THE NEWS MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF UFCW CANADA LOCALS 175 & 633 VOLUME XIV NO. 1
WINTER 2005
Challenges Past & Present
Record turn-outs for Fall stewards conferences
SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS
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CONTENTS
President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Secretary-Treasurer Jim Andress retires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
John Fuller, Executive Assistant to the President, retires
UFCW LOCAL 175 President
Wayne Hanley
...........
Recorder
Betty Pardy Executive Assistants
Letters
Shawn Haggerty, Jim Hastings, Teresa Magee
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PEOPLE Staff News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steward Profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
UFCW LOCAL 633
President
Dan Bondy Secretary-Treasurer
Marylou Mallett Recorder
Neil Hotchkiss
EVENTS Stewards turn out in record numbers for Fall seminars
.....
Thunder Bay Halloween party is a popular event . . . . .
PROVINCIAL OFFICE 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga L5N 2K7 905-821-8329 Toll free 1-800-565-8329 Fax 905-821-7144
FUNDRAISING Local 175 Golf raises $8,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Toronto-area members’ tournament nets $1,564 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Windsor golf tournament contributes $3,400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baseball tournaments raise $4,733 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Benefits Coordinator
Herb MacDonald
Benefits Representatives
Sherree Backus, Emmanuelle Lopez-Tambasco Benefits Intake Representative
SCHOLARSHIPS
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brenda Simmons Health & Safety Representative
Janice Klenot Senior Legal Counsel
Georgina Watts Legal Counsel
TRAINING & EDUCATION Members and Stewards Course Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Michael Hancock, Naveen Mehta, Rebecca Woodrow Legal Representative
Fernando Reis Organizing Representatives
Mona Bailey, Michael Duden, Kevin Shimmin
NEGOTIATIONS Perth Brown Shoe workers secure contract improvements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . New full-time positions and increases for Avis workers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . New collective agreement for Protexion workers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Unilever workers vote in favour of numerous improvements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hamilton Pepsi workers ratify new contract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Busch’s Auto Supply workers achieve new contract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Minute Maid workers avoid strike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Improvements for Resource Centre workers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PAY EQUITY UPDATE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
HEALTH & SAFETY WHMIS: Your Right to know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Director
Luc Lacelle
Union Representatives
Jehan Ahamed, Mike Brennan, Tim Deelstra, John DiFalco, Paul Jokhu, Anthony DiMaio, Rob Nicholas
YOUTH NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CENTRAL EAST REGION
Graphic design - ARTiFACT graphic design
CENTRAL WEST REGION 412 Rennie Street Hamilton L8H 3P5 905-545-8354 Toll free: 1-800-567-2125 Fax: 905-545-8355 Director
Harry Sutton Union Representatives
Joe DeMelo, Linval Dixon, Chris Fuller, Rick Hogue, Fernando Reis, Dan Serbin, Kelly Tosato
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 SOUTH CENTRAL REGION Director
Sharon Gall Union Representatives
Judith Burch, Matt Davenport, John DiNardo, Sylvia Groom, Roy Reed EASTERN REGION 20 Hamilton Avenue North Ottawa K1Y 1B6 613-725-2154 Toll free 1-800-267-5295 Fax 613-725-2328 Director
Dan Lacroix Union Representatives
Simon Baker, Paul Hardwick, Marilyn Lang, Daniel Mercier NORTH WEST REGION Room 21, Lakehead Labour Centre 929 Fort William Road Thunder Bay P7B 3A6 807-346-4227 Toll free 1-800-465-6932 Fax 807-346-4055 Director
Shawn Haggerty Union Representative
Colby Flank SOUTH WEST REGION 124 Sydney Street South Kitchener N2G 3V2 519-744-5231 Toll free 1-800-265-6345 Fax 519-744-8357 Director
Ray Bromley Union Representatives
Wendy Absolom, Kevin Dowling, Angus Locke, Julie Johnston, Rick Wauhkonen TRAINING & EDUCATION CENTRE Suite 700, 1450 Meyerside Drive Mississauga L5T 2N5 905-564-2500 Toll Free 1-800-728-8902 Fax 905-564-2898 Director of Education & Communications
Victor Carrozzino Education & Communication Reps
President’s Message
Published six times yearly. ISSN no. 1703-3926
Challenges in the coming year his past year we experienced a number of strikes and lockouts. Members at Quality Meats, Midtown Meats, Hertz, Alpine Graphics and Cancoil relied on their solidarity and resolve, and the strength of the Locals, to achieve the contracts they deserve despite their employers’ attempts to the contrary.
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We do not take the need for strike action lightly. Nor do we back down. We do not give in to employer demands for concessionary bargaining. We bargain as a team, together, to get the best possible contracts and fully support the democratic majority decision of members to strike or not to strike.
WAYNE HANLEY
We always bargain with great determination. Increasingly, however, employers use the excuse of globalization pressures to make unreasonable demands of workers. In 2004, the trend toward exporting manufacturing and processing jobs continued, as did the threat to these workers’ jobs. Keeping our good-paying retail jobs also proved a challenge this past year. Stores like Wal-Mart and its non-unionized low-paying environment threaten the quality of life of retail and non-retail workers alike. In 2005, we will continue to stand strong. We will continue to organize Wal-Mart workers. To protect our jobs we must fight continually with employers to ensure we maintain good pay and benefits. These benefits include good pensions. The Local is proud to have so many members participate in the Canadian Commercial Workers Industry Pension Plan (CCWIPP) – a completely employer-funded registered pension plan. Many pension plans across the country suffered over the last few years due to more stringent government regulations and weak stock market performance. Members who participate in CCWIPP are already aware of changes to their scale of future credited benefits. For details on these pension changes you can visit www.ccwipp.org or call 1-888-873-4711. This year we will fight to secure increased employer contributions to CCWIPP at each and every round of bargaining to bring benefits up to the level they were prior to January 1, 2005. It may take a strike to convince employers that it is their duty to help provide a good quality of retirement life for dedicated workers.
IN 2005, WE WILL
CONTINUE TO STAND
Each member of Locals 175 & 633 has the complete support of the Union. All of us together – staff, officers, myself and thousands of members – will continue to achieve the contracts that you deserve and that best reflect your financial and personal needs today and in the future.
STRONG. WE WILL CONTINUE TO ORGANIZE WAL-MART WORKERS.
Georgina Broeckel, Gail Carrozzino, Cheryl Mumford, Kelly Provost, Jennifer Tunney, Ashleigh Vink, Dave White
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PEOPLE
Secretary-Treasurer Jim Andress retires Brother Jim Andress recently announced his retirement as SecretaryTreasurer of Local 175. “This is without doubt one of the most difficult decisions I have ever had to make,” he said. Jim first became a member of the Retail Clerks International Union (RCIU) when he started working as a grocery clerk at Loblaws in London in 1973. About a year later he became a union steward and took numerous courses to increase his knowledge and better assist his co-workers in the store. When he was offered the opportunity to become a servicing rep, with RCIU Local 206, he remembers thinking, “Why not – if nothing else it will be a learning experience that will make me a better steward.” During his year’s leave of absence, Jim discovered he enjoyed servicing – and was good at it – so he never returned to his old job at Loblaws. Subsequently RCIU became the Retail Commercial & Industrial Union, and
later the United Food & Commercial Workers Union Local 206, eventually merging with Local 175. Jim took on ever-increasing responsibilities and, at one time or another, worked as Director of several Local 175 regions. In addition to his union responsibilities, he also became an avid supporter and fundraiser for the Leukemia Research Fund of Canada, which is now the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada. When Wayne Hanley became President of Local 175 in 1999 he recommended to the Executive Board that Jim be nominated Secretary-Treasurer. As always, he readily accepted the new challenge, although he missed the daily contact with members. “As a Director, I loved the job,” he said. “No two days were the same and I liked defending the members who were being short-changed by management.” Jim will be missed by members, staff and the union leadership. “I know
JIM ANDRESS
this was a very difficult and emotional decision for Brother Andress,” says Local 175 President Wayne Hanley. “He has dedicated a quarter of a century of his life to serving the members of Local 175. If anyone deserves a well-earned retirement, it’s Brother Andress.”
Member dental plan update Members who belong to the UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Ontario Dental Benefit Plan will be pleased to know that, effective January 1, 2005, the payments they receive from the plan will be increased to match the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) 2005 fee guide for General Practitioners. Payments for the United Food and Commercial Workers Trusteed Dental Plan were increased on July 1, 2004 to bring them in line with the 2004 fee guide.
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PEOPLE
John Fuller retires Brother John Fuller, who was Executive Assistant to President Hanley, announced his intention to retire at the end of 2004. “I’ve always wanted to retire at a young enough age to travel with my wife Pat … and be able to spend time with our sons, extended families and two special granddaughters,” John said. Brother Fuller first became a union member as a Meat Cutter at Dominion Stores, in 1967, in Kingston. Unions were not, however, new to him. He grew up in a union household where his dad served as a local union President of both the Steelworkers and Millwright Unions. He therefore very quickly became involved as a union steward at age 18. Subsequently he served three terms, representing his co-workers on both the provincial Executive Board of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) and the Dominion Stores negotiating committee. From 1977 to 1990 John was a union rep with Local 414 of RWDSU, which represented 10,000 members at Dominion Stores. Later, the RWDSU merged, in part, with the UFCW. In 1991, he joined Local 175 as a union rep and was appointed director of organizing in 1993. During the two years he served in this capacity, the local unions were able to certify more than 4,700 new members and John became a frequent and visible worker advocate at the Ontario Labour Relations Board. He then served as Director of the newly-formed South Central Region, then the Ottawa Region, finally becoming Executive Assistant to the President of Local 175 in 1999.
Throughout his 28-year career, he was instrumental in achieving renewal and first contracts for thousands of members at companies both large and small. In his role of Executive Assistant he used his expertise to deal primarily with negotiations in final mediation or in labour-dispute situations. John knows he will miss being involved with the local unions on a daily basis. “UFCW, and specifically Local 175, is a great union that cares about its members; every staff person within Local 175 continually works above and beyond the norm,” he says. John is especially proud of the many younger staff he has seen coming into the Local and the speed with which they develop their skills and expertise. “I consider them to be my friends … and totally dedicated to the membership,” he says. “I have always derived great satisfaction in being part of the close-knit team led by President Hanley. Wayne is a man who always puts the members first, but still finds time to listen to staff needs and concerns. Working with Wayne has been enjoyable on both a professional and personal level. My UFCW career has not been a job … rather it’s been my distinct pleasure and privilege.” Although John is now retiring from UFCW, his two grown sons are continuing the family tradition as union activists. John is looking forward to a more relaxed pace, and hearing about union activities from his sons’ perspective. “Throughout his career with the union, John has frequently sacrificed family time to attend to urgent union matters, often working late into the evenings, as well as on weekends and holidays,” says President Hanley. “Now that he finally has the time to enjoy his family, we all wish him – and Pat – a very long and happy retirement.”
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LETTERS
J
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Wayne Hanley, President, Local 175 UFCW Canada
Dear President Hanley:
Dear Brother Hanley: On behalf of the citizens of Peterborough, particularly those who are members of UFCW Canada, thank you for your participation in the Peterborough Relief Flood Concert. The recent flooding that took place in Peterborough was devastating to the community. Many UFCW Canada members who live in the city and work at units such as Loblaws, The Beer Store, Swiss Chalet, Minute Maid, Best Western, No Frills, and A&P, suffered extensive damage to their homes and properties. Thanks, however, to the contribution from the UFCW Canada national office, Locals 175 & 633, 206, 1977, 1000A, 12R24 and the Ontario Provincial Council, the community was able to come together and raise $1.5 million in disaster-relief funds. At the concert, which was headlined by Ronnie Hawkins and Gordon Lightfoot, UFCW Canada national staff were approached by rank-and-file members who thanked their union for helping Peterborough to get back on its feet. Again, thank you for participating and helping to make UFCW Canada members in the Peterborough area proud of their union. In solidarity, Michael J. Fraser National Director
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Wayne Hanley, President, Local 175 UFCW Canada
I am writing you this letter to thank you for choosing me as one of the winners of the UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Mattie McKay/Pat Thompson/Julius Hoebink/Clarence Gibson Scholarships worth $1000. I am currently attending Georgian College in the General Business Program, so this money will help me with my educational funding. Once again, thank you for choosing me. I greatly appreciate it. Sincerely, Kim Meyer Food Basics 696, Hanover
J J
Wayne Hanley, President, Local 175 UFCW Canada
Dear Wayne:
Dear President Hanley:
I wish to congratulate you and your Local for your recent victorious arbitration with Lapointe Fisher Nursing Homes. I am aware the battle is not over yet – but you have given hope to, and should be supported by, all union members in the province. We also have language in our agreement (CAW Local 462 – Abbott labs unit – Brockville) similar to yours and grievances have been filed. My biggest concern is that Dalton McGuinty will simply legislate away these rights that have been fought for, and maintained, over the years. Hopefully, union members will realize this and apply pressure on their own specific MPPs and not give up the fight. Once again CONGRATULATIONS on your victory and thank you for leading the fight! If you feel that I can be of assistance in any manner, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Regards
My name is Jameel Amadi, I am 21 years old and I came to Canada in January 2000. I attended Stephen Leacock Secondary School from January 2000 until I graduated with Honours in June 2002. I am working at the Colonial Retirement Home in Whitby on a part-time basis. After graduating in 2006, I would like to work for a few years and continue my education and earn a Masters in Business Administration. I would like to thank everybody that made it possible for me to receive this scholarship. Thank you!
Geoff Earle Area 2 Chair – CAW Local 462
Wayne Hanley, President, Local 175 UFCW Canada
Jameel Amadi Colonial Retirement Home, Whitby
Dan Lacroix Director, Eastern Region Wayne Hanley, President, Local 175 UFCW Canada
Dear Mr. Lacroix and Mr. Hanley: This is just a quick note to express my gratefulness for receiving a scholarship from Locals 175 & 633. I feel honoured to be chosen and my parents and I thank you. Sincerely, Stephanie Leavitt (Daughter of Leanne Leavitt , A&P # 153, Picton)
J
Wayne Hanley, President, Local 175 UFCW Canada
Dear Teresa Magee and Wayne Hanley: I would like to thank you for your help in continuing my labour education related to compensation issues and the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board. I hope to help Local 175 members, in any way I can, through the things I have learned. Thank you again. Joanne Ford Colonial Cookies, Kitchener
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Ashleigh Vink has joined the training and communications staff with responsibilities in both departments. She is a member of Local 175 and is very active on the Youth Committee. She is also a regular and enthusiastic performer with the Local 175 Youth Arts Project.
ASHLEIGH VINK
Ashleigh is a recent graduate of the Niagara College program in Communications and Multimedia.
Gail Carrozzino is the most recent addition to the training centre staff. Gail spent the last three years with the Communications, Energy & Paperworkers (CEP) Union, Ontario Region, leading a work team on the Life Long Learning program, labour adjustment and sectoral councils. GAIL CARROZZINO Previously, and for over a decade, she worked for the Metro Labour Education Centre where she coordinated adult education programs and curriculum development, among many other tasks. Gail’s first actions in the labour movement go back to the CLC organizing drive of bank workers in Ontario in the mid ‘70s.
HEALTH & SAFETY PEOPLE
STAFF NEWS
STEWARD PROFILE Bryan Braithwaite started working at Loblaws in Thames Lea Plaza in Chatham at the age of 15. He spent 26 years there, gaining lots of experience. Now he works at Zehrs # 75, also in Chatham, where he is a union steward, a role he has very capably fulfilled since 1979. Bryan is also an elected member of the Local 175 Executive Board proving his peers respect and trust his judgment and commitment to their well-being.
He also teaches the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) certification and core certification levels one and two. Along with this training, he has participated in three sets of negotiations to date. Bryan volunteers his time to campaign for the New Democratic Party too. In addition to his work-related activities, he is also a great supporter of fundraising efforts to fight leukemia.
Bryan is married to Sherry. Together they have two daughters and BRYAN BRAITHWAITE a son – so he is aware of the many family issues facing his co-workers today. “His actions go a long way to improving the quality of work and life for his peers,” says Health & Safety Rep, Janice Klenot.
His dedication is evident in his participation in many aspects of the Local. Bryan is a knowledgeable health & safety trainer, certified by the Workers Health & Safety Centre. He instructs co-workers in the safe use of forklifts, power jacks and high stacker use and propane exchange.
Festive Celebration Women members at Hunter Douglas Canada celebrated their South-East Asian heritage by donning traditional clothing for a seasonal – and inclusive – get-together. So as not to exclude any co-workers, they loaned garments to Sue Augot & Rita MacMillan (centre). The workers are, front row, from left: Diep Huynh, Lien Thai, Phuong Huynh, Nhu Pham, Thuong Nguyen, Binh Lam, Sue Augot, Rita MacMillan, Lien Nguyen, Loan Tran, Ha Vang and Phuong Pham. Back row: Union Rep Anthony DiMaio was excused from wearing traditional clothing.
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EVENTS
Stewards turn out in record numbers for Fall seminars
More than 500 stewards attended Steward’s Training conferences in September and November, 2004, in Thunder Bay, Kingston and Niagara Falls. Both the attendance and interest level reached an all-time high. Members at each conference were able to choose from a number of courses, which included: Steward Level 1 and 2, Collective Bargaining, Preparation for – and Understanding – Arbitration, Introduction to Health & Safety, Musculoskeletal Injuries Prevention Program (MIPP), Workplace Safety & Insurance Board: Rights, Obligations & Benefits, and a new information course on Bill C-45. Recent additions to the program schedule are Action Teams, which provides practical skills and information for dealing with strikes and lockouts and Young, Organized and Out There. The latter, known as the “YOOT” course, provides young members with opportunities to explore their roles and develop strategies for increasing participation, both in the local union and the labour movement as a whole.
thanking the many who petitioned for his re-election and congratulating the regional Executive Board members who were acclaimed, re-elected, or elected for the first time. He urged members to visit Wal-Mart stores – not to shop but rather – to speak with workers there about their hours and working conditions and share (help them compare) the positive differences found in organized workplaces. “The reality is that it’s the Wal-Mart corporation – and not the workers – that doesn’t want a union,” he said. “We need to spread the word that things could be better and encourage Wal-Mart workers to seek alternatives so that all workers can continue to enjoy the benefits of a good union contract.” “The biggest threat to our members’
standard of living is Wal-Mart,” he emphasized. “Non-unionized workplaces, like Wal-Mart put downward pressure on wages and benefits – not just in retail, but also in manufacturing, processing and even health care. All of us must help Wal-Mart workers to organize themselves.”
Participants raise more than $24,000 for leukemia research Over the course of the three weekends, members raised more than $24,000 toward leukemia research. This astounding amount was generated through a silent auction and prize-draw tickets offered for an array of items. Stewards at all three seminars enjoyed socializing at the Saturday evening dinners.
At all three conferences, President Wayne Hanley spoke to members,
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EVENTS
Eastern Regional Director, Dan Lacroix (second from left) is assisted by union reps Simon Baker, Paul Hardwick and Luc Lacelle in the leukemia research fundraising prize draw. Dan told the conference that the Eastern region has recouped $240,000 for members in the first 10 months of 2004 as a result of the grievance procedure. The total in 2003 was $380,000. “Employers are waking up,” he said. “They’re less likely now to violate the collective agreement rights when they know they can’t get away with it.”
Central West Regional Director, Harry Sutton noted that money recouped for members, in the first 10 months of 2004, through the grievance procedure, totalled an astounding $1,020,000. This is in addition to all the money saved for members in disputes that were resolved without the necessity of the arbitration procedure.
At the Kingston seminar, President Hanley visited with young performers from the Youth Arts Project. He thanked them for the great job they’re doing, using popular theatre, to bring youth issues to the forefront.
In addition to plenary sessions, all stewards attend educational courses to enable them to better fulfill their role in the workplace.
A report on the London Steward’s Conference, scheduled for January 8 & 9, 2005, and the Toronto Conference, on February 5 & 6, 2005, will be published in the next Checkout.
After the classroom sessions, some of the Thunder Bay stewards gathered for a group photo.
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EVENTS
Thunder Bay Halloween party is a popular event More than 50 children, plus parents, attended the third annual Locals 175 & 633 children’s Halloween party on Saturday, October 24, 2004 at the Lakehead Labour Centre. They were given hot dogs, pop and various prizes and enjoyed painting pumpkins, decorating cup cakes and jumping on a giant air balloon. A 50/50 draw raised $62 for leukemia research.
Children enjoyed the food and festivities…
…although not all were equally enthusiastic.
North West Regional Director, Shawn Haggerty holds a stick, preparing to open the chocolate-filled pumpkin piñata.
Local 175’s Target Equality assists community groups Union rep Sylvia Groom, who is cochair of the Local 175 Target Equality Committee, works with co-chair Judith Birch and members to assist various community groups. Earlier this year, the committee organized donations of work boots and bed linens for “Youth Without Shelter.” “Many of the young women and men who live in this shelter are unable to work because they lack appropriate work attire,” Sylvia says. “By providing them with these necessary items, we help them to become self-supporting members of the community.” The
committee was also able to donate $500 to the shelter, which helps youth to outfit and move on to their first apartments. Additionally, Local 175 staff in the Mississauga office participated in a holiday clothing & toy drive, which was organized by the committee. Donations of new warm hats, mitts, gloves and toys were collected to benefit the Redwood Shelter for abused women and their children. Union Rep Sylvia Groom with items donated for the Redwood Women’s Shelter.
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Local 175 Golf raises $8,000
Toronto-area members’ tournament nets $1,564
Windsor golf tournament contributes $3,400
September 18, 2004, turned out to be a beautiful, bright sunny day in Barrie as 55 golfers took to the links at Innisbrook for the second annual Local 175 Golf-For-A-Cure. Participants and sponsors raised more than $8,000 for research. Net proceeds are donated to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC – formerly the Leukemia Research Fund of Canada). There were many prizes, including $6,500 in cash awards. Winners in each of the 13 categories received $500 each.
The weather was great and everyone had a fantastic day at the annual members’ golf tournament at Woodlands Golf & Country Club, in Brampton, on August 22, 2004.
On August 21, 2004, 80 golfers – plus numerous volunteers – participated in the 5th Annual Leukemia Golf Tournament in Windsor. Participants helped raise approximately $3,400 to benefit the LLSC.
The Tournament Committee extends a very special thank you to all the golfers who participated and the sponsors below who gave so generously. A&P Food Stores AIL Insurance BDO Dunwoody Benefit Plan Administrators Cavalluzzo Hayes Dynamic Venture Opportunities Imperial Parking Loblaws Manion, Wilkons & Associates Norseman Plastics Ontario Provincial Council Pharma Plus The Beer Store Thistle Printing UFCW Local 175 UFCW Local 247 UFCW Local 333 UFCW Local 401 UFCW Local 500 UFCW Local 501 UFCW Local 1000A UFCW Canada National Office Zehrs
Low Gross honours went to Ron Junta for the men, with a round of 75, and for the ladies, Lynn Bartram shot a 101. Les Sobieski won the Low Net honour with a score of 71. Members raised $1,564 for the LLSC through a putting contest and draws held at the tournament. The golf committee, including Central East Regional Director Jerry Clifford, would like to thank all 120 golfers and the generous event sponsors.
FUNDRAISING
Leukemia Fundraising
There were many door prizes and a wonderful meal to round out the day of great golf and fundraising. Thank you to all participants and a big thank you to organizers Julie Johnston and Neil Hotchkiss.
Baseball tournaments raise $4,733 The August 2004 Barrie Slo-Pitch Baseball Tournament raised $2,500 for the LLSC. Nine teams participated in the event and draws for the many prizes donated by generous sponsors. Organizers would like to extend a very big ‘thank you’ for the assistance of Executive Board Member Tony Morello, who barbecued burgers and hot dogs, stewards Angela McDonnell and Lauralee Manuel, and union reps Mona Bailey, Ray Bromley, Rob Nicholas, and Kelly Provost. Without these dedicated volunteers, we would not have been as successful in raising these funds to combat childhood leukemia. Congratulations to the Borden Blue Devils for winning the “A” Championship. The “B” Champs were the Hoolies and the “C” winners included An-Mar from the Orillia A&P. The “C” Champs also won the award for the best uniforms with shirts reading “Hey Ump, take it up with my Union Steward.”
At the Barrie Tournament, Union Steward Chuck Wilson (holding envelope) of Base Borden led the Blue Devils to victory for the second year in a row. The team donated the bulk of its $400 tournament winnings back to leukemia research.
Earlier, the 3rd annual Slo-Pitch Tournament in Brighton, which took place on July 24, 2004, generated $2,233 to help fund a cure. Tournament organizer Jeff Aldworth, of Horizon Plastics, was assisted by his wife, Carmen Aldworth, who works at Maplewood Nursing Home, and Union Rep Paul Hardwick. Nine teams participated in the tournament which was won by Here for Beer. “It was good to see them win,” says Jeff. “They’re Brighton locals who have supported every tournament to date.”
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SCHOLARSHIPS
Scholarships
Central West Region
Locals 175 & 633 award 56 Mckay, Thompson, Hoebink, Gibson Scholarships every year to members, and their children, who are pursuing post-secondary education. All members, or their children, have an equal opportunity to be selected for this award, as the winners are chosen by
ANUSHIKA ANTHONY whose father Leroy works at Sobeys in Milton with Union Rep Mike DiFalco.
a random draw. The scholarships have a value of $1,000 each. The names of the 2004 recipients follow.
Central East Region
JAMEEL AMADI, with Union Rep Mike Brenna. Both Jameel and his mother Shookria work at Colonial Retirement in Whitby.
JUDITH CEROVSKI who works at Pharma Plus # 604 in Toronto, with Union Steward Tomasa (“Timi”) Impelido.
GARY BARKER whose mother Nancy Brooks works at A&P # 178 in Collingwood.
LYNDSAY GRAY whose mother Jacqueline works at Huntsville Nursing Home.
MARK CASALE who works at Pharma Plus # 984 in Brampton.
AMANDA HILL whose mother Terrilee works at A&P # 193 in Huntsville.
JIE FANG (“Jennifer”) Cen who works at Olymel # 5346 in Brampton with Union Rep Anthony DiMaio.
SHERRI JONES (with Union Rep Anthony DiMaio) whose father Woodson works at Cargill Foods in Rexdale.
CHANTAL PAQUETTE whose father Claude works at Richards Food Basic in Sault Ste Marie.
GILLIAN CLAWSON who works at Pharma Plus # 83 in Mississauga with Union Rep Joe DeMelo.
CHARLES SARPONG whose mother Emilia Forson works at Cargill Foods in Rexdale.
TOM COCHRANE who works at Sobeys in Milton with Union Rep John DiFalco.
The 2005 applications deadline is August 1.
JOSEPH GAJASAN whose father Rodrigo works at Sobeys in Milton with former Secretary-Treasurer Jim Andress.
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SCHOLARSHIPS
BLAZEJ KAMINSKI, who works at Pharma Plus store # 1289 with former Secretary-Treasurer Jim Andress.
JOANA XAVIER is congratulated by Union Rep Linval Dixon. Her father Emanuel works at Quality Meats in Toronto. President WAYNE HANLEY congratulates some of the Eastern Region scholarship winners at the Kingston Stewards Conference.
MARINA RIBEIRO whose father Vitor works at Maple Leaf Pork in Burlington.
Eastern Region
Northern Region
BRANDON ALGUIRE whose father Phillip works at A&P # 282 in Cornwall.
SHANNON SCHEEPERS-HACHEY whose mother Mary Scheepers works at Britannia Price Choppers in Mississauga, with Union Rep Joe DeMelo.
BUFFY AINSWORTH whose mother Cathie works at Horizon Plastics in Cobourg. EMILY HICKS who works at Loeb Super C in Belleville. STEPHANIE LEAVITT whose mother Leanne works at A&P # 153 in Picton.
DOUG DIACZUK, with mother Holly, who works at A&P in Thunder Bay, and Union Rep Colby Flank.
CORY GOULIQUER who works at Atikokan Foods in Atikokan.
PAULINE MARSHALL who works at Almonte Country Haven in Almonte. MEAGHAN ROBERTS who works at A&P # 170 in Kingston. ANDRE SCHRADER who works at Sobeys in Milton with Central West Region Director, Harry Sutton.
TANIA ROCHELEAU who works at Loblaws # 1051 in Ottawa. KATHLEEN ROONEY whose mother Lisa works at Victoria Retirement in Cobourg.
DANIEL HENRY, with father Dan, of Pepsi Bottling in Thunder Bay, and Union Rep Colby Flank.
IAN RUBERRY who works at A&P # 421 in Thunder Bay.
SARAH SUMMERS whose mother Suzanne works at Prince Foods in Cornwall.
FENG LI YAN who works at Maple Lodge Farms in Norval with Central West Region Director, Harry Sutton.
SYLVIA SZAWARA whose mother Elzbieta works at Weston Bakery in Cobourg.
SEBASTIAN RYSINSKI who works at A&P # 421 in Thunder Bay. KIMBERLY STIENKE who works at Extra Foods in Dryden.
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SCHOLARSHIPS
South West Region
MATTHEW BESELAERE who works at Maple Lynn Foods in Strathroy with Union Rep Kevin Dowling.
GORDON BRIANT whose father Colin works at Sun Valley Foods in London with Union Rep Kevin Dowling.
ADAM ECKERT who works at Zehrs Markets # 571 in Windsor, with Union Rep Wendy Absolom.
RYAN GIFFEN who works at Food Basics # 623 in Strathroy with Union Rep Kevin Dowling.
JOANNA HUTZ who works at Best Western in Windsor with Union Rep Wendy Absolom.
KIMBERLY MEYER who works at Food Basics # 615 in Hanover with Union Rep David Noonan.
SANDRA PANTIC whose mother Branka works at Parmalat Colonial Cookies – in Kitchener with Union Rep Angus Locke.
KELLY PATTERSON whose mother Tammy works at Kraft in Exter.
South Central Region AMANDA BORDEN whose mother Debby works at Fortinos # 48 in Hamilton.
CRISTINA MARTINS who works at Dominion # 429 in Mississauga with Union Rep John DiNardo. AARON COONS (right) who works at Food Basics # 935 in Guelph with Union Rep Roy Reed.
SAMANTHA VINCENT who works at A&P # 199 in London with Union Rep Roy Reed.
Ashley Schuitema whose mother, Ramona works at Parmalat Colonial Cookies in Kitchener with Union Rep Angus Locke.
ANGELA WHITEBREAD who works at A&P # 26 in Stouffville.
VICTORIA KOSECKI whose mother Mila works at A&P # 106 in Whitby. AMANDA KNAPP whose mother Brenda works at Food Basics # 606 in Scarborough. DANIELA MALTA whose mother Caterina works at Dominion # 442 in Toronto.
NICOLE VINCENT who works at Dominion # 429 in Mississauga, with Union Rep John DiNardo.
CHRIS SMITH who works at Zehrs # 506 in Sarnia with Union Rep Kevin Dowling. MARY WILLCOTT whose mother Madonna works at Ultra Food and Drug # 84 in Burlington.
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These one-week programs are held at the Locals 175 & 633 Training & Education Centre in Mississauga. The course costs, materials and instruction plus lost wages, per diems, transportation and accommodation are all part of the program. Member Scholarships is an introductory course for new computer users and ran from November 1-5, 2004. It also has a very good introduction to union history and structure including the role and basics of stewardship.
Steward Scholarships, which ran November 7-12, includes union history and activities, arbitrations and current issues in the Labour Movement. It also covers training in the new technology – such as E-mail and the Internet – that stewards may use to fulfill their responsibilities. If you’d like to apply for the next courses, which will be repeated again in the spring, contact the Training Centre for information about applications and deadlines.
The 2004 Fall Stewards Scholarship participants were, front row, from left: Bill Chisamore, Shirley Williamson, Mario Tardelli, Lori McNally, Adebayo Mufutau, Corinna L’Homme. Back Row: Instructor Kelly Provost, Joe Masters, Rob Prettie, Mike Mastronardi, Sylvie Pascoa, Karen Conroy, Camille Parent, Jeff Stockla, Dennis Arsenault.
TRAINING & EDUCATION
Members and Stewards Course Awards
Participants in the 2004 Fall Membership Scholarship program were, front row, from left: Heather Green, Jennifer Tran, Kim Wright, Cathy MacDonald, Julie Culver. Back Row: Instructor Dave White, Laurie Latchford, Don Lees, Robert Chisel, Shirley Jones, Frank Yapp, Serge St Denis, Doug Riddle, James Strachan, Sabita Singh-Williams.
WINTER 2005
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NEGOTIATIONS
For all the most recent UFCW news, including negotiations, visit our
Perth Brown Shoe New full-time positions workers secure contract and increases for Avis improvements workers Members at the Brown Shoe Company of Canada, located in Perth, ratified a new three-year collective agreement on October 22, 2004. Highlights include: • Wage increases totalling 11 per cent over the three-year term. • A new full-time classification of Shipper Receiver receives a rate increase of 13 per cent over three years. • Dental plan contributions from the company increase by 10 per cent, which in turn reduces the members’ contributions by 10 per cent. • Workers are allowed overtime and sick day bank accrual. • All members receive vacation between December 24 and January 2. • Significant new language additions include an anti-harassment clause, health & safety precautions, the inclusion of warehouse employees in the agreement and an increased safety boot allowance of $150 per year, up from $100.
At a ratification meeting held October 27, 2004, members at Avis Car Rentals, at Pearson International and in downtown Toronto, voted in favour of a new threeyear collective agreement. Contract highlights include: • Wage increases totalling $2.10 per hour over the term of the agreement. • The creation of eight new full-time positions over the contract term. • Increased uniform cleaning and shoe allowances. • Improved vision care coverage. • New language regarding modified work and accommodation for employees with medical conditions. • New layoff language securing full-time work for members of the bargaining unit. Union Negotiating Committee: Brian Grummett, Yusuf Hersi, Tony Lee, Said Osman, retired Union Rep Larry Bain and current Union Rep Jehan Ahamed.
Union Negotiating Committee: Bill Ballantyne and Union Rep Luc Lacelle.
New collective agreement for Protexion workers Members at Protexion Products, located in Guelph, voted in favour of a new one-year collective agreement. Contract highlights are: • Across-the-board wage increases of 2 per cent with retroactive pay. • Improved shift premiums of 70 cents per hour, up from 60 cents. • Enhanced severance pay of an additional 1.5 weeks for every year of service. • Added pay equity maintenance language. • A new vision care plan provides $100 coverage every 24 months. • Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage increase to $25,000, up from $20,000. • Improved job posting language of five working days, up from four days. • Call-in pay of a minimum four hours. • Improved bereavement leave entitlement of five days, up from four, in the case of the death of a parent, child or spouse. • Language improvements pertain to improved time limits for grievance filing and arbitration as well as dues remittance. • Increased contributions to the Training & Education Fund. Union Negotiating Committee: Judy Bonus, Renee MacInnis, Margaret Manser and Union Rep Richard Wauhkonen.
Unilever workers vote in favour of numerous improvements The approximately 108-member bargaining unit at Unilever Canada, operated by UBF Foodsolutions, in Belleville, ratified a new collective agreement on October 31, 2004. Highlights include: • Wage increases of 2.5 per cent in the first year, 2.75 per cent in year two and 3 per cent in the final year of the agreement. • Increases to evening and night shift premiums. • Some classifications moved to a higher rate. • Dental plan contributions increase by 4 cents per hour.
• The waiting period for sick benefits decreases to three months for new hires. • Workers receive three sick/personal days, up from two. • Members receive a new drug card and an increase to their vision care coverage. • In the event of a layoff, health and welfare benefits continue for three months following that layoff. • Those with 18 years of service receive five weeks vacation at 10 per cent of their annual earnings.
• Language improvements include an additional two days bereavement leave, increased meal and tool allowance, a “Respectful Workplace” policy, and an alternate shift pattern, on a trial basis, until August 31, 2007. • New language pertains to the Occupational Health & Safety Act and company-supplied protective eyewear, including prescription, and footwear. Union Negotiating Committee: Darryl Asselstine, Doug Rappel, Brad Steenburg, Tom Young and Union Reps Ray Bromley and Marilyn Lang.
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W
Web site: www.ufcw175.com.
Hamilton Pepsi workers ratify new contract Approximately 80 members at the Pepsi facility in Hamilton secured a four-year contract at a ratification meeting held October 29, 2004. The contract includes: • Wage increases for full-time workers totalling $2.58 over the term of the agreement. • Increased afternoon and lead hand shift premiums. • Increased company contributions to the Canadian Commercial Workers Industry Pension Plan (CCWIPP) provide retirement benefits. • A buy-back of $45 per month per year of past service in CCWIPP. • Improved bereavement leave entitlement. • Increased tool allowance. • Temps called in for work will be reclassified as full-time based on their service date. • Expanded recognition to encompass the geographical area in which they service. Union Negotiating Committee: Roy Klepey, Konrad Krieg, Glenn Smith, Walter Vieceli and Union Rep Chris Fuller.
Improvements for Resource Centre workers Local 175 members at the Military Family Resource Centre in London voted in favour of a new 27-month collective agreement on November 29, 2004. Highlights include: • Wages increases of 3 per cent in both the first and second year of the agreement. • Full-time receive two personal days. • Full and part-time workers receive 15 per cent additional pay in lieu of benefits. • Full-time maintain their 15 days of annual discretionary leave while part-time now receive five days discretionary leave per year. Union Negotiating Committee: Kim Webber and Union Rep Kevin Dowling.
Busch’s Auto Supply workers achieve new contract On October 29, 2004, members at Busch’s Auto Supply in Fort Frances ratified a new collective agreement. The three-year contract includes the following highlights: • Wage increases of 6 per cent in year one, 2.6 per cent in year two and another 2.6 per cent in the third year of the contract. • Lump sum payments of $500 for each worker, to be paid in the first pay period of December in each year of the collective agreement, to go toward the cost
of the workers’ Ontario Health Premium payments. • Increased company contributions to the CCWIPP provide retirement benefits. • Increased contributions to the UFCW Trusteed Dental Plan. • Improved vacation entitlement.
NEGOTIATIONS
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Union Negotiating Committee: Robert Guertin, Howard Struve and North West Regional Director Shawn Haggerty.
Minute Maid workers avoid strike Members working at Minute Maid Company of Canada in Peterborough, ratified a new three-year collective agreement on November 6, 2004. Highlights include: • Wage increases for all rates, classifications and progressions of 65 cents in year one, 65 cents in year two and 70 cents in the final year of the contract. The first increase is retroactive to September 1, 2004. • The above increases include both an employer and employee contribution, in excess of $321,000 to buy back past service in the pension plan. • Very important accommodation language. • Newly organized temporary workers achieved parity in wages with their fulltime counterparts bringing their hourly wage up by $2.40 after one year of probation. • Company contributions to the CCWIPP increase to provide retirement benefits. • Night shift premiums increase to $1 per hour, in addition to regular wages, in the second and third year of the contract. • Company provided tool allowance increases to $200 per year, up from $135 and the Freezer Wear uniform allowance increases to $125. The safety boot allowance also increases. • Sick pay improves to 80 per cent of regular wages, up from 75 per cent.
• Health & Welfare coverage improves to provide: - Increased chiropractor and massage therapy coverage. - Hearing aid coverage of $700, up from $500. - Long Term Disability coverage effective September 1, 2005. - Orthodontic coverage of $2,000 effective October 1, 2004 with 50 per cent benefit for dependant children. - Vision care of $250 per 24-month period. • Language improvements throughout the agreement especially pertaining to: - bereavement leave, seniority, hours of work and overtime, vacation, Union representation and job classification. Union Negotiating Committee: Marc T. Duquettee, Tom Hughes, Mike Riha, Mike Willis and Union Rep Ray Bromley.
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PAY EQUITY
Pay Equity Update It is an indisputable fact that the average woman in Canada earns less money than the average man. In 2004 she earned only 83.2 cents for every dollar paid to a man. There are many reasons for the discrepancy, including education, skills, experience and time spent in the workforce, as well as historical discrimination. Even welleducated women, on average, have not achieved equity. In a 1998 report, when women’s hourly earnings were 81 cents, pay for those with graduate degrees rose to just 85 cents while the least educated earned only 71 cents for every dollar earned by a man. For several decades, UFCW has led the way in creating equitable workplaces. Locals 175 & 633 were among the first to promote equal pay for equal work and ensure equity for all workers through job classifications, postings, educational opportunities and no-discrimination language. Locals 175 & 633 are also leading the way in pay equity, which means ensuring women receive equal pay for work of equal value. Over the last few months the local unions have reviewed all Pay Equity Plans internally to ensure that employers are in compliance with equity legislation and that pay equity increases are not eroded over time. Union reps are receiving ongoing training to give them the knowledge and skills to negotiate and maintain equity increases. Pay equity clauses are negotiated into Local 175 & 633 collective agreements to require the employer’s compliance. President Hanley, the Executive Board, and all of the local union’s executive leadership and staff are committed to doing everything possible to ensure equitable workplaces.
Pay equity adjustments for jobs in both the public and private sectors have been assessed, as required by the legislation, and pay equity increases have been phased in. The health care sector, in particular, needed reform. Despite the fact that these jobs demand a high degree of skill they have been, historically, low-paid because caring for sick people was often viewed as “just women’s work.” In the past, many employers were unable or unwilling to end pay inequities and jobs mostly staffed by women were often paid less than those filled by men. To stop these inequities, organized labour and progressive legislators, particularly those in the New Democratic Party (NDP), pressured the provincial and federal governments to legislate pay equity. Pay equity became law in Ontario in January 1988. It was intended as a way to help narrow the gap between men and women’s wages and requires “female-dominated” jobs to be paid the same as “male-dominated” jobs, if they are of comparable value. The latter is based on the level of skill, effort, responsibility and working conditions involved in doing the job. The goal is equal pay for work of equal value. Throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s our Locals worked in compliance with the
new law. We negotiated Pay Equity Plans, with employers, based on the time frames within the legislation. Many employers made hourly pay adjustments to female-dominated job classes. There were still problems in implementing the new law, however. Some female jobs did not have a male job, within the bargaining unit, with which to compare. Therefore, amendments were passed by the NDP government, in 1993, requiring employers to use other methods to seek comparable male jobs within the same establishment. These methods helped more women members achieve pay equity. Despite the amendments, limited progress was made in implementing pay equity for several years because of barriers and funding cessation imposed by the Mike Harris Conservative government. Finally, after the latter had exhausted the avenues of appeal and because of persistent action and court challenges by organized labour and various women’s equity-seeking groups, funding was finally released in the late ‘90s to pay women working in the broader public sector, including health care. Locals 175 & 633 will continue to monitor all workplaces where members work to ensure that equity is achieved and maintained in both the public and private sectors.
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Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System
IT IS YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW! It is a worker's 'Right to Know' about hazardous materials used in the workplace. WHMIS provides practical information on these products through worker training, supplier and workplace labels and Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), which accompany each product. For more WHMIS information refer to the Occupational Health & Safety Act, section 33. Training Supplier Labels These easily identifiable labels have dashed borders. Every controlled product entering the workplace must have a supplier label on its container. These labels are a worker's first defence in protecting their health and safety. The labels contain directions on how to handle and store the product, first aid treatment, expected hazards and relevant hazard symbols.
Workplace Labels Every worker must be WHMIS trained and have a sound understanding of labels, MSDSs and hazardous material precautions. Workers must be able to apply the training on the job and keep their training up to date. Workers must receive training on new chemicals in the workplace and be made aware of any hazards associated with them.
When a hazardous material is decanted into another container a workplace label must be placed on the new container. The workplace label must contain the product name, directions on safe handling and a statement that an MSDS is available. Labels must be kept in an easily readable state and replaced as necessary.
These labels must be in both English and French.
Class D2
Class A
Materials Causing Other Toxic Effects
Compressed Gases
Class B
Class D3
Flammable & Combustible Materials
Biohazardous Infectious Materials
Class C
Class E
Oxidizing Materials
Corrosive Materials
Class D1
Class F
Materials Causing Immediate & Toxic Effects
Dangerously Reactive Materials
Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)
Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC)/Representative Employers shall ensure that all hazardous materials in the workplace are identified through the use of supplier labels, workplace labels and MSDSs.
An MSDS contains nine sections of information: * Product Information * Hazardous Ingredients * Physical Data * Fire or Explosion Hazard * Reactivity Data * Toxicological Properties * Preventative Measures * First Aid Measures * Preparation Information
The employer must consult with the JHSC/Representative on: * Whether supplier labels, workplace labels and MSDSs provide enough information. * Development and implementation of the worker education program * Reviews and revisions of the worker education program. * Bringing workers' WHMIS concerns to the employer's attention. *
MSDSs require updating every three years or as information changes and must be readily available to each worker.
Recommendations to resolve any safety and/or health concerns associated with WHMIS.
Wayne Hanley President
Betty Pardy Recorder
Locals 175 & 633 United Food & Commercial Workers Canada 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga, ON L5N 2K7
Phone: 905-821-8329 Toll Free: 1-800-565-8329 Fax: 905-821-7144
Web site: www.ufcw175.com
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YouthNEWS www.ufcw175.com - e-mail: youth@ufcw175.com
Over the past two years, a number of Local 175 youth have been working on the Youth Arts Project (YAP). On Saturday, November 6, 2004, stewards in attendance at the Eastern Region Steward’s conference were the first to see the results of this endeavour.
way they choose to deal with those problems. The four skits presented, out of 13 developed, address discrimination, harassment and job posting issues.
As more young members get involved in their workplace and their Union, the labour movement strengthens.
YAP brings together young members from across the province to discuss youth, their role in Unions and the labour movement. Working with two popular theatre artists, this group took their experiences at work and developed skits to illustrate the struggles of youth at work. Each skit is based on actual occurrences young Local members experienced at work. Performing these skits at Steward’s Seminars allows young members to reach other members and let them know that the youth in this Local want to – and can be – active in their Union. The message is that Youth can help themselves and each other by getting involved and working together. Youth issues are similar in nature to traditional workplace experiences and yet also unique because of the workers’ ages, perspectives and the
Performers of the Youth Arts Project skits below include: (Front Row l-r) Popular Theatre artist Erin Oke; Sacha Minor, Pharma Plus, Welland; Tammy Burd, Port Colborne Poultry; Training Centre Instructor, Ashleigh Vink and Popular Theatre artist Morgan Jones Phillips. (Back Row l-r) Joe Zuvic, Port Colborne Poultry; Darren Mullin, Fortinos Ancaster; Mike Rozic, Port Colborne Poultry; Marco Pitino, Dominion Ellesmere; and Mark Stockton, Food Basics Harwood.
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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