CONTENTS
President’s message: Building Strong Jobs... Secretary-Treasurer’s Message: The Value of Labour... Labour day 2009... Faces of our Union: Profile of Chief Steward Ahmed Hussein... Community Action Network... Workplace News: Trent Valley Lodge... Letters from our members... Political Action Committee... fundraising... Negotiations: First contract for Community Health Care Workers... Local 175 supports striking Steelworkers... H1n1 information... Members’ & Stewards’ Scholarship Program... Youth: Preventing workplace accidents... More Labour Day Photos...
LOCAL 175: LOCAL 633:
Shawn Haggerty, President; Teresa Magee, Secretary-Treasurer; Betty Pardy, Recorder; Ray Bromley, Jim Hastings, Harry Sutton – Executive Assistants Dan Bondy, President; Marylou Mallett, Secretary-Treasurer; Neil Hotchkiss, Recorder
BenefitS Casey Magee, Intake Representative; Victoria Shen, Legal Counsel; Orsola Augurusa, Sherree Backus, Joanne Ford – Benefits Representatives COmmuniCAtiOnS Emily Groom, Jennifer Tunney – Communications Representatives HeALtH & SAfety Janice Klenot – Senior Health & Safety Representative LegAL Fernando Reis – Co-ordinator; Marcia Barry, Michael Hancock, Rebecca Woodrow, Natalie Wiley – Legal Counsel OrgAnizing Rick Wauhkonen – Organizing Representatives trAining & eduCAtiOn Kelly Nicholas – Co-ordinator of Education; Georgina Broeckel, Laurie Duncan, Ashleigh Garner, Jason Hanley – Education Representatives CentrAL eASt regiOn Kelly Tosato – Director; Jehan Ahamed, Mona Bailey, John DiFalco, Anthony Di Maio, John DiNardo, Linval Dixon, Emmanuelle Lopez, Angela Mattioli, Dave White – Union Representatives SOutH CentrAL regiOn Sylvia Groom – Director; Judith Burch – Union Representative; Lee Johnson-Koehn, Brenda Simmons, Mark Stockton, Mario Tardelli – Servicing Representatives CentrAL WeSt regiOn Luc Lacelle – Director; Matt Davenport, Tim Deelstra, Joe DeMelo, Rick Hogue, Dan Serbin – Union Representatives; Sam Caetano – Servicing Representative eAStern regiOn Dan Lacroix – Director; Simon Baker, Chris Fuller, Paul Hardwick, Marilyn Lang, Daniel Mericer – Union Representatives; Jacques Niquet – Servicing Representative SOutH WeSt regiOn Paul Jokhu – Director; Wendy Absolom, Kevin Dowling, Julie Johnston, Angus Locke, Rob Nicholas, Roy Reed – Union Representatives nOrtH WeSt regiOn Dan Lacroix – Director; Colby Flank, Dean McLaren – Union Representatives
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CHeCKOut is published six times yearly. iSSn no. 1703-3926 CHECKOUT is an official publication of Locals 175 & 633 of the United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW) PrOVinCiAL HeAd OffiCe 2200 ARGENTIA ROAD MISSISSAUGA, ON L5N 2K7 TEL: 905-821-8329 TOLL FREE: 1-800-565-8329 FAX: 905-821-7144 HAmiLtOn OffiCe 412 RENNIE STREET HAMILTON, ON L8H 3P5 TEL: 905-545-8354 TOLL FREE: 1-800-567-2125 OttAWA OffiCe 20 HAMILTON AVENUE N. OTTAWA, ON K1Y 1B6 TEL: 613-725-2154 TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-5295 KitCHener OffiCe 124 SYDNEY STREET S. KITCHENER, ON N2G 3V2 TEL: 519-744-5231 TOLL FREE: 1-800-265-6345 tHunder BAy OffiCe 21-929 FORT WILLIAM RD THUNDER BAY, ON P7B 3A6 TEL: 807-346-4227 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-6932
President’s Message – Shawn Haggerty
Building Strong Jobs The 39-day summer strike by Toronto city workers and the 101-day strike by Windsor city workers revealed once again how the struggle of unionized workers continues to be very misunderstood. The media loves conflict and reporting every angry anti-Union comment is one way to ensure a continued audience. Responsible reporting is rare. But consider this: Over the past two and a half years, Locals 175 & 633 settled more than 56 collective agreements and only one of those required a strike (Dollar Thrifty: Summer/Fall 1997). In fact, 97% of all Union contracts are negotiated without strike or lockout. How many of those do we see in the news? Strikes are a last resort and aren’t a good thing for either side. Striking workers lose their regular pay for the duration of the strike, they bear the brunt of the backlash on the picket lines every day and they often still face public anger back on the job. Strikes are and always have been an important means of achieving and maintaining a quality of work life, compensation and secure jobs. Without the right to strike, employers would easily strip workers of the many advances won over the years such as wages, benefits and health and safety standards. The workers would have little or no recourse. Labour Day is an opportunity to reinvigorate our struggle for strong jobs for our members and workers everywhere. We have the capability, resources and skilled workers necessary to produce, manufacture and supply many things in our country – and we must demand that of our government. We must make sure our predecessors’ hard-won battles for workers’ rights – to earn a decent wage, work safely, be respected and plan for the future with relative confidence – are not
forgotten or conceded or lost because our jobs are being sent elsewhere. Unions get a bad rap for seemingly asking too much from companies – especially in these economic times. But the hard work, dedication and commitment of working people in this country should NOT be sold cheaply. Lowering costs and dealing with profit loss must be mitigated through careful consideration of the labour going into a product or service and the fact that these companies rely on us as consumers to purchase their goods and services as well. We know great wage increases are hard to achieve right now, so we must ensure that our members’ hard work also provides for them in the future. We all rely on quality employment, quality products and services and a quality of living that lets you enjoy your life – not just work to make ends meet. A big part of that quality of life is having pensions and benefits, which are equally, if not more important than immediate wage increases. Workers must look long-term. Negotiating for extended health coverage and a secure future are top priorities for the labour movement, and good unionized jobs help maintain a higher quality of life. I want to thank everyone who came out to support Labour Day this year. We had a great turnout across the province and it was a strong show of support for working people and their accomplishments. The rights we enjoy today are because of the dedication of labour activists over the years and the continued struggle of our union members today. Please continue to demand respect for your hard work, dedication and commitment to your job and communities throughout the rest of the year as well and help us continue to build strong jobs.
OCTOBER 2009
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Secretary -Treasurer’s Message – Teresa Magee
the Value of Canadian Labour As thousands of people came together across the province on Monday, September 7, 2009 to participate in Labour Day events, there was much more to think about than simply celebrating labour. It seems that we, the working people of Ontario, are in a very tough situation with the deepening job crisis. The economists and financial advisors are quick to announce that the recession is over, and work-
ers can go back to business as usual. But what is business as usual? Our country has seen job losses of over 730,000 since 2004 with 414,000 of them since 2008 alone. Ontario’s unemployment rate is at 9.4%, one of the highest in the country. The sell-out of Canadian industries is business as usual? Manufacturing is being torn apart in Canada, particularly in Ontario while the working people who held positions in this sector are left to fend for themselves, witnessing closure after closure. The communities faced with devastating job losses will certainly feel the pressure. Fewer incomes means less tax revenue to pay for municipal services such as roads, transit and social services. Beyond this, it also means the end of family’s dental and vision care plans, extended health care benefits and the end of a pension plan. Canadian workers cannot stand idly by while the best paying and most skilled jobs are cut or sent overseas. Workers can’t wait for the government to realize its employment policies
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are a failure. It’s easy for the government to say that the job market is opening up, that people are beginning to find new work. But workers know the reality; the growing sectors are those which are most precarious, sometimes with less than adequate working conditions, low level wages and are predominately unorganized. Workers need to affirm that federal and provincial governments are duty-bound to defend the public good by restricting the foreign ownership of companies and keeping good jobs in Canada. Because they have yet to take a solid stand for workers, more of what is produced in Canada is removed from our economy, and we have already witnessed how this can devastate the lives of working people. UFCW Locals 175 & 633 are committed to our fight in building strong jobs and to organize the unorganized workers in Ontario. Through organizing, workers are protected from exploitation, unfair wages and poor working conditions. As a part of the labour movement in Canada, a movement of working people, we must stand together and fight for the dignity of labour in our country. This means lobbying our governments, pressuring them to create the change that is necessary to sustain a decent living as a working Canadian. We need to remind our governments that the true strength of our country comes from working people and that we are the voting majority. What is the importance of Labour Day? It reinforces the demand that workers break the silence on the living and working conditions of those who toil without collective protection; it means organizing to fight for the rights of all, for Canadian-standard wages and working conditions at every workplace. It demands fighting on issues of discrimination and human rights. I thank all of our members and families who came out to celebrate Labour Day with us. You did more than celebrate labour. You have emphasized the necessity for a strong labour movement, a movement of working people who demand respect and strong jobs, not the misconception that things are business as usual.
LABOUR DAY 2009 On SePtemBer 7, 2009, LOCALS 175 & 633 gAtHered tOgetHer tO CeLeBrAte LABOur dAy. HundredS Of memBerS, fAmiLy And friendS tOOK PArt in eVentS ACrOSS tHe PrOVinCe. memBerS tOOK tO tHe StreetS in tOrOntO And HAmiLtOn ALOng WitH tHOuSAndS Of OntAriO WOrKerS. under tHe BAnner ‘BuiLding StrOng JOBS’ LOCALS 175 & 633 memBerS CAme tOgetHer tO mAKe tHeir COLLeCtiVe VOiCe HeArd. in COrnWALL, 1,000 WOrKerS, memBerS And VOLunteerS gAtHered At A PiCniC And bArbECUE WHiCH rAiSED OVEr $3,800 FOr LEUKEMiA rESEArCH. KiDS HAD A WONDErFUL time tHrOugHOut tHe dAy, entertAined WitH SeVerAL ACtiVitieS inCLuding mAgiC ACtS. in OtHer AreAS Of tHe PrOVinCe, LOCALS 175 & 633 memBerS CAme tOgetHer And CeLeBrAted tHe dAy WitH PArAdeS, BArBeCueS And PiCniCS.
CORNWALL
SUDBURY
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TORONTO
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GUELPH
HAMILTON
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KINGSTON
OTTAWA
WINDSOR
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FACES OF OUR UNiON - Ahmed Hussein Ahmed Hussein is a husband, a father to four daughters, a customer service agent and the Chief Steward at Hertz at Pearson International Airport. Ahmed is multilingual and speaks Somali, Arabic, English, German and Italian. Union Representative Jehan Ahamed describes Ahmed as someone who “volunteers personal time to help co-workers and participate in all sorts of Union training. He is always eager to learn.” Ahmed was born in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia. This African country has been plagued by clan warfare and poverty, with no effective central government since 1991. Ahmed explains how children born after 1991 have grown up surrounded by guns and heavy weapons. International exporters and smugglers are loaded with money, military equipment and other valuable commodities. “It is like cooking a giant and delicious feast in the middle of a jungle with hungry beings,” says Ahmed. Despite the horrors of war and poverty, Ahmed remembers Somalia as a land where the deep blue sea and sandy beaches go on forever. Ahmed was raised in the Muslim faith but he was a student of the American Christian Mennonites who built their homes along the rivers of Somalia. They taught Somali children math, English and chemistry. His unique encounter with Mennonite teachers forged a lifelong friendship and an understanding of people who share beliefs different from his own. As a teenager, Ahmed enjoyed the peace of being with his family and playing for the national basketball team. But he was forced to face a difficult reality in early adulthood when the Somali government enforced mandatory conscription. Ahmed witnessed manic depression, and drug and alcohol abuse among war veterans. In addition, Ahmed’s father is an Ethiopian native and Somalia was engaged in a battle with Ethiopia at that time. At the age of 22, Ahmed chose to leave Somalia to seek an alternative path to being a soldier. In 1986, Ahmed applied for his Canadian resident status and chose Montreal as his resettlement location. After several months of French language classes, Ahmed was eager to join the workforce. Prior to this, Ahmed lived in Germany pursuing an economics degree. Ahmed explains how “in Europe, garbage collecting was considered a low end job.” Ahmed was confident that he would have no difficulty in applying for such a job in Canada. At the job interview, however, Ahmed was asked if he had any “Canadian experience” collecting garbage? Like many skilled im-
By: Lien Huynh
migrants in Canada, Ahmed found that having no ‘Canadian experience’ meant refusal of his job application. Ahmed contends: “I felt a strong desire to contribute and to participate in Canadian society. Employers should not assess my skills and ability based on my Canadian experience only. As a skilled immigrant, I brought knowledge, education and work experience. All I asked was a chance to showcase my talents and ability.” Failing to secure a good paying job with the Montreal public service, Ahmed worked in factories making cotton, cement and sleeping bags and dismantling discarded ships. At the cotton factory, Ahmed had to bend his fingers to drag the cotton to the rolling machine during his entire shift. At home, he used water and honey to straighten out his curved fingers. In the cement factory, Ahmed could barely see in front of him due to a thick blanket of dust in the air. The employer gave the workers milk to drink so the cement dust would not block their throats during work hours. At the ship factory, his hourly pay was based on the weight of the materials he stripped from rusting ships. In 1989, Ahmed moved his family from Québec to Ontario and soon began his employment with Hertz. Ahmed had no prior experience with unionized workplaces. The majority of workers at his workplace were Somali and he was asked to translate. Later on, he was elected as a Steward for his unit and in 1990, he became Chief Steward. Last year Ahmed participated in the “Good Jobs for All” conference. CBC journalist Mary Wiens interviewed Ahmed, which aired live on the radio show Metro Morning. Ahmed reached out to many listeners that morning as he spoke of the need for good-paying jobs for immigrant families and community programs for at-risk youth. In addition, he spoke about how his Union has taught him valuable skills ranging from the enforcement of health and safety standards, negotiating contracts and collecting evidence for arbitrations. Ahmed’s face lights up when he explains: “The work of a Steward or Chief Steward empowers my spirit because I have been waiting for an opportunity to showcase who I am and what I can do for my brothers and sisters in the workplace and in the community. There is so much more to me than the stigma of being an immigrant.”
OCTOBER 2009
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COmmUNiTY ACTiON NETwORk bbQ a success despite the rain
On July 25, 2009, more than 300 members and their family turned out for the third annual UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Community Action Network Cultural Day & Barbecue held at Boyd Conservation Area in Vaughan. The weather managed to stay clear for the first half of the picnic, letting children enjoy games and prizes including a hula hoop contest and tug of war. Every member that registered upon arriving received a draw ticket for prizes given out as the rain began to pour. Members came from Toronto-area workplaces such as Maple Lodge Farms, Cargill, Maple Leaf Meats, Mobile Climate Control, Quality Meats, Toronto Abattoirs, Hallmark Housekeeping, Quality Knitting, Union Pro Sportswear, Metro and others. “This barbecue is a really great event,” says Local 175 President Shawn Haggerty, who attended along with Secretary-Treasurer teresa magee and many Local Union staff. “Our Community Action Network is an important part of the success of our Local Union and this kind of community event lets us meet and talk with many members and see them interact with their families. Hopefully we’ll see even more people out next year.”
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What does PRIDE mean to you? To many, Pride is a time to celebrate the history, diversity, and achievements of the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer) communities. Pride celebrations come out of a rich political history in the LGBTQ movement, specifically the struggle for equal human rights in society.
right to claim an inclusive positive space for women and trans-identified individuals. Politicians including Ontario ndP leader Andrea Horwath, mP dave Christopherson and mP Chris Charlton rallied with community members in Gore Park to hear speeches about the importance of claiming these spaces and how these activities educate the broader community and create change. By coming together, women and trans identified individuals symbolized their unity in struggle against their marginalization across the society. After the speeches, a spirited march through the downtown core took place with music and dancing.
There have been many pivotal advances made by the LGBTQ communities over the years, but things are still certainly a long way from perfect. While same-sex marriages were enshrined in federal law there have been attempts from the current federal government to rescind these rights. Homophobia and transphobia exist in all sectors, workplaces, organizations and families. Through Pride celebrations the LGBTQ communities have the opportunity to showcase their accomplishments, break barriers and celebrate in an open and inclusive manner.
Our Union is working hard to tear down barriers in various capacities, as our diverse membership ranges across several different sectors and communities. Our participation in Pride Week events stresses the necessity of work to end discrimination, violence and criminalization based on sexual orientation in the workplace and in our communities.
UFCW Locals 175 & 633 are proud to support our LGBTQ members and their communities. Our Union took part in Hamilton’s first ever women and trans march on June 20, 2009. The march, organized by the Women and Liminal Committee of Hamilton, made history in the steel city with over 100 participants from various organizations taking to the streets and affirming their
OCTOBER 2009 11
wORkPLACE NEwS
Local 175 members at Trent Valley Lodge Patience, endurance and compassion. In all lines of work these qualities are necessary in a worker, but to the residents of Trent Valley Lodge it is vital. It is fair to say that our members working at the long-term care facility in Trenton certainly have these qualities and many more, which they share with all 3,100 Local 175 health care workers. Our 60 members at Trent Valley serve residents with dignity and respect on a daily basis, providing them with best care possible. Our members care for residents in various capacities, be it nursing, meal service, restorative care, social and activational services and housekeeping. marilyn Anderson
Betty read
Paulette Shewman
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Martina Cowton
Nicole Skinkle
Penny Hewton-reid
Opened in 1971, Trent Valley Lodge has provided care to many people throughout the years at the former facility, which housed 70 residents comfortably. As of August 2009, residents and staff have relocated to a new modern facility right next door. The new building provides space for an extra 32 beds bringing the capacity to 102. To manage the growth, a staff expansion of at least 100 hours a week was necessary, moving several part-time workers into full-time positions. The new facility houses a large modern kitchen with all of the necessary equipment to serve the growing number of residents. Head cook and Union Steward Betty Read says this new space is a major improvement from the small kitchen in the old building. The new facility has lots of sunlight thanks to big windows and a dĂŠcor that is much more inviting and ‘homey.’ Even an on-site hair salon and a large common space, big enough to ballroom dance, were built for the residents to enjoy. Long-term care is certainly a tough line of work, both physically and emotionally. Our members work hard in providing exceptional care and compassion while also taking pride in their positions. With the support of their Local Union, members at Trent Valley Lodge feel confident and secure in their work, which reflects highly on the care of our mothers, fathers, grandparents and family alike.
mary graham
Sandra radway
rita Shettell
Pat Deroy
LETTERS Lilian Pagnini October 14, 1939 – May 21, 2009 For those who knew her she was more than just a co-worker, more than just their union steward – she was a lady with heart and compassion. She had the ability to reach out and touch those that knew her. A friendship with her was one that lasted for eternity. She worked with us for many years, her laughter and kindness is always remembered. She had a tender voice that turned to instant concern when someone had a problem. She committed herself to fight for the rights of people. She committed herself to her undeniable love for her
husband and family.
ruth godin
Shelia Schick
Kim badour
We are saddened, so saddened that we had to say goodbye to her, but we know her journey continues and she is up in heaven representing. We will miss our dear friend, colleague, mother, and most important of all, a generous soul that we all found comfort in whenever we turned to her. Sandra P. Cole Local 175 Member Metro #442, Toronto LetterS, queStiOnS Or COmmentS? CHeCKOut mAgAzine 2200 ArgentiA rOAd miSSiSSAugA, On L5n 2K7 OR SEND US AN E-MAIL AT: memBerSHiP@ufCW175.COm
OCTOBER 2009 13
POLiTiCAL ACTiON COmmiTTEE E
Why Vote?
A simple question that unfortunately does not have an easy answer. Governments are elected to deal with complex issues with wide-ranging impact. They are expected to make decisions that are fair and in the best interests of us all. This can only happen when the elected government is sympathetic to what is important to ordinary working people. When business friendly political parties are voted into power, corporate lobby groups dust off their “shopping lists,” government appointed boards and committees are stacked, and antiworker legislation is sure to follow. Here in Ontario we are stuck, until 2011 at the earliest, with an anti-worker legislation. The barriers and obstacles that Injured Workers have to negotiate in order to obtain WSIB benefits are a leftover from Mike Harris and his disastrous Tory regime. This legislation has been left on the books by successive Liberal governments despite its proven debilitating effects on the lives of Injured Workers and their families. Another significant issue that impacted all of us is the much touted Free Trade Agreement (FTA) of 1989. This was to be former Conservative P.M. Brian Mulroney’s legacy, an agreement that promised, in Mulroney’s own words: “Jobs! Jobs! Jobs!” In hindsight, it’s obvious that he was not referring to jobs here in Canada, or for Canadians. Free Trade was not a new idea. Strategies for such an agreement were already drawn up waiting for the right time for implementation while the agenda was driven by well-funded business groups. In 1984, Canada’s electorate, disenchanted with Liberal arrogance, swept the Conservatives into power with the most seats in Federal Election history. Despite his public opposition to Free Trade in 1983, Mulroney now became an outspoken advocate for the FTA and the changes to our economy deemed necessary for its imple-
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mentation. Enter the GST, which effectively removed a huge part of Federal tax revenues from the squarebusiness community and placed costs square ly on the backs of consumers. This along with other actions brought about what is known as a “structural” change to our economy. As overseas interests gained access to and control over Canadian markets, competitiveness became the new business buzzword. This translated into battles at the bargaining table just to keep what we already had; small improvements were seen as major victories. Almost 20 years later, these fights continue. In the meantime, tens of thousands of well paying jobs have disappeared forever, wages in real terms continue to fall and we are still governed by a political party that seems to listen only to the corporate elite. The same corporate entities and wealthy businessmen who triggered the current financial crisis have not only ducked any responsibility for the problems they created, but in many cases have been and continue to be very well compensated. Take a moment to think about what would happen to you, at the factory or store where you work, if you made a mistake of the same magnitude: A mistake that forced your employer to the brink of bankruptcy and caused the indefinite layoff of many of your co-workers. It’s doubtful that you would keep your job never mind receive a substantial pay raise. Election Day is the one time that it is possible to make a real difference. Yours might be that single vote that elects your candidate of choice and keeps the corporate lackey away from power. We firmly believe that it is possible to win back control of our political destinies, even if it has to be done one vote at a time.
Fundraising
Locals 175 & 633 raise over $375,000 The 20th annual UFCW Canada Gala in support of Leukemia research was yet again a huge success, breaking previous fundraising records. “I’m happy to be able to present such a great total raised by the generous members of Locals 175 & 633,” said Local 175 President Shawn Haggerty who announced the Local Union’s contribution to the National total was $375,000. Once again, this year’s top fundraiser was the UFCW Local 12R24/The Beer Store bottle drive, held the weekend after the Victoria Day long weekend. The annual event, which involved more than 2,000 volunteers, raised an astounding $830,007.68. Guests enjoyed a great dinner while being entertained by a number of musical acts. Following presentations made by a number of Local Unions, National President Wayne Hanley announced another record breaking total for the nation-wide efforts of $1,659,539.62. “With all the activities and events that our Union organizes or takes part in, we always have the support
of the community. We take pride in our involvement with the broader community, as it’s amazing to see people come out to our events and stand with our Union and members in raising money for such a good cause,” said Haggerty. Every 80 minutes, someone dies from Leukemia. The necessity for research is paramount in fighting this disease, and our Union will continue our fundraising work until the day comes when we don’t have to; when Leukemia is a disease of the past.
reminder 2nd Annual Curling for a Cure tournament Saturday, October 24, 2009 Alliston Curling Club 52 Albert St W, Alliston REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS OCTOBER 21 For more information call Heather at 905-821-8329 or 1-800-565-8329 ext 2238
OCTOBER 2009 15
Toy drive for children’s hospitals great success
Ted fights for the cure
A the beginning of this year, several staff members at UFCW Local 175 organized a toy drive to gather new stuffed animals for pediatric patients at both McMaster Children’s Hospital and Toronto’s Sick Kids Hospital.
“Ted on the Roof” is now “Ted on the Road.” Ted Dawes, a Local 175 member who works at Minute Maid, walked from Parliament Hill in Ottawa to Nathan Phillip Square in Toronto to raise money for Leukemia research. Ted arrived in Toronto on May 22nd with $42,000 in his pocket for the LLS. As if walking 436 kilometres wasn’t enough, Ted also waited tables at a local restaurant fundraiser particiin his home town Peterborough as well as partici
“Members, Executive Board members and staff were very generous,” says one of the organizers, Janice Klenot, Local 175 Health & Safety Representative. “In just a few months we collected approximately 800 toys, which we delivered to the two hospitals in June. Raising money to support research for things like finding a cure for Leukemia is very important, but sometimes kids need something more tangible – something they can hold on to.” Staff delivered the toys to the children in June and were met with enthusiasm and appreciation by the hospital staff and kids. Photo: Pictured top right with Secretary-Treasurer Teresa Magee are Janice Klenot and Sherree Backus who organized the toy drive along with Orsola Augurusa, Joanne Ford (right) and Casey Magee of the Benefits Department.
pated in several other events across the province. “The walk was tough, no question, but it raised a lot of money and awareness for a really important cause,” Dawes (pictured above, centre) said shortly after limping into Toronto’s Nathan Phillips Square for the big finish, including greetings from LLS mascot Spike and a pair of Toronto Argonaut cheerleaders and City Councillor Paula Fletcher.
Dear Members of Locals 175 & 633:
bbQ at Loblaws raises over $1,000
Thank you very much for thinking about our pediatric patients and for your generous donation of new stuffed animals. We know how much this will be appreciated by the children.
On May 8 and 9, 2009, members at Loblaws Gloucester in Ottawa held a barbecue to raise money for Leukemia research. The hard work and dedication of the volunteers paid off as the sale of hot dogs, pop and other items raised $1,272 over the two-day event.“Everyone was very generous,” said union rep daniel mercier. “Even though it was raining, everyone had a great time raising money for this great cause.”
It is difficult for children to be hospitalized and we strive to normalize their lives while they are here through play, education and peer interaction. It is through involvement such as yours that all of this is made possible. On behalf of the children, their parents and staff, please accept our sincere appreciation. Sincerely yours, Hamilton Health Sciences Alida Bowman Program Manager, Inpatient Pediatrics
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Weather holds out for fundraising derby On July 19, 2009, 105 participants came out to Catch For A Cure, a fundraising fishing derby held at Wheatley Harbour in Wheatley, Ontario. Organized by UFCW 175 member Michael Collins, the event brought in $1,500 for Leukemia research. “It was a fabulous day. The weather was perfect; everyone had a wonderful day fishing and raising money at the same time for such a worthy cause,” said Collins, who works at Holiday Inn Express in Windsor. Staff moonlight as parking attendants Local 175 Staff took to the Food Basics parking lot during Port Colborne’s Canal Days Festival on August 1st and 2nd. Community members attending the festival were happy to donate $5.00 to park their vehicles in the lot and over the course of two days, our Union raised $3,500 for the LLS. “Everyone was so generous, and genuinely happy to donate,” said South Central Regional Director Sylvia groom. bikers ride for a cure Over 47 bikers and volunteers came out to support the annual Ride-4-A-Cure on August 8, 2009, where union members and community members alike raised over $13,000 for the LLS. The ride was a great success, and participants took in many local attractions such as Terra Cotta, Cheltenham Badlands, the Loretto Inn and the Forks of the Credit. For information on the Ride-4-A-Cure and next year’s event visit www.ufcwrideforacure.ca.
baseball tournament collects over $4,000 Despite a rainy start to the 7th Annual Hit-For-A-Cure Baseball Tournament, the day was a great success, raising more money than last year. This year eleven teams, totalling more than 110 players, came out to play for the day at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Borden, near Barrie. Through entry fees, raffle draws and a breakfast and barbecue lunch, the players contributed $4,429. “All of this year’s participants gave generously to our fundraising efforts,” said President Shawn Haggerty who helped out behind the barbecue for the day alongside SecretaryTreasurer teresa magee and a number of staff volunteers. “This tournament gets better each year. It’s great to see members, their families and community teams out to enjoy a day of baseball. It’s a great way to have some fun while raising money for such a good cause.” finAL tOurnAment StAndingS: Division A Champions – Hog Wild with members from Maple Leaf Pork Burlington. Division A Runners Up – MASH 479 with members from A&P Orillia Division B Champions – Maple Lodge Farms Division B Runners Up – Eastern Region All Stars Division C Champions – Liberté Natural Foods Division C Runners Up – UFCW National Office 50/50 tickets bring in over $10,500 Campers at Wildwood campground in Morpeth help raise $1,066 to find a cure at a thank you barbecue this past August. All year round, campers have been buying 50/50 raffle tickets and have raised over $10,500 so far.
OCTOBER 2009 17
NEGOTIATIONS
COmmunity HeALtH CAre WOrKerS ACHieVe firSt COLLeCtiVe Agreement
Ninety-one new members of Local 175 secured a first collective agreement at a ratification meeting held August 16, 2009. Workers at the Sherbourne Health Centre in Toronto provide comprehensive health care to local residents, homeless and under-housed individuals, the LGBTQ community and new Canadians. In addition to contract language establishing union rights, seniority, job posting and layoff/recall the members benefit from the many improvements to their previous working conditions. As of the date of ratification, members receive a substantial increase with some members receiving over 20 per cent. Subsequent increases in years two and three will be based on funding provided to the facility and those increases will be retroactive to April 1 of each year. Each worker receives a signing bonus in the form of a $750 lump sum payment. Any worker temporarily assigned to a higher classification job will be paid 10 per cent above their regular rate for that work and any worker performing work exceeding their normal scheduled bi-weekly hours can choose to be
compensated with equivalent time off or pay, both calculated at time and a half. Vision care coverage improves to $250 per 24-month period and hearing aids will be covered to a maximum of $1,000 every five years. Part-time workers receive 10 per cent in lieu of benefits and an increased percentage for their vacation entitlement. Very important language establishes a duty to accommodate injured workers, and that accommodation shall allow for equal benefit for transgender, transsexual and gender variant employees. Further language addresses health and safety procedures, antidiscrimination and anti-harassment policies as well as provisions for professional development. In the event of permanent layoff, workers receive severance pay in the amount of two weeks’ pay per year of service to a maximum of 26 weeks. Union Negotiating Committee: ray Clark, bernadette Lettner, Vlad Wolanyk, Union Rep Angela mattioli and Central East Director Kelly tosato.
memBerS At Hunter dOugLAS meet tO rAtify neW COntrACt The approximately 100 members working at Hunter Douglas in Brampton achieved a new three-year contract in recent negotiations, which was ratified at a meeting held August 28, 2009. Wages increase by 2 per cent in each year of the contract term while afternoon and night shift premiums increase to 50 cents per hour, up from 40 cents. Language was negotiated to continue benefits at time of layoff and new language establishes health and safety provisions. Members benefit from an increased dental plan coverage of $1,500 per year while vision care is up $320 (total combined coverage) per employee every 24 months. Coverage for insoles increases to $250 per 12-month period. Union Negotiating Committee: Joan King, Binh Lam, gurprem Vander Singh and Union Rep matt daveport.
mAPLe LeAf WOrKerS The 190 members working at Maple Leaf Poultry in Brampton ratified a new three-year deal at a meeting held June 27, 2009. All active employees as of the date of ratification receive a lump sum payment of $700. Subsequent increases include 35 cents per hour for production employees and 50 cents per hour for skilled trades on June 1, 2010. In 2011, production employees receive an increase of 40 cents per hour and skilled trades receive 50 cents per hour. The Lead Hand Maintenance A/AA classification receives an additional increase of 25 cents per hour in both the second and third year of the contract term and the shift premium for Live Hang increases by 20 cents per hour. Effective June 1, 2010, workers designated as the TSSA Chief Engineer receive a shift premium of 50 cents per hour for regular hours so worked. Company contributions to the workers’ dental plan improve to 38 cents per hour effective ratification while vision care coverage increases to $185 as of June 1, 2010 and $200 effective June 1, 2011. The tool allowance improves to $225 per year in the second year and $250 per year in the third year of the deal. Union representation improves to provide four stewards, up from the previous three. Union Negotiating Committee: Emma Aspilla, George Heelis, Natalie Nicholas, Sylvie Pascoa, Servicing Rep Sam Caetano and Regional Director Luc Lacelle.
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neW LOCAL 175 memBerS ACHieVe firSt COntrACt After LOng negOtiAtiOnS One hundred and seven new union members working at Wings Torlake in Toronto met on July 25, 2009, to discuss the terms reached between the Union and employer for a first collective agreement.
tween midnight and 8:30 a.m. Upon ratification, the employer will post two Processor (Level 2) positions for which the two successful applicants will receive full training.
Workers at this facility produce fortune cookies, won ton skins, noodles and various sauces for restaurants and supermarkets.
Workers receive signing bonuses of $275 and $375 or more depending on length of service.
The contract establishes general language, provisions, grievance and arbitration procedure, harassment and discrimination, seniority, leaves of absence and health and safety. Wages increase by 5 per cent with subsequent increases of 2 per cent in each of the following three years. Red-circled employees receive lump sum payments of $300 in each of the first three years and $500 in the fourth year of the contract term. Team Leaders/Lead Hands receive a shift premium of 50 cents per hour and night shift employees receive a premium of 80 cents per hour for hours worked be-
Effective January 1, 2010, a group RRSP plan will be established for all members with one year of service or more. The employer will contribute 50 cents for every dollar contributed by the employee to a maximum of $100 per year of completed service – to a program maximum of $500 per year and workers receive a safety footwear allowance of $125 per two-year period. Union Negotiating Committee: Tim Hum, Mark Sit and Union Rep rob Nicholas with translation provided by Servicing Rep Lien Huynh.
WeStin WOrKerS rAtify Hospitality workers at the Westin Hotel in Ottawa met on August 31, 2009, to vote on a negotiated settlement agreed upon between the company and the Union. The contract includes wage increases over the term of the contract, by $1.70 per hour for gratuity employees and by $2.55 per hour for non-gratuity employees, with the first increase retroactive to June 15, 2009. In addition, workers benefit from significant adjustments to gratuities. Those assigned to the night shift receive a premium, which reaches 60 cents per hour by the final year of the contract. In the last year of the contract workers receive a fourth sick day. Any employee who does not use any sick days receives an attendance bonus of $100 per year. Contributions to the workers’ pension plan increase to 75 cents per hour and workers will be able to vote on the implementation of a long-term disability plan. New language prevents contracting out bargaining unit work and reinstated language provides workers with their anniversary date as a paid holiday. Other language provides that time spent in mandatory meetings will be included in overtime calculation and the company and Union will meet to discuss the possible implementation of an alternative four-day workweek pilot program. Union Negotiating Committee: George behnam, Carlvin burgins, barbara Cule, Peter Meelker, Scott molnar, Jaime rada, Brad rose, noel Steele and Union rep Simon baker.
SeCure neW COntrACtS On July 25, 2009, 70 members at Maple Leaf Consumer Foods Distribution Centre ratified their new three-year collective agreement. Active workers will receive a lump sum payment of $500 effective the date of ratification, while wages increase 30 cents an hour on July 1, 2010 and July 1, 2011. In addition to pension contributions, the employer will contribute 31 cents an hour to the Stabilization Fund, up from 10 cents in the previous contract. Benefits improve as the employer’s dental plan contribution increases to 38 cents, while vision care increases to $190 as of January 1, 2010. Effective January 1, 2010 workers receive a maximum of $150 for physiotherapy per year as well as $150 for massage therapy treatment. Improved Health and Safety language ensures a workers right TO REFUSE DANGEROUS WORK, a necessity in any workplace. Union Negotiating Committee: Peter Acker, Carlton Jackson, Maryann Sheremet and Union Rep matt davenport.
OCTOBER 2009 19
Midtown Meats Update in April, 145 members were forced from their jobs at Midtown Meats after fire destroyed the plant.
• • • • •
The company is still in negotiations with the insurance company regarding a settlement. Midtown would like to rebuild on the same site, but the township is insisting that site improvements be made, specifically regarding the creek that runs through the property. Discussions between the company and the township continue. When or if the above two issues are resolved, the time frame to rebuild would be eight to nine months. The Union is currently in discussions with an Adjustment Advisor from the Ministry regarding an action centre. Company has stated that any rumours of meat production at their Trenton Freezer Storage facility are false.
LOCAL 175 SuPPOrtS StriKing SteeLWOrKerS Over 200 workers from various unions gathered on Tuesday, August 4, 2009 in support of striking Vale Inco workers in Port Colborne. United Steelworkers Union Local 6200’s 115 members have been holding the picket line since July 13 alongside the 3,000 members of Local 6500 in Sudbury with no intentions of backing down until they can bargain a fair and just contract with the massively profitable multinational company. As of August 1, more than 450 members of USW Local 9508 at Voisey’s Bay Vale Inco in Newfoundland and Labrador have hit the picket line after a 99 per cent strike vote. Vale, a Brazilian owned company is using the current economic conditions as an excuse to cut workers bonuses and benefits, although the company profited 13.2 billion dollars last year. Employee’s wages account for less than 1/10th of Vale’s costs. Local 175 staff were at the rally supporting our brothers and sisters in their fight. “We have to stand together as workers and show our governments that the response to this economic situation is unacceptable,” says Local 175 President Shawn Haggerty. “While the rich are getting richer, workers are losing their standard of living, losing their jobs all across Canada. There is a very apparent trend happening here with foreign owned companies that the government needs to address.” The Brazilian multinational Vale SA came in and bought the profitable Inco two years ago. The federal government said they were allowing the takeover because it was a “net benefit” to Canada.
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H1N1 (HUMAN SWiNE FLU) infOrmAtiOn As of September 15, 2009, Canada had 1,454 cases of H1N1, with 76 confirmed deaths. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) shares updated information on a weekly basis, providing detailed analysis on the impact of the virus. Most cases in Canada are mild with patients recovering at home with no need for medical care. However, it is important to know what you can do to protect yourself and your family. Symptoms of H1N1 are similar to that of a regular flu: Fever, headache, cough, muscle aches, sore throat, weakness/fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and chills.
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If you feel ill and/or experience flu-like symptoms – STAY HOME. Keep your distance from others and visit your doctor if necessary.
Everyone should follow these recommendations from Health Canada: •
Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm/hot water.
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if soap & water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
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Cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze – DO NOT USE YOUr HAndS. use a tissue or your arm/sleeve.
The current strain appears to be treatable with Tamiflu and Relenza – consult your doctor. Mild cases, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada, do NOT require these treatments.
soon to address it. Below is a list of things to consider when creating your plan: • Your goal should be to eliminate worker exposure to the virus by containing its spread in your workplace. • Include the precautionary principle, as recommended in the SARS report, which (summarized) stated: “That action to reduce risk need not await scientific certainty.” • Control through the usual hierarchy: At the Source, Along the Path and as a last resort At the Worker. Use engineering and administrative controls, work design/organization and personal protective equipment.
You CANNOT get the virus from eating pork – cooking destroys the virus.
• Employers should ensure workers know how and are able to reduce transmission of the virus by providing proper training in consultation with the JHSC.
Currently, the World Health Organization (WHO) has its pandemic level set at Phase 6, which is the The Pandemic Phase, where there are Community outbreaks in at least one country from a second WHO region – indicating that a global pandemic is underway.
• Establish a communications plan to keep workers informed before, during and after the pandemic. If required, ensure provisions are made to stockpile personal protective equipment and other items. Ensure workers are trained properly on the use, care and removal of these items.
For more information, please visit the following Web sites:
• Social distancing is important during a pandemic. Cancel large gatherings, reduce or eliminate travel and use teleconferencing instead of face to face meetings.
The World Health Organization (WHO) www.who.int/en Public Health Agency of Canada www.phac-aspc.gc.ca www.fightflu.ca The Workers Health & Safety Centre www.whsc.on.ca The City of Toronto www.toronto.ca/health/cdc/h1n1
Does your workplace have a pandemic influenza plan? If not, raise the issue at your next JHSC
• Anyone advised to work from home should receive any proper equipment & training needed. • For health care facilities, develop procedures for limiting exposure such as limiting access to facility, screening all entrants, isolating patients with symptoms, use negative pressure rooms where appropriate and keep at least two metres away from symptomatic patients.
OCTOBER 2009 21
TRAiNiNG & EDUCATiON Our Local is committed to providing education and training that is relevant to our members and stewards alike. The Stewards’ & Members’ Scholarship Program is a unique opportunity to connect with other Union members in a learning environment. These courses are held at the Training & Education Centre in Mississauga. The Local Union covers the cost of the course, materials, and instruction as well as the members’ lost wages, per diems, transportation costs and accommodations as per Local Union policies. This week-long program will cover a wide array of topics that relate to your work environment and your Local Union. In the Members’ Scholarship Program, topics include: • • • • • • •
Participants from the May 2009 Stewards’ Scholarship Program
Why do workers organize? History and Structure of our Local Union & the Labour Movement The Role of Stewards & Grievance Handling An Introduction to Collective Bargaining Health & Safety A Local on the move; Benefits; Youth Scholarships; Education Programs Our Local Union is the leader in Communications & Educational Programs
The Stewards’ Scholarship Program includes: it’s Our union: Introduction and overview of the structure, benefits and service of the Local Union. Human rights & Duty to Accommodate: This course covers topics including accommodating disabilities, religious accommodation, paid holidays & family status, with special attention paid to medical documentation, when duty is engaged & the definition of undue hardship. Organizing the Unorganized - it’s our future: Participants learn the principles of organizing & its importance in today’s economy. Topics include the legal process of organizing and the challenges that we face when organizing the unorganized. This course also addresses how organizing affects us, as current union members as well as future members. With education our membership grows and ultimately becomes stronger. The better informed our members are, the better armed we all are to defend the rights of our membership.
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Participants from the November 2008 Stewards’ Scholarship Program
reminder
StEwaRDS’ ScholaRShIP PRoGRaM NoVEMBER 23-27, 2009 Application deadline is October 19, 2009 Apply online at www.ufcw175.com, or contact the Training & Education Centre at 1 (800) 565-8329.
WOrKPLACe ACCidentS: Take Preventative Action! In the wake of the death of a 17-year old grocery store worker in the Greater Toronto Area in August, we would like to urge our members regardless of age to familiarize themselves with the laws and regulations that govern health and safety in Ontario. The first step to protecting yourself is being able to recognize hazards in your work environment. Learn to follow your instincts -- if it doesn’t feel or sound right, or if you have any doubts, give it some thought before you do the job. If the doubts are still there, trust your instincts and report the situation. Here are some red flags -- situations that should immediAteLy alert you to unsafe situations that might result in injury. •You’re asked to operate a piece of machinery or equipment like a lift truck -- equipment you’ve never seen or used before. •You’ve been asked to operate a machine and you notice that a guard that’s normally in place to protect you from the moving parts is missing.
youth
UFCW
LOCALS 175 & 633
Work Safely: use all machinery and equipment the way it was meant to be used. Make sure you receive the proper training on any equipment before you start to use it! Report Hazards: if you know that Ontario’s health and safety laws are not being followed you must report the circumstances to your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. Use or Wear Protective Devices: don’t remove a guard or device designed to protect you. Wear your safety gear, it’s the law. Make sure you know your three basic rights: right to Know about what hazards are in your workplace and to know what to do to prevent injuries from them. right to Participate in health and safety activities in your workplace without fear of discipline. right to refuse Unsafe Work that you reasonably believe can be dangerous to yourself or others.
•You notice that parts of a machine are broken, such as the blade of a saw, or frayed electrical cords. •You are asked to climb a ladder that is obviously broken. •You are asked to work in high places, like a roof, with no fall protection, such as a guardrail or a harness. •You’re asked to work with chemicals or handle human bodily fluids with no training or appropriate personal protective equipment. •Fellow workers have received minor cuts or burns from using a piece of equipment. It hasn’t been fixed and now it’s your turn to use it. •The nature of your work may expose you to the risk of violence, and you’ve not been trained on the procedures to follow to protect yourself. •Another worker has refused to do the work you’ve been asked to do because they thought it was unsafe and the issue still hasn’t been resolved.
The UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Youth Committee (pictured above) meets on a regular basis to discuss various issues focusing on Youth. The enthusiasm the committee generates provides fresh and innovative ideas to help educate Youth about unions. Unions are not just for people with lifetime careers - unions are for everyone, especially Youth in the workforce. For more information on how you can get involved contact youth@ufcw175.com.
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Staff from UFCW Locals 175 & 633, 1000A and 1977 gathered for a solidarity conference in June with the focus on unity and fact sharing between the four Locals. Collectively working together and information sharing is key when bargaining on behalf of our members. The conference brought out ideas and heavy discussion on a wide range of topics including WSIB, collective bargaining and legal matters.
More Labour Day 2009 photos
Return postage will be paid by: United Food and Commercial Workers Locals 175 and 633 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga ON L5N 2K7
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