In this issue...
CHECKOUT
WINTER 2024 - VOL XXXIII NO 4
• Strikes over at Mobile Climate Control & Maple Leaf Courtney Park as members ratify pages 6 & 7
• Plus: Just Cause Protection, the Right to Know, WSIB Claims & Time Limits, Weeklong Paid Training, Solidarity Scholarship winners, and more.
UNION STRONG – UNION PROUD
STRIKE NEWS
Members at Maple Leaf Courtney Park ratify, ending 18-day strike.
Members at Maple Leaf Foods on Courtney Park Drive in Mississauga have ratified a new collective agreement by almost 71%.
Members voted on the new deal on November 10, 2024. The company offer put forward was a result of mediation that took place between the parties just a few days earlier.
Mobile Climate Control members end their strike with a ratified deal.
On October 21, 2024, the 450 members of at Mobile Climate Control in Mississauga and Vaughan took to the picket lines after voting down a final offer from the company. On November 1, those members ratified a recommended settlement.
Find more photos and information on what led the members at these workplaces to go on strike on pages 6 - 7.
Make sure to check in with your Union on Facebook and Instagram to see more photos and keep up to date on news from the Union.
President
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Director, Long-Term Care & Retirement: Sandra Ashcroft; Union Representatives: Todd Janes, Derek Jokhu, Dean McLaren, Maxine Prince
Director, Community Care: Mike Mattioli; Union Representatives: Sacha Edey, Sabrina Qadir, Meemee Seto. Servicing Representative: Kasiobi Nwankudu
REGION 1 Director: Tracy Stubbs; Union Representative: Alex Stubbs; Servicing Representative: Lynn Swiderski
REGION 2 Director: Jason Hanley; Union Representatives: Chris Bernardi, Ricardo Bocanegra, Amanda De Melo, Christina Mayberry, Mario Tardelli, Amy Tran
REGION 3 Director: Paul Hardwick; Union Representatives: Sean Carroll, Shannon Epp, Kimberly Hunter, Joe Tenn; Servicing Representative: Damian Hulshof
REGION 4 Directors: Matt Davenport, John DiNardo; Union Representative: Jennifer Hanley; Servicing Representatives: Fatima Butt, Nunzio Cannistraci, Wyllan Dick, Art Gier, Patrick Griggs, Dawn Hanlon, Shirley Hepditch, Alan Reston
REGION 5 Director: Jehan Ahamed; Union Representatives: Arlene Robertson; Servicing Representative: Liam Aikens-Armbruster, Kelly Dick, Sharon Jones, Skip Pavlick, Justin Poirier
REGION 6 Director: Sam Caetano; Union Representatives: Dave Forbes, Chris Mayberry, Nelson Pereira, Melody Slattery, Navidad Talbot, Fred Teeple
REGION 7 Director: Jehan Ahamed; Union Representative: John Beaton; Servicing Representatives: Julie Jodoin, Michael Windley
REGION 8 Director: Derik McArthur; Union Representatives: Jeff Barry, Michael Bernier, Richard Eberhardt, Jim Hames
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION Coordinator: Sarah Neath; Workers’ Compensation Intake Representative: Georgina MacDonald; Workers’ Compensation Representatives: Joanne Ford, Ashley Hunt, Courtney Salomons
PAY EQUITY Coordinator: Orsola Augurusa; Pay Equity Representative: Nabeela Irfan
HEALTH & SAFETY Director: Kelly Nicholas; Health & Safety Representative: Donna Rhodes
LEGAL Director: Jane Mulkewich; Paralegal: Gord Steinberg; Counsel: Christopher Jagodits, Matthew Jagodits, Ambar Reyes, Brandon Rodrigues
ORGANIZING Director: Tony Nigro; Organizing Representatives: Joce Cote, Tim Hum, Jeffery Lu, Casey Magee
TRAINING & EDUCATION Director: Kelly Nicholas; Servicing Representative: Teresa Wilson;
COMMUNICATIONS Coordinator: Jennifer Tunney; Communications Representatives: Laurie Duncan, Ashleigh Vink
PROJECTS Coordinator: Wei Chen
President’s Message
Taking it to the picket line: Dramatic rise in number of work stoppages across Canada
Each year, the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives put out its annual statistic on how quickly Canada’s top CEOs made what the average Canadian worker takes all year to make.
For 2024, those CEOs made $60,600 by 9:27 a.m. on January 2, and I suspect that next year’s statistic will be just as, if not more, upsetting.1
In 2022, average pay for those top CEOs was $14.9 million. That's 246 times the average workers’ pay in Canada.
Over this last year, more than 1,600 members of our Union at three workplaces have gone on strike because their fight for more – their fight for respect and dignity – was worth taking it to the picket lines. You can read more about the strikes at Mobile Climate Control and Maple Leaf Courtney Park on pages 6 and 7.
And they’re not alone. Across Canada, workers are fed up. Across all sectors and industries in the country, there were 176 work stoppages in 2022. In 2023, that number grew to 778. As of October 2024,
there have been 706 work stoppages nation-wide.2
Corporate greed has erupted. And while that level of greed has always been distasteful, it feels particularly hard to swallow on the heels of a pandemic that, even today, isn’t really over. A pandemic that saw many working people like our Members continue to do their jobs despite enormous risks to their health.
Too many politicians prioritize the mighty corporate dollar over the survival of people. Real change must be made in the policies and legislation enacted by the candidates elected to represent us.
We see the results of this corporate greed in other ways, too. The money that working people do take home doesn’t go nearly far enough. As food banks report increasing numbers of visits from families and individuals, it is clear that our economic and social systems are in peril.
And it is the most vulnerable who pay the steepest price.
I am proud that our Executive Board continues to see the importance of providing funds to our province’s food banks and community support systems. Yet again this year, your Local Union will donate nearly $200,000 to 60 organizations across Ontario.
And while our Local Union is privileged to be in a position to give these donations, that money – and food banks themselves – should only need to be temporary solutions.
As we wrap up 2024, I want to thank all of you for your solidarity year after year. Your strength and support of each other and for this Union makes me so proud to be your President. I hope you all enjoy a safe and happy holiday season and all the best of the New Year.
In
Solidarity, Kelly Tosato president@ufcw175.com
Secretary-Treasurer's Message
Health & Safety in the workplace: A priority for your Local Union and a responsibility of all
Workplace health and safety is a fundamental concern and focus of your Local Union. It is a broad topic that encompasses many different aspects of your working life.
Whether you’re driving a forklift, using machinery or tools, stocking shelves, dealing with customers, assisting patients and more – safety is the number one priority.
A poll by the Lloyd’s Register Foundation, found that nearly half of workplace harm goes unreported around the world. In addition, the poll found that many workers have never received occupational health and safety training.1
In Ontario, the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) has a public tally of received and allowed claims in the province, which put the numbers so far this year (as of October 29, 2024) at 177,080 registered claims and 125, 265 allowed claims.2
But many workers do not file a WSIB claim for their work-related injuries or illnesses, and many more injuries go entirely unreported each year.
Employers must have proper policies and procedures, and provide proper training and personal protective equipment (PPE) to employees.
Employees must recognize their own role in maintaining a safe and healthy workplace, too. That includes bringing any hazards or concerns to the attention of your Health & Safety Rep, Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC), or Union Steward. Workers must also ensure they wear any and all PPE properly and report any injuries immediately.
Please make health and safety your first priority at work. Remain vigilant and ask questions if you are not sure about something or have concerns.
If you are injured at work or suspect that symptoms you experience may be related to work, report it and file a WSIB claim. If you have questions about WSIB Claims and Appeals, reach out to the Local Union Workers' Compensation experts.
Your Union has a dedicated Health & Safety Department to assist your Representa-
tives, Stewards, and H&S Reps/JHSC in establishing and maintaining good workplace health and safety. We are here to answer questions and help address any safety concerns that arise in your workplaces.
On page 20, you can read about an important aspect of workplace health safety: violence and harassment. Resources related to all kinds of Health & Safety concerns and more can be found at ufcw175.com. And, as always, please reach out to your Union Rep or contact the Health & Safety Department for more information.
I want to commend all of our members for their dedication and commitment to building better, safer workplaces. I wish all of you a wonderful holiday season and a happy New Year.
In Solidarity, Jim McLean treasurer@ufcw175.com
Strike at Maple Leaf Courtney Park
Maple Leaf members end 18-day strike with a new deal ratified by nearly 71%.
The membership at Maple Leaf Courtney Park in Mississauga voted on the new deal on November 10, 2024. The company offer put forward at that meeting was a result of mediation that took place between the parties just a few days earlier.
“The members at Maple Leaf voted to take strike action and now have used their votes to ratify an agreement,” said President Tosato. “Having that power and that voice to choose how you move forward as a collective group is a huge part of what makes being a Union member so important. And as our members return to work, the Union will continue to work on their behalf, enforcing the terms of this new agreement and ensuring their voices continue to be heard.”
Members, whose strike began at 12:01 a.m. on October 24, are now eager for their next round of bargaining in two years where they can pick up the ongoing battle for better wages.
There are 187 members in the bargaining unit at Maple Leaf Courtney Park. At the further processing facility, members make a number of stuffed, battered, and breaded chicken products, as well as some pork and turkey products.
Far too often, an employer's pursuit to increase productivity and maximize profit, comes at the expense of paying workers what they are worth.
The members at Maple Leaf and Mobile Climate showed courage and strength by taking their fights to the picket lines. They are loyal and committed to their jobs, and helped to bring their employers and the connected providers, customers, and consumers, through a pandemic on top of it all.
Strike at Mobile Climate Control
Sometimes a strike happens to send an important message.
When the next round of bargaining comes up for these members, their employers know that the members of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 are prepared to go on strike if necessary and that they have the full support of the Union and its 70,000 members standing strong beside them.
Members at Mobile Climate Control ratify recommended deal, ending 12-day strike
After nearly 12 days on the picket lines, the 450 members at Mobile Climate Control ratified a recommended settlement on November 1, 2024. The agreement brings some wage increases previously set for the fourth year of the deal into the third year. Wages for the members will increase over the four-year deal by an average total of more than 21%, plus enhanced benefits.
Mobile Climate Control members work at three locations including two in Vaughan and one in Mississauga, and they manufacture Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems for commercial and heavy-duty vehicles and machinery.
Members originally voted down a company final offer on October 19 and had been holding strong on the picket lines since October 21.
“It always takes courage to make the difficult decision to go on strike,’ said President Tosato. “These members showed great strength and commitment on the line, and we are pleased that their committee was able to bring them a recommended settlement and another opportunity to vote on a deal."
Welcome New Staff
In October, Sharon Jones started a new chapter as a Servicing Representative with the Local Union. After 35 years in the retail grocery industry, Sharon decided to sign on for a new challenge using the skills learned during her time at Zehrs.
Sharon has been involved in the Union for a substantial part of her career. Throughout her years at Zehrs, Sharon has served her co-workers in a number of ways including as a Union Steward, a Certified Health & Safety Committee Member, and a Local 175 Executive Board Vice President for the Retail sector.
Sharon is a true defender of workers' rights. She believes that a community of like-minded advocates who are dedicated to making meaningful change and uplifting workers’ voices, can truly make a difference in the lives of our members here at Locals 175 & 633.
“I am excited to learn from my fellow representatives and to see the impact we can make through our roles,” said Jones.
“I also look forward to learning from our leadership team as we strive to make a difference for our members.”
“Sharon is a strong voice for our members and has a wealth of knowledge and experience. Her passion for workers’ rights and her commitment to equitable workplaces make her an incredible addition to our team,” said President Tosato.
The Local Union welcomes Kasiobi Nwankudu as another new Servicing Representative on the team.
Kasiobi got involved with UFCW after his workplace Meta Centre, a developmental services organization, was organized in 2012.
Kasiobi has been an active member and was on the Negotiating Committee through three rounds of bargaining at Meta Centre. He has been a dedicated leader for the members as their Chief Steward for about eight years, and also as Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC) Co-Chair.
As an active Member, Kasiobi has attended the Local Union's Bylaw & Policy Conference, and has acquired labour relations training from both within and outside UFCW. In September 2023, he was elected to serve as a Vice President on the Local 175 Executive Board representing the HOPE Community Care sector.
In June 2024, the Local brought Kasiobi on as a Special Projects Union Representative (SPUR) to assist in the HOPE Community Care sector.
"As a Representative, I will continue to champion workers' rights and human rights," said Kasiobi. "I am dedicated to upholding the dignity and rights of our members, and ensuring they get the respect they deserve, by enforcing the collective agreements and advocating on their behalf."
"Kasiobi has been a real leader among his co-workers and a strong advocate for this Union," said President Tosato. "I know the members will benefit from his dedication and passion for workers' rights."
Also joining the Local Union as a new Servicing Representative is Al Reston.
Al started working at Maple Leaf Foods, now Sofina, in 2001. His involvement in the Union began in 2003 when he became a Steward.
Since the beginning, Al has fought for the rights of his co-workers and, in 2016, he had the honour of becoming Chief Steward for the approximately 1,000 members at the plant. In 2019, Al joined the Executive Board as a Vice President so he could make an impact on a larger scale.
During his time at Sofina, Al built a number of long-lasting relationships. He has strong beliefs about labour advocacy and has witnessed the
mistreatment and the struggles of our membership at the hands of employers.
“Helping members overcome those struggles has empowered me to be their voice in improving not only their work lives, but their personal lives as well,” said Al.
Al found that those challenges in the workplace made him want to pursue more involvement with the Local Union. Al thrives on embracing opportunities and facing challenges to help members succeed and thrive. In his new role, he hopes to continue to inform and support all of the members of their rights, help resolve issues that come their way, and conveying all the UFCW has to offer to the members.
“Al was Chief Steward for the members at one of our largest unionized facilities and that is no easy feat,” said President Tosato. “Al is dedicated and driven, and I know he will bring passion and care, along with his years of experience, to his new role to benefit all the members.”
Stay up to date and share Union news, bargaining updates, Union member features, resources, lots of photos, and more! Look for our platforms under the username @ufcwlocals175633 or scan the codes to the left.
"Workers across Ontario continue to seek out membership in our Union family so they can get started on building a better life through the power of collective bargaining. Welcome to all of our newest members!
Kelly Tosato President, UFCW Local 175
Welcome to Your Union
Guesthouse Shelters workers become members of Local 175
Workers at Guesthouse Shelter in Midland have celebrated a victory in their fight for better working conditions, fair wages, dignity, and respect on the job. These workers, who provide critical care and support for some of the most vulnerable members in their community, stood strong and won their certification vote.
The members at Guesthouse work as intake, administration, kitchen staff, housekeeping, and in counselling. Workers in this industry, whose role in providing safety, stability, and resources for people experiencing homelessness is vital to many communities, are often overworked, understaffed, and underpaid.
Their drive and passion to build a better work-life led them to Local 175 and now, through collective bargaining, these workers hope to secure a contract that provides better job security, higher wages, benefits and pension, and improved scheduling language.
After two years at the Board Sobeys workers win certification
In June 2022, Sobeys employees in the meat department at the Queensway store in Etobicoke reached out to the UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Organizing Team with the hopes of unionizing their workplace.
That September, the employees voted in favour of joining Local 633, which represents butcher and meat department workers. While the vote was successful, the workers and the Union then faced a challenge from the employer under Section 8.1 of the Ontario Labour Relations Act regarding the Union's description of the bargaining unit.
After two years, the workers were finally able to celebrate their victory as the Union successfully achieved certification for these workers.
Our new members work as meat cutters and meat clerks. Through collective bargaining as part of UFCW Local 633, these workers hope to achieve good wage improvements, enhanced job security, better benefits, and improved health & safety.
Interval House Ottawa workers vote Union YES!
Workers at Interval House in Ottawa have voted in favour of joining UFCW Local 175.
These members support women and children fleeing domestic violence situations, and provide a number of services, including in crisis, to ensure they remain safe and get the support they need.
There is a high demand for these types of services and the work can take a toll on the health of the workers leading to burnout, compassion fatigue, environmental stigma, and more.
Despite these challenges, the roles these workers take on are vital and make a significant
difference in the lives of those they serve.
The workers providing these kinds of services should feel supported by their employer, enjoy good job security and protection from favouritism, and benefit from strong rights in the workplace.
The employees at Interval House look forward to negotiations and are striving for consistent scheduling, better wages, increased job security, and improved benefits.
THESE ARE CHALLENGING TIMES FOR MANY OF OUR MEMBERS.
Your Union offers a Member's Assistance Program (MAP) to help members through difficult times by connecting you with the appropriate professional assistance as close to your community, and as soon, as possible.
UFCW Locals 175 & 633 members can access this confidential service providing counselling referrals to professional assistance for concerns such as substance abuse, spousal abuse, mental wellness, financial stress, grief, child care, affordable housing, and more.
Building a Strong Collective Agreement
The Union Advantage
Just Cause Protection: What you need to know!
A strong collective agreement is built from the ground up on powerful language that establishes – right from the beginning – some vital rights for Union members.
Among the many pieces of your collective agreement that protect you every day, Just Cause protection is one of those fundamental building blocks
What is Just Cause?
Just Cause refers to a set of reasons that an employer can fire you without notice or severance. These circumstances are usually pretty serious but it is always on the employer to prove they have Just Cause to terminate an employee.
Some examples include:
• Breaches of confidentiality
• Serious safety violations
• Insubordination
• Gross misconduct
• Repeated violation of company policies
• And more
Your UFCW Locals 175 & 633 collective agreement may contain language for progressive discipline which must be followed before reaching a point of terminating an employee.
It is your RIGHT to have a Union Steward present for any disciplinary meetings.
If you are asked to attend a meeting with your manager or employer, ask what it is related to. If they want, in any way, to discuss your job performance, you should have a Union Steward present at the meeting.
Another piece of the puzzle
The grievance and arbitration procedure is another vital part of being a UFCW Locals 175 & 633 member. This basic building block of your collective agreement provides another layer of job security, especially when it comes to being terminated without Just Cause.
If a member is fired without Just Cause, the Union can file a grievance and take the case before an arbitrator if necessary.
ufcw175.com/contact
For non-union workers, if their employer decides to let them go, that's it. Aside from giving proper notice and any applicable severance pay, the employer does not really have to give a reason.
In other words, non-union workers in Ontario have very little job security and pursuing legal action can become very costly very quickly.
Real job security comes from having a union contract that prevents the employer from being able to discipline or fire you without Just Cause. This is why so many workers continue to join UFCW Locals 175 & 633: they want to know that their job is safe and they are protected.
Your Union is here to help ensure your employer keeps up their side of the deal when it comes to your working conditions.
If you are a member who is disciplined without a Steward present, or who is fired after completing probation, you should speak to your Union Representative right away. The UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Organizing Reward program could put up to $1,250 in your pocket!
Members can help us Level the Playing Field by calling in a lead to our Organizers!
If you know someone who is looking for more information on joining our Union, let one of our Organizers know by contacting us at 1-800-565-8329 or send us an email at organizing@ufcw175.com.
If the Organizing Team successfully organizes and certifies a group of workers because of a lead you call in, you will be eligible for one of the following honorariums:
• More than 30 but fewer than 50 workers: $300
• More than 50 but fewer than 75 workers: $500
• More than 75 but fewer than 100 workers: $800
• More than 100 workers: $1,000
• Core Sector Bonus: 25%
Call the Organizing Department @ 1-800-565-8329 for details on the Core Sector Bonus. For full details and eligibility on the reward program, visit ufcw175.com/organizing-reward.
Negotiation Updates
Members at Kerry’s Place Autism Services ratify first agreement
The new members at Kerry’s Place Autism Services in Pickering ratified their first collective agreement on October 29, 2024. Along with all of the rights and privileges of being unionized workers, this agreement also contains wage increases and important language gains.
Wages for the members increase by 1% over the term of the agreement. Lump sums will be paid to full-time workers in the amount of $500, and part-time workers will receive $250.
The Committee achieved language that should higher wage rates be paid to another unionized bargaining unit within the Durham region for the same or substantially similar positions, the employer will adjust rates in this contract to match the higher rates, retroactive to April 1, 2024.
Added language allows members to work extra hours in an equitable way with seniority as the governing factor, and these newly organized members are appreciative that they now have seniority recognition, and just cause protection.
The members will retain the pension plan they were previously enrolled in with the employer.
Bereavement leave improves and part-time employees now have access to bereavement leave as well. The employer will cover the cost of requested Functional Ability Forms (FAFs), and up to $50 per calendar year for medical notes.
This agreement also recognizes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a paid holiday.
Union Negotiating Committee: LaForna Mckie, Osalita Williams, and Union Representative Sabrina Qadir.
Two-tier wage grid eliminated: Cavendish Farms members ratify
Members at Cavendish Farms have ratified a new agreement with significant improvements.
Tier 1 employees see an initial raise of 8%, followed by 3.5% in year two and 3% in year three. Tier 2 employees get an initial 14% increase, then 7% in year two, and 6% in year three. By the end of year three, the second tier will be gone from the grid.
All employees get a 3% bump in each years four and five, and a lump sum payment of $250 in year six. Employees also receive signing bonuses of $1,000 for Tier 1, and $500 for Tier 2, following ratification. Members benefit from improved premiums as well, and Sanitation workers move up one level on the wage grid.
Employer dental contributions for Tier 1 employees will increase and members will have the option to stay on the same plan or move to the flex care plan. For Tier 2 employees, the employer credit for single coverage will increase to $1,100, and family coverage to $2,900. This increase is a huge win as it will nearly eliminate the employee payment portion.
If an employee is asked to remain home pending an investigation, they will be paid their regularly scheduled hours providing the employee fully participates in the investigation and is available to be present when requested to do so. This is a significant achievement and a one-of-a-kind language gain for these workers.
Union Negotiating Committee: Don Affleck, Les Hope, Carlos Simas, and Regional Director Jehan Ahamed.
more bargaining updates!
Sara Vista members ratify significant wage increases
HOPE Sector members at the Sara Vista Long-term care home in Elmvale ratified new collective agreements on October 17, 2024. Both the Registered Nurses (RNs) and Service Workers groups unanimously voted in favour of their two-year agreements.
The main focus for these workers in these renewal contracts was wages. Their Union Negotiating Committee achieved the following significant improvements.
Registered Nurses
Effective July 1, 2024, a special wage adjustment will apply and members will receive increases ranging from $2.79 per hour for start rate to $4.23 per hour for end rate. As of July 1, 2025, a 3% general wage increase will bring these RNs rates in line with hospital nursing wages.
Service Workers
Effective September 1, 2023, a general wage increase of 3.5% will apply. Members then receive a general increase of 3.5% as of September 1, 2024, paid retroactive to the expiry of the previous agreement.
Also effective September 1, 2024, members in the Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) classification will receive a special wage adjustment of $2.50 per hour.
In addition, these members benefit from a new weekend shift premium of 25 cents per hour.
Healthcare workers at Transcare ratify wage, premium, & sick day improvements
Nearly 200 HOPE Community healthcare members at Transcare Community Support Services in Scarborough ratified a new agreement in September.
The three-year deal contains wage and premium improvements, plus new paid sick days for part-time.
The first year average increase for all wage rates is more than 5% and members receive retroactive pay back to April 1, 2024. In year two, wages will increase by 3%, and in year three, wages improve by another 2.5%.
Language improvements for call ins means that employees cannot be called in or scheduled less than 4 hours, which is an increase from the previous 3 hours.
The premium paid to members for Overnight Care will increase from 40 cents to 60 cents per hour in year one, then to 65 cents per hour in year two, and to 70 cents per hour in year three.
The Union Negotiating Committee achieved two paid sick days for parttime workers in this new agreement. In addition, healthcare benefit improvements include $500 for each paramedical service covered by the plan.
Further improvements include medical note coverage of $50, up from $30; an improved travel subsidy; increased employer contributions to the Local Union Training & Education Fund, and; enhanced bereavement entitlement.
Union Negotiating Committee: Dawn Grant, Maxine Dunn, Mohamed Karim, and Union Representative: Meemee Seto.
Union Negotiating Committee pictured above: Union Representative Derek Jokhu, Sheila Ryall, Pamela Fralick, and Pauline James.
Negotiation Updates
Wages and paid holidays ratified at John Howard Society
HOPE Sector members at the John Howard Society of Waterloo-Wellington in Cambridge ratified an agreement on October 23, 2024.
In June 2024, during this round of negotiations, an interest arbitration award was issued for these members due to the repeal of Bill 124. As a result, all wage rates increased by 7.5%, effective March 31, 2024.
This negotiated deal secures general wage increases for members of 1% in year one, paid retroactive to April 1, 2024, 3% in year two, and 4% in year three. Mileage payments for work-related travel increase to 60 cents per kilometre.
Language now includes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Remembrance Day on the list of paid holidays. Plus, members will benefit from an additional discretionary day.
Members no longer have to find their own coverage to use vacation time, and further language improvements ensure personal leave requests will not be unreasonably denied.
Members will benefit from an extension to the time frame to use lieu days, and a new Letter of Understanding will address Alternate Saturday schedule.
Stewards can now meet with members during work time to discuss concerns.
Union Negotiating Committee: Mark Breaton, Jessica Lynch, Burns MacLeod, and Union Representative Sacha Edey.
Benefits, wages, and more ratified at Palisade Gardens
HOPE Sector workers at Palisade Gardens Retirement Community in Cobourg ratified an agreement on October 2, 2024.
Over the two-year term, members receive general wage increases of 7%. On October 1, 2024, special wage adjustments take effect: RPNs receive $1 per hour; Housekeeping and Dietary receive 25 cents per hour, and; Cooks at the one-year rate receive 60 cents per hour.
Shift premiums increase to 25 cents per hour for weekends and to $1.10 per hour for Unregulated Care Providers (UCPs). A new night shift premium will provide 10 cents per hour.
Effective January 1, 2025, vision care coverage of $150 every two years will be introduced. Chiropractic coverage language improves and members will now be reimbursed for each visit and no longer have to wait to claim until they had maxed out their $300 coverage.
Further improvements will see an increase to the uniform allowance for both full and part-time workers, and Unregulated Care Providers will now be paid for the med count and report.
Vacation entitlement will increase and those with 25 years of service will receive six weeks.
Union Negotiating Committee: Jamie Dunk, Julia Hayden, Natalia Mokros, and Union Representatives Dean McLaren and Maxine Prince.
Significant wage increases & more ratified by Sudbury RCSS members
Members at the Sudbury RCSS have ratified a five-year agreement that secures significant wage increases.
Full-time workers at end rate will receive a total of $6.65 per hour over the term of the deal, and all full-time receive a $1,000 signing bonus.
As of ratification, the part-time end rate increases to $18.30 per hour. A Minimum Wage (MW) + grid sees that rate increase each year of the deal to reach a wage of MW+ $1.50 per hour by October 1, 2028. In addition, part-time employees each receive a signing bonus ranging from $100 to $500, which are based on hours worked.
Other monetary improvements include an improved safety footwear allowance of $150 for full-time and $100 for part-time.
During bargaining, it was confirmed that the Ontario Real Canadian Superstore improvements have been applied to the Sudbury Superstore benefits program.
This agreement includes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in the list of paid holidays. Vacation language now permits employees with five weeks' entitlement to take one of those weeks in single days.
Members benefit from improved bereavement leave language, and additional relations have been added to the list entitling members to one day paid leave.
Union Negotiating Committee: Tina Lajeunese, Patrick McNabb, Karen Thompson, and Union Representative Jeff Barry.
Members at First Choice Beverage ratify wage & language improvements in new deal
The membership at First Choice Beverage in Mississauga ratified a three-year agreement on October 13, 2024.
The deal secures wage increases for members of 2% as of ratification, 2.5% in year two, and 2.5% in year three.
Prior to any increases, all workers who are in progression will be moved to the end rate. Additionally, there will be a one-time special wage adjustment for the maintenance department and jug filler classification. And, employees hired prior to 2019 will also receive a signing bonus.
The shoe allowance increases to $120 per year, or employees may opt to spend up to $225 which would cover them for two years. The
employer will replace broken or worn tools at no cost to employee.
Bereavement leave improves to four paid days for the death of an immediate family member and two paid days for extended family.
Overtime will be distributed based on seniority provided the employee has the skill and ability. Workers will have the right to withdraw a resignation for up to 48 hours.
Union Negotiating Committee: Denise Gillis, Aleksandrs Hohlovs, and Union Representative: Christopher Mayberry.
Negotiation Updates
Karis Disability Services members ratify wage & benefit improvements
HOPE sector workers at Karis Disability Services in the GTA and York Region ratified their first renewal agreement after a difficult round of negotiations.
Members will see wage increases of 3% in year one, paid retroactive to the date of expiry on the previous contract. Wages increase by 2.5% in year two, and by 2% in year three. In addition, members will receive lump sum payments, paid following ratification, of $1,200 for full-time, $600 for part-time, and $250 for casual.
Part-time employees will benefit from an increase to their healthcare spending account to $1,000, up from $750.
Full-time employees receive improved optical benefits of $400, up from $300, and $90 for an eye exam every 24 months. Mental Health allowance coverage increases to $800, up from $400.
A letter of understanding will address premium pay of 1.5 times the applicable rate when workers have to stay beyond their shift.
Further language improvements mean that Civic Holiday will now be a paid holiday for part-time and casual workers, and there will be the introduction of a team to assist members with workers compensation claims.
Union Negotiating Committee: Melbourne (Rocky) Allen, Opal Bowley, Greg Morris, Okpan Ogbu, Bright Okoronkwo, Anne-Marie Wood, and Union Representatives: Kasiobi Nwankudu and Meemee Seto.
Hutton’s Valumart members ratify wage and benefit improvements
Retail grocery members at Hutton’s Valumart in Blind River ratified a five-year agreement on October 17, 2024.
Full-time workers receive a total of $4.50 per hour in increases over the term of the agreement, including $2 per hour paid retroactive to the expiry of the previous agreement.
The Committee achieved Minimum Wage + language for part-time workers including an increase of 55 cents per hour to the end rate, with retroactive payments to date of expiry. Parttime workers who have not reached end rate will receive a $100 lump sum payment.
A significant win for the workers in this round of bargaining is that part-time benefits were achieved. Those benefits include life insurance,
and prescription and optical coverage.
Language improvements include a new $100 safety shoe allowance and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation will be added to the list of paid holidays.
Union Negotiating Committee: Sue Benoit, Annette Viel, and Union Representative Jim Hames.
Workers' Compensation
Workplace Injuries: Claims and Time Limits
All members should report any and all injuries that happen at work to your supervisor, and your Health & Safety Rep or Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC).
Should you file a claim with the WSIB?
If you get injured at work, are made ill through the course of your work, or suspect that the onset of pain is work related, then YES. File a Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) claim.
If you're not sure, you can still file a claim and withdraw it. It is better to get it on the record than risk missing time limits or not putting a claim in for an injury or symptoms that get worse.
Types of Claims
• Accidents: An injury that results from a single incident.
• Disablements: A condition/injury that emerges over time as a result of the work.
• Psychological Conditions: Mental stress injuries resulting from a traumatic incident or series of incidents at work.
• Occupational Diseases: Illness caused by exposure to a workplace health hazard.
• Hearing Loss: Work-related exposure to excessive noise.
Time Limits
In 2024, your Workers' Compensation Department has won more than $1.1 MILLION back for UFCW Locals 175 & 633 members made ill or injured at work.
Under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act there is a six-month time limit to apply for benefits. This means six months from the injury date or the onset of symptoms. If you're not sure whether your symptoms are work-related, consult your doctor. Again, it's always best to file a claim than not.
If you have any questions or concerns, contact your Union Rep or reach out to the Union’s Workers Compensation department for assistance by email at workerscomp@ufcw175.com or by phone at 1-800-565-8329.
Find more information and resources on the WSIB process including appealing a denied claim, the types of benefits paid to injured workers, and more, online.
Health & Safety
The Right to Know
The Right to Know is one of your most basic workplace health and safety rights. The Right extends to many aspects of your work life that can include, but is not limited to the use of machinery and equipment, working conditions, proper procedures, hazardous substances, and more.
Your employer should ensure all employees are informed through:
• Information about the hazards of the work they are performing.
• Training to do all aspects of the work in a healthy and safe way.
• Competent supervision to ensure a safe and healthy workplace.
In all cases, if your workplace training leaves you with questions or concerns, do not sign off on the training. Ask questions and if you are still not sure, contact your Steward, JHSC Member or Union Rep immediately.
Regulation 297 of the Occupational Health & Safety Act (the Act) requires employers to provide basic health and safety training for all new hires as soon as possible. It also requires employers to ensure its supervisors complete training as well, so they understand their responsibilities under the Act.
Regulation 895 deals with the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems (WHMIS). It requires employers to provide information and training to employees who may be exposed to hazardous materials in the course of their work.
Violence & Harassment
Another important aspect of workplace health and safety is ensuring an environment free from violence and harassment. Part III of the Act requires every workplace to have a violence and harassment policy. The employer must provide annual training and review the policy with employees so they understand their rights. Whether an incident(s) arises between employees or between a customer and employee, the employer must protect or assist its employees in all circumstances.
If you are aware of or have concerns about workplace violence, harassment, bullying, or physical, emotional, or mental abuse, report it to your employer's human resources department and contact your Steward and/or JHSC Member and Union Rep immediately.
Training & Education
Once again this year, the Local Union welcomed more than 50 Stewards, Members, and Health & Safety Committee Members to the annual Weeklong Paid Training Programs.
These courses brought together members from across the province and sectors for a week of learning and networking.
"We get some really wonderful feedback from our members who take the weeklong paid courses," said President Tosato. "It's an important opportunity for them to really dive into what the Union is about, connect with other members, and have the opportunity to ask questions and get into some thoughtful discussions."
At the Weeklong Paid Training, the Local Union covers the cost of the course, materials, and instruction as well as the members' lost wages, per diems, transportation, and accommodations as per Local Union policies.
Solidarity Scholarships
Congratulations to this year's Solidarity Scholarship winners!
Ahmad Ali
Bernadette Alvarez
Suriya James Antony
Arneet Kaur Arneet
Serena Avery
Riyadh Baksh
Joshua Baldeo-Thachuk
Chloé Beaulieu
Kaylee Belbin
Adamo Bertolo
Rohit Bhatt
Jada Bowen
Patrick Clouston
Courtney Cooper
Willow Cooper
Stephanie Cybulski
Keaten Cyr
Bianca Desiderato
Giada Di Pasquale
Keira Drumm-Taylor
Shane Denielle
Dumangeng
Raelyn Dupe
Skye Dyer
Aliaa El Hossaini
Awo Essa
Levon Ettibaryan
Madison Ford
Evan Guglietti
Brooke Hagan
Samantha Hall
Sarah Abi Hana
Xaviera Heffernan
Alyssa Horton
April Mae Ignacio
Layba Imran
Noah Iraheta
Ngawang Jamtsho
Brooke Jeffery
Alyssa Johnson
Kaden Johnson
Jacob Jurjevic
Tegwyn Kelly
Griffin Kennedy
Abitha Kodeeswaran
Cate Kotecki
Bradley Laneville
Rachel Lanteigne
Cristina Leone
Tia Loken
Elizabeth Long
Isabella Lopez
Talitha Lundeborg
Casey Lutwick
Martene Macpherson
Makenzie Maludzinski
Lila Martin
Eli Mcwhirter
Jasraj Minhas
Sharon Mkundi
Adam Montreuil
Rashna Nova
Matthew Osmon
Rejim Palencia
Rakesh Parmar
Dev Patel
Dhyaan Patel
Kishan Patel
Emily Peters
Gwendolyn Pozza
Tristan Prosia
Alyssa Pylvainen
Dawson Raheb
Megan Rohde
Rafael Rosales
John Rosario
Clayton Rose
Kayla Routenburg
Lillie Rozic
Sarah Sager
Nicolas Saldivar-Brittain
Lateefat Sanni
Olivia Sheikh
Harvinder Singh
Megan Skinner
Ria Slomke
Cassidy Smith
Gourav Solanki
Tiffany Sommers
Carter Stere
Mohammad Umaid
Sufizada
Jeanne Alyssa Tee
Kiruthika Thirukumar
Kaleb Thompson
Fernan Tulio
Avery Turcotte
Lucas Ung
Hailey Vagueiro
Owen Van de Valk
Karissa Veerman
Emma Warby
Grace Wiliams
Linnea Wills
Shanell Wint
Hayden Yarascavitch
Find more photos of this year's scholarship winners on Facebook and Instagram (@ufcwlocals175633).
COMMUNITY
Once again this year, UFCW Locals 175 & 633 will donate $180,000 to food banks and community support organizations across Ontario.
In September 2024, Feed Ontario released a report with sobering numbers that set another record: over 1 million people in the province visited a food bank over the last year.
There were 7.6 million total visits to Ontario’s food banks between April 2023 and March 2024, marking a 134% increase in visits over 20192020.¹
“Our Executive Board members know that our Local Union is in a position to provide this support and I continue to be proud of their commitment to the communities across this province where our members live and work,” said President Tosato. “We also recognize that the vital work these food charities and community groups are doing is only a temporary fix that cannot correct the systemic root causes of food insecurity.”
1 Ontarians are drowning amid surging affordability crisis. Feed Ontario. (2024, September 12). https://feedontario.ca/news/ontarians-are-drowning-amid-surging-affordability-crisis/ 2 Statistics Canada, Canadian Income Survey, 2022 https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/ n1/daily-quotidien/240426/dq240426a-eng.htm
Clockwise from top left: Local Union Executive Board members and staff make donations to St. Paul's on-the-Hill in Pickering, Hamilton Food Share, Eden Food for Change in Mississauga, The Salvation Army Kemptville, the Regional Food Distribution Association in Thunder Bay, and South Porcupine Food Bank. Visit Facebook & Instagram for more photos.
