THE NEWS MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF UFCW CANADA LOCALS 175 AND 633 VOLUME XI NO. 1
SUMMER 2002
Safeway Members Vote “NO!” UFCW Safeway members on the picket line
LABOUR DAY
A R B I T R AT I O N S Terminated Maple Leaf workers vindicated at last
They were cheered on by “Spike” aka Jennifer Pimentel, a Zehrs worker
N E G O T I AT I O N S New Agreement for 1400 Ontario Pharma Plus Workers
It’s time to make plans…for this year’s Labour Day Parade
T R A I N I N G & E D U C AT I O N Growing demand for courses
CONTENTS
President’s Message
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Secretary-Treasurer’s Message Keep in Touch
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PEOPLE Member Appointments . . . . . . . . . . . Staff Changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Milestones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ARBITRATIONS Terminated Maple Leaf workers vindicated at last . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Retirement Home Worker Cleared of Wrong-Doing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CHECKOUT is an official publication of UFCW Canada (the United Food & Commercial Workers) Locals 175 & 633. Published three times yearly. ISSN no. 1703-3926 UFCW LOCAL 175 President
Wayne Hanley Secretary-Treasurer
Jim Andress Recorder
Betty Pardy Executive Assistants
John Fuller, Jim Hastings UFCW LOCAL 633 President
CONFERENCES Winter/Spring Steward’s Training: A Huge Success STRIKES & LOCKOUTS UFCW Members at Safeway Vote “NO”
Dan Bondy Recorder ............
Roy Reed CENTRAL EAST REGION Director
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Jerry Clifford Union Reps
Larry Bain, Mike Brennan, John DiFalco, Anthony DiMaio, Archie Duckworth, Rob Nicholas, Dan Serbin
NEGOTIATIONS Thrifty Canada Workers End Lockout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Workers Win First-Contract Agreement at Retirement Home . . . . Nuclear Plant Workers Ratify . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Progress for Nursing Home Workers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canteen Limited Workers Ratify . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CFB Workers Win Substantial New Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Good Increases for Blockbuster Workers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . New agreement for 1400 Ontario Pharma Plus Workers . . . . ORGANIZING Update . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
HEALTH & SAFETY
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CENTRAL WEST REGION Director
Harry Sutton Union Reps
Joe DeMelo, Linval Dixon, Chris Fuller, Shawn Haggerty, Paul Jokhu, Fernando Reis, Kelly Tosato SOUTH CENTRAL REGION Director
Sharon Gall Union Reps
Judith Burch, John DiNardo, Kevin Dowling, Sylvia Groom HAMILTON OFFICE 412 Rennie Street Hamilton L8H 3P5 905-545-8354 Toll free: 800-567-2125 Fax: 905-545-8355 Legal Department Director
WOMEN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Larry Fisher
TRAINING & EDUCATION Growing Demand for UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Training & Education Centre Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Naveen Mehta, Georgina Watts
Legal Counsel Benefits Coordinator
Herb MacDonald Benefits Representatives
Sheree Backus, Karl Goennemann
YOUTH NEWS Music Contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SCHOLARSHIPS
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Design - ARTiFACT graphic design
TRAINING & EDUCATION CENTRE Suite 700, 1450 Meyerside Drive Mississauga L5T 2N5 905-564-2500 Toll Free 800-728-8902 Fax 905-564-2898
PROVINCIAL OFFICES 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga L5N 2K7 905-821-8329 Toll free 800-565-8329 Fax 905-821-7144 Communications Representative
Cheryl Mumford Organizing Coordinator
Mark Flannigan Organizing Reps
Michael Duden, Cliff Kostyniuk, Kevin Shimmin
EASTERN REGION 20 Hamilton Avenue North Ottawa K1Y 1B6 613-725-2154 Toll free 800-267-5295 Fax 613-725-2328 Director
Dan Lacroix Union Representatives
Simon Baker, Reg Baughan, Ray Bromley, Luc Lacelle, Marilyn Lang NORTHERN REGION Room 21, Lakehead Labour Centre 929 Fort William Road Thunder Bay P7B 3A6 807-346-4227 Toll free 800-465-6932 Fax 807-346-4055 Director
Sharon Gall Union Representatives
Colby Flank, Bill Kalka SOUTH WEST REGION 124 Sydney Street South Kitchener N2G 3V2 519-744-5231 Toll free 800-265-6345 Fax 519-744-8357 Director
Teresa Magee Union Representatives
Kip Connolly, Wendy Absolom, Susan Bayne, Angus Locke, Julie Marentette, Rick Wauhkonen
Training & Education Centre Director
Wally Lumsden Training & Education Coordinator
Victor Carrozzino
President’s Message
LOCALS 175 AND 633
UFCW
Local 175 began negotiating with Canada Safeway more than one year ago. From day one it was apparent to the negotiating committee that the company had no intention of bargaining a renewal of the collective agreement. After negotiations broke down the membership, of more than 400 workers in three Thunder Bay stores, voted in favour of strike action. When Safeway still refused to bargain a fair settlement, the members began their strike on October 1, 2001. Still the company refused to return to the bargaining table, until finally, after an arbitrator ruled on a similar dispute affecting more than 30 stores and thousands of workers in Manitoba, Safeway at last agreed to meet with the union negotiating committee. It was adamant, however, that “no one should be under the misapprehension that this (the Manitoba Award) is relevant to any other location and particularly to Thunder Bay.”
WAYNE HANLEY
In other words, Safeway was prepared to provide Manitoba workers with a fair collective agreement because it was forced, by law, to do so. In Ontario, where labour laws are much less protective of workers and where capitalism reigns, virtually free and unfettered, Safeway wanted the workers to take what it, obviously, felt they deserved. Which wasn’t a lot. And when the company met again with the union negotiating committee, for the first time in almost seven months, it was demanding that the Thunder Bay workers take even less. Safeway said it wanted the workers to pay for their share of “the cost of the strike, the cost of maintaining the stores unopened during the dispute, and the loss of sales in the reopening process after the strike.” It also said it wanted the workers to pay for any permanent loss of sales that it thought might result due to the strike. It announced it would seek a “final offer” government-supervised vote – and if the workers turned down the offer, Safeway would close up shop and leave town. Given the concessionary and even punitive nature of Safeway’s “last, best and final offer” the union negotiating committee recommended that the workers vote “NO”. It was an emotional campaign with strong feelings on both sides (see page 10 for strike update). The union was prepared to fully support the majority of workers – whatever the outcome of the vote. The majority did say “NO” to Safeway’s offer. Unfortunately the company has taken its vote loss in the same egotistical spirit that it has exhibited over the past several months. It hasn’t gotten the message its workers are trying to send. It is still insisting on prolonging the dispute by asking for another vote. Safeway should return to the bargaining table or leave town, as it threatened, so that members can plan their futures and get on with their lives. Something has to be wrong with our system when large multinational companies are allowed to take aggressive, punitive action against workers and think they can get away with it. Local 175 has received numerous messages of praise and congratulations from workers in Canada and the US who recognize the struggle that Thunder Bay workers have endured and appreciate the immense courage of their convictions – to take a stand and to say “Not in Thunder Bay.”
Training Representatives
Dave White, Serge Castonguay
SUMMER 2002
Secretary-Treasurer’s Message
Privatization – A Convenient Cash Grab for the Ontario Government
The
JIM ANDRESS
sell-off of Ontario’s publicallyowned electrical utilities – assuming the government’s plan is enacted – will likely net the government several billion dollars, perhaps even enough to wipe out its projected budget shortfall which could be as much as $5-billion. Convenient isn’t it? By selling off our assets, it will be in a better position to balance its books and look good on paper. It might even use some of the extra windfall to increase spending for education, health care, or some of the many other areas where it has cut so deeply over the past several years.
But what will privatization mean to the citizens of this province? For anyone who buys power – whether it’s for home or business use – the cost is almost guaranteed to increase. The objective of private companies, after all, is profit. In other jurisdictions, such as Alberta, California, and Great Britain, rates have increased substantially after privatization occurred. Rates went up 40% or more in California last year and that was after the government kicked in $13-billion to prevent even greater increases. Hikes in power costs would mean higher rents and threaten jobs. If industry and public institutions are forced to pay higher hydro rates, job loss and layoffs will follow. Putting profits first, as private companies must, could also mean ill health for people in Ontario. Asthma and lung-related diseases are already increasing dramatically. Currently less than 30 per cent of Ontario’s electricity is supplied by the coal-burning plants which are the greatest cause of air-borne pollutants. Normally these plants are only used at peak periods when the demand is the greatest. Private companies could choose to run these plants 24 hours a day to “maximize profits” and sell excess power to the U.S. When this same government sold the highway 407 Express Toll Route (ETR) a few years ago, consumers were wacked with increased rates almost immediately – and then more increases. Meanwhile, the share value of the ETR has increased to four times its original worth in just three years. Consumers aren’t just paying more, they’re also subsidizing the profits of those who bought those shares. Hydro One, which is estimated to sell for about $5.5 billion, has been valued at $9.2 billion. We don’t need another 407 mess, especially given that, this time, we’re dealing with essential public services! Hydro is not a luxury item we can easily manage without. If you’re concerned about the sell-off, phone or fax your Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) or the Premier at 416.325.1941. Fax 416.325.3745. There is no toll free access number to the premier’s office although they say they will return long distance phone calls, if requested.
May 13, 2002
J
An Open Letter To Our Sisters and Brothers of Local 175, Thunder Bay
Inspired by news that Local 175 members in Thunder Bay had rejected Safeway’s demand for concessions, B.C. UFCW Canada member Deb Denman wrote the following letter. She read it to her Local 1518 sisters and brothers at the local’s May 2002 Policy Conference. Deb’s words inspired a standing ovation from everyone in the room. To Our Sisters and Brothers of Local 175, Thunder Bay: This week we’ve come together from all across this province to decide what we, the members, will bring to the table when we negotiate with our employers next year. It’s been a good conference: talking with each other is always fortifying; we had the privilege of hearing Mike Fraser of the National Office, and were inspired by the president of the BC Federation of Labour, Jim Sinclair, whose fiery address wilted the icy threat of the Harris-like government we now face. But the single most electrifying moment, the most unifying standing ovation, the furthest-reaching message arrived with the morning announcements midweek – that after seven months on the line, Local 175 rejected Safeway’s final offer. Thanks to technology and the global economy, we are seeing an industrial revolution of a wholly different kind, and with it, the conditions that fostered the first great wave of unionism, in which workers awoke to the fact that the boss really just wished they were machines – and treated them as such. They risked life and limb, literally, to say, “NO. This is wrong, we will make it right!” Solidarity meant everything then, when workers had little else … “nothing to lose but their chains,” indeed.
You decided your Safeway careers would die on their feet, not survive on their knees. You believed in a humane and dignified workplace, and refused a second-class one. You drew that line – for all of us. We of 1518, strengthened and renewed by your example, intend to hold that line. The commitment in this room as we write is palpable: we will uphold the standards you’ve set. You’ve given us, and all working people in Canada, great strength. Now may it return to you a hundredfold. You are not alone. We of Local 1518 are with you in spirit. Once more, I quote our predecessors: What force on earth is weaker than the feeble strength of one? But the Union makes us strong. In solidarity, the Members of UFCW Local 1518
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Wayne Hanley President Locals 175 & 633
Re: Training and Education Centre Course – ABCs of Computers Dear Wayne: I’d like to say a few words, in regards to the present opportunities you offer the members of UFCW locals. I did not know how to use my home computer, to its fullest, until I was accepted for this course. I’ve learned so much from my instructor Maureen. Unbelievable! I’ve enjoyed this class tremendously. My typing has even improved. I’m in my late forties, and still
learning. If your office did not provide the computer class, for free, I would not have learned to use my computer to its fullest. I’m a single mother of three teenage boys and would never have been able to afford to take a course through night school. Thanking you doesn’t seem to be enough. I really am looking forward to any future courses you may be offering the members. Sincerely, Debra L. Robertson
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Sharon Gall, South Central Region Director
Re: Training and Education Centre Course Dear Sharon: I have just graduated from the UFCW Locals 175 and 633 course, Introduction to Computers. It was an excellent course, well-managed and well-presented. I learned more in one week here than in a course I took for 10 weeks elsewhere. The teacher was very knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly.
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Harry Sutton Central West Region Director
Dear Harry: Just a short note to express our appreciation to you and your staff in relationship to the Level I Stewardship Training Conference in Niagara Falls. I am speaking on behalf of both of us when I say the training was educational and knowledgeable. We want to thank you for arranging a very well-organized event from which we will all benefit. Thanks again. Maggie Shields Rob Glencross
Thank you for everything. Sincerely Betty Whiteside
No Free Lunch … Your UFCW Canada membership does entitle you, however, to $1500 in Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance from AIL Canada. What’s the catch? When you send in the card to register for the benefit, you will be contacted by an insurance agent who will attempt to assess your insurance needs and may try to sell you life insurance. You are under no obligation. Locals 175 & 633 are in no way promoting the sale of this insurance. It is always the choice of the member to determine what, if any, services he or she may wish to opt for from AIL or other businesses with which the locals negotiate special benefits for members.
SUMMER 2002
KEEP IN TOUCH
In 2002, the word “solidarity” never meant more than when a small collective of grocery workers – with much to lose – sent an adrenalin shot into the veins of the union movement – when you in Thunder Bay recognized your own dignity when the employer would not.
PEOPLE
MEMBER APPOINTMENTS Primrose Short, who works as a pharmacy technician at the Pharma Plus store in Orangeville, was appointed to the Brampton/ Mississauga Labour Council on March 19, 2002.
She has been a member of UFCW Local 175 since 1995, regularly serves on Pharma Plus negotiating committees, and also assisted in organizing the Maxi store in Orangeville in 1999.
STAFF CHANGES Dave White is assisting the local unions as a training rep, at the Locals 175 & 633 Training & Education Centre. He is a longtime union activist who has extensive experience in education. He brings to our locals more than 12 years experience as a computer education and technical specialist with the Metro Labour Education Centre (MLEC) which is a special project of the Toronto and York Region Labour Council. He has also served on the CLC Education and Advisory Committee. In addition to developing training programs he provides computer instruction for the locals’ “Road Show” (a mobile computer lab that conducts courses for members in various locations across the province) and provides secondary technical support for the information technology (IT) department at the Training Centre, Mississauga and Hamilton offices. Mike Duden returned to the Organizing Department on February 4, 2002 after spending 17 months in servicing. Previously Mike had spent 10 years organizing. Kevin Shimmin has transferred from the Communications Department to Organizing. Communications Representative Bob Linton accepted a six-month temporary assignment at the UFCW Canada national office in Toronto to assist with special projects there. In his absence, Cheryl Mumford, from national office communications, is assisting with the locals communications and working out of the Mississauga office.
On March 4, 2002, Paul Jokhu became a union rep responsible for servicing the Cadbury plant in Toronto and other workplaces in the Central West Region. Paul was president of the in-plant local union, UFCW Canada Local 529P, for 10 years and also served on the UFCW Toronto Industrial Council for the last 10 years, most recently as president. The members of Local 529P voted overwhelmingly, on January 27, 2002, to merge with Local 175. The merger came into full affect in March 2002, after the membership of Local 175 also voted in favour at their regular membership meetings around the province. Rob Nicholas joined the Central East Region as a union rep on March 25. He formerly worked as a quality assurance technician at Horizon Plastics in Cobourg where he served as the UFCW’s in-plant chairperson for eight years. He has also volunteered numerous hours in organizing Leukemia fund-raisers and Labour Day parades. He is a 2001 graduate of the Labour College of Canada and an experienced union organizer who is now enjoying working as a rep.
PEOPLE
MILESTONES Aurore Perugini retired from Britannia IGA in Mississauga just short of 30 combined years of service at IGA and Safeway. She is congratulated by Central West Director Harry Sutton.
Christine Faulkner, who does produce sales promotion and cooking demonstrations at Barn #208 (Upper Gage & Fennell) in Hamilton became a union member for the first-time at age 78. She recently enjoyed a surprise in-store 80th birthday party organized by her co-workers. She currently works about six hours a week, takes the bus to work, and has never missed a scheduled shift. She has no plans to retire, although she muses, “Maybe if I’d had a good pension plan like CCWIPP a few years earlier, I might have retired by now and be seeing a bit more of the country.” Cliff Kostyniuk is a new staff organizer. Previously he was a driver/salesman and warehouseman at Danone Incorporated (formerly Delisle, which produces and sells yoghurt and other dairy products). Cliff served many years as a union steward at the company and was reelected, for his third fouryear term as a vice-president on the UFCW Local 175 Executive Board. He is a 1998 Labour College graduate and an experienced Special Union Project Representative (SPUR). Cliff has assisted the local with many organizing campaigns.
Margaret Orr (centre) who retired after more than 15 years working at Pintys Delicious Foods in St. Catharines is congratulated, at her retirement party, by Chief Steward Kathy Stafford (left) and Plant Chairperson Kate Jones.
SUMMER 2002
ARBITRATIONS
Terminated Maple Leaf workers vindicated at last T
hanks to the persistence of UFCW Local 175, eleven workers who were fired from their jobs at Maple Leaf Consumer Foods (the former Shopsy’s plant) in Weston, shared an arbitration award in excess of $230,000.
The workers, who were all receiving long-term disability benefits, were illegally terminated in 1996 and then were denied the health benefits and other advantages normally provided to employees. The award includes reimbursement for health benefit claims as well as a one-time, lump sum “buy-out” payment that employees were paid after the grievors were terminated. The employer was also required to reinstate the eight employees who have not yet reached their retirement age and provide them with the same benefits as active employees. “It was unimaginable for this battle to go on so long,” says Central East Director Jerry Clifford. President Wayne Hanley congratulated the workers and presented them with the cheques during an April 5
Front row from left: Michelina Buttiggieg, Ida Antinozzi, Necati Alkin. Back row: President Wayne Hanley, Maria Citta, Natalina Fazari, Laura Paniccia, Rosa Ribeiro, Central East Director Jerry Clifford. luncheon meeting in the Locals 175 and 633 Mississauga office. “No employer should be allowed to fire workers, just because they’re receiving disability benefits,” he said. “I’m pleased that we were able to have you reinstated – with a nice financial settlement as well!”
Retirement Home Worker Cleared of Wrong-Doing A member of UFCW Canada Local 175 at the Vera M. Davis Community Care Centre in Bolton won a major arbitration victory after she was wrongfully terminated by the retirement home in Summer 2001. Local 175 took the matter to arbitration after the employer refused to reinstate her. As a result of the arbitrator’s ruling, the member was returned to her job immediately with full back pay, benefits, and seniority. The employer must also pay for the member’s legal fees. This case involves an exemplary and hard-working member who, in the words of the arbitrator, “was dealt a grave injustice in both the fact and manner of her termination.” In June 2001, rumours had started circulating that the member had physically assaulted two residents at the retirement home. The employer responded by ignoring the proper investigational procedures and did not even check on the well-being of the residents who were allegedly assaulted. Without a shred of evidence, or any investigation, the employer terminated the
member and contacted the police. The police charged the member and the employer even refused to acknowledge the member’s testimony on the matter. Fortunately the arbitrator recognized the seriousness of the wrongful termination in the ruling regarding the member, who had never assaulted any resident of the home. “This member is extremely dedicated and cares about each and every resident in the retirement home,” says UFCW Canada Local 175 Union Rep John DiFalco, “Our Union made sure that the member not only got her job back with full compensation, but that her name was cleared and that the employer paid for this terrible injustice. I hate to think what would have happened to this fine person if she were not a member of Local 175.” The arbitrator also required the employer to reinstate the member as an honest and respectable employee, saying: “It is also the responsibility of the employer to reintroduce the employee into the workforce as someone who has been exonerated of wrongdoing and falsely accused.”
he training for UFCW Locals 175 & 633 stewards, which takes place at annual seminars, is an important factor in enabling them to be more effective in their workplaces. On February 9 and 10, 165 Toronto-area stewards attended seminars at the Howard Johnson Triumph Hotel located on Keele Street & the 401 Highway. On March 9 and 10, 214 stewards from the Hamilton, South Central, and Central West Regions attended seminars at the General Brock Hotel in Niagara Falls. The next series will take place in the fall: NORTHERN REGION September 28 & 29 Thunder Bay at the Valhalla Inn SOUTH WEST REGION October 19 & 20 London at the Hilton Hotel EASTERN REGION November 2 & 3 Kingston at the Ambassador Resort Hotel & Conference Centre The next Hamilton & Niagara Regions seminars will also take place in the fall, November 16 & 17 at the Sheraton Hotel in Hamilton. All stewards are invited – and encouraged – to attend. Expenses will be reimbursed, provided the steward attends all scheduled educational sessions. To find out more about the prescheduled seminars – or to arrange steward training at another time or place – contact your Regional Director.
UFCW Locals 175 & 633 participate in plenary (round table) and workshop sessions at the Toronto Stewards Conference in February 2002. Seminars presented in both areas were well attended and received enthusiastic responses from the stewards (see “Keep in Touch” on page 5). Topics covered included: Level I and II Steward Training, Introduction to Health & Safety, Collective Bargaining/Negotiations, Demystifying Computers, Desktop Publishing, Public Speaking, and Reducing Violence in the Workplace.
Sharon Clarke, Labour Community Services, was guest facilitator for the Violence in the Workplace Workshop.
Union Rep Paul Jokhu buys a button to support striking members at Canada Safeway stores in Thunder Bay. The fund-raisers who included (from left) Union Rep Sylvia Groom, Northern/South Central Region Director Sharon Gall and Union Rep Judith Burch, were successful in raising more than $1000 which will be used to stock the strikers’ food bank with essentials such as bread, milk, and eggs.
SUMMER 2002
CONFERENCES
Winter/Spring Stewards’ Training: A Huge Success T
STRIKES & LOCKOUTS
Safeway Update
UFCW Members at Safeway Vote “NO” UFCW CANADA LOCAL 175 members who had been on strike against Canada Safeway in Thunder Bay since October 1, 2001 voted, on May 7, 2002, to reject the company’s “final offer.” The “no” result of the government-supervised vote occurred despite Safeway’s assurances that “no” meant closure of the three Thunder Bay stores and job loss for 400 plus workers. The final result was 201 opposed, versus 195 in favour of the offer. “The company used every scare tactic and evasivequestion-answering strategy it could,” says John Fuller, chief negotiator for the union. He says the union is definitely concerned for the future of these workers. “But despite an uncertain future the majority of the workers simply couldn’t stomach the company’s demands for major concessions, including wage freezes and restructuring of the benefit package for newly-hired workers.” Fuller says union represen-
Others assist with the food, clothing and toy banks
tatives are waiting for Safeway’s response to the vote and hopes it will, at last, negotiate a good new contract or sell the stores to someone who can. “We know these were three very successful stores – both in terms of sales and profits – and it’s possible for Safeway to provide good wages and benefits and still make money,” he says. “UFCW Canada has good contracts with retail grocery stores all across the country; we believe workers in Thunder Bay – and the local economy – can and should benefit from the profits that these stores can generate.” Just prior to press time, on June 6, 2002, Safeway announced the closure of three Thunder Bay stores. The union is continuing its commitment to the workers by providing assistance in retraining and reemployment. It is also attempting to facilitate the sale of the stores to a committed retail store operator.
…or help out at the kids’ Easter Party.
STRIKES & LOCKOUTS Some striking Safeway members are active with picket line informational campaign
UFCW Local 175 Secretary-Treasurer Jim Andress (left) joins Safeway picketers.
Joanne Phair checks out the Locals’ News & Views newsletter
UFCW Local 175 member Cindy Moro, on strike against Safeway joins picket line forces with a striking OPSEU member. Both unions are fighting their employers for pension improvements.
SUMMER 2002
NEGOTIATIONS
Thrifty Canada Workers End Lockout
Workers Win FirstContract Agreement at Retirement Home Locked out Thrifty Workers, from left – Rafiq Zia, Leila Ramjit, and Kent Allette, Thrifty customer service representatives (CSRs) working out of Pearson Airport Terminal Two.
John Ruyl (left) and Don Brown, Trippers at the Indian Line facility.
Dwarka Becessar, Jockey at the Indian Line facility.
MEMBERS at Thrifty Canada ratified a new collective agreement on March 22, 2002 to end a five-week lockout. The company’s original proposal included a three-year wage freeze which it said was necessary due to a decline in business after the September 11 terrorist attack in the U.S. The final settlement retained a one-year wage freeze but provides increases of 35¢ per hour, in both the second and third year of the contract, for Customer Service Representatives (CSRs). Drivers won increases of 50¢ per hour, also in both the second and third year. Two job functions – “Jockeys”, who drive the rental cars between the retail outlet and the parking facility and “Trippers” who transfer cars from one retail outlet to another – have been combined into a new “Driver” category. More: Larry Bain.
After 16 months of negotiations, members at the Village of Riverside Glen Retirement Home in Guelph ratified a new two-year agreement on March 1, 2002. It provides wage increases of 6% over the life of the contract. This includes a payment of 1%, retroactive to the first pay period in January 2002 for all workers on staff on the contract ratification date, except registered nursing staff. Registered nursing staff received an additional $1per-hour-retention raise. Additionally all workers receive another 1% retroactive to October 2001. The agreement also provides improved Vision Plan Coverage, bereavement leave, and an extra float holiday. Good new language clauses cover job posting language, hours of work and overtime, seniority, and union security. The negotiating committee will be paid lost wages. “This first collective agreement represents a big step forward for these members,” says South Western Region Director Teresa Magee. “It provides better wages, benefits, and security, plus the retroactive wage increase, which is quite unusual in this industry.” Negotiators: Wendy McGard and Union Rep Angus Locke.
Members at Lewisfoods Inc. who work in the cafeteria at the Bruce Nuclear Generating Station (near Tiverton, south of Port Elgin) ratified a new agreement on April 11, 2002. Security at the plant has been heightened because of the September 11 terrorist attacks in the U.S. All visitors to the plant must pass an airport-type security check that takes about 30 minutes, including their palm-print recording. Even employees, who must pass a strict background investigation prior to being hired, are required to pass through various types of security checks before entering the workplace each day. In such an environment, employee retention becomes more of a challenge. Therefore a new service premium of 70¢ is being implemented in this agreement. Some members of the bargaining unit will receive increases of $1 per hour this year and others will likely be eligible over the next few years. Additionally, a certified cook will also benefit from a 50¢-per-hour retention bonus which will be paid annually on May 1st of each year. General wage increases, as of May 1, are 30¢ per hour in 2002, 32¢ in 2003, and 35¢ in 2004. The shift premium has increased from 70¢ to $1 per hour. Additional improvements include increases in bereavement leave, accidental death & dismemberment insurance, optical benefit, and shoe allowance. The employer agrees to increase its contribution to the dental plan from 27¢ per hour to 30¢ and also establish a paid sick day plan. The latter provides a cash payout at the end of the year for any unused sick days. All members receive an extra paid floating holiday. Several strong language improvements have been gained relating to job posting, recall rights, leaves of absence, and a sunset clause on discipline.
“This agreement achieves substantial improvements that recognize the service and dedication of our members,” says Union Rep Rick Wauhkonen. “Particularly in the areas of compensation and benefits, our members will enjoy new improvements that help them plan for a secure future.” Negotiators: Francine Gagne, Nancy Pierunek, and Rick Wauhkonen.
Progress for Nursing Home Workers Workers at Coleman’s Care Centre in Barrie ratified a significant new agreement on April 9 that provides improvements in vacations, sick leave, and language. The employer will ensure the maintenance of dental plan benefits by increasing its contributions. It will begin paying more into the pension plan which will translate into higher benefits for retired workers. Wage increases are significant as well. All workers receive a 42¢ per-hour increase in the first year, 38¢ in the second, and 59¢ in the third year. Wages for Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) will increase by an extra 25¢ per hour, for a total of 67¢, in the first year. Negotiators: Donna Black, Laurie Morden, Sharlene Tilley, and Rob Nicholas.
Canteen Limited Workers Ratify Members at Canteen Limited in Barrie ratified a new three-year agreement on April 1, 2002. It provides wage increases of 25¢ in each year of the contract plus increases in sick time, optical, and dental coverage as well as in pension benefits.
CFB Workers Win Substantial New Agreement Workers at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Borden ratified “their best ever” collective agreement on February 26, 2002. “The money’s good,” says Central East Director Jerry Clifford. The 115 workers, who provide food and beverage services, grounds and building cleaning and maintenance as well as day care, will receive a 2% payment retroactive to the contract expiry date of November 31, 2001. On April 1, 2002 a new wage grid goes into effect which will increase wages by a total of $1.36-$2.39 per hour (depending on job classification and seniority) over the three-year agreement. Employees will benefit from improvements in bereavement and maternity leave as well as in language pertaining to work scheduling. All workers will now receive workplace lockers. Negotiators: Teresa Gilday, Linda Leiska, Edith Mielke-Pelletier, Luc Lacelle, Roy Reed, and Jerry Clifford.
Good Increases for Blockbuster Workers Ten employees at Blockbuster Video in Woodbridge ratified a new agreement on April 14, 2002. They will receive increases of 18¢ per hour retroactive to November 1, 2001, 15¢ on May 1, 2002, and 15¢ on May 1, 2003. In addition they may earn up to 45¢ per hour, as merit pay, over the two-year term of the agreement. Improvements have been made in stewards’ and other language as well as in the grievance procedure. More: Jerry Clifford
More: Jerry Clifford.
SUMMER 2002
NEGOTIATIONS
Nuclear Plant Workers Ratify
NEGOTIATIONS
New agreement for 1400 Ontario Pharma Plus Workers AFTER JUST SIX DAYS of negotiations the Pharma Plus negotiating committee was successful in reaching a substantially-improved agreement. It was ratified by the membership on March 10, 2002. “This agreement is a big step forward, especially at a time when so many workers in the service industry are working minimum wage jobs with no benefits or chance of advancement,” says Local 175 President Wayne Hanley. Wages for new hires, in most classifications, will increase 20% or more over the life of the agreement. By the last year of the contract workers at the top rate, with four or more years of experience, will earn $12.25-$13.67 per hour, depending on job classification. This represents an increase of more than 70% for those who currently have 12 months experience. In addition, the hourly premium for opening or closing the store increases from 25¢ to 50¢, or more. Full-time workers are guaranteed 40 hours per week and layoff provisions have been improved. Other improvements include payment for travelling time to meetings or other assignments during working hours and a clause ensuring payment for statutory holidays, if the worker is absent before or after for a bona fide reason. The sunset clause on disciplinary records will be reduced from 18 months to 12. Members are entitled to view their personnel files on written request. Workers recalled after layoff will be assured a 14-day familiariza-
UFCW Canada Local 175 SecretaryTreasurer Jim Andress and Executive Assistant Jim Hastings drop in on the Pharma Plus negotiating committee. Back row, from left: Marilyn Miller, Andress, Primrose Short, Hastings, Mona Bailey, Norma Hurley, Velma Parks, Shelly Ortepi and Julie Flynn. Front row: Robin Roth and Krista Porter. tion period to become reacquainted with job responsibilities. For the first time full-time workers will be covered for a biennial $300orthopaedic-insert benefit; the vision coverage will increase to $250 every two years. Pharma Plus will increase its contributions to the dental and pension plans. It will also pay for staff training. Cardigans will now be added to the staff uniforms. A new classification – Certified Pharmacy Technician – has been added. The employer will cover the cost of training and certificates; pharmacy assistants with 10 years or more of service will automatically be paid the higher technician rate. All employees will be entitled to improvements in bereavement leave. For the first time part-timers will be entitled to a drug benefit that provides them with prescription medication. The company has also agreed to cooperate with the union to prevent and eliminate harassment (as defined by the Ontario Human Rights Code) in the workplace.
During negotiations the issue of mechanization was discussed. The union negotiating team visited a Toronto Pharma Plus store where a robotic pill-counting machine had been installed to handle a very high volume of prescriptions. The committee needed to ensure that any technological change, such as this one, would not negatively affect the workers. Therefore new collective agreement language was agreed to which requires the parties to meet and develop strategies to ensure that staff reductions do not occur as a result of mechanization. In this particular instance, the company assured the union that the machine was installed on a test basis and there were no plans to install similar machines in other stores. Nevertheless, language is in place to protect the workers. “This was an extremely positive set of negotiations,” says Central West Director Harry Sutton. He says the company came to the meeting with two proposals, which it promptly withdrew. Instead it was willing to address all the issues that were important to the membership. “The company came to the table to get a settlement,” says Sutton. “It was willing to discuss all the members’ concerns in an open and fair manner and as a result we achieved an excellent agreement.” Negotiating committee member Mona Bailey credits good teamwork for the quality of the agreement. She says “when tough decisions had to be made the whole committee stuck together and won acrossthe-board increases and pension contributions for all 1400 members right across the province.”
ORGANIZING
Update Sobeys, Price Chopper, Herbies Food and Drug, and Zellers are major chains being targeted by Local 175 Organizers in 2002. The team of four staffers and four Special Union Project Representatives (SPURS) has been busy, since their training sessions in early February, conducting campaigns in a number of stores across Ontario. If you have friends or relatives working in these stores – or any unorganized workplaces – who you think could use a good union, please refer them to the Local 175 Organizing Coordinator, Mark Flannigan. Total discretion and complete confidentiality is always assured!
Organizing team members (from left) Dan Bondy, Cliff Kostyniuk, Pat Newell, Kevin Shimmin, Mona Bailey, Matt Davenport, and Mike Duden. Absent: Organizing Coordinator Mark Flannigan.
2002 ORGANIZING Union vote won & certification granted: January 11 - Robin Hood Multifoods, Delhi January 16 - Madawaska Doors, Barry’s Bay February 27 - Ostrander’s Funeral Home, Tillsonberg Applications pending at the Ontario Labour Relations Board: - Cosmetica, Scarborough - Bee Cleaning, Toronto
Strong collective agreements – that provide good wages and benefits, safe working conditions, and ensure justice and dignity in the workplace – are the main reasons that unorganized workers join together to form a union. How to bargain collectively with an employer, to obtain a strong collective agreement, is one of the ongoing training courses offered by Local 175. Workers in most UFCW Canada workplaces elect co-workers to sit on their negotiating committee, which also includes knowledgeable Local 175 staff representatives. Workers tell the committee what provisions they want in their agreement, and then the committee bargains with the employer to obtain a tentative agreement which is accepted or rejected by the members in each workplace.
IMPORTANT NOTICE RE: Employment Insurance You can appeal an Employment Insurance (EI) decision to deny benefits. There are time limits to file an appeal; you need to call the Benefits Department and discuss your claim. When you are informed of a hearing date, immediately contact the Benefits Department in Hamilton 905.545.8354 or 1-800-567-2125.
SUMMER 2002
HEALTH & SAFETY
About 25 workers from the Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola plants in Hamilton attended a half-day educational session at UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Hamilton office on Saturday, April 13, 2002.
Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola workers listen…
…as Union Benefits Coordinator Herb MacDonald explains WSIB changes. WORKERS Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) director George Ward gave a presentation on the changes in the WSIB’s appeal process and emphasized the organization’s efforts to become more “user friendly” for its “major stakeholders” – injured workers, unions, and employers. The food and beverage industry is a significant segment within the WSIB, he said, representing 30% of its premium income. Ward stressed the importance of good documentation for all workplace accidents and injuries. Even some conditions that take years to develop can be compensated, he said, provided the worker keeps a thorough record of symptoms and treatments over a period of time. Following Ward’s presentation, Local 175 Benefits Coordinator Herb MacDonald – assisted by Benefits Representative Sherree Backus, and Union Rep Chris Fuller – explained the union’s perspective on the changes and stressed the steps an injured worker needs to follow. Persistence is the key, said Backus. “It’s the squeaky wheel that gets the grease.”
IT’S THE SQUEAKY WHEEL THAT GETS THE GREASE
To arrange a similar presentation for your workplace or area contact the UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Benefits Department. You may also want to request copies of the four new brochures on the WSIB claims and appeals process which are available from this department as well as from the regional offices.
WSIB Director George Ward (left) hears, first-hand, about workers’ experiences with his organization.
RE: Labour Market Re-Entry Plans / and Accommodation If you are involved in a return to work accommodation – or have not yet returned to work following a workrelated injury – and the WSIB asks you to participate in a labour market re-entry plan (LMRP), you need to contact your Union Representative immediately!
CAUTION!CAUTION!CAUTION! DANGER AHEAD: Some employers are encouraging injured workers not to file a WSIB claim. Instead they may offer them modified work duties or ask them to file a weekly indemnity claim. This is contrary to WSIB policy and may result in the worker being denied insurance benefits – for what would have been a legitimate WSIB claim – down the road. If you’re injured on the job, ensure your employer completes a WSIB form and provides you with a copy.
Union Women Working to Build the UFCW is the title of a new brochure that describes some of the activities and issues of special interest to UFCW women members as well as benefits of belonging to an organized workplace. Copies are available by contacting the UFCW Local 175 Organizing Department.
UFCW Members at Molson Chosen for Implementation Team UFCW Local 175 is one of four locals representing 1,028 union members at Molson in Etobicoke. There are approximately 34 Local 175 members at the brewing plant who perform essential technical and administrative work. Job titles include the plant nurse, lab technicians, stores keepers, and various personnel responsible for scheduling production and manpower in every department of the facility. Earlier this year workers participated in a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the opening of the new “state-of-the-art T6” bottling line which is capable of running at a speed of 1,000 bottles per minute. Molson has committed $100 million to ensure the entire
“T6” Implementation Team members are photographed at the February 12, 2002 Groundbreaking Ceremony to mark the opening of the new “T6” production line. Toronto “flagship” brewery achieves world class performance standards. Accordingly they have created a team of workers, selected from various in-plant departments, who will ensure that worker concerns are addressed during
the implementation and on-going production generated on the new line. UFCW members Steve Ward, a Quality Control Analyst, and Dave Kennedy, a Maintenance Scheduler are part of the “T6” Implementation Team.
SUMMER 2002
HEALTH & WOMEN SAFETY
IMPORTANT NOTICE
TRAINING & EDUCATION
Growing Demand for UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Training & Education Centre Courses Demand for training courses has exploded! In the first quarter of 2002, more members took courses than in all of 1997. Courses included Computer Foundations, English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL), General Education Development (Grade XII Equivalency), and Stewards’ Training.
YEAR
TOTAL TRAINED
1997
642
1998
1070
1999
1284
2000
1913
2001
1322
2002 First Quarter!
705
What UFCW members are saying about their courses: “ I wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed the computer course. I wish to change occupations and found the course very beneficial. The lessons were simple and easy to follow; the instructor was very patient and explained each step.” Name Witheld.
“ I enjoyed learning word processing and Excel. Our teacher was very knowledgeable and helped me with any questions I had.” Debbie Sholhan. “ I was totally computer illiterate before I took the course. I learned a lot!” Shellie Shuart.
Locals 175 & 633 Training & Education Coordinator Victor Carrozzino conducts computer training courses at the Meyerside Training Centre and other locations throughout the province. “ It is very nice to know that people like you have the time and patience to help people understand computers. I hope there is a future course that we will be able to attend.” Natalie Whiteside.
In 2001 June Matuschka (below left) Zehrs, Sarnia, accepts the “Best Representation” trophy presented by Bill Hicks, Parade Marshall, Sarnia District Labour Council. The trophy was awarded to UFCW Canada Locals 175 and 633 for the best marching unit.
LABOUR DAY To find out more about Labour Day activities planned for your community, contact your nearest Locals 175 and 633 office or your district labour council.
The members, who participated in the parade, work at Zehrs, Garden Market IGA, Corunna A&P, and SuperFresh.
YOUTH NEWS
YouthNEWS www.ufcw175.com - e-mail: youth@ufcw175.com
Music Contest I
n order to help inspire a new cuture of political and labour music, the UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Youth Committee developed a music contest for all members of the Union. Participants were required to write/perform songs that are union oriented, political, and/or promote human rights. Winning songs were selected by the Youth Committee. First Place went to Jamie Desrochers (A&P) and his band “Retrograd” (see right). Their song, “The Box” represents the eternal struggle against oppression. Second Place (see above) went to Darryl Riddolls (Horizon Plastics) for his song of solidarity, “Side by Side”. Third Place winner (see below) was Jenn Sparacino (Zellers) for her song “You’ll be there”, a song of combating oppression.
Honourable mention goes out to Jason Fex (Sobeys), Andrew Fisler (Fortinos), and Scott Walmsley (A&P). By developing a new culture of labour music, these artists are providing workers and UFCW members with a new understanding of the social and economic inequities in the world.
“The Box” represents the eternal struggle against oppression
The UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Youth Committee has been established to help educate young members about their legal rights in the workplace and to increase membership participation among young workers. To find out more about youth events or obtain more information about your legal rights at work, contact the Youth Committee at: youth@ufcw175.com
SUMMER 2002
SCHOLARSHIPS SCHOLARSHIP NAME
The following scholarships are available to Locals 175 & 633 members, and children of members, who are pursuing a post-secondary education. NUMBER AWARDED/ DEADLINE
AMOUNT
APPLY TO:
The Mckay-ThompsonHoebink-Gibson Scholarship
56 Aug.1
$750
Applications available from Locals 175 & 633 offices, Union Reps, or at www.ufcw175.com.
The William J. Beggs, Fred Dowling, Romeo Mathieu Scholarship
18 Sept.30
$500
Applications available from UFCW Canada Office of Education, 300-61 International Blvd., Rexdale, ON M9W 6K4. 416.675.1104 or at www.ufcw.ca
The 2003 UFCW Canada Scholarship
2 Dec.31
$4000 Maximum
Applications available from UFCW Canada Office of Education, 300-61 International Blvd., Rexdale, ON M9W 6K4. 416.675.1104 or at www.ufcw.ca
Sarah Galvin, striking Local 175 member from Safeway in Thunder Bay, completes her application for the Mckay-Thompson-Hoebink-Gibson Scholarship.
From left - front row-David Ralphs, Jim Burgess, Dale Simon, Bonnie Broman, Liz Jung, Johnston. Ralphs, Standing-Dave White,Dale Janice Turner, Elaine Hartin,Liz From left - Donna front row-David Jim Burgess, Simon, Bonnie Broman, Lana Infante, Dennis Strong, Sharlene Tilley, Bill Elaine Tshirhart, Garry Kelly. Jung, Hobe, DonnaSuzy Johnston. Standing-Dave White, Janice Turner, Hartin, Lana Hobe, Suzy Infante, Dennis Strong, Sharlene Tilley, Bill Tshirhart, Garry Kelly. users and is scheduled for November Members and Stewards 3-8, 2002. Stewards Scholarships Scholarship Courses Awards includes union history and activities, These one-week courses are held at organizing, current issues for the the Locals 175 & 633 Training & Labour Movement …and more! It will Education Centre in Mississauga. The take place November 10-15. course cost, materials and instruction Call the Training Centre for applicaplus lost wages, per diems, transtions and deadlines. portation and accommodation are all part of the award. The instructor and participants in the Member Scholarships is an introducto- May 2002 Stewards Scholarship Course are shown in the photo above. ry course designed for new computer
Return postage will be paid by: UNITED FOOD AND COMMERCIAL WORKERS Locals 175 and 633 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga, Ontario L5N 2K7 Canada Post Corporation Publication Agreement No. 40064671