CHECKOUT MAGA ZINE FALL 2018 - VOL XXVII NO 4
Celebrating Labour Day 2018 in Photos page 18
Our Members at Work: Maplewood Long-Term Care Home page 14
What’s Inside UFCW LOCAL 175
UFCW LOCAL 633
President Shawn Haggerty
President May Chalmers
Secretary-Treasurer Kelly Tosato
Secretary-Treasurer Marylou Mallett
Recorder Karen Vaughan
Recorder Brian Kozlowski
Executive Assistants Sylvia Groom Luc Lacelle Jim McLean HEALTH & SAFETY: Health & Safety Representative: Mary Shaw WORKERS’ COMPENSATION: Intake Representative: Georgina MacDonald; Workers’ Compensation Representatives: Joanne Ford, Phil Hames, Sarah Neath
77 Welcome New Members
108 Strength & Unity at the NDF
209 Nominate A Union Member
10 14 Negotiations
14 18 Members at Work
18 20 Labour Day
24 24 Workers’ Comp
26 26 Altered Lives
for an Outstanding Achievement Award
LEGAL: Director: Fernando Reis; Counsel: Mary Hurley, Matthew Jagodits, Jane Mulkewich, Avo Topjian ORGANIZING: Director: Rick Wauhkonen; Organizing Representatives: Joce Cote, Linval Dixon, Tim Hum, Jeffery Lu, Meemee Seto, Amy Tran TRAINING & EDUCATION: Director: Rob Armbruster; Coordinator: Kelly Nicholas; Engagement & Media Relations Strategist: Tim Deelstra COMMUNICATIONS: Communications Representative: Laurie Duncan; Senior Communications Representative: Jennifer Tunney REGION 1: Director: Kelly Tosato; Union Representatives: Colby Flank, Tracy Stubbs REGION 2: Director: John DiNardo; Union Representatives: Farman Ali, Orsola Augurusa, Rick Daudlin, John DiFalco, Anthony DiMaio, Casey Magee, Christina Mayberry, Tony Nigro, Mark Stockton
Weetabix, Ace Bakery, & more...
Maplewood Long-Term Care Home
REGION 3: Director: Daniel Mercier; Union Representatives: Shannon Epp, Paul Hardwick, Dean McLaren, Jacques Niquet, Joe Tenn; Servicing Representative: Sandra Proulx REGION 4: Director: Chris Fuller; Union Representatives: Dave Forbes, Ron McGuire; Servicing Representatives: Virginia Haggith, Jennifer Hanley, Tim Kelly, Sabrina Qadir, Arlene Robertson, Chris Watson REGION 5: Director: Angela Mattioli; Union Representatives: Jehan Ahamed, Ashleigh Garner, Brad Morrison; Servicing Representative: Rolando Cabral REGION 6: Director: Rob Nicholas; Union Representatives: Sam Caetano, Matt Davenport, Jason Hanley, Lee Johnson-Koehn, Lionel MacEachern, Mike Mattioli, Melody Slattery, Mario Tardelli, Fred Teeple REGION 7: Director: Sharon Kempf; Union Representatives: Diane Sanvido, Steve Springall; Servicing Representatives: Dan Bondy, Todd Janes REGION 8: Director: Sandra Rogerson; Union Representatives: Jeff Barry, John Beaton, Matt Belanger, Jim Hames, Derek Jokhu
PROVINCIAL HEAD OFFICE 2200 ARGENTIA ROAD MISSISSAUGA, ON L5N 2K7 TEL: 905-821-8329 TOLL FREE: 1-800-565-8329 FAX: 905-821-7144
CAMBRIDGE OFFICE 6628 ELLIS ROAD, CAMBRIDGE, ON N3C 2V4 TEL: 519-658-0252 TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-1977 FAX: 519-658-0255
22 22 Health & Safety Would you like your receipt?
HAMILTON OFFICE 412 RENNIE STREET HAMILTON, ON L8H 3P5 TEL: 905-545-8354 TOLL FREE: 1-800-567-2125 FAX: 905-545-8355
LEAMINGTON OFFICE 261 ERIE STREET SOUTH LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3C4 TEL: 519-326-6751 TOLL FREE: 1-888-558-5114 FAX: 519-326-0597
The Compensation Community
OTTAWA OFFICE 20 HAMILTON AVENUE N. OTTAWA, ON K1Y 1B6 TEL: 613-725-2154 TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-5295 FAX: 613-725-2328
ISSN No. 1703-3926 CHECKOUT is an official publication of Locals 175 & 633 of the United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW)
Don’s Story
SUDBURY OFFICE 230 REGENT ROAD SUDBURY, ON P3C 4C5 TEL: 705-674-0769 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-1722 FAX: 705-674-6815
THUNDER BAY OFFICE UNIT 206A 1000 FORT WILLIAM RD THUNDER BAY, ON P7B 6B9 TEL: 807-346-4227 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-6932 FAX: 807-346-4055
UUWO
President’s Message Shawn Haggerty
Labour Day is a Call to Action
T
he Labour Movement is about making sure the many voices of working people get heard by those that seek to dictate working conditions to those very workers. Employers rely on your work. Without employees, there is no profit. Labour Day, to me, is not a holiday. It’s not a long weekend. It’s a day to take to the streets and parks with your community and family. It’s an opportunity to reconnect humanity to work. How often do we think about how our livelihoods are connected to the rest of the workforce, the economy, and the Labour movement? Labour Day lets us see the faces of our family, friends, and neighbours behind the work. Whether sharing food at a BBQ or picnic, watching your children play together at one of the many celebrations, or walking shoulder to shoulder as you march through your city and town with Union pride: Labour Day is about the strength and commonality found in our communities. We need to remind ourselves that there are families affected by unemployment and job cuts. There are mothers and fathers behind those precarious, low-paying jobs. There are teenagers – our children – whose health and safety is on the line every
day because of poor training and employers who exploit their newness to the working world.
Unions seek to bring back the humanity in day-to-day work and give working people a voice in how to make that happen. The Labour Movement strives to make sure that all work is decent. Decent means respecting the worth of the person providing the labour, service, and experience to an employer. Because, all work has value. Labour Day celebrates the achievements and gains made through the hard work, unity and strength of working people just like you. We can show our strength and commitment to workers’ rights through our participation in events to mark the day, and by raising up other workers throughout the rest of the year. That means pointing out inequalities when you see them. It means supporting the causes of other working people in their fight to achieve decent wages, benefits, hours, and more. It means recognizing the value of your Union family and the Labour community.
Building community is the driving force behind organizing campaigns: Bringing people together with similar concerns, facing the same challenges at work, at the mercy of the same boss. The only way an organizing drive succeeds, is if those workers unite. Relying on each other and the strength of solidarity is what helps bring new members to our Union time and time again. It’s what helped achieve success for the members at Bayfield Manor and Dr. Oetker’s. You can read more about those two victories for workers on page 7. A sense of community brings worth to its members. Feeling worth and pride in what you do is valuable to your well-being. Every single thing we buy, use, live in, drive in, take as transit, wear, eat, watch, or otherwise consume in any number of ways, is produced by the hands of working people in some way. Let Labour Day remind us of the blood, sweat, and muscle of the people behind the products, and let’s celebrate the value of all that work and the humanity behind it. In Solidarity, Shawn Haggerty president@ufcw175.com Fall 2018
3
Secretary-Treasurer’s Message Kelly Tosato
The Generosity of our Union Members
S
eptember is Blood Cancer Awareness month. It’s a time to celebrate the breakthroughs in research and patient care that organizations like the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLSC) work toward with funds raised by people like the Members of this Union. We were honoured this year to contribute $241,756.33 to the total of more than $2.5 million raised by UFCW nation-wide. Every year, I am moved by the number of volunteers and the generosity of our communities at the Locals’ fundraising events (see page 27). Thank you to everyone that participates and gives so much of their time and money. The Union is proud to award four prizes annually to members who achieve an outstanding level of giving back and taking part in something larger than themselves. You can see the full details on how to nominate someone on page 9. One of the awards celebrates members who dedicate time and effort to raising money for the LLSC. As you can tell from the photos in Checkout and online, there is no shortage of members who fit this criterion. Another award goes to members who advocate for the Union and their co-workers. This can include excellent stewardship, and those that make sure their co-workers know
about the Union and their collective agreement. These people make sure Members know their rights.
viders go out of their way to support each other, their community, and brighten the days of their residents.
The third award recognizes Members who fight to make sure their co-workers are safe at work. This includes enforcing health and safety regulations and bringing up potential hazards with their employer, and assisting injured or ill co-workers in return to work programs.
If you have a story about a Member of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 that goes out of their way to support their co-workers, community, or charity, please speak to your Union Rep! We’d love to feature them!
The fourth award goes to those who step outside of our Union family to help other groups, charities or causes. Our Members do a lot of good in their communities and some even travel the world to volunteer at events or schools, or to make sure impoverished people or communities have supplies and financial support. The Union often features Members and Stewards on Instagram and Facebook, as well as on the website. Some profiles show our Members at work and others feature the volunteerism and good deeds done by so many. I’m happy to see these stories getting a lot of likes and shares. It shows me that the community around these individuals appreciates their contributions and hard work too. Acts of kindness and good deeds don’t have to be on a huge scale to make a difference. Often, it’s the small things and personal interactions that are the most rewarding. In fact, in this issue we feature the Members at Maplewood Long-Term Care Home in Brighton. The story, on page 14, is full of all the ways these hardworking health care pro-
Giving back is important all year. But, as we approach winter, life becomes more difficult for many. Now is the time to go through your winter gear and donate what you can to shelters or charities in your community. It’s the time to make sure the elderly or neighbours in need don’t get forgotten. It’s the time to support or volunteer with outreach programs that help bring people in out of the cold. And, as always, food banks can use supplies, support, and volunteers. Giving back can be about giving your time freely to listen, assist, or do tasks that are needed. It can be about raising money for those in need or supporting charities close to your heart. Sometimes it’s about sharing knowledge. And all of these things can happen in small ways, every day. Thank you to all of our Union Members who take the time to make their communities and the world a better place. Your Union appreciates you. In Solidarity, Kelly Tosato treasurer@ufcw175.com
Happy Retirement
I
n July, Union Rep Wendy Absolom retired from the Union after being a member for 47 years. Wendy started working as a cashier at the A&P in Espanola in 1971. She became a Union Steward in 1975 and remained in that position until 1992. “I got involved as a Steward because the company was just doing anything they wanted,” explained Wendy. “As I became more familiar with the collective agreement, I realized someone had to step up and start filing grievances and representing the members.” During her time at A&P, Wendy’s co-workers elected her to the negotiating committee four times. She served two terms on the Local 175 Executive Board as well, starting in 1984. Then, after 21 years at the store, the Union hired Wendy as a Union Rep in London, working out of the Kitchener office at that time. When that office closed, Wendy relocated to the Hamilton office. For 26 and a half years, Wendy worked as a Union Rep. She has
represented members through their grievances, negotiating collective agreements, and more, in just about every type of workplace. “I enjoyed interacting with the members and trying to make a difference in their workplaces,” she said. “We can actually change people’s lives for the better, and that’s always been my goal.” That focus on changing people’s lives for the better is evident through Wendy’s volunteer work. Wendy organized and participated in 22 walk-a-thon fundraisers to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). She also volunteers at the SARI Therapeutic Riding Centre north of London. At the centre, children and adults with physical and intellectual disabilities get the chance to ride horses. “I love horses and people,” said Wendy. “Volunteering at the Centre is a perfect fit for me and I’ll continue to do it in my retirement.” In addition to catching up on sleep and relaxing for the first six months of her retirement, Wendy plans to visit friends in Northern and Eastern Ontario too.
“Wendy served the Members of this Union well for many years,” said President Haggerty. “She has earned her retirement and we wish her all the best.”
Welcome New Staff
A
vo Topjian is new counsel with UFCW Local 175’s legal department.
Prior to law school, Avo worked as a unionized employee in the transportation industry. Since then, Avo earned both a master of industrial relations and a law degree from Queen’s University. While in law school, he interned for the federal government at Employment & Social Development Canada (ESDC). In addition, he was a student editor working on the Canadian Labour & Employment Law Journal and a caseworker at a legal aid clinic. At the clinic, Avo helped Ontarians on social assistance with landlord-tenant disputes and other legal issues.
T
he Legal Department welcomed Mary Hurley to the team as well recently.
Mary has been a member of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 for 23 years. She worked part-time in the grocery retail sector and served as a Union Steward for several of those years as well. Mary received her law degree from Osgoode Hall Law School where she completed the Labour and Employment curricular stream. She holds an honours bachelor of arts from the University of Toronto, as well as certificates in Human Resources Management and Alternative Dispute Resolution. During law school, Mary spent a semester in the Workers’ Rights division at Parkdale Community Legal Services. At the clinic, she assisted workers with wrongful dismissal, employment standards and human rights matters. She also volunteered as a caseworker at Rexdale Community Legal Clinic through Pro Bono Students Canada. Later, she
6
Checkout Magazine
Prior to joining Local 175, Avo worked for a law firm specializing in labour and employment law. He has experience representing both union and non-union employees. At the firm, he learned firsthand about the importance of advocating for and protecting employees’ rights. Avo also has a background in interest arbitration. “I look forward to advocating for and helping the members of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 enforce their workplace rights,” he said. “I want to welcome Avo to the legal team at Local 175,” said President Haggerty. “Avo is a proven workers’ advocate and I know he’ll represent the interests of our Members very well.”
worked as a Research Assistant for Professor Eric Tucker. Mary is passionate about advocating for greater inclusion and understanding of persons living with mental health disabilities, particularly in a workplace context. Prior to law school, Mary worked as an Enforcement Officer at the Family Responsibility Office and she was as an Investigator and Senior Client Representative at the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee. She also worked as a Review Officer at the Pay Equity Commission, and as a Classification Specialist at the Ministry of Government and Community Services. Mary enjoys a good cup of tea, reading, exercising, antique cars, and exploring castle ruins – the more dilapidated, the better! “Mary’s experience as a long-time Member of this Union combined with her legal knowledge will be a great asset to our legal team,” said President Haggerty.
Welcome to Your Union
Dr. Oetker workers vote Union Yes!
A
nother reason to eat pizza! Workers at the Dr. Oetker facility in London, Ontario reached out to UFCW Local 175 in January of this year to learn about the benefits of belonging to our Union. The employees at Dr. Oetker felt that UFCW Local 175 might be a good fit. As a food Union, our Local has the experience to deal with the concerns they had about their workplace. The campaign lasted five months and led to a victory in early May. UFCW Local 175 Organizers maintained regular contact with the group throughout the campaign and held numerous meetings. This allowed the workers to share their experiences and recognize they all had similar issues.
“Hearing each other speak about their worries and concerns helped build solidarity among these workers,” said Organizer Ricardo Bocanegra. The employees had several concerns they wanted to address through joining the Union. They expressed a desire to be better heard and respected, and they wanted accountability from their employer. Respect, dignity, and accountability are all vital to a positive work environment. These things are all required for decent work to exist. Employees that feel respected and listened to will have better overall morale and, in turn, be more productive. Our newest members held their first proposal meeting on July 7. “It’s so important for Union members to be active and engaged in the process right from the start,” said Ricardo. “It’s empowering to discover that you can have a say in your work life. Together, you and your co-workers can make positive changes.” There are approximately 250 employees in the bargaining unit who work in a number of departments at the plant. Jobs include preparing toppings, baking and packaging, plus they provide maintenance and sanitation at the facility.
Healthcare Workers at Bayfield Manor Join the Union Employees at Bayfield Manor in Kemptville are the newest members of UFCW Local 175. The facility is a nursing and retirement care residence that employs about 155 health care workers. There were a number of issues that brought these workers to the Union in the first place. This included: A lack of respect from management; Lackluster benefits with a high premium; Wage inequality; Decreasing levels of care since new management took over; No pension; Working short, and; A lack of shift premiums. This was the second vote to take place for these workers. Last year, the Union filed a Section 11 against the employer at the Ontario Labour Relations Board (OLRB). This means the Union believed the employer interfered with
the employees’ ability to organize. As a result, the Board awarded the Union three captive audience meetings with the employees, and a second vote. That vote took place on August 15, 2018. Employees at the Manor work in a number of different classifications. This includes: Registered Nurses (RNs), Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs), Personal Support Workers (PSWs), Dietary Aides, Housekeeping and Laundry Aides, and Activities Aides as well.
Strength & Unity at the NDF
O
n July 9 and 10, 2018 the 32nd Annual National Defence Fund (NDF) Convention took place in Saskatoon. Our Local Union had 55 delegates in attendance representing the packinghouse, hospitality, soft drink, flour milling, and retail food sectors. The NDF is a strike fund started by a group of packinghouse workers in Western Canada in 1986. For Members that take part, the NDF provides extra strike pay to reduce the financial impact of a strike or lockout. This year's convention focused on how technology and automation affects our workplaces. In addition, delegates heard industry insights from experts, reviewed bargaining trends within their sectors, and learned new strategies to advance fairness for all working people. Sarah Doyle of the Brookfield Institute spoke about the impact of automation and technology, and how ultimately, every industry is becoming a tech industry. In fact, the largest five companies in the world by market value are tech companies. The group heard from Farrah Khan from the Workers Action Centre too. Farrah spoke about gender-based violence and sexual harassment in the workplace, and noted that 'a good day at work has to include having a safe workplace.' Farrah discussed sexual violence, how to disclose if you are a victim, how to support those who come forward with their stories, and the importance of informed consent: That everyone has the right to decide how much, when and with whom, and that you have the right to change your mind at any time. 8
Checkout Magazine
We support each other in the labour movement and as advocates we need to foster a workplace where consent comes first. Farrah reported that in Canada: • 636,000 people self-reported incidents of sexual violence in 2014; • 1 in 3 women, and 1 in 6 men, will experience some form of sexual violence in their lifetime, and; • More than 80% of all sexual violence is committed by someone the victim knows. Most survivors tell someone they know like a co-worker or friend, so we have to be ready. If someone
discloses to us, they need to know: • • • •
You believe them. They choose what to do next. It’s not their fault. They are not alone.
We must call out people who commit these acts and make sure they know it’s not okay, that you saw it, and that you are reporting it. Delegates took part in sector-specific meetings too. Reports for each sector illustrated trends, and some of our delegates gave reports on their industries and workplaces, which included discussion on gains made in bargaining as well. The convention concluded with the administrative committee report of the NDF. See more photos from the NDF Convention online at ufcw175.com/NDF2018
Outstanding Achievement Award
Nominate a Union Member Today Do you know a Member of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 whose contributions to the Union or community deserve recognition? You can nominate that person, or yourself, to win a $500 award! The Local Union offers four annual awards (one per category) of $500 each to members who: 1. Demonstrate outstanding contributions to the community; 2. Manifest leadership and advancement of the UFCW; 3. Dedicate themselves to fundraising for Leukemia research, or; 4. Enhance & achieve improvements in health & safety (including WSIB) for their workplace. Nominees MUST be a member in good standing of either Local 175 or Local 633 for at least six consecutive months.
Deadline for nominations is November 1, 2018. Go to ufcw175.com/memberaward. Please fill out the form completely. The more details you can provide about why the person deserves the award, the better! You can also download a PDF form at ufcw175.com/memberaward to submit via email or by mail.
$500
Award
Here are some of our past winners!
Fall 2018
9
Negotiation Updates
Weetabix bringing 13 million pounds more production to Cobourg
O
n June 10, 2018, the more than 110 members at the Weetabix plant in Cobourg secured a new agreement. The deal will see Weetabix members through a planned expansion to bring in about 13 million pounds more cereal production to the plant. The current set up includes low volumes of a number of different products. This is inefficient and requires a lot of set up and cleaning. Going forward, the plant will run 24/7 with the increased production. As a result of the planned volume increase, a number of significant classification changes took place in the contract. Some jobs were eliminated to make room for others. Some employees will now rotate on continental shifts whereas before they could have worked straight days. The contract includes house continental shifts, with a five-day schedule forming an addendum to the agreement. Thirty exit packages of $15,000 are available to the 30 most senior employees who wish to leave. All employees receive a $1,000 signing bonus. All workers will receive a lump sum payment of $1,000 in years one through three, and rates will increase by 2% in years four and five. New higher-paying classifications include Lead Ops and Line Specialist. The committee was able to maintain the current weekly pay schedule. Employees working 36 hours one week and 48 the next
week, will receive four and a half hours’ overtime pay. Pension contributions will continue to be paid for all hours, including vacation and statutory holidays. The company proposed a new 70/30 co-pay for employee benefits as cost-savings in order to increase the production volume. Through negotiations, the committee achieved an 80/20 split for existing employees until 2021. The committee successfully maintained the employer-paid Long-Term Disability (LTD) benefit. Also, the committee achieved non-preferred drug coverage list at 80% paid instead of 70% paid. Any current employees on non-preferred will be grandfathered at 100% coverage until June 2019. This allows time for them to discuss preferred drug options. The preferred drug list will be paid at 100%. There is no cap on medical services or drug coverage, and employees still receive massage therapy coverage as well. In addition, dental benefits will continue on the current fee guide instead of an employer-proposed one-year lag. “We know this contract presents some challenges,” said Union Rep Paul Hardwick. “But, with the help of such experienced wise committee members, we were able to achieve a good deal for the Members at Weetabix that will help secure the future of this plant and the jobs in this community.”
Union Negotiating Committee pictured below: Ken Barlow & Pat McIvor, and Union Rep Paul Hardwick (not pictured).
You can find more negotiations online at myunion.ca.
M
First agreement ratified by Members at Ace Bakery
embers at Ace Bakery in Toronto, ratified their very first collective agreement on August 9, 2018. The workers voted to join the Union in August 2017 and worked hard toward securing a deal since then. Negotiations required conciliation to deal with equal pay for equal work and wage progressions. The agreement includes significant monetary improvements.
hour and Non-Licensed Maintenance workers get a $7 per hour initial adjustment.
Employees receive a signing bonus of $1,000. In the first year, about 80% of the employees will see wage increases ranging from 2% to 17%. Any off-grid employees receive a lump sum equal to a 3% increase. The second year will bring a 2% increase to the end rates. Any off-grid employees will receive a lump sum equivalent. The second-year improvements are effective five months after ratification. In year three, all employees including off-grid receive a lump sum of 2.5%. And, in the fourth year, end rates improve by 2.5% to a maximum increase of 51 cents per hour.
To achieve major dental coverage, including orthodontics, and shortterm disability (STD), some adjustments were made in the existing health coverage. Employees did lose $150 in eye wear coverage, bringing them to $100 every two years. In addition, they will see a small loss on their chiropractic coverage too. The new plan, however, is now paid in an 80-20 split instead of 70-30. Employees gained STD, major dental and orthodontic coverage plus an increased bump in the dental cap by $500 per person. The new family plan rate costs $3 less per week for the employees than the previous plan.
Lead Hands receive all wage adjustments plus a premium of $1.25 per hour, which is an increase of 25 cents per hour. The premium for the night shift, which now includes an additional hour, improves to 90 cents, up from 60 cents. In addition to annual increases/lump sums, Licensed Maintenance employees get an initial adjustment of $4 per
The contract contains job posting language to prevent favouritism in filling higher rated jobs. Seniority holding employees without the relevant skill set will have the opportunity to apply for jobs as well. In these cases, the employer will provide a training period for those employees. In addition, the employer will post 24 new full-time jobs.
These jobs will be filled no later than five months after ratification. Employees now get a second paid 10-minute break, bringing them to 50 minutes paid break time per shift. A complement of part-time seniority workers will receive a maximum of 24 hours per week except under special circumstances. Those circumstances would be triggered by a clause that limits the employer’s ability to hire agency workers. The number of agency workers cannot exceed more than 49% of the total non-full-time staff. Full details on this agreement are at ufcw175.com/acebakery2018 The plant employs 200 full-time and 100 part-time workers. Products made by our Members include baguettes, specialty loaves, burger buns, bagels, sandwich rolls, and cookies. Union Negotiating Committee: Sathees Arumugam, Ahmed Boger, Bayani Edades, Syed Nabi. Ramesh Teju, and Union Rep Tony Nigro. Fall 2018
11
Members at Cintas achieve a new agreement
430 Members at Olymel (Prince Foods) ratify
The three-year agreement, ratified on July 18, contains a number of improvements for the 30 full-time workers at the Cintas Cambridge facility.
The new Olymel agreement contains some significant monetary improvements and addresses a number of issues the members wanted to deal with.
All employees receive a 2% salary increase in each year of the contract term. This totals almost $1.50 per hour for most of the employees at Cintas. Contributions to the workers’ RRSP plan improve to reach $2.50 per hour worked, up from $2, by the final year of the agreement. In other monetary improvements, employees will receive an improved boot allowance of $200 per year. This is an increase from the previous $125 per year and they can now use that allowance to purchase more than one pair per year.
New language allows the 15 most senior employees to move to the 1st tier wage scale on July 1 every year. Over the contract term, this improves wages and progression rates for 90 of the 230 employees on the 2nd tier.
Additionally, paid sick leave increases to 50 hours, up from 48. Anyone working four 10-hour days will receive 10 hours pay for all statutory holidays outlined in the agreement. Language improvements will see the agreement become entirely gender neutral. In addition, the committee secured better language regarding scheduling, and health and safety meetings. The employer will contribute $500 per year toward the UFCW Local 175 Training & Education Fund. Plus, the employer will cover 50% of the cost to print copies of the agreement for the Members. Employees at Cintas provide uniform and work apparel rental and laundry services for the Cambridge, Kitchener, and Guelph area. Union Negotiating Committee: Norm Ciotti and Union Rep Melody Slattery. 12
Checkout Magazine
Wages for all employees at end rate go up by a total of $2.60 per hour over the life of the deal. In addition to regular rate increases, forklift drivers hired prior to 2012 receive an initial wage increase of 90 cents per hour. General labourers receive an initial wage increase of between 40 cents and 90 cents per hour too. A significant new attendance bonus provides a premium of $1.25 per hour worked during a given month to any employee who misses no more than four hours of work in that month. A concern for members was a limited number of vacation slots available for workers to be off at the same time. This contract doubles the
number of maintenance employees and forklift drivers that can book vacation, lieu days, or floater days at the same time as other employees in their department. The percentage of employees in other departments who can book vacation at the same time increases to 11%, up from 9%. In addition, employees entitled to more than four weeks’ vacation per year may “sell” a week or more of that entitlement at 120% of its value. Giving employees this choice will also free up some vacation slots. Better health benefit coverage includes massage therapy and enhanced contributions to the dental plan. The premium for the benefit plan increased as a result of a new $250 eye care coverage every 24 months. The employer will pay 100% of that increase to the premiums for the first year. Other enhancements address paid sick days and seniority-based job postings. Union Negotiating Committee: Marty O’Connor, Justin Ramsli, Matt Spinella, Louise Summers, Union Rep Joe Tenn, and Region 3 Director, Daniel Mercier.
Sudbury Bearskin Airlines members ratify
More full-time jobs created in Ottawa Flyer Force contract
Members of UFCW Local 175 employed at Bearskin Airlines in Sudbury ratified a new agreement recently. Included in the contract are wage increases totalling $1.27 per hour over the term of the deal. The first increase of 37 cents per hour is retroactive for hours worked since May 15. All employees, whether full or parttime, are now on the same wage scale. In addition, the premium paid for training increases to $1.50 per hour, up from 50 cents. Other monetary improvements include a new shoe allowance of $50 per year. Bereavement entitlement now provides leave for more family members than previously. A new vision care benefit provides $50 toward an eye exam, and $250 toward eye glasses, every 24 months. The employees' benefits now allow the option of adding life insurance, critical illness coverage, and longterm disability. New language ensures employees receive uninterrupted meal periods. The contract now recognizes Family Day as a statutory holiday as well. Lastly, the employer will pay up to $100 toward printing collective agreements for the Members. Union Negotiating Committee: Danielle Fortin, Sarah Plante, and Union Rep Jeff Barry.
More than 150 Ottawa Flyer Force employees secured a three-year agreement on August 15, 2018. This contract creates 19 full-time jobs bringing the full-time complement to 42. Full-time employees are guaranteed eight hours of work per day and 40 hours of work per week. Previously, there was no such guarantee and full-time employees only had to be scheduled to a maximum of six hours per day. Retroactive rate increases include $1.30 per hour for Forklift Operators for hours worked since January 1, 2018. They also receive 25 cents per hour more on the next annual increase. Assistant Lead Operators and Shipper/Receivers receive a retroactive raise of $2.20 per hour for hours worked since January 1, 2018, plus 25 cents per hour more on the next annual increase. All other classifications receive annual increases of between 15 and 55 cents per hour over the life of the contract. Plus, the Members receive initial lump sum payments of $250 for full-time and $150 for part-time. A new wage grid includes language to maintain a gap ahead of minimum wage. This means that the lowest rate will not fall below any announced minimum wage increases. Premiums improve for Cage Operators to 50 cents per hour, up from 25
cents. This position will no longer be employer-designated but will now be filled by seniority. Lastly, an Assistant Lead Operator who agrees to act as Lead Operator when there is an absence, will receive their rate plus 10% for time worked as Lead Operator. Employees receive two new paid personal emergency leave days to use for reasons other than those already provided for in the agreement. Bereavement leave also improves. The group will now participate in the UFCW Benefit plan. This will improve the current benefit coverage and reduce the premium that the employees pay. Employees will receive a drug card, and part-time workers will now have Life Insurance coverage of $10,000, up from $6,000. Other language improvements give Union Stewards 15 minutes of paid time to meet with new hires and provide Union orientation. This is the first renewal contract for the Union Members at Ottawa Flyer Force. They ratified their first agreement in 2014 and voted to join the Union in 2013. Union Negotiating Committee: Parammjit Dhaliwal, Redwan Ismael, Union Servicing Rep Sandra Proulx, and Region 3 Director, Daniel Mercier. Fall 2018
13
Our Members at Maplewood Long-Term Care Home
T
he Maplewood LongTerm Care Home in Brighton is a 49-bed care facility owned by Omni Health Care. From the outside it looks like any other nursing home you might find in a small town. But, inside, is what makes this place special.
More than 60 Members of UFCW Local 175 work at the home.
Brighton is a small town and a lot of the residents at Maplewood are people from the community. Many of them grew up there and lived or worked in the area over their lives.
There are always lots of family members and friends of both the employees and the residents coming through the home too. At Maplewood there are Registered Nurses (RNs), Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs), Personal Support
Workers/Health Care Aides, Laundry and Housekeeping, Activities and Maintenance as well. And while the Union Members who work at Maplewood might have different jobs under the collective agreement, they work together as a team to make it a better place for the residents and their families. Working in health care takes both a physical and mental toll on a worker’s well-being.
It is emotionally stressful to do the work they do and provide the level of care their patients deserve.
The Members at Maplewood promote positivity and support. By doing so, they help reduce stress and improve the lives of their co-workers and residents. Maplewood employees can choose to contribute a small amount of their pay to become members of the HOPE fund at work. The Members then use the money collected in that fund to support co-workers during times of need: Whether it’s because someone is off sick, on leave to care for a family member, or a bouquet of flowers in times of grief. The employees at Maplewood always look out for each other. In fact, the employees go above and beyond on a regular basis to support each other. It’s not unusual to see co-workers raising money for each other when someone is off sick with a serious illness or injury.
And, these health care workers also put a lot of their own personal time into making the residents' lives and their community better too! This includes boosting morale, improving a resident's mental well-being, or helping residents participate in life events they might not otherwise get to attend. Here are just a few examples of how these Members act as true advocates for the well-being of their residents and the community: • Many members will come in on their days off to take the residents out to celebrate their birthdays. • Employees often help throw baby showers at the home to celebrate a new grandchild for a resident who otherwise could not have attended.
Fall 2018
15
Others bring in their children or dogs to visit the seniors at the home, many of whom look forward to these special days. • Amanda Nerpin painted a window with a frame as a decorative piece and raised $520 through donations to support a co-worker who was off ill. • Nikki Lafee, Shelley Kendall and Jackie Jeffery have made and donated crafts or helped the residents to make crafts for the Annual Tea and Bazaar. These crafts can take months to make. The proceeds from this Bazaar go toward the Residents' Fund. The residents use this money to take trips or purchase extra things they'd like to have in the Home. • Tina King often makes yummy treats at home and brings them in just to brighten the day for her co-workers. • At Easter, Jackie Fleming fills a large jar with jelly beans and chocolate eggs. Her co-workers get to guess at how many are inside and whoever has the closest guess, wins the jar of treats. Jackie says she does this to improve morale and have something positive to discuss during the day. • Jane Melvin, who works in Housekeeping, assisted the Activities staff with a boat cruise for the residents. • Brianne Campbell helped take residents to the sterling film festival to see Beauty and the Beast.
16
Checkout Magazine
• Annette Turner, pictured top right, is a PSW at Maplewood. Annette was off work for 13 months with Guillain-Barré Syndrome. While she was off, she had many visits from her co-workers and management that helped get her through. She received a donation from the Hope Fund as well. • Tiffany Fox speaks to the residents at each dining table to see what kind of music they like. Tiffany then makes CDs of that music so that every day, the music changes and residents can hear what they like while they dine. Speaking of dining, the Members working in the kitchen at Maplewood take time and care into preparing delicious meals that are just like home cooking. The kitchen staff take pride in providing a variety of high-quality meals to the residents every day. When a resident is in palliative care, it's not unusual to see staff taking their own personal time to take turns sitting with the resident to make sure they aren't alone in their time of need. In their community, these health care workers continue to give back in many ways. Roxanne Wills volunteers after her full-time job to do lice checks at the local school, as it is difficult for the school to get volunteers for this. Karen Vaughan, who is the Recorder for Local 175, takes time to educate and train people outside of her workplace in health and safety. The home also has: • A Residents' Council, which suggests ways to improve comfort and enjoyment in the Home. • An annual Tea and Bazaar to raise
money for the Residents' Council Fund. • A Christmas party every year where family and residents are invited to celebrate together. • An annual summer BBQ. "Our Union Members at Maplewood continue to impress me with their selfless acts and support for each other," said Union Rep Dean McLaren. "When someone is down, they band together to lift them up. They go out of their way every day to show their residents that they are cared for."
"Their acts of kindness and support shape and provide a real home for these seniors and raise what it means to help others to a whole new level."
"
Union Rep Dean McLaren
"I work with Members at a number of long-term care homes and I know there are many dedicated employees just like these throughout the industry," added Dean. "This type of work is more than just a job to all of our health care workers." The Steward and Health and Safety team at Maplewood Nursing Home is comprised of: • Tracy Morewood, Chief Steward & JHSC Certified Member • Karen Vaughan, Steward, JHSC Certified Member, and UFCW Local 175 Recorder • Nicole Lafee, Steward • Jane Melvin, JHSC Member
Thank you to all of the Members who came out to support your Union and celebrate workers on Labour Day!
Brantford
Kenora
18
Checkout Magazine
Cobourg
Lindsay
Cornwall Guelph
Hamilton
Thunder Bay
Stratford
Waterloo
Sudbury
Toronto
Would You Like Your Receipt?
T
wo industrial chemicals found on items that people handle every day, pose a serious concern for workers and consumers alike.
The chemicals are Bisphenol A (BPA) and Bisphenol S (BPS). These chemicals are found on thermal paper used as receipts at grocery stores, restaurants and retail stores, movie tickets, air-line boarding passes and more. BPA is one of the most widely used chemicals in the world. Polycarbonate plastics like water bottles, food storage containers, tableware, plus the resin lining of food and beverage containers, can all contain BPA. Canada became the first country to ban the import and sale of polycarbonate baby bottles containing BPA in 2008. Then, in 2010, the Federal government added BPA to its toxic substance list. But, in March 2016, Environmental Defence Canada, along with five other non-profits, released a study
22
Checkout Magazine
called “Buyers Beware: Toxic BPA & Regrettable Substitutes in the Linings of Canned Food.”1 That study revealed that “67% of cans tested contained BPA-based epoxy in the can lining.”
Why is BPA bad? BPA is a man-made chemical that acts as an endocrine disruptor. It interferes with natural hormone balance and function. Endocrine disruptors turn on, shut off, or modify signals that hormones carry. This affects the normal functions of tissues and organs in the body. Also, low doses of BPA have been found to impact fetal development and may contribute to reproductive damage. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) has a fact sheet on Endocrine Disruptors available at: bit.ly/EndocrineDisrupt The public was led to believe that “BPA-free” products were safe. Unfortunately, this isn’t necessarily true. The chemical used commonly to replace BPA is BPS. But, the chemical
structure of BPS is similar to BPA and there are indications that it may have similar worrying health effects. • BPA and BPS transfer readily to anything touching the paper, including skin. • Skin absorbs the chemicals even if only handling a receipt briefly. • This leads to significant absorption of BPA and BPS into the body. • The absorption increases when hands are moist or greasy. • Using hand sanitizer or lotion causes the chemicals to absorb more rapidly through the skin.
As workers and consumers, what can we do to minimize our exposure? A recent study2 suggests workers who handle thermal paper should wear disposable gloves when tearing receipts, changing receipt rolls or cleaning machines.
The same study found that 93% of the receipts they tested contained BPS or BPA. A Health Canada report released in August 2017, found BPA present in 92.7% of blood samples taken from 5,700 Canadians in 2014 and 2015. 3
Some employers do have policies that provide employees with vinyl gloves upon request.
ing vinyl gloves would be provided with them. When out shopping, or if you work at a store or establishment that uses receipts, ask the management what type they use.
As consumers, we can encourage businesses to switch to a less hazardous paper.
Metro and Food Basics stores use BPA-Free thermal receipt paper already. Metro’s Health & Safety Director, John Zahtila, confirmed that the company’s Safe Work Practice - Parceling Merchandise program permits the use of vinyl gloves at the cash. Currently, Loblaw Companies stores use BPA-free thermal receipt paper as well. While Loblaw Companies does not have a policy for wearing gloves, at a recent meeting with the Union’s Health & Safety Representative Mary Shaw, the company confirmed that an employee request-
If you're a Union Member who is concerned about whether your employer uses BPA-free thermal paper, speak to your employer or Health & Safety Committee. New types of thermal papers do not contain BPA or BPS. The new paper, which is approved for food contact, is phenol-free with a coating that does not come off like BPA and BPS. Also, if a store offers to email your receipt, take that option to avoid the printed version.
You can also contact your Union Representative or the Union's Health & Safety Department. You can reach the UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Health & Safety department by email or phone: membership@ufcw175.com 1-800-267-1977
Sources 1 Environmental Defence (2016). Buyers Beware: Toxic BPA & Regrettable Substitutes in the Linings of Canned Food. (n.d.). Retrieved August 24, 2018, from https://environmentaldefence.ca/report/buyers-beware-toxic-bpa-regrettable-substitutes-in-the-linings-of-canned-food/ 2 (2018, January 17). Receipt Paper Study 2018. https://www.ecocenter.org/healthy-stuff/reports/receipt-paper-study-2018 3 Health Canada (2017, August 23). Fourth Report on Human Biomonitoring of Environmental Chemicals in Canada. Retrieved August 24, 2018, from https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/environmental-workplace-health/reports-publications/environFall 2018 mental-contaminants/fourth-report-human-biomonitoring-environmental-chemicals-canada
23
The Compensation Community: Finding Support
Y
our Workers’ Compensation department provides service and direction in navigating the WSIB system. The Workers' Comp department is located in Cambridge, and is fully accessible. You can reach them by phone (1-800-267-1977) and email (workerscomp@ufcw175.com) too. Your Workers Comp Reps assist Members of Locals 175 & 633 across Ontario. That means they will meet, travel, and represent you at your appeals hearing wherever you live. But there are times when you might have other questions and concerns, or maybe you just want to talk. And, chances are, you don’t live near Cambridge. In many communities across Ontario, there are services and groups to help you work through your injury, your recovery, and your appeals with the WSIB. There are groups where you can socialize with other injured workers. You can share your struggles and stories about your fight with the WSIB. The people who run these organizations have a lot of experience of which the Members of the Union can take advantage. UFCW Locals 175 & 633 is proud to be an ally with these dedicated activist partners who advocate for working people on a daily basis. 24
Checkout Magazine
The Ontario Network of Injured Workers Groups (ONIWG) is entrenched in its community roots. ONIWG is Ontario's voice for injured and ill workers. They take action and lend experience to assist labour councils, Unions, legal clinics, and elected officials too. ONIWG works with 22 member groups to advance the interests of injured workers. Many injured workers start support groups themselves to fulfill a need in their community. These groups meet, share stories, and explore ideas on dealing with pain and recovery, all while dealing with the WSIB. Like any support group, they work better if you participate. If you’re housebound, know that you can find many of these support groups online or by phone too.
Injured Worker Groups in Ontario • Barrie & District Injured Workers’ Group • Brantford & Brant County Injured Workers & Family Support Group • Chatham Injured Workers’ Group • Hamilton & District Injured Workers’ Group • Injured Workers Action for Justice • Injured Workers of Wellington & Dufferin Counties • London & District Injured Workers’ Support Group • Manitoulin & Northshore Injured Workers’ Group • Niagara Injured Workers’ Group • Ottawa & District Injured Workers’ Group • Peel Injured Workers’ Group • Thunder Bay & District Injured Workers’ Support Group • Windsor Injured Worker Support Group
There are also specialized groups and community organizations that can assist you in dealing with workplace injury:
Bright Lights Injured Workers Group Toronto
This is a group of workers with permanent injuries, from workplace accidents or exposure, who meet to provide support to each other. They also lobby, research, and raise public awareness about the struggles of injured workers to create positive change in workers' compensation.
Chinese Injured Workers’ Group
Women of Inspiration Toronto
Established in 2004, this group was organized by injured women who were looking for an outlet to share their feelings of being left alone, isolated and dealing with the grief following workplace injuries. Meeting both formally and socially, they assist each other to improve their health, cope with pain (physical and emotional), handle frustrations with claims and return to work, and lobby WSIB officials, politicians and others to address concerns with the compensation system.
Toronto
Founded in 1999 with the assistance of Injured Workers' Consultants (IWC), members who primarily speak Chinese (Cantonese, Mandarin, etc.) meet to share information on compensation, participate in community actions for workplace rights and change, and participate in law reform activities.
Injured Workers’ Consultants (IWC) Toronto
IWC was formed to assist the injured worker community. It is a collaborative effort of injured workers, legal advocates, labour, community activists and supporters, researchers, and health professionals. They offer advice and support and actively challenge the WSIB and politicians to improve and promote change in the broken compensation system. They are also the founders of the Injured Workers Speaker School.
The Injured Workers Speakers School (IWSS)
Thunder Bay, Hamilton, Sarnia, St. Catharines, Muskoka, Niagara, & more to come.
Founded in 2007, IWSS offers a multi-session course to help injured workers know their rights, advocate for themselves and speak confidently about workers’ compensation issues from experience and knowledge. Injured workers can: • Understand the history and principles of our compensation system. • Develop analysis to support your experience. • Learn about the injured workers movement and the importance of active participation. • Feel more comfortable speaking in public, with media and with politicians, and; • Have fun while learning in a supportive group with other injured workers. Visit injuredworkersonline.org for links, contact details, and more information on these and other groups.
Fall 2018
25
altered livesproject
ufcw175.com/alteredlivesproject
Don’s Story Don worked in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) as a delivery driver for a large manufacturer. One day, he injured his right knee while performing work duties. He knew that the injury would be front and centre, 24/7, and his quality of life would be affected until the injury healed sufficiently. He expected constant pain, frustration, moodiness and difficulty performing daily activities. Walking, standing, sitting, bending, lifting, concentrating, and sleeping would be a challenge. What Don did not expect was the difficulty he faced with things that were out of his control. Initially, the WSIB allowed Don’s claim for a right knee strain. His employer gave him a new job at the factory at the same pay rate. Securing his job and income allowed Don to focus on healing. But everything changed when a diagnostic test identified that his knee injury was more serious than a strain. This new diagnosis was reported to the WSIB and, promptly, the WSIB closed the claim. The WSIB argued that Don’s knee strain should have resolved and any further knee issue was due to a pre-existing medical condition. Then, his employer told Don that the job they gave him was only temporary and not sustainable. The employer offered him another job that required a lot of stair climbing, which Don couldn’t do because of his injury. Almost overnight, Don went from having steady employment and income, to having no job and no compensation benefits. He was very frustrated. The Union filed a grievance and assisted in appealing the closure of Don’s claim. He hoped that his employer would find a suitable job for him. But, that did not happen. Over several years, Don’s compensation claim went through all levels of the appeals process. At Tribunal, which is the final stage of appeal, his injury was recognized as work related. The Tribunal directed WSIB to allow the claim and pay out any benefits owed to Don.
It took another seven months before Don received any benefits from the WSIB.
In addition, the WSIB deemed his loss of earnings. Deeming is a process where the WSIB determines an injured worker as capable of working in another type of employment, even though the worker may not have another job. Then, the WSIB deducts the expected wages of that phantom job from any money owed by the WSIB, retroactively. Like many people, Don had no idea this type of thing happened in Ontario. He lost his livelihood because of a workplace injury and he knows that any compensation he has received doesn’t make up for what he lost. Don has done his best to make ends meet. He tightened his budget but also had to use money he’d saved for retirement. He credits his family for being so supportive throughout his ordeal. “The compensation system is broken and doesn’t fairly compensate workers injured on the job,” said Don. “The WSIB’s complete lack of respect and dignity for me is incredibly upsetting. People need to know what the WSIB is really doing.” “I know that many people aren’t as fortunate as I am when it comes to support and having money saved,” he said. “There are many injured workers who rely on social assistance and the charity of others because the compensation system has failed them so miserably.” Don’s advice to others: “Stay healthy, stay working, and make safety count in your workplace. Put away some finances for a rainy day. You never know when life is going to throw you a curve ball.”
Community
T
he Local Union took part in both the Toronto and Ottawa/Capital Pride parades over the summer. Volunteers also worked at the UFCW Street Fair booth in Toronto leading up to the parade as well, where they handed out literature and information for the community. Thanks to everyone who showed up to support these events! See you next year!
O
ver the summer, Members were busy raising money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). Since late June, the generosity of our Members and the community raised more than $13,000. Events included BBQs at the Cargill plants and Highbury Canco, a parking fundraiser in Timmins, and a golf tournament in Thunder Bay! In June, the Local Union presented a cheque for $241,756.33 as last year's total raised by our Members for the LLSC. For more photos from all of the great fundraising events, go to ufcw175.com/tag/fundraising or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Fall 2018
27
O
n Labour Day, Members and their families in the Ottawa area came out to celebrate Family, Community, and Working People at the annual Community Action Network (CAN) BBQ. This year, the event took place at Westboro Beach where everyone enjoyed great food cooked up by staff and volunteers, plus lots of activities like a bouncy castle, kite flying, Blongo Ball, and more. Thank you to the Stewards who volunteered their time, and to all the families that came out to enjoy a day at the beach with their Union Sisters, Brothers, and Friends.
If you have moved please make sure you notify the Union Office at membership@ufcw175.com or call 1-800-565-8329
Return postage will be paid by: United Food and Commercial Workers Locals 175 & 633 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga ON L5N 2K7
Canada Post Corporation Publication Agreement No. 40064671
MYUNION.CA
