbes - Servicing Representative REGION 8 Chris Fuller - Regional Director; Jeff Barry, Matt Belanger, Lionel MacEachern, Sandra Rogerson, Dave White - Union Representatives ISSN No. 1703-3926
CHECKOUT is an official publication of Locals 175 & 633 of the United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW)
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
2
| June 2015
CORNWALL OFFICE UNIT 5-850 BOUNDARY RD CORNWALL ON K6H 5R5 TEL: 613-932-2330 FAX: 613-932-6687
HAMILTON OFFICE 412 RENNIE STREET HAMILTON, ON L8H 3P5 TEL: 905-545-8354 TOLL FREE: 1-800-567-2125 FAX: 905-545-8355
OTTAWA OFFICE SUDBURY OFFICE THUNDER BAY OFFICE 20 HAMILTON AVENUE N. 230 REGENT ROAD 21-929 FORT WILLIAM RD OTTAWA, ON K1Y 1B6 SUDBURY, ON P3C 4C5 THUNDER BAY, ON P7B 3A6 TEL: 613-725-2154 TEL: 705-674-0769 TEL: 807-346-4227 TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-5295 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-1722 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-6932 FAX: 613-725-2328 FAX: 705-674-6815 FAX: 807-346-4055
UWWO
President’s Message Shawn Haggerty
The dangers of precarious work One of the most difficult realizations for several generations of workers has been that a ‘lifelong job’ no longer exists for many people. More and more often, work comes in the form of short and long-term contracts, temporary employment, and agency work. This new type of work is called Precarious. It’s precarious because there is an inherent lack of security in this type of work. You cannot plan long-term based on a short-term position, and this lack of stability threatens the livelihoods of many families. Precarious work is inconsistent but it is also often characterized by poor training, lax health and safety standards, inconsistent hours, low wages, few – if any – benefits, and a diminished quality of life for many working families. Low wages means employees take on more hours or multiple jobs, in order to make ends meet. It’s pretty much a given that all of this leads to higher levels of stress on individuals and increased strain on family life. Companies use this type of employment strategy to help prevent Unions from representing their workforce. As workers come and go on short contracts there is a significant impact on the unity among those workers. It is isolating and can make it seem as though there’s no other choice for those workers. In turn, it can be very difficult for Organizers to find workers willing to risk filling out a Union card.
that prevent unjust discipline and termination. Precarious workers have no recourse for being fired and having their hours cut. And barring a human rights violation, they can be fired for pretty much any reason. This practice is shameful. It dodges around our labour laws, harms hard-working people, and erodes the middle class. Precarious work isn’t sustainable and it’s unreasonable to ask anyone to base their life around such temporary circumstances. Workers deserve to have some control over their working conditions so that they can plan their lives, pay their bills – which never seem to have a problem arriving like clockwork – enjoy their down time and put some money away for vacations and retirement. Companies should not be allowed to exploit workers – but they do and our government isn’t doing much to stop it. But what we can do is lobby for change in our labour laws and continue to make sure every worker knows the benefit of belonging to a Union.
Going forward, your Union will participate in a government review of Ontario’s Employment Standards Act and the Labour Relations Act to ensure that our members’ voices are heard loud and clear.
If the Union is able to get cards signed and a vote is called by the Ministry of Labour, the company can use the workforce format to rotate workers or hire additional employees to skew the vote results in favour of the company.
I encourage every member of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 to tell your elected government representatives that we will not tolerate a province built on precarious work: Hard-working people deserve better.
The nature of precarious work threatens what Union members benefit from: Good, secure, safe jobs with contracts
In Solidarity, Shawn Haggerty
|
June 2015
3
Secretary-Treasurer’s Message Kelly Tosato
Challenging our Federal leaders to a real debate Our Local Unions are proud to support Up for Debate. Up for Debate is a coalition of organizations calling for all federal parties to commit to a leaders’ debate on female-identified issues such as: ending violence against women, ending women’s economic inequality, and supporting women’s leadership and organizations. It is wrong that women make significantly lower wages, fear violence, and struggle to advance in their jobs. From an economic standpoint, it puts additional strain on our social programs such as child care, a good public health care system, affordable housing, employment insurance and many more means of support. Canada ranks shamefully low in the world when it comes to female representation in government. I think many of us believe Canada is a beacon of democracy and progressive rights for its citizens, but when compared to other countries in this capacity I wonder, how much of an example are we really setting? (see table on right) Females make up 50.4% of the population in this country (2010) but only a quarter of the seats in the House of Commons are held by women: 27 Conservative female Members of Parliament (MPs) (16.9% of their caucus), 10 Liberal MPs (27.7%), and 33 NDP MPs which has the highest percentage representation at 34.7%. All of these numbers are too low. Women need to be active in politics at every level and encourage other women to do the same. Most importantly, we need to vote. Less than 100 years ago, women gained the right to vote and now many of us don’t even bother to participate. But we must vote to ensure our voices are heard and that we have proportional representation among our elected officials.
4
| June 2015
Female Representation in Parliament (World)
We have a lot of work to do. Let’s use this next election to 1. Rwanda 68.8% ensure we fight back against 2. Andorra 50% sexism that relegates women 3. Cuba 48.9% to ‘less than’ status. Let’s 4. Sweden 45% end violence against wom5. South Africa 44.8% en based on the sole fact 34. Switzerland 31% that they are women. Let’s 41. Afghanistan 27.7% ensure women have 45. South Sudan 26.5% equal opportunity for advancement and 54. Canada 25.1% leadership through83. United States 18.3% out our country and *Women in Politics: 2014. UN Women economy, and make sure that women are paid what is right for the work they do. The reality is, these concerns aren’t just about women: They are family issues. The struggle to end violence and income disparity, and improve access to leadership roles affects many Canadians – from First Nations to new immigrants, the LBGTQ community, and more. The health and welfare of all our families is on the line. If we don’t stand up and demand better we might as well give up our right to vote. True equality means that no one has to fight to be seen as a legitimate constituent with real concerns. I hope that one day soon issues won’t need to be classified as belonging to any gender and we recognize that we all do better when we’re ALL doing better. We need to hear what the leaders of our federal parties believe is important. I encourage you to visit upfordebate.ca to learn more about the cause and to send a letter to our leaders demanding a proper debate on these issues. In Solidarity, Kelly Tosato
UNION NEWS
LETTERS
Re: 2015 Bylaw & Policy Conference
Re: 2015 Bylaw & Policy and Health Care Conferences
I just want to say thank you to President Shawn Haggerty, and the rest of our leaders for a fantastic and informative weekend! It was truly amazing and extremely appreciated! Please keep up all the fantastic work you all do and I will promise to live up to all your expectations as a steward of the UFCW Local 175!
Just wanted to let you know I had a really great time the last few days meeting everyone, and attending all the sessions and conferences. I am really interested in learning more about the union, and other areas I can get involved in. It made me proud to be a part of such an inspirational and fantastic union. It felt like one huge family! ...
After many years of being in the UFCW I was disappointed and let down. But since we have joined Local 175 last May, it has changed our collective lives at work for the better and has really opened my eyes and I am PROUD to be an active steward in the UFCW Local 175! Please keep up the amazing work you all do! Pete Zuiderveen Dainty Foods
Much respect to the Wing’s group. Watching that video twice really brought it home. I pray things end in their favor soon. They have my support! Hee Haw Hee!!! Take care, Deanna Berry-Alexander Rexdale Community Health Centre
Re: 2015 Bylaw & Policy Conference Dear Shawn & Kelly: Without question your conference was the best stewards meeting I’ve ever attended in the UFCW or anywhere. The level of professionalism combined with profound Solidarity was extremely impressive. I thank you for the honor of addressing your “brothers, sisters and friends!” I’m so proud to be a part of a union that includes leaders like you both. I also enjoyed conversing (and dancing) with your wonderful stewards – a dedicated group with a solid commitment to Local 175.
I thanked you publicly and I’ll thank you again for your support of OUTreach from day one. I look forward to continuing to work with you towards full equality and a more inclusive union. Again, heartfelt thanks for the outstanding experience called the UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Bylaw & Policy Conference! In Equality & Solidarity, Michele Kessler – UFCW OUTreach Chair
WELCOME NEW STAFF In March 2015, the Benefits Department gained a new Representative. Sarah Neath began her career in 2001 in an administrative position at the UFCW Canada National office. She worked for several years in the Training & Education department developing curriculums, providing adult and youth training, as well as working on publications and design.
“I work for the Union because I want to ensure my children, nieces and nephews, can enter the work-force without having to fight for basic rights and respect,” explained Sarah. “I want to know that when I go to work every day, I’m doing work that helps others.”
In 2009, Sarah began working with the National organizing team to help workers seeking a Union find representation with the UFCW. Sarah has also worked on and volunteered with a number of provincial and federal NDP campaigns in the Guelph area since the 1990s.
“Sarah has a long history of Union activism and advocating for social justice,” explained President Haggerty. “I know she cares deeply about workers’ rights and she will be an outstanding addition to our Benefits Department.” |
June 2015
5
2015 BYLAW & POLICY CONFERENCE The 2015 Bylaw & Policy Conference was an educational and enlightening day filled with amazing guests who spoke passionately about workers’ rights, politics, and equality. “We worked hard to make sure this year’s conference had speakers that could captivate, educate, and entertain,” explained President Haggerty, who started the day with his biannual report to the 347 delegates. At 74,000 members strong, our Local Union is exceeding the unity and growth agenda adopted at the 2008 UFCW International Convention. This strength has come from mergers, such as the most recent one with UFCW Local 278W members in 2014, and the ongoing hard work of our Organizing Team, which has helped more than 1,900 workers join Local 175 since 2013. Despite our growth, more than 2,600 members have faced job loss from workplace closures. In addition, many of our retail and health care members continue to face reduced hours. “I am proud to say,” explained President Haggerty, “that our Local Union has and will continue to support these members through these difficult times with retraining and adjustment programs.” President Haggerty reviewed each department’s work over the last two years. This included Training & Education, Communications, Benefits, Health & Safety, the Community Action Network and the importance of reaching out to our Youth in the Union. President Haggerty ended his address with a breakdown of the current political crisis for working people. “Last June we were faced with a provincial election, which could have changed Ontario forever. But our Local Union and our members stood up and chose to lead the fight against Hudak.” “Now we face a Federal election. So I will end by saying ‘Vote.’ Educate your friends and family, and encourage them to vote,” said President Haggerty. “If we want Canada back – the Canada we love and deserve – vote for change.”
6
| June 2015
Secretary-Treasurer Kelly Tosato gave the delegates a breakdown of the Local Union’s finances and proposed budget for the coming year. Overall, the Local Union increased its revenue and decreased its spending since last year. In fact, the combined equity increased by more than $1 million. The Strike Fund has assets of more than $7.8 million currently and continues to provide picket line support and financial assistance to members on strike or those who are locked out by their employer. “We’ve had a number of members take to the picket lines in the last two years including workers at Sobeys Milton Distribution Warehouse, Good Humor in Simcoe, Ramada Inn in Trenton, HAGI Independent Living, and Horizon Plastics in Cobourg, who were locked out by their employer,” explained Secretary-Treasurer Tosato. “Our members at Wing’s took to the picket line in August 2013 and they are still out there, standing strong, and our Strike Fund will continue to support them as long as they need it.” The proposed budget and audited reports for last year will be presented to the membership for review and approval at the June membership meetings. President Haggerty introduced UFCW International President Marc Perrone with video footage of President Perrone’s recent arrest at a protest to support RWDSU/UFCW members at Vegas Auto Spas in New York City. The workers there have been on strike since November 2014. “This shows you how dedicated this man is to workers,” explained President Haggerty. “He’s willing to be arrested in the name of what is right.” In his address to the delegates, President Perrone discussed the ongoing battle for equality and justice in the U.S., and its effect on working people. He applauded our Local Union’s efforts in fighting back against the threat of Right to Work and standing strong in the face of politicians who would try to undo years of progress. “We must always remember the work that
2015 Bylaw & Policy Conference continued... you do, the workers you give hope to, the children’s lives that you change, the families’ futures that you have brightened… So for all the good that you’ve done for the UFCW and all the good that you’ve done for others, I want to truly thank you,” said President Perrone. Paul Meinema, National President of UFCW Canada, spoke about the growth of our Union and how Local 175’s Organizing Team has brought workers at more than 100 workplaces into the UFCW. “It is a remarkable achievement,” said President Meinema. “The growth numbers are important. But even more important is that when you cut through the numbers, what you see are the faces of those you stood with and cheered with, and sometimes cried with. It’s one of the most important turning points in a person’s working life.”
Shawn Haggerty President, UFCW Local 175
Kelly Tosato Secretary-Treasurer, UFCW Local 175
Marc Perrone President, UFCW International
Paul Meinema President, UFCW Canada
There were no dry eyes in the house after watching a video highlighting the struggles that our members at Wing’s have faced in their 22 months on the picket line. “Their story is so important,” explained Secretary-Treasurer Tosato. “They’re fighting for a better future for their children and for workers everywhere.” Executive Board VP Jim Montgomery motioned to take a collection for the Wing’s workers. “Thanks to the generosity of everyone in that room, we were able to present $3,000 to the members on the picket line,” said President Haggerty. The Bylaw & Policy Committee, led by Executive Assistants to the President Ray Bromley and Harry Sutton, took to the stage before lunch to review several proposed amendments to the Local Union’s Policies and Procedures. The delegates had the opportunity to speak on each amendment before each proposal was taken to the floor for a vote with a recommendation from the Committee for concurrence or non-concurrence. There were no contentious votes and all of the approved amendments will be brought to the membership for ratification at the June quarterly membership meetings. Union Representative Tim Deelstra, who is a member of the Political Action Committee,
spoke about the history of politics and how we arrived at today’s laws and working conditions. From 1870; when Unions were illegal and workers formed ‘leagues’ to demand change like making the maximum work day nine hours long, to 2015; when the Federal government effectively limited voting rights, restricted federal workers’ ability to join a Union, and now continues to threaten some of our most basic rights. UFCW International Executive VP Esther Lopez spoke on the importance of ensuring equal rights to all. Esther is widely known for her extensive work on immigration reform and workers’ rights in the U.S. She spoke about the importance of fighting for social justice and making sure we give a voice to those that cannot speak up. Esther reiterated the importance of exercising your right to vote: Don’t take it for granted. At last year’s World Pride in Toronto, Michele Kessler walked hand-in-hand with her wife through the city as they celebrated the largest Pride event ever in North America. And it’s a moment she remembers fondly. Michele has been the Chair of the UFCW OUTreach Committee since its inception in 2013. She thanked our members for their support and applauded Local 175’s anti-harassment policy as well as equality language that our Local Union has negotiated into several HOPE sector collective agreements. Rhonda Nelson, who is the International Chair of the UFCW Women’s Network, informed the group about the impressive list of programs and initiatives undertaken by the Women’s Network and Local Unions across Canada and the U.S. She praised the ‘Up for Debate’ campaign organized by an alliance of more than 150 women’s organizations and their allies, including UFCW, from across Canada. Rhonda encouraged women to be active participants in their Union Don Cash, President of the UFCW Minority Coalition, ended the day with an inspiring talk about what it means to be leaders and activists in the Labour Movement. He led the crowd in a Mighty Union chant and had the audience on its feet several times in applause. Don committed financial support to the Wing’s workers on strike and said: “To not be moved by that video,” said Cash, “you’d have to have no soul!”
Tim Deelstra – Union Representative, UFCW Local 175
Esther Lopez – Exec. VP, UFCW Int’l/UFCW United Latinos
Michele Kessler – Chair, UFCW OUTreach
Rhonda Nelson – International Chair, UFCW Women’s Network
“Don was a great way to end the day,” explained President Haggerty. “He wears his heart on his sleeve and works tirelessly on behalf of some of the most vulnerable people. He can connect with everyone and his passion and dedication to bettering the lives of all workers is inspiring. If our delegates can take home even just a little bit of his passion then that’s an amazing thing.” Don Cash – President, UFCW Minority Coalition
2015 Bylaw & Policy Conference continued...
HEALTH CARE CONFERENCE On April 20 & 21, 2015, approximately 100 Stewards attended the Local Union’s annual Health Care Conference. This day-and-a-half conference concentrates on issues and concerns affecting our Local Union members who work in the health care field, which is part of Local 175’s growing Health, Office & Professional Employees (HOPE) Sector. Stewards representing nursing homes, retirement homes, community care facilities, pain management clinics, dental services, and paramedic, emergency dispatch and firefighting services were all in attendance making this one of the most diverse Health Care conferences to date. Several guest speakers presented to the group over the first day including Natalie Mehra, Director of the Ontario Health Coalition. Natalie spoke about cuts to funding, privatization and health care ‘transformation,’ which all lead to the offloading of patients who require more care, short-staffing and increased workloads, and forced mergers, cuts, and closures of our community care facilities. The result from all of this is an increased workload for our health care workers who must do more in less time and with fewer resources. The Ontario Health Coalition works to fight back against funding cuts, to save services and protect our public health care system for all. “I know our members have huge hearts and their care of our loved ones is so important,” said Secretary-Treasurer Kelly Tosato. “Nursing homes, retirement homes, community care centres and every piece of our health care system is vital to the health and well-being of all of us. We must do everything we can to ensure our health care workers have the support, the time and the resources they need.” France Gélinas, NDP Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for the Nickle Belt, spoke to the Stewards about the state of the Ministry of Health. France, also the current parliamentary Critic for Health and Long-Term Care, among other positions she holds, focused on long-term care facilities, retirement homes, and community health programs. Following her presentation, France took some time to answer questions from the Stewards about their experiences both as workers and users of our health care system, and where improvements need to be made. “France is always an amazing speaker to have at this conference,” explained President Haggerty. “Not only does she support workers’ rights, but her experience in health care administration and community health, and her ongoing work to support and
|
June 2015
11
Health Care Conference continued... serve the vulnerable citizens of her riding, makes her an inspiration and a great source of knowledge for our members.”
Natalie Mehra Director, Ontario Health Coalition
Pablo Godoy, from UFCW Canada, did a workshop on Social Media for Social Change. He discussed the pros and cons of using social media for different purposes, including mobilizing activists and creating momentum for progress. Social media has changed the ways we communicate and connect as a society and understanding how it works can help us spread the word about the UFCW and the benefits of belonging to our Union. In the afternoon on the first day, Filomena Vernace-Inserra, a Registered Dietician & Nutritional Consultant, spoke to the Stewards about maintaining their health despite busy schedules and work demands. “Understanding how nutrition works and what our bodies need lets us make better choices even with limited time and selection,” said Secretary-Treasurer Tosato. “Our health care members do so much to look after our loved ones, we want to make sure they’re taking care of themselves too.”
France Gélinas NDP MPP, Nickel Belt
On the second morning of the conference, Stewards took part in the ever-popular town hall forums. Two panels, consisting of Union Reps and staff from our Benefits, Health & Safety, and Legal departments, hosted the forums. One forum dealt primarily with Community Care, while the other addressed issues faced at nursing, retirement and long-term care facilities. Many topics were discussed, including: working short, workplace accommodation, bereavement leave, post-traumatic stress, workplace stressors, and much more. “There are so many critical issues facing our health care system right now,” explained President Haggerty. “These workers provide care and compassion and if we continue to let legislation and funding cuts destroy the foundation of our system, we will all lose out. We must stay politically active and vote for politicians and parties that will work to provide the best public health care for everyone.” In addition to being attentive listeners and great participants, the Health Care Stewards were also very generous. Over the conference they raised more than $1,850 through draw prize ticket sales to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC).
Pablo Godoy UFCW Canada
Filomena Vernace-Inserra
June 2015 12 R.D. & Nutritional|Consultant
For more photos of the Health Care Conference, the Bylaw & Policy Conference and other Union events visit www.ufcw175.com or facebook.com/ufcwlocals175633
|
June 2015
13
NEGOTIATIONS
New agreement ratified at Dainty Foods On March 7, 2015 a new agreement was ratified with a term of one year. Each employee will receive a $1250.00 lump sum payment. Improvements to the agreement include: a deleted “essential service” clause in the event of a labour dispute, increase recall rights for junior employees, the “back-up spice operator” position to be posted, and dues check-off language will be incorporated into the collective agreement. There will be 30 minutes permitted to the Chief Steward for the purposes of introducing new employees to the stewards. The Chief Steward will have 2 hours per week for union business and the plant committee will be granted 4 days paid leave for union business per year. Negotiating Committee: Marcel Marcotte, Jessie Hubley, Peter Zuiderveen Union Representative Wendy Absolom, Director Luc Lacelle.
A part-time employee who regularly works 22.5 hours or more will now qualify for benefits. This is a decrease in the qualifying hours down from 30 hours. In addition any parttime employees who do not qualify for benefits as indicated above will now be paid 4% in lieu of benefits in addition to their bi-weekly pay. Part time employees who work 22.5 hours per week will also qualify for 5 paid personal days, a reduction from the previously required 30 hours/week. Benefit premium costs will be shared 80/20 (worker/employer) which will include Long Term Disability which was previously 100% employee paid. Reimbursement for prescriptions drugs and dental fees increases from 50% to 70%. In addition the employer will now pay the first 2 weeks waiting period for maternity leave to the EI equivalent. Employees who qualify for 4 weeks’ vacation may carry one week over into the next vacation year. The employer will contribute $500 per year to the UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Training and Education Fund.
Note: two weeks prior to conciliation the business was sold to “Marbour S.A.S.” a privately owned company from France. “Dainty Foods”, Windsor plant was part of that sale. The transaction is subject to shareholder approval and closing conditions. Marbour is the third largest rice producer and distributor in Europe and is looking to expand its presence in North America.
...
First agreement for AIM Health workers At meetings held on March 15, 2015, in London, Mississauga and Ottawa, members in attendance voted unanimously in favour of ratifying their first collective agreement. The 3-year Agreement covers RN’s, RPN’s, Centre Coordinators and Receptionists at nine pain management clinics from Ottawa to London. Effective the date of ratification, wages will increase an average of 10%, and in some instances as high as 22%. Any employee who does not receive an increase on the date of ratification receive a $500 lump sum within two weeks of the date of ratification in addition to the progression increases. All rates receive an additional 2% increase in years two and three. Overtime will now be paid after 8 hours per day and 40 hours per week where previously it was paid after 44 hours per week. Full-time employees called in on their day off will now be paid 1.5 times their hourly rate for all hours worked.
14
| June 2015
Members of the Union negotiating committee were Silvia Rebello-Santos, Chris Vaughan, Galina Bromberg-Roy, Georgina Lucas-O’Neill and Union Representative Rob Nicholas. ...
Firestone workers ratify three-year deal Members of Local 175 working at Firestone Textiles in Woodstock met on March 24, 2015 to vote on a negotiated settlement to renew their collective agreement. Wages increase over the term of the agreement by $1.05 per hour across the board, with the first increase retroactive for hours worked since December 15, 2014. A new premium of 75 cents per hour will be paid for workers assigned as Team Leader. In addition, overtime will no longer be clawed back when an employee uses an Emergency Leave Day. Skilled Trades workers receive triple time with a guarantee of four hours pay or work when called-in. Should the company implement an on-call system for Skilled Trades employees, those on call will receive $175/week in addition to one and one half times when called in with a guarantee of 4 hours pay/call-in.
All of our negotiations don’t always fit into the magazine! You can find more online at www.ufcw175.com New language helps protect members’ jobs by establishing a policy that prevents work from being contracted to outside workers. The employer will now pay 100% of wages for up to five days for the Negotiating Committee.
for Personal Support Aides (PSAs). New language states that all Health & Safety Committee members will receive training, paid for by the company. Other language improves vacation entitlement to a maximum of five weeks after 20 years of service, paid at 10%, and establishes policy for working statutory holidays as rotation by seniority. Union Negotiating Committee: Jamie Lynn Dunk and Union Rep Dean McLaren. ...
Windsor ADM workers ratify Union Negotiating Committee (left to right): Ryan Kirby, Nick Balevski, and Jeff Garland (and Union Rep Rob Nicholas, not pictured). ...
Members at ADM Milling Windsor Grain Terminal ratified a renewal collective agreement on April 9, 2015, securing a four-year term and wage improvements for the bargaining unit.
Palisade Gardens workers vote yes to contract
Workers receive across-the-board wage increases of 2% in years one and two, 1% in year three and a $500 lump sum in the fourth year. The Union members at this workplace belonged to UFCW Local 278W before its merger with Local 175 in 2014.
Members at Palisade Gardens ratified a new collective agreement at a meeting held April 8, 2015. The members of the bargaining unit at this retirement home in Cobourg belong to the Hospital, Office & Professional Employees (HOPE) sector of Local 175. The new three-year contract includes across-the-board wage increases totalling 6.5% over the duration of the term, plus an additional 10 cents per hour following ratification
Union Negotiating Committee: Fred Damphousse, Union Rep Wendy Absolom, and Region 6 Director Luc Lacelle. ...
WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBERS FROM HERB & SPICE Congratulations to the workers at two Herb & Spice locations in Ottawa who voted in favour of joining UFCW Local 175. Employees at the specialty grocery store and health food store wanted a number of improvements in their working conditions, which prompted them to contact the Union. “Legitimate health and safety concerns played a big part in why these workers wanted Union representation,” explained Local 175 Organizer Ali Farman. “The workers were also looking to gain guaranteed wage increases, end favouritism and have seniority respected by the employer, and achieve better health and welfare benefits.” “Our Union Reps are extremely knowledgeable about the retail grocery sector,” explained Local 175 President Shawn Haggerty. “These workers are a great fit with our Union and I congratulate them on their courage and perseverance.” UFCW Locals 175 & 633 already represents more than 20,000 retail grocery workers in many stores across the province including Loblaw-banner stores, Metro-banner stores, Sobeys, YIGs and several independent stores as well.
|
June 2015
15
LOCAL UNION ELECTIONS NOTICE OF NOMINATIONS The International Constitution and Local Union Bylaws require Officers of the Local Unions (175 & 633) to be elected every four years. The current term of office expires December 31, 2015.
For election purposes only, Vice-President positions are numerically designated. Nominations will be conducted by the designated position number.
Officers for the following positions must be elected:
LOCAL 175 President Secretary-Treasurer Recorder Vice-Presidents (VPs) as listed below: Central Region VP #1 HOPE Sector VP #2 HOPE Sector VP #6 Industrial Sector VP #7 Industrial Sector VP #8 Industrial Sector VP #9 Industrial Sector VP #10 Industial Sector VP #18 Retail & Service Sector VP #19 Retail & Service Sector VP #20 Retail & Service Sector VP #21 Retail & Service Sector VP #22 Retail & Service Sector VP #23 Retail & Service Sector VP #33 VP at Large Eastern Region VP #3 HOPE Sector VP #11 Industrial Sector VP #12 Industrial Sector VP #24 Retail & Service Sector VP #25 Retail & Service Sector VP #34 VP at Large
District 1 VP #37 VP #38 VP #39
District 3 VP #43 VP #44 VP #45 From Any District VP #46 VP at Large VP #47 VP at Large | June 2015
Western Region VP #5 HOPE Sector VP #14 Industrial Sector VP #15 Industrial Sector VP #16 Industrial Sector VP #17 Industrial Sector VP #29 Retail & Service Sector VP #30 Retail & Service Sector VP #31 Retail & Service Sector VP #32 Retail & Service Sector VP #36 VP at Large
Vice-Presidents (VPs) to be elected from the former Local 1977:
District 2 VP #40 VP #41 VP #42
16
Northern Region VP #4 HOPE Sector VP #13 Industrial Sector VP #26 Retail & Service Sector VP #27 Retail & Service Sector VP #28 Retail & Service Sector VP #35 VP at Large
LOCAL 633 President Secretary-Treasurer Recorder VP #1 VP #2 VP #3
Nominations for all positions will be conducted in accordance with Local Union Bylaws and the International Constitution in the form of petitions. The required number of nominating signatures are: Local 175 President Secretary-Treasurer Recorder
1,200 1,200 1,200
Central, Western, & Eastern Regions Vice-President Retail & Service Sector Vice-President Industrial, Meat & Poultry Sector Vice-President HOPE Sector Vice-President at Large
40 20 10 50
Northern Region Vice-President Retail & Service Sector Vice-President Industrial, Meat & Poultry Sector
40 5
Vice-President HOPE Sector Vice-President at Large
5 40
Local 1977 Designated Positions Vice-President Vice-President at Large
40 40 Local 633
President Secretary-Treasurer Recorder Vice-President A nomination package including ‘official nomination petition forms’ will be available to any candidate for an elected position by contacting the Election Chairperson John Hurley at the Provincial Head Office of Local 175 (1-800-5658329 or 905-821-8329) on or after July 6, 2015, between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Nominations will only be accepted on an ‘official nomination petition form’ which shall be prepared and provided by the Election Chairperson. All petition nomination signatures must be made by a member of that Local Union and such nominator must be from the designated region and sector (if relevant).
8 8 8 8 Nominations post-marked no later than 5 p.m. on July 17, 2015 by Priority Post or received (and receipted) at the Provincial Head Office of the Local Union by the same deadline will be deemed properly received by the Election Chairperson. All official nomination petition forms submitted for review must be original documents and will not be valid if submitted by copy or fax. The results of the nomination process, acclamations, disqualifications, and nominees to specific positions will be posted in units after the close of nominations in accordance with the Local Union Bylaws.
To be eligible for election, a candidate must be nominated by the required number of eligible nominators. Properly completed official nomination forms must be returned to the Election Chairperson no later than 5 p.m. on July 17, 2015 for review and verification. |
June 2015
17
COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK PRIDE 2015
JOIN YOUR UNION FAMILY
for the ANNUAL COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK
BBQ & FAMILY DAY ~ all members, family & friends welcome ~
Timmins Pride Kingston Pride
June 5 – 14
June 11 – 14
Barrie Pride
June 6 – 13
York Pridefest
June 13 – 21
Thunder Bay Pride
June 15
Brantford Pride
June 15 – 20
Pride Toronto
June 19 – 28
Pride Hamilton
June 15 – 21
Belleville Pride
July 4
Muskoka Pride
July 17 – 26
Pride London
July 17 – 26
Simcoe Pride
July 30 – Aug 8
Windsor-Essex Pride Fest
August 7 – 9
Peterborough Pride
September 12 – 19
A more extensive list with links is available at
ufcw175.com/pride2015
These events are organized and held by the Pride organizations in your communities. Dates and events are subject to change, so please check with your local Pride organization for full details. If you would like to get involved in this year’s Pride celebrations, please contact Sylvia Groom at 1-800-565-8329 or send an email to membership@ufcw175.com.
18
| June 2015
VAUGHAN BOYD CONSERVATION AREA 8739 ISLINGTON AVE July 11, 2015 Noon - 3 p.m. (lunch served between Noon & 2 p.m.) Call 905-821-8329 / 1-800-565-8329 to register
SCOTLAND OPTIMIST PARK 81 SIMCOE STREET July 18, 2015 Noon - 3 p.m. (lunch served between Noon & 2 p.m.) Call 905-545-8354 / 1-800-567-2125 to register
Visit ufcw175.com/ canbbq2015
FUNDRAISING Hockey tournament nets amazing fundraising total! Once again, the annual Skate for a Cure Hockey Tournament proved to be a great fundraiser for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). This year’s event raised approximately $22,000! Congratulations to the team from Fearmans who took home first place again this year, making it five in a row now! Thanks to all the players from the teams who took to the ice to raise money for such a great cause: Hamilton Funeral Homes, Maple Leaf Hamilton, UFCW Local 175, UFCW Local 633, Fearmans, Zehrs Windsor, Loblaw Head Office, Good Humor-Breyers, Bunge, Jadee Meats, Maple Lodge Farms Brampton, and members from Sudbury. Next year marks the tournament’s 20th anniversary - see you there!
Celebrating the Arts & raising money for the LLSC The 5th Annual Arts for Leukemia fundraising event took place on Saturday, May 9, 2015 in Ottawa. Franca Johnston, Chief Steward at Ross’s YIG, along with her three sons and friend, put on an amazing event again this year. Thanks to Franca’s hard work and the generosity of local artists, who donated pieces for the silent auction, as well as many volunteers who set up the craft and bake sale tables, the event was able to raise $2,400 for the LLSC. Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed entertainment from local artists and door prizes. Thanks to everyone who donated their time and talent, and to everyone who participated, for making this event a great success yet again.
Catch for a Cure Thunder Bay Golf Canal Days Ride for a Cure
July 12 July 25 31 July g 2 - Au Aug 15
LABOUR DAY September 7, 2015
Check your Union bulletin board & ufcw175.com over the summer for a list of Labour Day events |
June 2015
19
more photos from the 2015 Bylaw & Policy conference
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