THE NEWS MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF LOCALS 175 & 633 UFCW CANADA VOLUME XV NO. 5
OCTOBER 2006
Working families celebrate Labour Day P
P
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CONTENTS
President’s Message. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Secretary-Treasurer’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LOCAL 175 President Wayne Hanley Secretary-Treasurer Jerry Clifford Recorder Betty Pardy Executive Assistants Shawn Haggerty, Jim Hastings, Teresa Magee
PEOPLE Local 175 member saves drowning children. . . . . Canada Day winners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LOCAL 633 President Dan Bondy Secretary-Treasurer Marylou Mallett Recorder Neil Hotchkiss
UNION NEWS Locals 175 & 633 win communications awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Click to win . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GRIEVANCE & ARBITRATION NEWS Employer must respect member’s right to choose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Member gets job back. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arbitrator denies Coke ability to force overtime on drivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Arbitrator reduces gum-chewing discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PROVINCIAL OFFICE 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga L5N 2K7 905-821-8329 or 1-800-565-8329 Fax 905-821-7144 Benefits Representatives Sherree Backus, Emmanuelle Lopez-Tambasco Benefits Intake Representative Lesley Flores
LABOUR DAY Working families celebrate Labour Day . . . . . . . .
Communications Representatives Cheryl Mumford, Jennifer Tunney Servicing Representative Lien Huynh
FUNDRAISING Summer events raise even more money for leukemia research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mississauga Ride for a Cure raises $10,088 for LLSC . . . . . .
Senior Legal Counsel Naveen Mehta Legal Counsel Michael Hancock, Rebecca Woodrow Legal Representative Fernando Reis
AndyBrooks.ca
WORKPLACE NEWS Members at Goderich Elevator help feed global appetites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
NEGOTIATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
HEALTH & SAFETY What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
COMMUNITY UFCW Local 175 CAN sponsors Sri Lankan Cricket Festival . . . . . . . . . . . . . Local 175 assists immigrant women . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CAN reaches out to Asian community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Health & Safety Representative Janice Klenot
Graphic design by ARTiFACT
Organizing Coordinator & Pay Equity Michael Duden Organizing Representatives Steve Robinson, Kevin Shimmin CENTRAL EAST REGION Director Luc Lacelle Union Representatives Jehan Ahamed, Mona Bailey, Tim Deelstra, John DiFalco, Anthony DiMaio, John DiNardo, Paul Jokhu, Rob Nicholas SOUTH CENTRAL REGION Union Representatives Judith Burch, Sylvia Groom Servicing Representatives Angela Mattioli, Brenda Simmons, Mario Tardelli TRAINING & EDUCATION CENTRE (TEC) 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga L5N 2K7 905-821-8329 or 1-800-565-8329 Fax 905-821-7144 cep Local 571
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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 CENTRAL WEST REGION 412 Rennie Street Hamilton L8H 3P5 905-545-8354 or 1-800-567-2125 Fax: 905-545-8355 Director Harry Sutton Union Representatives Matt Davenport, Joe DeMelo, Linval Dixon, Rick Hogue, Fernando Reis, Dan Serbin, Kelly Tosato Servicing Representative Sam Caetano EASTERN REGION 20 Hamilton Avenue North Ottawa K1Y 1B6 613-725-2154 or 1-800-267-5295 Fax 613-725-2328 Director Dan Lacroix Union Representatives Simon Baker, Chris Fuller, Paul Hardwick, Marilyn Lang, Daniel Mercier Servicing Representative Jacques Niquet SOUTH WEST REGION 124 Sydney Street South Kitchener N2G 3V2 519-744-5231 or 1-800-265-6345 Fax 519-744-8357 Director Ray Bromley Union Representatives Wendy Absolom, Kevin Dowling, Julie Johnston, Angus Locke, Roy Reed, Rick Wauhkonen NORTH WEST REGION Room 21, Lakehead Labour Centre 929 Fort William Road Thunder Bay P7B 3A6 807-346-4227 or 1-800-465-6932 Fax 807-346-4055 Director Shawn Haggerty Union Representatives Colby Flank, David Noonan TRAINING & EDUCATION CENTRE (TEC) Director of Education Victor Carrozzino Education Representatives Georgina Broeckel, Gail Carrozzino, Kelly Provost-Nicholas, Ashleigh Vink, Dave White
President’s Message
Published six times yearly. ISSN no. 1703-3926
Canada and the labour movement: why we need the contributions of immigrants Canada is a nation of immigrants. At confederation, in 1867, it had a population of approximately 3.5 million. Today, it has grown almost 10 times, to reach more than 32 million. With the exception of First Nations peoples, everyone living in Canada today is either an immigrant, or the descendant of immigrants.
WAYNE HANLEY
Throughout Canada’s history, our country’s strength and prosperity have been linked to immigration. The earliest immigrants, who arrived prior to confederation, struggled to clear the land, establish law and order and set up commercial enterprises and transportation networks. In the 19th century and earlier, the cost of immigrating was high. Large numbers of people perished during the dangerous crossing of the North Atlantic by ship, while others fell prey to the harsh living conditions of the new world. Our country’s strength and prosperity is inextricably linked to diversity and to immigration. It has always taken courage, hard work and determination to prosper. In every decade of Canadian history, immigrants have faced – and overcome – new challenges and have helped build a strong and prosperous nation. Some achieved financial security through business ownership. For others, it was solidarity with coworkers and good union jobs that enabled them to achieve an excellent standard of living for themselves and their families. Maintaining this standard of living for working families today requires us to remain united. Our Local Union membership mirrors the Canadian workplace, with great diversity of ethnicity, religions, languages, priorities, skills, types of jobs and locations. And there are also many shared interests. We have new members, youth, older members, women, men, members of the same cultural groups, people who speak the same languages, share the same beliefs and many others who share similar obstacles they must overcome. In addition, many new immigrants may be new to the trade-union culture. It is our job to provide information to these new citizens and to inform them of the benefits of belonging to a unionized workplace. We need to let them know that they have basic worker rights guaranteed under the Ontario Employment Standards Act. The role of a union is to ensure the fair treatment of each worker through a collective agreement. A written contract sets out policies to combat harassment and discrimination, standards for health & safety in the
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Solidarity can be described as: • The unifying principle that defines the labour movement; • A bond of unity between individuals, united around a common goal or against a common enemy; • Unity or agreement of feeling or action, especially among individuals with a common interest.
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Secretary-Treasurer’s Message
Local continues to increase savings opportunities Saving money – and receiving value for our hard-earned dollars – is important for everyone, but especially for working families. That’s why Locals 175 & 633 are pleased to offer the Services & Discounts program for the benefit of members and their families.
JERRY CLIFFORD
We are continually looking for new listings from companies who are prepared to provide specials for members. It could be annual sales, such as those arranged in October and November at the Heinz plant in Leamington, or other specials that apply all year-round. Some of the newer merchants offering discounts to members are listed in the box on the right. Remember you may need your UFCW membership card to qualify for these discounts. We anticipate printing an updated Services & Discounts listing in the next issue of Checkout. To view the complete, current listing in the meantime, visit our Web site, under Membership: Discounts & Services or www. ufcw175.com/Membership/DiscServ/index.shtml If you know other retail or service companies that would like to be added to our listing, please ask them to contact me at the Mississauga office.
Some of the UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Services & Discounts include: • Haber Blain Insurance Brokers, for all your auto, house and life insurance needs. 1-800-611-4411. • CAA (North, East & South Central divisions) call them to arrange a discount on a new membership. Toronto – 1-800-341-2226 or Ottawa –1-800-267-8713, extension 394. • Full Throttle Racing ATV Parts & Accessories gives 10 per cent off the lowest price quoted before taxes. 905-344-7579 (located in Castleton, about 130 kilometres east of Toronto, 15 minutes northeast of Cobourg). • Mark’s WorkWearhouse, 10 per cent discount on selected items at most stores.
President’s Message
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workplace, pay equity clauses and language to protect members’ jobs. Each member also has needs that extend beyond the basic – regardless of their age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, language, religion or physical challenges. It is our responsibility, always, to represent all our members, to the best of our ability. That’s what we do and we will continue to do so. At the beginning of this year the Community Action Network (CAN) had its first meeting to address the changing needs of our increasingly diverse membership. Using existing links and creating new ones, CAN will help bring the social justice, equity and respect we strive for in the workplace – into the greater community. We are already making progress. The purpose of the Community Action Network is to strengthen our Union’s solidarity, inclusiveness and community links. CAN will reach out to members and their families through involvement in community activities. It will sponsor educational and cultural endeavours and encourage members to be more involved in their union. It is their union. And it is your union. We are here to make it work for you and those who join our fight for workers’ rights. You can read more about CAN initiatives in Checkout or on our Web site. In this issue, you will find a report starting on page 22. It highlights Local 175’s involvement in the Sri Lankan Schools Cricket Festival, the Health & Safety Chinese Community Outreach Initiative and special projects at the Working Women’s Centre. We know that an inclusive union is a strong union, which will benefit all the members.
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PEOPLE
Local 175 member saves drowning children On July 10, 2006, Joe Barbosa, a steward at Maple Lodge Farms pulled two children from the rain-swollen waters of the Etobicoke Creek in Brampton. Joe had worked the early shift at the nearby poultry-processing plant. He turned down an overtime request because he had errands to do. Fortunately for the two children, Joe was walking by the creek on his way to the Avondale Plaza when he spotted them struggling in the fast-moving water. As he ran to assist them, he heard their cries for help. From the bank of the creek, Joe was able to grab the young girl first. The current was so strong, it almost pulled him in, but he was able to hang on and pull the 9-year-old girl to safety. Then he ran along the bank to rescue her brother. Fortunately he was able to pick up a sturdy tree branch lying on the ground. Joe held onto a tree with one hand and reached the branch towards her 12-year-old brother with his other hand. The boy was able to grab the branch and hang on as Joe pulled him ashore as well.
Joe Barbosa (right) presents the Local 175 donation to Jay Brass of Jay’s Entertainment, who organized a fundraising drive for the family of Simba Jowa. Tragically, the children’s cousin, Simba Jowa, had already been swept away and perished in the stream. Neither his two cousins, who had jumped in to save him, nor an earlier passerby were able to rescue the 8year-old boy. The community pulled together to raise funds to assist Simba’s family. Joe helped out at the weekend fundraising BBQ and was also responsible for soliciting cash donations from Local 175 and his employer,
Canada Day winners
Maple Lodge Farms. Maple Lodge, along with a number of other companies, donated food, drinks, money and other services for the cause. Co-workers at Maple Lodge donated an additional $385. As of August 1, the combined donations totalled more than $16,000. Joe, who has a 5-year-old daughter of his own says: “We’re doing this to help the family, but also to raise awareness about the dangers of high waters.”
On July 1, members at Zellers #006 in Cornwall won a store-wide Canada Day contest for their patriotic red and white attire and rendition of “O Canada.” The prize was a meal at the Zellers restaurant for the entire group. Additionally, Diane Campeau won an Olympic sweatshirt and Joan MacDonald an Olympic scarf. Left to right: Diane Dechamps, Valerie McCormick, Jackie Cella, Tina Clement, Josee Longchamps, Joan MacDonald, Andree Lefebvre, Diane Campeau and Isabel Murray.
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UNION NEWS
Locals 175 & 633 win communications awards Once again this year, our Local was recognized for excellence in membership communications.
• THIRD AWARD for Non-Periodical BEST USE OF GRAPHICS (Local Unions) – Organize for the Future (Spanish poster)
The International Labor Communications Association, which is the professional organization of labor communicators in North America, bestowed several of its annual awards to our Union. From approximately 1,000 media contest entries, representing several hundred member-produced publications, our Local was chosen to receive:
• SECOND AWARD for Non-Periodical BEST USE OF GRAPHICS (Local Unions) We are here to stay (Booklet) • THIRD AWARD for Special Performance BEST GRAPHICS Magazines (Local Unions) WHMIS • SECOND AWARD for Special Performance BEST GRAPHIC Magazines (Local Unions) April 28, International Day of Mourning
Workplace
Hazardous
Mate
rials Info rmation S IT IS YO ystem UR RIGH T TO KNO W!
It is a worker's 'Right to Know' information on these products about hazardous materials Sheets (MSDS), through worker used which accompa training, supplier in the workplace. WHMIS & Safety Act, ny each product. provides practical and section 33. For more WHMIS workplace labels and Material information refer to the Occupati Safety Data onal Health
Supplier Labels These easily identifiable labels dashed borders. have Every controlled uct entering the workplace must prodsupplier label on its container. have a These labels are a worker's first defence in protecting their health and safety. The labels contain directions how to handle on and first aid treatment, store the product, expected hazards and relevant hazard symbols.
Training Every worker must sound understandi be WHMIS trained and have a ardous material ng of labels, MSDSs and hazprecautions. Workers must able to apply be the training on the job and keep training up to date. their on new chemicals Workers must receive training in the workplace aware of any hazards associated and be made with them.
Workplace Labels When a hazardous material is decanted into another container a workplace label must be placed on the new container. The workplace label must contain product name, the directions on safe handling and a statement that an MSDS available. is
These labels must be in both English and French.
• HONORABLE MENTION for Special Performance BEST PHOTOGRAPH (Local Unions) Two Ladies
Labels must be kept in an easily able state and readreplaced as necessary.
Class A Compresse
d Gases
Class D2
Materials Causing Other Toxic Effects
Class B Flammable & Combustib le Materials
Biohazardo
Class C
Class D3 us Infectious Materials
Oxidizing Materials
Class E
Corrosive Materials
Class D1 Materials Causing Immediate & Toxic Effects
Dangerous
Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC)/Representative Employers shall ensure that all identified through hazardous materials the use of supplier in labels, workplace the workplace are labels and MSDSs. The employer must consult with the JHSC/Repre sentative on: * Whether supplier labels, workplace information. labels and MSDSs provide enough * Developmen t and implementat ion of the worker education program * Reviews and revisions of the worker education program. * Bringing workers' WHMIS concerns to the employer's attention. * Recommend ations to resolve any safety and/or associated with WHMIS. health concerns
Class F ly Reactive Materials
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) An MSDS contains nine sections of information: * Product Information * Hazardous Ingredients * Physical Data * Fire or Explosion * Reactivity Data Hazard * Toxicologica l Properties * Preventative Measures * First Aid Measures * Preparation Information MSDSs require updating every mation changes three years or as inforand must be readily available worker. to each
Wayne Hanley
President
Betty Pardy
Recorder
Locals 175 & 633 United Food 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga, ON L5N 2K7
& Commerci al
Workers Canada
Phone: 905-821-8 Toll Free: 1-800-565329 -8329 Fax:
905-821-7144 Web site: www.ufc w175.com
CEP571
Click to Win
Just visit www.ufcw175.com
For contest rules please visit www.ufcw175.com
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ARBITRATIONS
GRIEVANCE & ARBITRATION
NEWS Employer must respect member’s right to choose An arbitrator upheld a member’s right to choose her preferred shift after Local 175 filed a grievance. The grievor, who worked in a nursing home, asked to work an early shift as a Dietary Aide. This was consistent with her collective agreement clause requiring that seniority “subject to qualifications, ability and classification” determine shift preference. The employer, however, said she must work a later shift, as it needed to schedule someone to fill the Cook position. The arbitrator found the employer to be in breach of its obligations under the collective agreement, saying the employer’s call-in procedure should have been used to fill the open slot in the shift schedule.
Member gets job back Local 175 was successful in reversing the termination of a Zehrs member. The company, which accused her of time theft, sent a termination later saying: “As a result of your misconduct, including but not limited to; breach of trust, dishonesty, lateness, taking multiple unauthorized breaks on a regular basis, and extended breaks and lunches on a regular basis, you are herby terminated effective immediately.” The grievor had been a steward for five years and was a 22-year employee with no prior disciplinary action on her record. At the time of her termination she was head salad bar clerk. Management said she ran the bar very well and she had received evaluations with strong praise for her performance of her duties as a salad bar leader. The Union argued that the employer failed to comply with the principles of progressive discipline, nor did it warn the grievor that termination could result from taking extended and unauthorized breaks. The Union said there was no evidence of intention to deceive on the part of the grievor (she entered and exited from the front of the store) thereby negating proof of the intent necessary to support a finding of time theft. The arbitrator took seven days to hear the case and examined all the mitigating factors submitted by the Union. He required the company to reinstate the grievor, as of the date of the award, without loss of seniority. He said he would not award any compensation for the suspension period because of the “serious nature” of the offence.
Arbitrator denies Coke ability to force overtime on drivers The employer had interpreted the collective agreement as allowing it to assign mandatory overtime as it wished up to 5 hours for drivers to complete their “work in process.” The employer’s position was also that it could force a driver to complete all of the loads on his truck. One of the problems for the drivers, who typically work 12 hour shifts, was that this could theoretically lead to them working almost 17 hours in one day at the whim of the employer. The employer had also disciplined certain individuals who brought product back to the warehouse at the end of their shift. In response, the Union filed four separate grievances, which were referred to arbitration. The Union was successful on all fronts. The arbitrator found that the employer had violated the collective agreement and that the Union was correct in its assertion that the collective agreement only allowed the employer to direct employees to complete the delivery they had been working on near the end of their shift. The employer could not force drivers to complete all loads on their trucks.
Arbitrator reduces gum-chewing discipline After filing a grievance, Local 175 succeeded in reducing the length of time that a discipline was allowed to stay on a member’s record. At Port Colborne Poultry, workers may be disciplined for acts considered to be detrimental to employee safety and company welfare. Management saw the grievor spit a piece of chewing gum in a waste container beside her work station. The supervisor said the worker denied doing so. The arbitrator found that part of the reason the company issued this discipline was because it believed the grievor had initially denied she was chewing gum. She testified that she had not denied it and, in fact, had admitted the offence at the first available opportunity. The arbitrator preferred the grievor’s testimony to that of her supervisor and, on that basis, determined the discipline should be reduced. The arbitrator held that the company had cause to issue some discipline, however, as the grievor had violated the rule against chewing gum. He ordered the company to remove the discipline from the grievor’s employment record as of the date of the decision, six months earlier than originally imposed.
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LABOUR DAY
Working families celebrate On Monday, September 4, 2006, thousands of Ontario working families participated in Labour Day festivities, in locations all across the province.
In Toronto alone, more than 30,000 people joined the annual parade. A contingent of more than three hundred UFCW members and families marched together, with Locals 175 & 633 members forming the largest group. Members also attended events in Kingston, Cornwall, Sudbury, Kenora, Thunder Bay, Hamilton, London, Sarnia and other centres. Despite rain forecasts, good crowds turned out to support the various celebrations. In Cornwall, where a light rain fell, members enjoyed the entertainment and supported a prize draw and leukemia walk which raised $2,000. While the temperatures in much of southern Ontario were cool, members in Thunder Bay enjoyed races, a water balloon toss and a picnic in hot, 30-degree weather. More than one third of the 315 people at the Thunder Bay event were affiliated with our Locals 175 or 633.
HAMILTON
HAMILTON LONDON
KINGSTON
CORNWALL

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LABOUR DAY
e Labour Day TORONTO
TORONTO
THUNDER BAY SARNIA
SUDBURY THUNDER BAY
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FUNDRAISING
Summer events raise even more m Members of Locals 175 & 633 organized and participated in several fundraising events throughout the summer to benefit the LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY OF CANADA (LLSC). These included: RIDE FOR A CURE IN CORNWALL
in Cornwall, and her husband Mark Brisbois helped raise $218. “The most significant event in today’s ride, for me and the other riders, was when a nine-year-old girl, whose friend was recently diagnosed with leukemia, approached us during one of our stops and made a donation of her allowance money,” said Mark Brisbois.
Saturday, July 15: It may have been a rainy Saturday morning, but spirits were high for the 1st UFCW Ride for a Cure in Cornwall. Organizers Mary Brisbois, a steward at Prince Foods Saturday, July 22: The day was hot, the sky was blue and the 8th annual Thunder Bay Leukemia Golf Tournament was a huge success. It raised $3,023.50 for research to find a cure. All who participated in the event had a great time. There were 50 golfers – some good and some not so good – but that didn’t matter because everyone enjoyed themselves. Some golfers purchased “mulligans”
The event, which took place on July 15, 2006, began in Cornwall and followed a picturesque route along the St. Lawrence Seaway to the Iroquois lift lock before heading north through the countryside. At the St. Albert’s from Executive Assistant & North West Regional Director Shawn Haggerty and Executive Board Vice-President Barb Carr. Others made donations when participating in the putting contest run by Union Rep Dave Noonan and his fiancé, Shannon Costigan. Union Rep Colby Flank, assisted by staffer Tracy Stubbs and retired staffer Carol Margarit took care of the registration, refreshments and BBQ. The event wouldn’t have been possible without
Cheese Factory, riders stopped for a quick sampling. Then it was back to Murphy’s Inn in Cornwall for a buffet lunch and prize draw, conducted by Union Rep Daniel Mercier.
Mark & Mary’s daughter, Melissa, helped promote the Cornwall ride.
the generous donations from employers and friends. All are looking forward to an even bigger and better 9th annual tournament next year.
THUNDER BAY LEUKEMIA GOLF TOURNAMENT
The Thunder Bay putting contest was a popular event.
Barb Carr and Tracy Stubbs.
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FUNDRAISING
money for leukemia research BRIGHTON BALL TOURNAMENT
Carmen Aldworth and George Idzenga (members from Maplewood Nursing Home) handled the BBQ and raffle sales.
Saturday, July 22: The 5th annual Brighton Ball Tournament contributed $1,840 thanks to a fundraising BBQ, raffle and 50/50 Draws, plus entry fees. The “Houlies,” captained by Rob Nicholas, were the top team. They and others donated most of their prize money back to the cause. The event was organized by Carmen Aldworth, Maplewood Nursing Home and Jeff Aldworth, Horizon Plastics.
Greg Metcalfe, from Horizon Plastics, hits a “monster” home run.
STAFF BBQ FOR LEUKEMIA RESEARCH Friday, July 14: Members at Quality Meat Packers (QMP) and Toronto Abattoirs Ltd. (TAL) participated in the 4th annual staff BBQ for leukemia research. They were successful in raising $2,000.
The Union Committee members who assisted at the BBQ included, from left: Scott Maguire, QMP Shipping; Linval Dixon, Locals 175 & 633 Union Rep; Frank Menezes, QMP Cutting Room; Sam Caetano, Former Plant Chair, now Locals 175 & 633 Servicing Rep; Paulo Couto, QMP Cutting Room and (front row) Raul Freitas, TAL Casing Room.
It was a sweltering-hot day, but workers coming out of the refrigerated plant greatly enjoyed a feast of icecold drinks, Caesar salad, pork shish kebabs and hamburgers. The skilled barbecue chefs were Plant Chairperson Frank Menezes, Chief Stewards Paulo Couto and Raul Freitas, Health & Safety Committee Co-Chair, Scott Maguire and Servicing Representative Sam Caetano. Together, despite the soaring temperatures, they worked over the sizzling BBQs to cook up 1,200 shish kebabs and 450 hamburgers. Because of their expertise, which required applying a special spice rub to the shish kebabs four days prior,
they had to up the quantity from the 700 they cooked in the previous year. Quality Meats donated the food, which enabled the workers to purchase a mouth-watering meal with drink, salad & shish kebab, or hamburger, for just $3. Management and non-union staff handled serving and collections, including the sale of raffle tickets. Prizes won in the raffle by QMP staff were: Francisco Ferreira from the Cutting Room, a power drill; Manuel Miranda in sanitation, a bottle chiller and Luis Rodrigues from the Cutting Room, a mountain bike.
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FUNDRAISING
MEMBERS’ TOURNAMENT AT BANTY’S ROOST IN CALEDON Sunday, August 20: The annual Members’ Tournament at Banty’s Roost in Caledon attracted 97 golfers who enjoyed a day of golf with prizes galore. A putting contest and prize draw raised $1,315. Trophy winners were Nadine Buda, A&P #83 for Ladies Low Gross, Arthur Bartram, Low Gross, Bisram Deorsammy, Low Net and Mohan Kumar, Maple Leaf Meats (Shopsys) for Most Honest Golfer. President Wayne Hanley presents trophy to Arthur Bartram.
CARGILL IN TORONTO Chief Steward, Tony Nigro, helped out at the BBQ and also raised an additional $800 through the sale of UFCW lunch bags and towels.
WINDSOR TOURNAMENT Thursday, July 20: Members at CARGILL in TORONTO enjoyed the annual BBQ, organized by the Union committee, which raised $1,350.
Saturday, August 19: About 70 dedicated golfers braved a rain storm, for the second year in a row, to raise $4,575 at the 7th annual Windsor Tournament.
BETTER BEEF IN GUELPH
Thursday & Friday, July 27 & 28: Members at BETTER BEEF in GUELPH enjoyed a BBQ which raised another $1,666.75. The BBQ Committee included, from left: Chief Steward Rudy Gwinner, Plant Chairperson Chris Watson and Steward John Barnes.
Teresa Magee, Executive Assistant to the Local 175 President, congratulates Windsor tournament organizers: Neil Hotchkiss, Local 633 Recorder, Julie Johnston, Union Rep and Dan Bondy, Local 633 President. Neil and Dan work at A&P Stores #341 and #141 in Windsor.
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The 2nd Annual UFCW Local 175 Ride for a Cure – in support of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC) – was a roaring success! This year’s event, held August 19, 2006 with the rain at bay, raised a record $10,088.
FUNDRAISING
Mississauga Ride for a Cure raises $10,088 for LLSC
Photo: Michael Forman
“It’s quite a feeling to be among so many avid and enthusiastic riders for such a great cause,” said President Wayne Hanley. The two-and-a-half hour ride began in Mississauga and took in many local attractions, ending with an excellent brunch.
Photo: Michael Forman
Cyclists wound their way through the Cheltenham Badlands, south of Orangeville.
Event organizer Dave White & President Wayne Hanley present a recognition plaque to Leroy Jackson. The event had special meaning for Leroy Jackson of Barrie, who had been diagnosed with leukemia just over a year ago. For collecting the most pledges for a single rider – an outstanding $700 – Leroy received a leather motorcycle jacket from Freak~n~Leather.
Photo: Andy Brooks
It is for people like Leroy, and everyone affected by leukemia, that members and staff of Local 175 work so hard to raise money for the LLSC. Plans are already underway for next year’s event, so motorcycle enthusiasts mark your calendar for August 2007. For more photographs and description of the 2006 event, including sponsors, awards and prize winners, go to www.ufcwrideforacure.ca.
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WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY NEWS
Bill Dickey, Millwright
Members at Goderich Elevator help feed globa Local 175 members at Goderich Elevator on the shores of Lake Huron move millions of tons of grains every year. They were formerly members of UFCW 523W who voted to transfer their membership to Local 175. They expedite the shipments from farmer to processor. In peak season, members weigh in up to 100 trucks a day, and also manage the unloading of ship and rail containers. They transfer soy, corn, wheat and other grains to mammoth storage silos and then ship them back out again. Grains grown by Prairie farmers arrive by ship and rail, and are re-routed to Ontario feed and flour mills. Grains from Ontario farms are shipped out all across Canada and around the world. Types such as food-grade Amber Durham, which is made into macaroni and other forms of pasta, may end up in Italy. Soft red wheat, used to produce flat breads, is a popular export to India.
Paul Dougherty, Grain Inspector/Grader
When you’re moving several tons of grain a minute, through thousands of metres of belts, chutes and funnels, one small mistake can result in one very big mess. The employer is fortunate to have such dedicated and experienced workers who keep these tons and tons of grains flowing smoothly, despite the challenges of extreme heat and cold in both wet and grain-dust dry conditions.
Dale Bechler, Grain Inspector/Grader Fred McClure, Dryer-Operator and John Verwey, Millwright
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WORKPLACE NEWS
Daryle Ward, Millwright
Ed Brunk, Weighman
bal appetites
Steve Maize, Weighman Kirk McNaughton, Weighman
Doug Sproul, Grain Inspector/Grader Henry Kolkman, Lead Hand, Unloading
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NEGOTIATIONS
For all the most recent UFCW news, including more up-to-date and d
New La Rocca members approve first collective agreement Local 175 welcomes 130 new members who ratified their first agreement on July 16, 2006. The three-year contract, which covers the 130 full-time workers at two La Rocca Creative Cakes facilities in Markham, establishes important new workplace policies and provides monetary increases in addition to general language regarding union representation.
Oshawa Price Chopper workers secure new agreement A new three-year contract was approved by members at Wentworth Price Chopper in Oshawa. Highlights include: • Lump sum payments totalling $800 as well as an increase of 15 cents per hour on December 2, 2006 and 20 cents per hour on December 2, 2007 for full-time workers paid “off scale”. • A lump sum payment of $200 as well as an increase of 15 cents per hour in the second year and 20 cents per hour in the third year of the agreement for eligible part-time workers hired before December 2, 2002. • Both full-time workers hired after ratification and part-time staff hired after December 2, 2002, benefit from an improved pay scale. • Workers also gained improved office and lead-hand premiums and language relating to call-ins and scheduling. • Company contributions to the workers’ dental plan increase. Union Negotiating Committee: James Saunders, Carolyn Ross and Union Reps Mona Bailey and Rob Nicholas.
• All classifications receive a 3 per cent increase minimum, retroactive to July 1, 2006, and subsequent increases of 3 per cent minimum in both the second and third year of the contract. • In addition to regular wages, afternoonshift workers receive a premium of 30 cents per hour and night-shift workers receive 60 cents per hour. • Workers receive uniforms at no cost, plus $50 per year toward the cost of safety footwear. • Members are covered by a group insurance plan, which will be 100 per cent employer funded by the end of the contract.
• Vacation entitlement provides up to four weeks off at 8 per cent pay for those with 12 years of service or more. • Statutory holidays now also include the Civic Holiday. • Contract language provides workers with a grievance and arbitration procedure as well as steward representation and seniority clauses to better protect their job security. • Important policies regarding discrimination and harassment in the workplace ensure the safety of each worker. • Health and safety provisions include the creation of a Joint Health & Safety Committee and its responsibilities. • Other improvements include policy on job filling, overtime and call-ins. • The company will contribute $500 per year toward the Locals’ Training & Education Fund. Union Negotiating Committee: Manuel Aragon, April Egan, Mario Francomano and Union Reps John DiFalco and John DiNardo.
Wellington Nursing home workers ratify On June 16, 2006, approximately 65 members at the Wellington Nursing Home approved a new three-year collective agreement. The health care workers secured: • Schedule ‘A’ wage increases totalling $1.10 per hour, with the first increase (25 cents) retroactive to June 1, 2006. • Part-time workers receive a signing bonus of $50 following ratification. • Improvements to bereavement leave, vacation allotment and employer contributions to the pension plan and UFCW Trusteed Dental Fund. • Workers can bank up to 12 days for sick leave per year and can cash those days out for 50 per cent of their value. • Part-time workers receive a 1.25 per cent increase to their ‘in lieu of sick leave’ payment. Union Negotiating Committee: Richard Dee, Gary Revell, Union Rep Matt Davenport and Central West Director Harry Sutton.
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Molson workers ratify new contract
Encore Communications workers secure wage increases
Molson Negotiating Committee members are from left, back row: Toni Sherwood, Bill Cartwright, June Towler, Bruno Felice and front row: Union Reps Anthony DiMaio and Mona Bailey.
Members in quality assurance, microbiology, nursing assistance, clerical payroll, inventory, packaging, engineering and other operations at Molson Breweries in Etobicoke ratified a new agreement on June 9, 2006. Highlights include: • An annual wage increase of 1.5% for all permanent full-time employees in groups 1-4, a 2.5% increase for workers in group 5, and a 20-cent per hour increase for all temporary employees in groups 1-5. All increases are retroactive to January 1, 2006. • All regular full-time employees, as of December 31 will receive an additional one time payment of 2% on their base pay rate. • Workers will receive an increase in shift premiums, to 60 cents per hour for afternoons and $1.05 per hour for midnights. • Allowances increase to $5 for meals and $150 for shoes. • Effective January 1, 2009, members with greater than 8 years service are eligible to participate in a voluntary defined-contribution pension plan at contributions of 1, 2 or 3 per cent of base earnings. New employees hired after the date of ratification are eligible
for a defined-contribution pension plan with contributions of 5.5 per cent base earnings. • Improved language covers job posting, vacation scheduling by seniority and new provisions for workers who elect to work past age 65. Union Negotiating Committee: Bill Cartwright, Bruno Felice, Toni Sherwood, June Towler and Union Reps Mona Bailey and Anthony DiMaio.
New contract for Durham Labour Council Bargaining Unit The Local 175 Bargaining Unit at the Durham Regional Labour Council secured a three-year contract including the following: • Wage increases of 3 per cent in each year. • Increased dental and health & welfare contributions and an enhanced retirement package. Union Negotiating Committee: Linda McLaughlin and Union Rep Mona Bailey.
The new three-year collective agreement for members at Encore Communications, ratified on June 20, 2006, includes the following highlights:
NEGOTIATIONS
d detailed information on negotiations, visit our Web site: www.ufcw175.com.
• An across-the-board wage increase of 3 per cent, retroactive to July 2, 2006, plus another 3 per cent in both the second and third year. • Effective July 1, 2008, company contributions to the full-time workers’ benefit plan increase to $150 per month. • New language provides for a Joint Health & Safety Committee as well as the training and responsibilities of that committee. • Improved language covering discipline records and layoff. Union Negotiating Committee: David Kropf and Union Rep Rick Wauhkonen.
New contract for members at Hallmark Housekeeping Members with Hallmark Housekeeping achieved a new three-year deal at a meeting held June 16, 2006. The approximately 30 members who work at the Sussex Centre in Mississauga, secured the following improvements: • A wage increase totalling 85 cents per hour with the first increase (30 cents) retroactive to April 1, 2006. • Dental contributions increase by 2 cents per hour on April 1, 2007. Union Negotiating Committee: Connie Cabral and Union Rep Joe DeMelo.
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NEGOTIATIONS
For all the most recent UFCW news, including more up-to-date and
Olymel workers achieve new contract
Golf course workers say “yes” to new deal Members working for the City of Thunder Bay at the Municipal, Chapples and Strathcona golf courses approved a three-year collective agreement at a ratification meeting held June 17, 2006. Highlights include: • Increases to Schedule ‘A’ wages of 2.5 per cent plus an additional 15 cents per hour in the first, second and third year. • A new letter of understanding establishes a committee to develop and recommend new standards to apply for scheduling. • Improved language covers seniority, steward representation, bereavement leave and seasonal rehire.
Union negotiating committee, from front left: Union Rep Mona Bailey, Chan Que To, Vladimir Melnitchenko. Back row: Kamaljit Gill, Nadee Choudhry and Phoung Van Tran. Absent from photo: Central East Regional Director, Luc Lacelle.
On June 30, 2006, a majority of the approximately 500 members at Olymel/ Galco Foods in Brampton approved a new three-year collective agreement. Highlights include: • A wage increase of 40 cents per hour retroactive to June 1, 2006. • A subsequent wage increase of 40 cents per hour in both the second and third year.
• Those classified as Receiving – Grade 5, Grade 6 Truck Driver, Shipping, Freezer or Warehouse and Electrician Grade 10+ receive an additional one-time adjustment of 25 cents per hour. • Workers qualifying under the Attendance Program now receive double the maximum amount previously agreed to. • Improved language covers layoff and recall, job postings and transfers.
• A wage increase of 34 cents per hour in the first year, retroactive to March 5, 2006, for all classifications and rates. • Subsequent increases of 37 cents per hour in year two and 39 cents per hour in the final year.
S. Gumpert workers reach new settlement On July 8, 3006, members at S. Gumpert in Mississauga ratified a new three-year agreement that includes the following improvements:
• New language covering the reporting of harassment and/or discrimination. • Improved language relating to the grievance procedure, job postings, overtime and seniority, and the sick leave entitlement.
• A wage increase of 35 cents per hour, retroactive to July 1, 2006, plus 40 cents per hour in both the second and third year. • The company will pay 100 per cent of the premium cost of the current health and welfare plan for workers with at least three months’ service, with the exception of prescription drugs for which the company will provide $8 toward the dispensing fee. • Safety shoe allowance increases to $100 per year.
Union Negotiating Committee: Natalie Giroux, Kim MacDonald, Chantal Pedneault and Union Rep Tim Deelstra.
Union Negotiating Committee: Jeneta Brown, Joseph Ndwaniye and Union Rep Paul Jokhu.
Shooting Star workers reach new deal On June 16, 2006, members at the Shooting Star Daycare in Sudbury ratified a threeyear agreement. Highlights include:
Union Negotiating Committee: Harwood Earl, Ron Uvanile and Union Rep David Noonan.
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New contract provides many gains On July 10, 2006, members at the Woodlawn Motel & Woodlawn Hospitality Inc. in Guelph, voted in favour of a new three-year contract. It includes the following: • Wage improvements to the top progression are 4 per cent, effective July 14, 2006, 4 per cent on July 14, 2007 and 4.5 per cent on July 14, 2008. • Negotiated improvements apply to the start, 3-month and 6-month progressions, plus a new six month wage progression is added to existing progressions. • Maximum annual benefit coverage now includes up to $10,000 for prescription drugs, $750 for basic dental plus $500 for enhanced dental plus a lifetime maximum of $1,000 for orthodontic coverage. • $100 for vision care, every two years. • Improved language pays overtime after eight hours, increases rest breaks to 15 minutes, up from 10, and applies to Leaves of Absence and scheduling by seniority. • New language improves Health & Safety, prevents management and other non-members from doing bargaining unit work, increases recall rights to 18 months, from 12 and reduces Sunset clause, from 18 months to 12. • Vacation and bereavement leave have been improved. Union Negotiating Committee: Daksha Patel, Heather St. John and Union Rep Rick Wauhkonen.
Wilfrid Laurier members ratify progressive contract Members at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo ratified a new three-year agreement on July 17, 2006. Highlights include: • A wage increase of 3 per cent in each year of the collective agreement, starting August 1, 2006. • An additional one half per cent lump sum payment in September 2006, based on 2005 earnings. • Employee pension contributions are reduced, resulting in an average $672 saving per employee, per year. • Members who work a specified number of hours in a week receive shift premiums of time and one half for Saturday and double time for Sunday, between May 1 to August 31.
• Such work that would be premium, including stat holidays, is offered by seniority. • Free tuition for full-time employees and their dependent children and spouses. • A new Family Sick Leave provision • A Special Voluntary Exit Plan (SVEP) provides incentives for employees to retire prior to age 65. • A pay equity plan has been added.
NEGOTIATIONS
detailed information on negotiations, visit our Web site: www.ufcw175.com.
Pay Equity Committee: Linda Atkins, Sarah Daniels, Brad McMillan and Union Rep Michael Duden. Union Negotiating Committee: Linda Atkins, Sarah Daniels, Barb Koelewijn and Union Rep Wendy Absolom.
Members at Lapointe-Fisher gain new contract Health care workers at the Lapointe-Fisher Nursing Home in Guelph voted in favour of a new three-year contract at a meeting held July 21, 2006. • All rates increase by 45 cents per hour, retroactive to April 10, 2006. • All members of the bargaining unit receive subsequent increases of 43 cents per hour in both the second and third year of the contract term. • Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) receive an additional wage adjustment of 25 cents per hour in the second year. • Those scheduled to relieve Supervisors receive an improved shift premium of $1 per hour. • Effective March 24, 2008, workers are entitled to $400 annual coverage for use of chiropractic, naturopathic, podiatric and/or psychiatric care. • Employer contributions to the dental plan increase by 3 cents per hour and 4 cents per hour for the pension plan.
• Monthly uniform allowance increases to $16 for full-time workers and $13 for part-time. • Improved language covers call-ins, time off and a joint labour-management committee. Last year, Local 175 won a major legal decision on behalf of the employees at Lapointe-Fisher when an arbitrator ruled that the employer was responsible to pay 100% of the OHIP premium on behalf of its employees. Read more on this arbitration case in December 2005 Checkout or in the Web site news article dated October 17, 2006. Union Negotiating Committee: Roberta Jones, Darlene McFarlane, Cindy Stewart and Union Rep Angus Locke.
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NEGOTIATIONS
45 new members at Hertz win first collective agreement
Wholesale Club approves new contract
On August 23, 2006, new members at Hertz Canada, who are Terminal Trippers, ratified their first collective agreement. Among other improvements, the bargaining unit secures an end to the four-year wage freeze in place prior to ratification.
On July 27, 2006, members at Wholesale Club in Kenora ratified a new collective agreement, which includes:
• Now each worker receives an annual minimum wage increase of 35 cents per hour. • The shift premium for Lead Hands increases to $1 per hour. • Employees working a minimum of 34 hours per week are now classified as full-time and eligible for negotiated benefits. • Workers now qualify for leave for jury duty, lost wages, bereavement, emergency and family medical reasons. • The company will pay 100 per cent of the dental plan and vision care premium costs for full-time employees.
• Workers are also entitled to four sick days per year after one year of service with the unused days paid out at year end. • The new vacation entitlement package provides members with the greater of two weeks with pay or 4 per cent of last year’s wages, for those with one year of service, increasing to five weeks with pay or 10 per cent of last year’s wages, for those with 18 years of service or more. • All full-time workers with one year of service receive one paid floater day. • New language covers health and safety, job posting and overtime. • Workers are now protected through union representation, and a grievance and arbitration procedure.
• Wage increases totalling 65 cents per hour to the top rate, for full-time and part-time workers hired prior to ratification, with the first increase retroactive to April 11, 2006. • Plus, those at the top rate hired prior to ratification receive a lump sum of $400 in 2007. • New language covers health and safety and a new job classification. Union Negotiating Committee: Debbie Creed and Union Rep David Noonan.
Union Negotiating Committee: Tony Balthasar, Garth McClung and Union Rep Jehan Ahamed.
Improved compensation for Caressant health care workers Members at the Caressant Care Nursing Home in Fergus have approved a new three-year contract. Following several negotiation meetings and Ministry of Labour conciliation, the workers were able to vote on the settlement, which covers the approximately 45 members of the bargaining unit, at a meeting held August 9, 2006. Workers secure: • Wage increases of 2.5 per cent per year of the contract duration with the first increase retroactive to May 1, 2006. • A new weekend shift premium provides 15 cents per hour worked between 11 p.m. Friday and 11 p.m. Sunday, effective May 1, 2007. • Two floater days per year, up from one, beginning in 2007. • Increased pension and dental contributions and an improved Weekly Indemnity (WI) formula.
• Vision care coverage increases to $200 per 24-month period, inclusive of an eye examination. • An increased uniform allowance. • The employer will now contribute to the UFCW Training & Education Fund. Union Negotiating Committee: Chris Baumber, Wendy Lee, Chris McDougall and Union Reps Wendy Absolom and Roy Reed. Another 45 members at the Caressant Care Nursing Home in Listowel ratified their new three-year contract at a vote held August 3, 2006. It provides: • Wage increases of 2.5 per cent in each of the three years covered by the agreement with the first raise retroactive to June 1, 2006. • Registered Nurse (RN) wages match the Ontario Nurses Association (ONA) rates for the corresponding year.
• A new weekend shift premium of 15 cents per hour, effective May 1, 2007. • Vision care coverage increases to $200 per 24-month period, inclusive of an eye examination. • Increased contributions to the workers’ dental and pension plans and an improved Weekly Indemnity (WI) formula. • Increased uniform allowance to $10.50 per month for full-time and $6.75 per month for part-time. • Improved language covering call-ins and overtime. • Extra hours that become available (in addition to scheduled hours) will be offered to part-time by seniority up to 75 hours bi-weekly. Union Negotiating Committee: Diane Ballantyne, Karen Cullen, Joyce Fitt, Ellen Weber and Union Reps Wendy Absolom and Roy Reed.
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What you do know can save your life or that of a co-worker Young workers are injured more frequently In the August edition of Checkout, we presented alarming statistics about young workers. They make up approximately 18 per cent of Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) claims in Ontario. They are at greatest risk of suffering workplace accidents and injuries because they lack the experience to recognize and avoid hazards. Below is the story of a young Local 175 member. It is one of many examples of work-related accidents and injuries experienced by young workers.
Andrew Haardeng’s story Andrew was just 24 years of age on May 23, 2002, when he suffered a workrelated accident. While working as a general labourer at Bick’s, he was blasted in the face by a pressurized hose containing pickle brine. Immediately he felt pain and irritation that affected his eyes, face and breathing. At the hospital, where he was rushed by ambulance, Andrew was initially treated for a nosebleed and chemical exposure to his eyes. Subsequently, his family doctor diagnosed acute asthma, related to the brine exposure.
The WSIB decision After the accident, Andrew received a benefit of 85 per cent of his net average earnings. But the WSIB stopped the payment, as of June 3, 2002, because it said he had a “pre-existing condition.” His family doctor’s report to the WSIB, however, had only documented one incident pertaining to a respiratory problem prior to the accident. As a young teenager in school, while exercising, he was prescribed a puffer for a one-week period. This nota-
Andrew Haardeng tion, along with the fact that he was a smoker, prevented him from continuing to receive benefits beyond June 3. The payments were stopped despite the fact that Andrew had made several attempts to return to work in the year after his accident. None of these attempts were successful. Each time he ended up in the hospital emergency room with severe asthma attacks. Fortunately, by the end of 2003, he had recovered sufficiently to engage in a full return to work with his employer. But by then, he had lost several months of earnings.
Know your resources – the appeal Andrew contacted the Locals 175 & 633 Benefits Department to appeal the initial WSIB decision. Normally there is a six-month deadline to appeal a claim, but this was waived once the Union stepped in. Our main argument was that the member did not have breathing problems prior to this accident, yet afterwards he had endured a series of severe asthma attacks. These prevented him from performing an “early and safe return to work,” as required by the WSIB. The Union argued that it was completely unreasonable for the WSIB to stop benefits, merely because he was a smoker and had experienced one acute episode of mild asthma as a child.
Thanks to the intervention of the Locals 175 & 633 Benefits Department, the WSIB reversed its decision in April 2005. The adjudicator’s letter to Andrew said: “It is evident that you ingested and inhaled a sufficiently irritant amount of brine solution on May 23, 2002, to have induced a Responsive Airways Disease (RADS) and symptoms of airways activity for over a year.” Subsequently, Andrew received compensation for lost wages from June 3, 2002 to November 28, 2003, when he returned to regular work duties with the employer. Should he have any recurrences, if there is another significant exposure to brine, benefit entitlement will be considered because of this 2002 work accident. Then he might be able to obtain additional benefits without prolonged difficulty, because he has already established a claim.
HEALTH & SAFETY
What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You…
You have the right to safe work Anyone can have an accident at work. But young workers are at greatest risk. Know your rights and become an active member, working to prevent workplace injuries. Contact your Locals 175 & 633 Health & Safety Department if you have any questions or concerns about the safety of your workplace or the way you are required to perform your job. Sign up for our online courses and share your knowledge with your co-workers and friends to increase awareness and prevent injuries. If you suffer an injury at work, and have questions or concerns about a WSIB claim, contact your Locals 175 & 633 Benefits Department. If your accident or injury claim is denied – or payments stop while you are still unable to work – call the Benefits department immediately!
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COMMUNITY
UFCW Local 175 CAN sponsors Sri Lankan Cricket Festival
The annual Canada Day Weekend Sri Lankan Schools Cricket Festival, on July 3, 2006, reached a whole new level this year, thanks to Local 175’s innovative sponsorship. Approximately five years ago, the local Sri Lankan community organized a cricket festival to celebrate their culture in Canada. They invited Canadian branches of the Sri Lankan Schools Associations to enter teams. The festival became an annual event with school alumni continuing to compete each year. This tradition, in Sri Lanka, goes back more than 100 years. This year, the Local 175 CAN sponsorship helped make the festival an even more successful family event. It attracted more than 180 players and 1,500 spectators, with fourteen men’s and two women’s teams. The Local arranged live entertainment as well as food for the tournament’s players.
Local 175 sponsored entertainment in the form of a live band, magicians and clowns. President Wayne Hanley receives a plaque of appreciation from the festival organizers who included Union Rep Jehan Ahamed, Russell Rajaratnam and Sam Samarajeeva.
Next year’s event takes place again on the Canada Day weekend at the Maple Cricket Grounds in King City. Locals 175 & 633 are hoping to enter their own team. If you’d like to participate, please contact Union Reps Jehan Ahamed or Kevin Shimmin.
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COMMUNITY
Local 175 assists immigrant women
Students in an apprenticeship program, offered through the Working Women Community Centre (WWCC), benefited from a Local 175-provided Health & Safety course. It provided immigrant women with an opportunity to acquire skills for a career in baking. The class, taught by Local 175 instructor Georgina Broeckel, had 16 participants. “These women were all enthusiastic participants,” says Georgina. “They were great students who are eager to learn new skills. It’s inspiring to see a group taking advantage of this program and educating themselves to better their future.” In addition to courses provided by Local 175, students learn baking, English language skills, math, customer service, food production and nutrition. The training concludes with an eight-week paid work placement.
CAN reaches out to Asian community Servicing representative Lien Huynh is very knowledgeable about workers’ rights. She has worked with union reps, union stewards and health & safety committee members to assist Local 175 members of the Asian community at Galco Foods in Brampton. But after becoming a Local 175 servicing representative, she quickly learned how little non-unionized workers know about their rights, and how easily exploited they are as a result. That’s why Local 175 is presenting
workshops for non-unionized workers, such as those in the textile sector. The Local Union is planning to initially present workshops for Chinese and Vietnamese workers. They will include a short presentation on Employment Rights, the “Right to Refuse” unsafe work, the WSIB process and where to go with a problem, as well as a “Question & Answer” session. If you are a Local 175 member concerned
about your health & safety rights, speak to your in-plant Certified Worker Member, Health & Safety Committee Member, Union Steward or Local 175 Representative to learn about your Right to Refuse 1 unsafe work. If you are concerned about safety in a nonunion workplace, contact Local 175 to learn more about worker rights. Call Lien Huynh at 1-800-565-8329. 1 Health care workers have only a limited Right
to Refuse.
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Return postage will be paid by: UNITED FOOD AND COMMERCIAL WORKERS Locals 175 & 633 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga, Ontario L5N 2K7
Canada Post Corporation Publication Agreement No. 40064671
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