THE NEWS MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF LOCALS 175 & 633 UFCW CANADA VOLUME XIV NO. 3
JUNE 2005
Disaster averted at Horizon Plastics P
Thousands protest Wal-Mart labour practices
P
CONTENTS
UFCW LOCAL 175 President
Wayne Hanley
President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Secretary-Treasurer’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Secretary-Treasurer
Jerry Clifford
Recorder
Betty Pardy Executive Assistants
WORKPLACE NEWS Local 175’s Action Centre assists Horizon workers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Shawn Haggerty, Jim Hastings, Teresa Magee
UFCW LOCAL 633 President
Dan Bondy Secretary-Treasurer
PEOPLE Steward Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . New Representatives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Scholarships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CONFERENCES 2005 Health Care Conference a successful event! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Marylou Mallett
Recorder
Neil Hotchkiss
PROVINCIAL OFFICE 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga L5N 2K7 905-821-8329 Toll free 1-800-565-8329 Fax 905-821-7144
Benefits Coordinator
Herb MacDonald Benefits Representatives
Sherree Backus, Emmanuelle Lopez-Tambasco
LEUKEMIA FUNDRAISING Hockey Tournament Raises $20,100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits Intake Representative
Brenda Simmons Health & Safety Representative
Janice Klenot Senior Legal Counsel
Georgina Watts
WSIB UPDATE
Legal Counsel
Injured workers deserve much more . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Michael Hancock, Naveen Mehta, Rebecca Woodrow Legal Representative
HEALTH & SAFETY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fernando Reis Organizing Representatives
Michael Duden, Steve Robinson, Kevin Shimmin
TRAINING & EDUCATION Partnership agreement between Mohawk College and our local unions . . . Training Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CENTRAL EAST REGION
Director
Luc Lacelle
Union Representatives
Jehan Ahamed, Mona Bailey, Tim Deelstra, John DiFalco, Paul Jokhu, Anthony DiMaio, Rob Nicholas
ORGANIZING Local 175 welcomes several hundred new members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Victories at Schneider Foods & MG Packaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CENTRAL WEST REGION 412 Rennie Street Hamilton L8H 3P5 905-545-8354 Toll free: 1-800-567-2125 Fax: 905-545-8355
NEGOTIATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Director
Harry Sutton
WAL-MART DEMO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Union Representatives
Graphic design - ARTiFACT graphic design
Joe DeMelo, John DiNardo, Linval Dixon, Rick Hogue, Fernando Reis, Dan Serbin, Kelly Tosato
cep Local 571
CHECKOUT is an official publication of Locals 175 & 633 of the United Food & Commercial Workers. Web site: www.ufcw175.com E-mail: membership@ufcw175.com SOUTH CENTRAL REGION Director
Sharon Gall Union Representatives
Judith Burch, Matt Davenport, Sylvia Groom, Angela Mattioli, Roy Reed EASTERN REGION 20 Hamilton Avenue North Ottawa K1Y 1B6 613-725-2154 Toll free 1-800-267-5295 Fax 613-725-2328 Director
Dan Lacroix
President’s Message
Published six times yearly. ISSN no. 1703-3926
Disaster averted at Horizon Plastics
O
n Monday, April 25, 2005, everyone at the Local was shocked and anxious when notified of the horrendous fire that engulfed the Horizon Plastics plant in Cobourg. More than 400 Local 175 members are employed there and we were understandably concerned for their safety and futures. Miraculously, no one was harmed. Despite initially pessimistic predictions, Plant Chair Jamie Hickman, the local union, community, members and the employer worked together to have the plant up and running and everyone back on the job almost immediately. Because the fire was mainly exterior, burning stock-piled plastic lattice, the plant interior sustained little damage and re-opened the next day. By April 29, the majority of workers were back on the job, with the last group returning on May 2.
WAYNE HANLEY
Union Representatives
Simon Baker, Chris Fuller, Paul Hardwick, Marilyn Lang, Daniel Mercier, Jacques Niquet
It was truly a team effort, as the letter from Jeff Aldworth, below, illustrates. Thank you to everyone who responded so quickly and professionally to avert what could have been a major disaster.
NORTH WEST REGION Room 21, Lakehead Labour Centre 929 Fort William Road Thunder Bay P7B 3A6 807-346-4227 Toll free 1-800-465-6932 Fax 807-346-4055 Director
Shawn Haggerty Union Representatives
Colby Flank, David Noonan SOUTH WEST REGION 124 Sydney Street South Kitchener N2G 3V2 519-744-5231 Toll free 1-800-265-6345 Fax 519-744-8357 Director
Ray Bromley Union Representatives
Wendy Absolom, Kevin Dowling, Angus Locke, Julie Johnston, Rick Wauhkonen TRAINING & EDUCATION CENTRE Suite 700, 1450 Meyerside Drive Mississauga L5T 2N5 905-564-2500 Toll Free 1-800-728-8902 Fax 905-564-2898 Director of Education & Communications
Victor Carrozzino Education & Communication Reps
Georgina Broeckel, Gail Carrozzino, Cheryl Mumford, Kelly Provost, Jennifer Tunney, Ashleigh Vink, Dave White
J
May 2, 2005 To all of you who answered our call:
The recent fire at Horizon Plastics has been a real eye opener for a lot of us. It has brought not only the members of Local 175 of the United Food and Commercial Workers together, but also our families and the community as a whole. The outpouring of support from our Union, and all of the different support agencies in the community, has been an incredible event to witness. I know that the first people we must thank are the incredible firefighters who risked their lives and gave their all to save the entire industrial park. Twenty-seven businesses could very well have gone up in flames had it not been for these incredibly brave and determined firefighters. Fourteen different units and well over one hundred of you came to our aid. Words cannot begin to express our heartfelt gratitude to all of you. We owe you our futures. A lot of our members have come up to Plant Chairperson Jamie Hickman, Union Representative Chris Fuller, Regional Director Ray Bromley and me, over the course of the last week, to tell us that they had no idea how solid our local union is. Now they know. They know that in their time of need Local 175 will be there. Within fifteen minutes of hearing about the fire the Locals’ wheels were rolling. We became the priority of our local union. The Provincial Office, the Benefits Department, the Training and Education Centre, the Communications Department and all of the support staff’s first response was “Is everyone okay?” and second “Let us help!” First thing Tuesday morning, Union President Wayne
JUNE 2005
WORKPLACE NEWS
Hanley was here to meet the members and put everyone’s mind at ease. Education Director Victor Carrozzino was on the phone making arrangements for our UFCW Action Centre. To keep our members informed, Communications Representative Jennifer Tunney posted regular updates on ufcw175.com. Training Instructor Dave White came down as soon as requested with the mobile computer lab, ready to expedite EI claims if necessary. The Benefits Department was on call to provide any necessary services and other union representatives came to Cobourg to help us in anyway possible. It was a proud day for all of us despite the uncertainty of our futures at the time. We had the pleasure of keeping our members up to date with the good news coming from the fire department and Horizon Plastics President Brian Read. Local 175 was there to help the members at Horizon Plastics in a way never thought possible and we thank every one of you.
Local 175’s
The support of our community was also impressive to say the least: Elizabeth Ziegler from The Help Centre was at the UFCW Action Centre Tuesday morning; The Northumberland United Way offered their assistance; Northumberland County Community Services was on hand; Human Resources Canada lent their support and numerous representatives of the local and national media remained in contact with us throughout the week. Bell World’s Eva Tejnor stepped up with phone services for us, Weetabix was ready to provide cereal for our members if needed and Weston’s Bakery came through with dozens of muffins for all of us. Carol Kirten provided financial support from the United Steelworkers, as did Gloria Riley on behalf of the Northumberland Labour Council. We thank you all and will be there for you, should you ever need us. Erin Sheppard needs to be commended for the extremely long days that she committed to all of the employees of Horizon Plastics. Erin is responsible for making sure that our pay is deposited. She took the mindset that this fire was not going to stop her and made sure that our pay was indeed in the bank on schedule. Erin did this entirely by memory without access to the company computers and made a point of personally stopping by the UFCW Action Centre so that we could pass on this great news. This was nothing short of a truly remarkable feat, by a truly remarkable person. A lot of people don’t realize that we were making good product again at Horizon Plastics less than twenty-four hours after the fire was extinguished. It took an unbelievable amount of effort and dedication from Horizon Plastics President Brian Read and his team to accomplish what was deemed as impossible. This gave all of us the strength to say, “Horizon Plastics will run again!” and make it happen. Brian’s commitment to us will not go unrewarded and thank you doesn’t begin to express our gratitude. More and more frequently our society concentrates its focus on the negative events that are happening in our lives, communities or around the globe. It is with great pride that I can say that won’t be the case here. This event has changed the lives of a lot of people and we will all remember the courage, dedication and solidarity that was shown by everyone during this trying period. Once again we sincerely thank each and every one of you.
Sincerely and In Solidarity, Jeff Aldworth UFCW Local 175 Vice-President & Horizon Plastics Employee
The huge blaze caused the town to declare a “state of emergency” in the early evening. Because of toxicfume fears, four elementary schools were shut down and thousands of residents faced possible evacuation from their homes. Nearby businesses were also forced to close. Power and gas services were disrupted. It took about 100 firefighters, from at least four fire departments, more than five hours to extinguish the fire that at times had flames reaching 150 feet in the air. Thankfully no one
At midday on Monday, April 25, 2005, a fire was set to the Horizon Plastics facility in Cobourg. A 12-year-old and 16-year old were subsequently arrested and face one charge of arson endangering life. was injured as every one of the 400 plus workers were able to escape the facility safely. The fire, which started shortly before 3 p.m., was brought under control several hours later. Environmental testing, made available later Monday evening, showed no hazardous chemicals in the air. According to the CBC report, the wind blew the cloud of smoke away from the populated areas and the flames were hot enough that they could have burned off toxins.
Local 175 immediately established an Action Centre to assist the workers who faced uncertainty concerning their return to work. President Hanley was there the morning after the fire to reassure members that the Local would provide whatever services were needed. “The union has contacted representatives from the federal and provincial governments’ adjustment programs,” he told them. “The programs will be implemented immediately should the workers need the services.”
Members and staff also provided referrals to community agencies, such as the United Way and stress management counselling from Lakeshore Community Mental Health Sciences Centre. Arrangements were in place to provide information about Employment Insurance (EI) benefits, including group sessions where workers could fill out their applications. Fortunately, the Action Centre was able to close on May 2, 2005, after all the members were scheduled to return to work.
JUNE 2005
WORKPLACE NEWS
Action Centre assists Horizon workers
WORKPLACE NEWS
Local 175’s Action Centre assists Horizon workers
Horizon Plastics member and Local 175 Vice-President, Jeff Aldworth (centre) surveys the damage, with Union Rep Chris Fuller (left) and an unidentified worker from the neighbouring Zircatec plant, which was also evacuated.
The Local’s Action Centre provided referrals and updates to members, including the 219 who attended the April 28 meeting.
Steward Profile Jamie Hickman, who has worked at Horizon Plastics for 11 years, started as a steward while working on the weekend shift and was elected Plant Chair just last November. He has a passion for health & safety issues and helping people. “Even before I was a steward,” he says, “I always wanted to step in when I saw a wrong.” Jamie says the last few months have been challenging, and at times stressful. Although Horizon’s been in business about 27 years, and growing steadily, the workforce has essentially doubled in size in the last two years. The recent fire resulted in significant amounts of overtime as the company scrambled to replace lost lattice inventory, which it achieved through extraordinary effort by the members.
Jamie was back in the plant as soon as it was permissible and helped ensure conditions there were safe, for the prompt return of his co-workers. “It was exactly 24 hours later that we
got the OK to turn the power back on for half of the plant,” he says. “And then gradually we got back to full production.” There were some glitches in returning workers by seniority, as the company did not have up-to-date phone lists. The union, however, had current numbers from the registration at the Action Centre and was able to pass these back to the company and resolve seniority issues, satisfactorily, without having to resort to the grievance process.
Jamie Hickman (left), shown with South West Regional Director Ray Bromley and Union Rep Chris Fuller, accepts donations from Carol Kirton and Gloria Riley.
Murray Tilson is in his 25th year at A&P store #201 in Timmins. He became a steward 10 years ago because he wanted to help his co-workers resolve problems in the workplace and ensure that everyone is treated fairly. He enjoys his steward role and says: “I think it’s very important to educate the new and younger workers about the benefits of being a unionized employee and encourage them to speak to a steward if they need assistance.” MURRAY TILSON
Murray, who is a 12-year member of the Canadian Armed Forces, says the leadership skills he learned there help him at A&P. He also represents Locals 175 & 633 on the Timmins and District Labour Council.
Scholarships
NEW REPRESENTATIVES Jacques Niquet, a member from the YIG in Kapuskasing, has joined the Eastern region. He was a meat cutter and union steward for more than 20 years and will now be servicing a number of workplaces, in both English and French – “whatever it takes” – he says.
ANGELA MATTIOLI
JACQUES NIQUET
Angela Mattioli, is now working in the South Central Region as a servicing representative. She has been a member and steward for 17 years and worked, most recently, at the new Fortinos on Main Street West in Hamilton. Angela became a steward because “members needed someone to speak up, and I was that,” she says.
Union Rep ROB NICHOLAS (right) presents a scholarship cheque to GARY BARKER. Gary’s mother Nancy Brooks works at A&P # 178 in Collingwood.
CHRIS GLAZIER (left), who works at Food Basics Store #632 in Goderich, receives a scholarship cheque from Union Rep KEVIN DOWLING. REMINDER: The deadline for this year’s Mckay, Thompson, Hoebink, Gibson Scholarships is August 1, 2005. Fifty-six of these scholarships are awarded annually to members, and their children, who are pursuing post-secondary education. All members, or their children, have an equal
opportunity to be selected for this award, as the ners are chosen by random draw. The scholarships a value of $1,000 each. Applications are available your Local 175 union rep, regional office or Web www.ufcw175.com.
winhave from site:
JUNE 2005
HEALTH & SAFETY PEOPLE
STEWARD PROFILE
Secretary-Treasurer’s Message
The rights of many Canadians threatened by discriminatory labour laws
D
o you think workers should be allowed to join a union when a majority indicate they want union representation? Most Canadians say “yes.”
JERRY CLIFFORD
The “Freedom of Association” is a basic right that’s guaranteed by the Canadian Charter of Rights & Freedoms and the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which Canada has pledged to uphold. Nevertheless, many Canadians who want union representation are denied their basic right because of employer intimidation, including terminations and layoffs.
At one time, it was relatively easy for workers in Ontario to form a union. For 45 years this province had a card-based certification system, meaning that the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB) could order union certification without a vote when more than 55% of workers have signed membership cards. The Mike Harris Conservative government repealed this legislation requiring workers to vote, for or against the union, five working days after the certification application is submitted to the OLRB. During these five days, employers are given the time and opportunity to intimidate workers with anti-union messages, threats and firings. In November 2004, Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Chris Bently introduced Bill 144 or the Labour Relations Statute Law Amendment Act, 2004. He noted, quite correctly, that “Ontario’s prosperity has historically relied on a fair and balanced approach to labour relations.” Bill 144 reintroduces the card-based certification system for the construction industry only. It will make it easier for workers in this sector to form unions. BUT it will do nothing for the majority who work in other sectors and must still vote to join a union and be subjected to employer intimidation prior to the vote. This legislation is clearly discriminatory and inconsistent with the goals of Ontario’s Human Rights Code. It gives the male-dominated construction industry, which is already heavily unionized with relatively good pay and benefits as a result, easier access to union representation. Women, visible minorities and immigrants, who are more often employed in service and other sectors, will continue to have difficulty forming unions and ultimately this will hurt all of us. A large percentage of non-union workers earning substandard wages and benefits means less tax revenue, less money circulating in our communities, more demands on the social safety net and a lower standard of living for everyone. It can also mean demands from unionized employers for wage cuts and concessions to “compete.” Make your members of parliament accountable and let them know you want better, worker-friendly labour legislation, at both the provincial and federal levels. And when it’s time to vote, choose a representative who will fight for you and your family.
On Sunday, April 24, Local 175 UFCW members in the Health Care Sector convened in Mississauga for their third annual conference. “Local 175 recognizes the challenges facing members in the Health Care Sector,” President Wayne Hanley told the delegates. “We know that continual funding cutbacks combined with increasing patient-care needs, and legislative changes, place heavy demands on workers in your sector.” President Hanley said the local union understands the necessity for providing health care stewards with the support, tools and resources to help them make their workplaces safer. Accordingly, the Local organized the Health Care Conference to provide information, training, news about pending structural changes and opportunities for workers to discuss common problems and learn about solutions. Guest speaker Irene Harris, who is Vice-President of the Ontario Federation of Labour, urged delegates to participate in a post card campaign to remind Premier McGuinty of important health care priorities. “We need more frontline staff in every part of the health care system and we must keep our health care system public,” she said. Irene also stressed the necessity of spending health care dollars for services – not profits – and ensuring that proposed Local Health Integrated Networks are open and accountable for their decision-making.
Educational sessions included a presentation by Local 175’s Health & Safety Representative, Janice Klenot. She also participated in a “Working Short” panel discussion, along with Union Reps Marilyn Lang, Angus Locke and South West Region Director, Ray Bromley.
President Wayne Hanley
By request, much of the conference focused on “Reducing Injuries: An Ergonomic and Psychological Approach to Patient Handling.” Facilitator Steven Hall of the Wallace Group told delegates that health care workers are particularly at risk from abusive patients because workers are so caring and trusting. Workers were reminded throughout the conference that they do have the right to a safe work environment and need to work with their health & safety committees, stewards and union reps to ensure that safe work practices and procedures are in place. Delegates were enthusiastic about the quality and quantity of information provided at the conference. Joyce Vicaire, of Huntsville Nursing Home, said a conference of this type is particularly useful because it concentrates on the unique problems of the health care sector. She said it’s very beneficial for workers to attend because “management isn’t always supportive and members have to realize that the union will support them and can help them.”
We know that continual funding cutbacks combined with increasing patient-care needs, and legislative changes, place heavy demands on workers in your sector.
Irene Harris, Vice-President of the Ontario Federation of Labour
JUNE 2005
CONFERENCES
2005 Health Care Conference a successful event!
FUNDRAISING
Leukemia Fundraising Last year, Locals 175 & 633 members, families and staff contributed $225,000 to fund leukemia research in Canada. They raise money for this important cause through walk-athons, bake sales, raffles, golf tournaments, merchandise sales, payroll deductions, and various other initiatives. Some of the upcoming 2005 events are listed on the right. Fundraisers are organized throughout the year. To find out about events in your community, speak to your union steward or representative or visit www. ufcw175.com/HTML/general.htm Nationally, the UFCW raises more than $500,000 every year. All money raised is donated to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC), which funds Canadian research to find cures for leukemia, lymphoma and
myeloma. These blood diseases affect both adults and children. Leukemia is the foremost killer of children under 19 years of age.
Event
Location
Date
Contact
Ball Tournament
Brighton
July 23
Chris Fuller Eastern Regional Office 613-725-2154 or 1-800-267-5295
Golf Tournament
Thunder Bay July 23 Northern Lights Golf Complex
Golf Extravaganza Barrie Innisbrook Golf Course
North West Regional Office 807-346-4227 or 1-800-465-6932
Sept. 17 Jerry Clifford Mississauga Office 905-821-8329 or 1-800-565-8329
Hockey Tournament Raises This year’s 8th Annual Skate for a Cure Hockey Tournament, at the Canlan Ice Sports arena in Oakville, raised $20,100 to support Canadian research to find a cure for leukemia – the number one disease killer of children under the age of 19. A total of 20 teams participated, with numerous other employers and individuals making a direct financial donation to this worthwhile cause. Jay Catena, the team representative from Sobeys Milton Distribution Centre, accepted the tournament trophy. Carl Smith and Darryl Boyce, both from the Sobeys team, were awarded trophies for “Most Goals” and “Best Goalie,” respectively. “Every year The Sobeys Milton Distribution Centre team defeated Pharma Plus by a score of 6 to 3, to win the championship.
FUNDRAISING Labour Day
Mark your calendar to participate in events in your area on Monday, September 5. Many Locals 175 & 633 members march in parades and join numerous festivities in Toronto, Hamilton, Sarnia, Cornwall, Sudbury, Thunder Bay and other locations across the province. This photo was taken at last year’s Toronto Labour Day parade.
$20,100 Jay vowed that ‘this was his year to win,’” says Central West Region Director, Harry Sutton, “and this year he was finally right!” Harry says the Sobeys team played smart and concentrated on hockey. Harry reminds everyone that there are no losers in this annual tournament, which raised more than $20,000. “Everyone who participated can take credit for helping to fund a cure for leukemia and other blood diseases,” he says. The 9th annual tournament is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, May 5 and 6, 2006.
The PharmaPlus team was one of the top five that competed in the tournament playoffs. The other three were Quality Meats, Toronto, Maple Leaf Poultry, Brantford and Bicks Dunnville.
JUNE 2005
WSIB UPDATE
Injured workers deserve fair and compassionate treatment
Injured workers deserve much more Herb MacDonald Locals 175 & 633 Benefits Coordinator The leadership, staff, stewards and members of Locals 175 & 633 health & safety committees are committed to achieving and maintaining workplaces that are safe & healthy.
Graphic courtesy of the Office of the Commissioner of Review Tribunals CPP/OAS
INJURIES FOR THE FIRST 2 MONTHS OF 2005* 56, 327
Total Injury Claims
9,911
Lost Time Injuries Allowed (LTI)
5,494
LTI still pending a decision
24,508 9,169
Non LTI Allowed Non LTI still pending a decision
DEATHS FOR THE FIRST 2 MONTHS OF 2005* 94
Total Fatal Claims
26
Fatality Claims Allowed
61
Fatality Claims still awaiting a decision *As of February 28, 2005.
No worker should ever be killed or injured on the job. But if it does happen, then we believe the worker and his or her family deserve fair compensation so they can maintain their dignity and an equitable standard of living. Accordingly, we are working hard to improve Ontario’s system of compensation for workers, who are injured on the job, and for their families. As a result of ongoing lobbying by Locals 175 & 633 together with the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL), we have made some major improvements to the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) policies. Additionally, the WSIB has given us a commitment to support necessary legislative changes to support even more “worker-friendly” policies. Also, the WSIB has agreed to implement one new policy, that does not require legislative change, each month. As well, we continue to have representatives serving on various committees to provide worker-input into WSIB policies and legislative changes.
• Put the primary focus at the WSIB on compensating and assisting injured workers, and change the name back to Workers Compensation Board or WCB to reflect this priority. • Take into consideration medical evidence submitted by the workers’ own doctors, rather than using only reports from WSIB physicians. • Implement a better appeal process so that WSIB decisions can be more easily challenged. • Provide more information with regard to why a claim was allowed or denied, including what policy was used in making the decision. • Better accommodate workers returning to the job by providing them with “maintenance support,” such as physiotherapy and chiropractic services. • Build mental stress reviews into the compensation system. • Modify Return to Work/Labour Market Re-entry Issues to better accommodate injured workers. • Allow for reasonable and flexible healing times, which can be highly variable depending on the individual, type and extent of the injury.
• Develop a new Form #7 to streamline the adjudication process, which determines benefits entitlements. • Enable injured workers and their families to enjoy a more equitable standard of living through the full indexation of pensions. • Require mandatory mediation so to expedite the process of workers returning to suitable work. • Implement new Occupational Disease legislation and policy that is preventive and reflective of current scientific knowledge. The changes to The Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, known as Bill 99, which were implemented in 1998, had a devastating effect on injured workers and their families. These changes affected both legislation and policies at the WSIB, which had been in place in Ontario for more than 80 years. The WSIB would have you believe that Bill 99 changes have improved the system and reduced accidents – but the WSIB’s own statistics do not support its position. That is why we believe it’s essential that we continue to work to achieve truly positive changes that benefit injured workers. As the statistics on page 12 demonstrate, there is still tremendous room for improvement in reducing workplace accidents, injuries, and deaths.
Day of Mourning Locals 175 & 633 members participated in Day of Mourning ceremonies across Ontario, on April 28, 2005, to remember those who suffered workplace illness, injury or death. To find out more about what you can do to make your workplace safer and healthier, refer to page 18 in the April 2005 issue of Checkout or visit: http://www.ufcw175.com/HTML/ checkOut.htm Union Rep Matt Davenport, Benefits Intake Rep, Brenda Simmons, South Central Regional Director, Sharon Gall, and Fortinos member Mario Tardelli were among those attending the Hamilton event.
JUNE 2005
WSIB UPDATE
Some of the changes your union is seeking are:
HEALTH & SAFETY
Young Workers In Ontario an average of 42 young workers are injured, made ill or killed on the job every hour of every day, and it is often because of what they didn’t know. At this time of year, many young workers (ages 15-24 years) are looking for summer employment. They need to be commended for their initiative in taking on the responsibility of a job. As parents we have taught our children to recognize and deal with hazards to keep them safe at home, going to and from school and while outside without a parent. The same practice of training about hazards is the law in workplaces.
This includes how to use any protective equipment that is required for the job. We know that training and knowledge are not always provided to workers. Young workers are particularly vulnerable. In 2003, 13,500 were injured on the job and eight were killed. Workers have three rights; the Right to know, the Right to participate and the Right to refuse unsafe work. These Rights are the basics in workplace law to keep workers healthy and safe.
The law states that the training shall include every hazard. Supervisors must ensure workers have the training, tools and equipment needed to work safe.
For young workers, a summer job is a new adventure. But they are not aware of all the hazards. They haven’t yet learned all the rules, procedures, exposure levels and principals of control for the workplace. Some are intimidated and may not ask questions when they don’t understand.
Most Common Injuries
Top Five Causes of Injuries:
1. Sprains and strains (including back injuries) 2. Soft tissue injuries (cuts, punctures, bruises) 3. Bone fractures 4. Inflammation of joints 5. Burns or scalds
1. 2. 3. 4.
Slips & falls Over-exertion Struck by, or against, an object Bodily reaction (toxic effects from chemicals) 5. Burns
If you have questions about your right to a safe workplace, speak to your health & safety committee representative, union steward or union representative. For more information on working safely visit “The Young Worker Awareness Program” on the Web site hosted by Industry Canada at http://collections. ic.gc.ca/worker/main.htm or “Protecting Yourself: Tips for Young Workers” published by the Ontario government. View it at www.gov.on.ca/LAB/english/ hs/tips/tips_youngworkers.html If you want more in-depth information about protecting your health & safety at work, you can enrol in free training
Let’s all make a commitment to ENSURE that ALL young workers return, unhurt, to school in September. courses through the Locals 175 & 633 Training & Education Centre. Visit http://www.ufcw175.com/HTML/ training_schedule.htm for a list of courses, which are offered, without charge, to members and their families.
Partnership College and On March 24, 2005, President Wayne Hanley met with Carolyn Gray, Director of Student & Community Services from Mohawk College. They signed a partnership agreement to reaffirm the relationship that already exists between the college and our local unions. “This was a momentous occasion because it marked the beginning of the new Locals 175 & 633 Labour Studies Certificate Program,” says Education Director Victor Carrozzino. “This program was developed just for Locals 175 & 633 members, and their families, in recognition of our local unions’ leadership in labour studies and training & education offerings. Last year alone, 3,365 members and family members received college credits for courses completed through our Locals. With the continuation and expansion of the partnership with Mohawk, even more members will be able to work through their union towards a certificate in Labour Studies.
Training Update In the continuing effort to develop additional training programs and resources, members and staff participated in two training sessions at the Training & Education Centre in late April. The week-long Instructor Training course covers subjects such as adult educational theory, labour education perspective and extensive practical exercises. The two-day Action Team Training course gives union activists the tools they need to run an efficient and successful strike. Both courses increase the number of well-trained activists who can assist members across the province, whenever and wherever assistance is needed. Action Team Training participants were, from front left: Mario Tardelli, Fortinos #68; Barb Carr, Canada Safeway #682; Virginia Haggith, Maple Leaf Foods; Carolyn Levesque, Zehrmart; Peter Small, Cargill and Union Rep Sylvia Groom. Back row: Marc Praill, A&P #139; Dale Simon, Canada Malting; Dean McLaren, Ball Packaging; Roy Klepey, Pepsi-Cola; Executive Assistant to the President, Shawn Haggerty; Jeff Aldworth, Horizon Plastics; Jim Montgomery, Laidlaw Transit; Brad Wigle, A&P #139 ; Rick Alagierski, Dominion #73 and Garry Kelly, A&P #204
JUNE 2005 
TRAINING & EDUCATION
agreement between Mohawk our local unions
ORGANIZING
Local 175 welcomes several hundred new members A majority of the 340 workers at the Schneider’s poultry plant in St. Mary’s, which was purchased by Maple Leaf Foods approximately one year ago, voted to join Local 175 on May 10, 2005. “These workers had heard about the leading contracts we’ve negotiated at other poultry and meat-packing plants,” says Local 175 President Wayne Hanley. “So, they asked us to represent them as well.” In addition to negotiating and enforcing the collective agreement, the local unions also participate in workplace health & safety programs, provide extensive services to injured workers and offer a vast array of training & educational opportunities. Some of the workplaces represented by Locals 175 & 633 in Ontario include Maple Leaf poultry plants in Brampton and Brantford, Maple Leaf Consumer Foods in Toronto, Maple Leaf Meats in Burlington and Hamilton, Port Colborne Poultry and Maple Lodge Farms in Brampton. Other UFCW Locals represent numerous meatpacking and poultry plant workers throughout North America. For more information on this campaign, please refer to the report that follows, by Union Organizing Rep, Kevin Shimmin. In addition to the St. Mary’s plant, other workplaces that have joined or merged into our union in the last two years, who have not previously been reported in Checkout, are: Conagra Foods, Niagara Falls; Imperial Parking, Ottawa; Laidlaw Transit, Welland; MG Packaging, London; Omni Cleaning Facilities, Chatham; and Western Waffle, Brantford.
Victories at Schneider Foods Special report from Organizing Representative In the early morning hours of May 11, 2005, cheers of joy erupted in this large poultry plant and began to ripple through the town of St. Mary’s. Workers at Schneider Foods had been voting since 6 a.m. the previous day, to determine if the plant would finally “Go Union.” Shortly after midnight, the ballots were counted and the results were in – a majority voted “Yes” for Local 175 UFCW Canada! In the plant and in the streets, workers celebrated and donned Local 175 shirts, hats and buttons. Many of them had been proudly wearing the union apparel for the entire week leading up the vote. These workers had been trying to unionize for decades. They had signed cards with many unions and
numerous votes had been lost. But this time, they wanted Local 175 – the union that already represents a majority of poultry workers in Ontario. They wanted the union that could secure strong collective agreements and build a safer place to work. To run a strong and effective campaign, Local 175 assembled a dynamic team of members, stewards and organizers. Mario Tardelli, Fortinos, Virginia Haggith, Maple Leaf Foods, Joe Pereira, Maple Lodge Farms and Joe Zuvic, Port Colborne Poultry assisted Steve Robinson, and me, in the Organizing Department. Other Local 175 activists communicated with the workers in their first languages: Charito Drinkwalter, Birchwood Terrace, with Filipino workers, Ut Chao, Sun Valley Foods with Vietnamese workers, Diane
ORGANIZING Some of the new members from the Schneider Foods poultry plant convene to celebrate their victory and talk about the improvements they want to see at work.
& MG Packaging: Kevin Shimmin Bouttarath, Maple Lodge Farms with Laos workers and Huh Hoang, Sun Valley Foods with Cambodian workers. Finally, Union Rep Kelly Tosato and Executive Assistant Shawn Haggerty skillfully answered the workers’ questions and concerns in numerous information meetings. Meanwhile, union supporters inside the plant protected their co-workers from anti-union harassment and stood up to management whenever it crossed the line. The strength and resolve of the inside committee was crucial for winning the vote. While the company used an expensive union-busting firm to create fear and negativity in the plant, the union committee focused on the struggle for safe working conditions, better health benefits, and dignity and respect on the job.
There is no question that the union activists in the plant showed unprecedented strength, courage and determination. Our union is extremely proud of the workers at Schneider Foods. And we are grateful to the stewards and members who came to our aid at a moment’s notice. Without this great team inside and outside the plant, this victory would not have been possible. We’re extremely proud of these new members. Given Ontario’s current labour laws, workers need real courage to stand up and fight for their rights to join a union. Thanks to the joint efforts of the workers and the union, members there will soon benefit from a safer, healthier and more equitable workplace.
Organizing victory at packaging plant In other organizing news, the employees of MG Packaging in London also voted to join Local 175. The vote was unanimous – all in favour! The company, which packages paper products, was recently purchased by new owners. “The new management cut everyone’s wages by $2 an hour,” says Special Project Union Representative Mario Tardelli. “At the same time, it was very clear to the workers that the new owners were quite wealthy. The workers were understandably upset. They contacted 175 and were successful in forming a union in less than one month.”
JUNE 2005
NEGOTIATIONS
For all the most recent UFCW news, including negotiations, visit our
Hardware retailers gain contract improvements
Health care workers achieve wage, pension and numerous other improvements
Full and part-time workers at Home Hardware in Gananoque secured wage increases and other improvements in a ratification vote held January 13, 2005. Highlights include:
On February 2, 2005, health care workers at the Caressant Care retirement home in Fergus, ratified a new three-year contract. It is patterned after earlier Hospital Labour Disputes Arbtiration Act (HLDAA) settlements at Caressant Care nursing homes in Fergus and Listowel. Highlights include:
in January 2005 and another 2.5% in 2006, plus an additional $1 per hour for Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs). • Increased vision plan coverage and company contributions to the Canadian Commercial Workers Industry Pension Plan (CCWIPP).
• ATB wage increases of 2 per cent retroactive to January 31, 2004, 2.5 %
Union Negotiating Committee: Brenda Montgomery, Jean Skerritt and Union Rep Richard Wauhkonen.
New contract at Ray Plastics in Toronto
Hotel workers approve three-year agreement
Approximately 120 members secured a new three-year agreement at a vote held on February 5, 2005. Highlights include:
Members at the Journey’s End hotel in Windsor ratified a new contract on February 11, 2005. Highlights include:
• Wage increases of at least $1.15 per hour, plus a $50 Christmas bonus food voucher. • Company contributions to the benefit trust plan increase by 9 cents per hour and 14 cents per hour for the dental plan.
• ATB wage increases of 2.5 per cent, retroactive to October 31, 2004, 3 per cent in 2005 and another 3 per cent in 2006, plus an annual bonus for all and an apparel allowance for specified classifications. • The company begins contributing to CCWIPP on November 1, 2006, and agrees to various language improvements.
• Wage increases to the top rate of 3 per cent retroactive to January 6, 2005, and an additional 2.5 per cent in 2006 and 2007 plus monthly progression increases ranging from 30 cents per hour to $1 per hour. • Increases in company co-pay amounts, new contract language and better training allowances. Union Negotiating Committee: Derek Preston and Union Rep Paul Hardwick.
Members at Lassonde Juices welcome new contract On February 2, 2005, members at Lassonde Juices in Ruthven ratified a new three-year agreement. Highlights include: • Wage increases of 20 cents per hour across the board (ATB) retroactive to January 1, 2005, with additional increases of $1.10 per hour, plus a $300 signing bonus. • Machine operators receive an additional 25 cents per hour while working on designated equipment. Workers at this facility produce Rougemont, Brights and Tetra Pac juices. Union Negotiating Committee: Garth Dutot, Neil Handspiker and Union Rep Julie Johnston.
Union Negotiating Committee: Doolari Sheorattan, Rachel Gilgeous, Rita Sukdeo and Union Rep Paul Jokhu.
Union Negotiating Committee: Jo Ann Rutt and Union Rep Julie Johnston.
Members at linen company reach new deal Workers at Independent Linen in Ottawa ratified a new agreement on February 27, 2005, which provides: • A wage scale that is now part of the collective agreement, with increases totalling $1.15 to the end rates of all classifications, plus lead hand hourly premium increase of 75 cents. • New language making unscheduled overtime voluntary and statutory holi-
days considered time worked for overtime calculation. • Increases to pension plan contributions and dental coverage. The workers provide laundry, dry cleaning and uniform rental services to many industries in the Ottawa area. Union Negotiating Committee: Alexis Albert, Rakesh Panchal and Union Rep Simon Baker.
First contract provides benefits for full- AND part-time grocery workers cents times the average hours per week Members at Loeb Brockville ratified their first collective agreement on February 27, 2005. It establishes language covering grievance procedures, stewards, representation and seniority. Highlights include: • Wage increases totalling $1.80 per hour to the end rates and a $525 lump sum payment plus a sum equivalent to 25
Cleaners approve new agreements Cleaning staff at Hurley Corporation – working at Erin Mills Town Centre in Mississauga – achieved a three-year contract at a ratification vote held February 6, 2005. Highlights include: • ATB wage increases of 50 cents per hour and an annual 5 cent per hour increase in employer contributions to the health and welfare plan. • Improvements in bereavement leave, work scheduling and health & safety language. Those at Aramark Canada, working at Ryerson University, ratified a new collective agreement on February 4, 2005. Highlights include: • Wage increases totalling 75 cents per hour over the course of the agreement. • Improved language with regard to leaves of absence, holidays and vacation entitlement. Those at J&A Building Services, in a government building near Queen’s Park in Toronto, ratified a renewed two-year agreement on March 11, 2005. Improvements include: • Hourly wages increase 45 cents per hour for Cleaners and Day Monitors and 93 cents for Lead Hands. • Contributions to the workers health & welfare plan and pension both increase. Union Negotiating Committee: Emilia Caeiro and Union Rep Linval Dixon.
times 52 weeks AND Increases in temporary relief premiums. • Full-time workers won vision care coverage improvements; the company will now pay 100 per cent of their dental premiums. • Qualified part-timers will have medical & dental coverage, life insurance and AD&D through the company plan starting June 1, 2007. • Employer contributions to the Canadian Commercial Workers Industry Pension Plan (CCWIPP) will begin on June 1, 2008. Union Negotiating Committee: Jeannie Hindriksen, Frank Murphy, Allan Scott, Union Rep Paul Hardwick and Eastern Regional Director Dan Lacroix.
Members at retirement home secure new contract Approximately 47 employees at New Edinburgh Square in Ottawa secured a new three-year agreement. Highlights include: • Wage increases of 9 per cent for all rates and classifications, with Registered Nurses (RNs) and Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) receiving an additional adjustment increase of 75 cents per hour. • The employer now covers 80 per cent of the workers’ Dental and Extended Health Care plans and its pension contributions increase to 48 cents per hour. • Language improvements include bereavement leave, a strict new “No Harassment”policy, and a uniform allowance. Union Negotiating Committee: Darlene Gregory, Shirley Parks and Union Rep Simon Baker.
Car rental workers ratify On January 5, 2005, members at National Car Rental in Thunder Bay ratified a new contract, which includes: • Wage increases of up to 9 per cent plus a one-time payment of $250 and increased safety shoe allowance. • Improved language regarding probationary employees, leaves and subcontracted work. Union Negotiating Committee: Dennis Boland and Union Rep Colby Flank.
Good benefit improvements at yarn facility Members at Strudex Fibres in Waterloo approved a new three-year agreement on March 20, 2005. The members, during four proposal meetings, asked the Negotiating Committee to protect their benefits and pension, which resulted in: • Company contributions to the UFCW Benefit Trust Fund increasing to $1.87 per hour. • Employer contributions to CCWIPP, increasing to $1.35 per hour. • Company contributions to the UFCW Trusteed Dental Plan and Training & Education fund also rising. • Additionally, Yarn Department operators and suppliers receive a special adjustment of 40 cents per hour with licensed industrial electricians receiving 55 cents and all classifications receive 10 cents per hour in the last year. • During a heat wave, the employer will provide additional water coolers, cool-off bandanas, popsicles and other measures consistent with the guidelines for heat stress, including extra break times. Members at Strudex Fibres produce and colour yarn for carpet manufacturing. Union Negotiating Committee: Gerry Clark, Donna Cybulskie, Maria Ferreira, Sherrylea Walker, and Union Reps Angus Locke and Wendy Absolom.
JUNE 2005
NEGOTIATIONS
Web site: www.ufcw175.com.
NEGOTIATIONS HEALTH & SAFETY
New contract for retirement workers
Three-year agreement at union office
Approximately 44 members at Sterling Place in Ottawa secured a new agreement which includes:
Members working in the Local 459 Union Office ratified a new contract on April 1, 2005. Highlights include:
• Wage increases to the end rates of each classification of 12 per cent plus an additional 50 cents per hour for RPNs. • A 6 per cent increase to CCWIPP contributions plus increased uniform allowance. • Incorporation of the company benefit plan into the collective agreement and reduced statutory holiday qualifiers for part-time workers.
• Wage increases of 3 per cent in each year plus increased dental contributions and enhanced bereavement leave. • Improved language covers referral to arbitration, steward representation, union security and the addition of disability under the recognition clause.
Union Negotiating Committee: Remo Castelli, Cindy Leeman, Hipka Velagic and Union Rep Simon Baker.
Distribution centre members reach threeyear deal Approximately 26 workers at the YM Inc. warehouse distribution centre in Toronto ratified a new three-year agreement on April 5, 2005. Highlights include: • A signing bonus of $200, wage increases totalling $1 per hour and continuance of the Bonus Agreement providing $950 per year to workers employed for the 12 months previous. • Increased Health and Welfare contributions, more sick days and improved language covering steward representation, bereavement leave, and grievances. • A Letter of Agreement between the parties provides a course of action in the event the company relocates outside the city of Toronto. Union Negotiating Committee: Qadeer Ahmad, Roger Smith and Union Rep Paul Jokhu.
Union Negotiating Committee: Louise Cacciavallani and Union Rep Julie Johnston.
Lindsay foodservice members win first contract On April 1, 2005, Compass Group Canada workers, at Sir Sanford Fleming College, ratified a new three-year agreement. Highlights include: • Wages increase between $1.20 and $1.55 per hour, with the workers’ health and welfare benefit plan now negotiated into the contract. • A grievance and arbitration procedure plus numerous language improvements. Union Negotiating Committee: Kathy Johnson, Tami Johnson and former Union Rep Ray Bromley.
Nursing home workers approve two-year contract On April 19, 2005, members at the Wellington Nursing Home in Hamilton approved a new agreement. Highlights include:
Furniture factory ratifies Approximately 390 members at Ridgewood Industries in Cornwall secured a new contract on April 9, 2005. Highlights include: • Wage increases totalling $2.20 per hour – or 20 per cent! • Increases to classification rates and a new afternoon shift premium. • Employer contributions increase by 20 per cent for pension and 18 per cent for group insurance. • Additions include eye exams, orthodontic coverage, an additional floater holiday, company-provided uniforms for maintenance staff and numerous language improvements. Union Negotiating Committee: Sylvain Burelle, Aza Morrisette, Jean Patenaude, Dana Tyrell and Union Reps Simon Baker and Daniel Mercier.
• Pay increases, including raises and pay equity adjustments, totalling between 3 and 7.5 per cent. • Increased contributions to the workers’ dental and pension plans. Union Negotiating Committee: Hyacinth East, Gary Revell, Union Rep Chris Fuller and Central West Regional Director Harry Sutton.
New collective agreement for Kraft, Exeter Approximately 160 members ratified a new contract on April 15, 2005. The three-year contract includes: • Hourly wage increases totalling $1.30 for Schedule ‘A’ and $2.05 for Schedule ‘B.’ • Increases in pension plan contributions, tool & safety shoe allowances and numerous language improvements. These workers manufacture canned food products for sale at retail locations. Union Negotiating Committee: Denis Arsenault, Sherrie Davidson, Wade Rahn and Union Reps Wendy Absolom and Angus Locke.
Executive Car Wash members ratify
New contract at Canadian Linen
Members at Hendrik’s YIG in Perth ratified a two-year collective agreement on May 1, 2005. Highlights include:
On May 17, 2005, approximately 20 Local 175 members at the car wash facility in Mississauga secured a three-year agreement, which includes:
On May 4, 2005, approximately 60 workers at the facility in Ottawa secured a new agreement.
• Wage increases of 65 cents per hour for all end rate employees and 40 cents for part-time workers on progression plus lump sum payments totalling $250 for the latter. • Contributions of 60 cents per hour to a group RRSP for all full-time workers. Union Negotiating Committee: Bob Kelly, Don Portwine, Union Rep Simon Baker and Central East Regional Director Luc Lacelle.
• Wage increases of 20 cents per hour in each year plus signing bonuses of $150 for full-time and $75 for part-time. • Increased vision care coverage, safety shoe allowance and improved language regarding discrimination in the workplace and grievance & arbitration procedures. Union Negotiating Committee: Percy Dumaguin and Union Rep Linval Dixon.
First contract for Aeroguard in Thunder Bay On April 3, 2005, approximately 28 newly unionized workers at Aeroguard Eastern in Thunder Bay secured a three-year collective agreement. In addition to general contract language, highlights include: • Wage increases of approximately 15 per cent over the course of the agreement. • First wage increases are retroactive to April 1, 2004, and will be paid by May 5, 2005. • Workers assigned as Point Leader for a ½ hour or more receive an hourly premium of $1.50.
• New language provides workers with sick days, which they did not have previous to this agreement. • Important anti-discrimination and ‘No Harassment’ policies. • Language establishing seniority, steward representation, union security, grievance procedures, health and safety precautions. Union Negotiating Committee: John Dicasmirro, Mike Johnston, Chris Valente and Union Rep Colby Flank.
Monetary gains for full & part-time members at Grenon’s YIG Approximately 110 retail grocery workers in Rockland secured a new two-year agreement on May 18, 2005. Highlights include: • Retroactive hourly wage increases (to September 17, 2004) of 30 cents for all full and part-time at the end rate or above the wage progression and another 35 cents on September 17, 2005.
• Part-time workers receive lump sum payments totalling $50 to $300. • Increased boot allowance of $35. • The company must train part-time workers prior to training new hires. Union Negotiating Committee: Carmen Faubert, Veronique Fortin, Union Rep Daniel Mercier and Central East Regional Director Luc Lacelle.
• Full-time workers receive pay increases totalling 10.5 per cent plus an $800 lump sum payment. • Part-time receive a $400 lump sum payment and annual wage increases of 25 cents per hour. • Company contributions for the workers’ health and welfare benefits and pensions increase. Union Negotiating Committee: Mireille Habre, Germaine Renaud, Union Rep Paul Hardwick and former Union Rep Luc Lacelle.
Cobourg bakery workers ratify On May 7, 2005, members at Weston Bakeries Limited in Cobourg voted in favour of a new collective agreement. Highlights include: • Hourly wage increases of $1.50 to $2.90, plus a signing bonus of $1,000 for permanent full-time employees and $500 for seasonal full-time. • Workers, including seasonal with five years continuous service, receive new health & welfare coverage including dental, drug, vision, paramedical, hospital and supplementary health care, as well as insurance – life, accidental death & dismemberment and long-term disability. • Significant new language includes improvements to job postings and “no harassment/no violence” clauses, as well as shift preference by seniority, in certain situations. Workers at the plant make fruit cakes and muffins. Union Negotiating Committee: Tim Hill, Lynn Jillings and Union Rep Chris Fuller.
JUNE 2005
NEGOTIATIONS HEALTH & SAFETY
Retail grocery workers secure new contract
WAL-MART DEMO HEALTH & SAFETY
Thousand labour an
President Hanley spoke out at the Hamilton demo… On Saturday, May 7, 2005, Locals 175 & 633 members, leadership and staff stood up and spoke out during a series of demonstrations at targeted Wal-Mart stores. In Ottawa, Kingston, Toronto, BramptonMississauga, Hamilton, KitchenerWaterloo, London, Windsor, Sudbury and Thunder Bay they were joined by community activists and other union members. They gathered to protest, together, the practices, policies – and greed – of Wal-Mart. Nation-wide, the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) designated May 7 as the CLC “Mal-Wart” Day of Action. An estimated 12,000 people distributed more than 150,000 leaflets at
43 stores across the country. UFCW, which is the union involved in organizing Wal-Mart workers, was front and centre at the rallies. In Ontario, hundreds of Locals 175 & 633 members participated in a series of very vocal, and successful, demonstrations. “UFCW members sent a powerful message to Wal-Mart, its workers and the people who shop there,” said Local 175 President Wayne Hanley. “And that message is: workers have a right to unionize, receive fair wages and enjoy good working conditions.” In his speech at the Hamilton demo, President Hanley said the “walmartization” of Canada is cutting into the very socio-economic fabric we love
…and then passed out flyers. and eroding the middle class – the real working class – in Canada. “What other company challenges every worker’s right by running to the court,” he asked. He reminded listeners that: Wal-Mart has gone to the Supreme Court of Canada to challenge our Charter of Rights and workers’ right to freedom of association; it was recently fined $500,000 by Ontario’s Workplace Safety & Insurance Board for violating health and safety laws; it fires employees who question or challenge its way of doing business, and it closed its Jonquière, Quebec store, forcing 200 workers into unemployment, after they voted to join the UFCW.
In Thunder Bay, Locals 175 & 633 members and staff were joined by the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) President Wayne Samuelson.
The purpose of the May 7 “Day of Greetings” in Canada was to help raise awareness among shoppers of Wal-Mart practices, and to support the workers from Jonquière. In the U.S. the “Wake-up Wal-Mart, Always High Costs, Always” campaign has signed up thousands, to send a Mother’s Day message to Wal-Mart to stop discriminating against women. In America too, they took the message to the stores on May 7 to educate consumers about Wal-Mart’s various illegal and unethical labour practices.
At the Scarborough demo, UFCW national office organizer Anna Liu spoke out about Wal-Mart inequities.
Members & their families demonstrated in Brampton, Kingston, Kitchener, Hamilton, London, Ottawa, Windsor, and other cities across Ontario.
JUNE 2005
WAL-MART DEMO HEALTH & SAFETY
ds protest Wal-Mart nd management practices
Thousands protest Wal-Mart labour and management practices
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