THE NEWS MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF LOCALS 175 & 633 UFCW CANADA Volume XXV No. 1 March 2016
Family Day photos page 17
Apply for a Solidarity Scholarship page 18
New legislation a victory for first responders page 10
Staff LOCAL 175 Shawn Haggerty, President; Kelly Tosato, Secretary-Treasurer; Karen Vaughan, Recorder; Sylvia Groom, Luc Lacelle, Jim McLean, Harry Sutton - Executive Assistants LOCAL 633 Dan Bondy, President; Marylou Mallett, Secretary-Treasurer; Neil Hotchkiss, Recorder WORKERS’ COMPENSATION Georgina MacDonald Intake Representative; Sherree Backus, Joce Cote, Joanne Ford, Jody Jones, Christina Mayberry, Sarah Neath Workers’ Compensation Representatives COMMUNICATIONS Jennifer Tunney - Senior Communications Representative; Laurie Duncan Communications Representative; Meemee Seto - Servicing Representative HEALTH & SAFETY Mary Shaw, Chris Watson - Health & Safety Representatives
President’s Message
Welcome New Members
Secretary-Treasurer’s Message
Legal Notes
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TRAINING & EDUCATION Rob Armbruster - Director; Kelly Nicholas - Co-ordinator; Tim Deelstra - Union Representative REGION 1 Dan Lacroix - Regional Director; Colby Flank, Tracy Stubbs - Union Representatives REGION 2 Derik McArthur - Regional Director; Mona Bailey, John DiFalco, Anthony DiMaio, John Di Nardo, Melody Slattery, Mark Stockton, Dave White - Union Representatives REGION 3 Daniel Mercier - Regional Director; Simon Baker, Shannon Epp, Paul Hardwick, Dean McLaren - Union Representatives; Jacques Niquet - Servicing Representative
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LEGAL Fernando Reis - Director; Maryanne Galati, Roberto Henriquez - Legal Counsel; Natalie Wiley, Rebecca Woodrow - Senior Legal Counsel ORGANIZING Rick Wauhkonen - Director; Farman Ali, Linval Dixon, Amy Tran - Organizing Representatives; Dave Forbes - Organizing Apprentice
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Fundraising
Union News
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Altered Lives Project Steve’s Story Page 8
New legislation a victory for first responders
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Community Action Network Page 17
Apply for a Solidarity Scholarship
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Negotiations Page 11
REGION 4 Chris Fuller - Regional Director; Ron McGuire Union Representative; Brenda Simmons - Senior Servicing Representative; Orsola Augurusa, Rick Daudlin, Virginia Haggith, Lee Johnson-Koehn, Derek Jokhu, Casey Magee Servicing Representatives REGION 5 Angela Mattioli - Regional Director; Jehan Ahamed, Bob Kearney, Brad Morrison, Mario Tardelli Union Representatives REGION 6 Rob Nicholas - Regional Director; Wendy Absolom, Sam Caetano, Matt Davenport, Joe De Melo, Ashleigh Garner, Jason Hanley, Jeffery Lu, Mike Mattioli Union Representatives REGION 7 Sharon Kempf - Regional Director; Diane Sanvido, Steve Springall - Union Representatives; Dan Bondy - Servicing Representative REGION 8 Sandra Rogerson - Regional Director; Jeff Barry, Matt Belanger, Lionel MacEachern, Tony Nigro, Arlene Robertson - Union Representatives 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
CAMBRIDGE OFFICE 6628 ELLIS ROAD, CAMBRIDGE, ON N3C 2V4 TEL: 519-658-0252 TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-1977 FAX: 519-658-0255
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HAMILTON OFFICE 412 RENNIE STREET HAMILTON, ON L8H 3P5 TEL: 905-545-8354 TOLL FREE: 1-800-567-2125 FAX: 905-545-8355
LEAMINGTON OFFICE 261 ERIE STREET SOUTH LEAMINGTON, ON N8H 3C4 TEL: 519-326-6751
OTTAWA OFFICE 20 HAMILTON AVENUE N. OTTAWA, ON K1Y 1B6 TEL: 613-725-2154 TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-5295 FAX: 613-725-2328
SUDBURY OFFICE 230 REGENT ROAD SUDBURY, ON P3C 4C5 TEL: 705-674-0769 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-1722 FAX: 705-674-6815
THUNDER BAY OFFICE UNIT 206A 1000 FORT WILLIAM RD THUNDER BAY, ON P7B 6B9 TEL: 807-346-4227 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-6932 FAX: 807-346-4055
UUWO
President’s Message Shawn Haggerty
A strong voice for working families On December 10, 2015, I was named to the Board of Trustees for the Canadian Commercial Workers Industry Pension Plan (CCWIPP). In this role, I will be working with the other Trustees to ensure the long-term viability of the plan and improve communication with plan members. I look forward to the chance to represent all CCWIPP members in this capacity. Pensions are one of the most important benefits of belonging to a Union and protecting the hard-earned retirement money of Union members is a priority for me. In the last several months our Local Union has welcomed new members who recognize that there are a number of benefits to belonging to a Union. You can read more about these members from Wolseley Canada, Holiday Inn Express North Bay, and Saturn Integrated Logistics on page 16. We’ve also grown following a merger with UFCW Local 459 members, including the workers at Highbury Canco, formerly the Heinz plant, in Leamington, and Cavendish Appetizers and Milo-FAIS in Wheatley. I want to welcome these 389 members and their families to Local 175. Growth is vital to maintaining union density and advancing the rights of workers. But unionization rates fell over the last several decades from 37.6% nation-wide in 1981, to 28.8% in 2014. In the private sector, 18.1% were unionized as of 1999, and that number fell to 15.2% in 2014.1 The decline is due in part to fewer jobs in manufacturing and other industries, and the rise of retail and precarious, contract work. Shifts in the economy and industry can be weathered but only if there are good jobs in other industries. It’s more important than ever to make sure workers in emerging industries are protected and compensated. Our current labour laws, however, favour employers instead of workers. Our Organizers are some of the most compassion-
ate and hard-working people I know and they do their best to help workers achieve union representation despite all the roadblocks. The more united we are as a Local Union, the stronger we become. And when we become stronger it has a positive impact on other Unionized workers and the entire labour movement. In November 2015, new leaders were elected at the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) convention. The UFCW-backed candidates led their campaign to success. I have hope that new OFL President Chris Buckley, Secretary-Treasurer Patty Coates, and Executive Vice President Ahmad Gaied – the youngest officer in the history of the OFL at 33 and a UFCW member – will bring a fresh perspective and unite the labour movement going forward. Strong leadership at the provincial level will help ensure that the voice of working families continues to be heard amid growing conglomerates and the massive wealth of global corporations. We need leaders that listen to our youth as well as long-time members because the needs of today’s working people are varied and distinct – and all crucially important. Too often, we let divisive politics, even within the labour movement, steer us away from our shared interests and goals. I hope this new OFL team will bring solidarity back to our Unions: to help lift each other up and ensure that no working families live in poverty; to replace precarious work with good-paying, permanent full-time jobs; and to fight for fair pensions, wages, and benefits. All workers deserve this. In Solidarity, Shawn Haggerty Statistics Canada: Unionization rates falling (January 2016) Available at: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/11-630-x/11-630-x2015005-eng.htm
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Secretary-Treasurer’s Message Kelly Tosato
Anti-scab legislation a good step forward In February, the federal NDP tabled anti-scab legislation (Bill C-234) as their first Bill in this session of parliament. It’s an extremely important opportunity for the advancement of workers’ rights nation-wide and I hope it sends a message to the Ontario government that workers in this province deserve better too. Most collective agreements are settled without labour disruption. But when it becomes necessary, a strike is meant to disrupt the business of the employer to make a point: That the unresolved issues at the negotiating table are important to those workers. Allowing scab replacement workers often results in prolonged labour disputes, and it undermines working families who are fighting for what they feel is fair. The media tends to amplify strikes as a disruption to you as a consumer and member of the public. But remember: The workers on picket lines are our family, friends, and neighbours. They deserve the support of their community. They’re out there for a reason. When you see a picket line, don’t groan at the inconvenience. Instead, stop and ask the workers why they’re on the picket line. Are they on strike or locked out? What are the issues that brought them to this point? You don’t have to agree with them, but I do ask that you respect their decision to be on that picket line and above all else – do not cross their picket line. Every unionized worker should be concerned that Ontario does not have anti-scab legislation. Replacement workers do your job while you are on strike. It’s a threat to your livelihood. An employer hires scabs to pretend it’s easy to keep their business going without the workers on the picket line.
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But we know better. We know that the level and quality of service, the attention and care given to job tasks, and often, the health and safety of the products and services provided by that company will be diminished with the use of scabs. I’ve stood on picket lines to support workers many times throughout my years in the labour movement. Over the last three years, more than 2,600 members of Locals 175 & 633 have either been on strike or locked out. Some were able to resolve their disputes quickly while others spent almost two years holding strong. Nobody should have to spend that long on a picket line. Working families deserve better: Good permanent jobs that pay well, provide health care benefits and pensions. And we need our federal and provincial governments to lead the way in progressive legislation that provides a truly fair approach to labour relations. I ask you to contact your local Members of Parliament and Members of Provincial Parliament and urge them to support anti-scab legislation to benefit the working families in their districts. You can use your postal code to find your MP at bit.ly/CanadaMP and your MPP at bit.ly/OntMPP. Additionally, you can read the full text of Bill C-234 at bit.ly/billc234-2016. So next time you see a picket line, honk and show your support or stop and speak with the Union members. Solidarity is one of the most important pillars of the labour movement. If the members of a Union are strong and support one another, it goes a long way to ensuring good collective agreements. In Solidarity, Kelly Tosato
UNION NEWS Happy Retirement! In September 2015, Cathy Davis retired from the Local Union’s legal department after a 30-year career in the labour movement. “Cathy was a valuable part of our legal team,” explained President Haggerty. “She is a dedicated activist for working families and I know she will continue to be a strong voice for labour well into the future.” Cathy spent 18 years as a member of the United Steelworkers and she served for 12 years as the Executive Director of Labour Community Services for Peel Region. She was the first
Vice-President and Recording Secretary for the Peel Regional Labour Council, which is a role which she held for eight years. Even today, she continues as a delegate on the Labour Council and is a volunteer member of the board for Peel’s Labour Community Services. In 2011, Cathy became a licensed paralegal and she joined the team at Local 175 in 2012. “The last three years with UFCW Local 175 was an excellent way to end my career,” said Cathy. In her retirement, Cathy plans to travel and continue her volunteer work.
Al McLean retired from the Local Union in December 2015. Al started working fulltime at Zehrs in 1976 when the Orangeville store was first built. By 1980, he was a produce manager in Meaford, and it was there with the assistance of UFCW Local 1977 and Brian Williamson that Al first became active in the Union.
became an Executive Assistant to then-President Brian Williamson in 2000.
“I grew up in a house where my parents believed in standing up for yourself and others, and the strength that a union provides,” explained Al. “I helped try to unionize the Meaford store and while we lost a close vote, the experience helped chart my life in a direction I will always be grateful for.” When an opportunity to work at a new store in Wasaga Beach came up, Al and his family made the move.
“I was privileged to work with two of my mentors and close friends, Brian Williamson and Scott Penner,” said Al. “And I’m proud to have worked with well-respected and dedicated individuals like Brian, Scott, Shawn, and my younger brother Jim McLean.”
In 1985, Local 1977’s organizing efforts started to pay off. The Wasaga location opened as a unionized store and from that point forward all new Zehrs stores opened as unionized shops. Over the next year the rest of the locations in the province would fall under the provincial collective agreement. Over the years, Al was elected as Shop Steward, Bargaining Committee member, Health & Safety Chairperson, and Executive Board Vice President for Local 1977. In January 1991, Local 1977 hired him as a Union Rep and he
In 2005, Al was elected Secretary-Treasurer at the time Brian retired and Scott Penner became President, and he worked alongside Scott and President Shawn Haggerty to merge Local 1977 with Locals 175 & 633 in 2011.
“Al is a true champion of workers’ rights,” said President Haggerty. “His passion and commitment to the labour movement is evident in everything he does and he will be missed. I wish him well in his retirement.” “It has been a great honour to serve the membership,” said Al. “I will miss all of you but I will never forget the struggles and the challenges we faced together that resulted in gains for our members. Thank you.” Al is looking forward to spending more time with his five grandchildren and exploring the world with his wife Cindy. | March 2016
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At the end of 2015, Executive Assistant Ray Bromley retired from the Local Union. Brother Bromley, as a meat cutter at Dominion Stores, served as shop steward, chairperson and Executive Board member. He was also an advocate within his Peterborough community and a member of Amnesty International and The South African Congress of Trade Unions in the struggle for human rights and dignity. Ray joined Local 175 as an Organizer in November 1993. “Organizing has always been my passion,” he said. “It is through the organizing process that we all, as unionized workers, enjoy the many benefits and rights we currently have.”
where he serviced a wide range of workplaces in both retail and industrial, and gained extensive experience in negotiating and strike issues. He was named Director of the South West Region in 2005. In October 2008, Brother Bromley was appointed Executive Assistant to the President, and was responsible for Union Organizing, as well as for the South West Region until a new Director could be named. “Ray fought hard for his Union Sisters, Brothers, and Friends,” said President Haggerty. “I congratulate him on his many years of dedicated service to the labour movement and wish him well in his retirement.”
After five years as an Organizer, Ray became a Union Rep in the Eastern Region in 1998
New Reps join Region 1 & Workers Compensation Dept Tracy Stubbs began working as a Union Representative in Region 1 in January, but she has been with Locals 175 & 633 for 20 years as administrative support in the Thunder Bay office. “While I loved working in the office, I decided it was time to pursue being a Union Rep,” explained Tracy. “I expect it to be challenging and interesting, and I look forward to meeting new people and working hard to protect our members’ rights at work.” Tracy enjoys working with and supporting Stewards and the members to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard. “Tracy has always been a dedicated advocate for workers’ rights,” said Region 1 Director Dan Lacroix. “She is always involved in the region’s conferences, events and fundraisers, and I know she will do an amazing job as a Union Rep.”
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In 2005, Christina began her career at the UFCW National Office where she worked as a summer student over several years while pursuing her university education. She received a B.A. Honours in Criminology and Sociology from the University of Toronto, and a B.A. Honours Specializing in Kinesiology from York University. The Local Union hired Christina in October 2014 and since that time she has worked in different departments in an administrative capacity, which she says gave her the opportunity to learn and expand her knowledge of Locals 175 & 633. “I work for the Union because I believe in protecting workers’ rights and the advancement of those rights,” said Christina. “I look forward to working in the Workers’ Compensation Department and using my educational background to help our members who have been injured on the job.” “Christina has proven herself as a dedicated member of our staff and this Union,” said President Haggerty. “I know she’ll do an outstanding job representing our members and helping them get the compensation they deserve.”
Officers and Executive Board sworn in for new term On February 17, 2016, the new UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Executive Board convened for the first time. President Haggerty opened the meeting by welcoming UFCW International President Marc Perrone and greeting the new and returning Vice-Presidents on the Board. President Perrone lead the Vice-Presidents and Officers of
Additional Staff Changes
Some of the following changes will take place over a period of time. If you have questions please contact your Regional Office.
Executive Assistants
Sylvia Groom, Luc Lacelle, & Jim McLean
Local 175 and Local 633 in their Pledge of Obligation for all Executive Board members assuming office. Elections for the Board positions were held last year. Each region and sector is designated a certain number of representatives on the Board as outlined in the Locals 175 & 633 Bylaws.
Directors
Sharon Kempf (Region 5) Angela Mattioli (Region 7) Daniel Mercier (Region 3) Rob Nicholas (Region 6) Sandra Rogerson (Region 8) Chris Fuller (Region 4)
Administrative Staff Dana Ryan (Region 1)
Union / Servicing Reps
Jason Hanley (Region 6) Mike Mattioli (Region 6) Tony Nigro (Region 8) Arlene Robertson (Region 8) Dave White (Region 2) Tim Deelstra (Training & Education) Derek Jokhu (Region 4) Dave Forbes (Organizing)
altered project lives Steves story ’
Steve’s life was forever altered in a workplace accident on Tuesday, August 21, 2007. It’s a day he will never forget. At the age of 22, Steve worked in a food processing facility where he had been employed for a year. While operating an electric walk-behind fork truck – a piece of equipment he had never operated before – Steve’s left foot was severely crushed. Without the proper training to operate the fork truck, Steve mixed up the forward and reverse speeds and backed himself against a wall, and it crushed his foot in the process. He says, “my memory of it is vague, it happened so fast. I hit the ground screaming. It was the worst pain I could imagine. The next thing I knew I was being carried off.” Steve was taken to the hospital to be treated immediately. After five months of recovery following the injury, Steve returned to work on modified duty. Last year, he required another surgery and was off work for almost a year. He returned to his job in February 2016. To date, Steve has been accommodated by his employer but he fears for the sustainability of his accommodation. He always worries about the future and takes things one day at a time. Today, Steve is reminded of his injury every day by the way he walks – he cannot walk flat-footed any more – and by the faces of his family and friends who look at him in disbelief. “I have good days and bad ones. My family has been very supportive but it’s hard for them to see me like this. That such a severe injury could happen to such a young person.” Between 2009 and 2013, the WSIB reports that 30 young workers aged 15 – 24 died in work-related incidents.
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During that same period, more than 30,000 young workers suffered injuries resulting in lost time at work.
The majority of lost-time claims approved by the WSIB involved young workers being struck by objects and equipment. As a result of his injury, Steve lost his ability to pursue his favourite pastime of snowboarding. One positive thing that came from the experience, he says is that “you know who your true friends are. They are the ones who accommodate my speed and consider my disability when they plan events.” If he could go back in time and give his younger self some advice, he would say: “Be safe. Ask for training. And tell someone if you feel unsafe.”
Mourn for the Dead Fight for the Living APRIL 28
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING an injury to one is an injury to all
Ceremonies are held across the province to commemorate April 28th For event listings visit ufcw175.com/dayofmourning (*posted as information becomes available*)
WORKERS’ COMPENSATION
Benefits Department changing its name
The Local 175 Benefits Department has changed its name to the Workers’ Compensation Department. “The Reps in the department felt that Workers’ Compensaion is a better fit for the work they do,” explained President Haggerty. Local 175 is proud to offer the service provided by this department: helping our members who are injured at work get the compensation they deserve from the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB). Often injured workers are unable to return to work immediately and sometimes not at all or in a different capacity than before. The stress that comes with worrying about money while trying to heal can be overwhelming. The Workers’ Compensation Reps guide our members through the incredibly difficult and long WISB process. This includes appeal-
ing denied claims, meeting with employers and the WSIB to manage return to work programs, and much more. Always remember that if you believe pain, illness, or an injury is related to the work you do, you MUST inform your doctor that it is work-related. Also remember that your employer cannot tell you to NOT file a WSIB claim - it is your right to do so. The contact information for the Workers’ Compensation Department remains the same as before - through the Cambridge office at 1-800-267-1977 / 519-658-0252. The email address will change to workerscomp@ufcw175.com. Because there are pamphlets, letters and other materials out there with the old email address (benefits@ufcw175.com), the previous email will continue to connect you with the department as well. Visit ufcw175.com/injuredworkers!
New legislation is a victory for first responders By the end of February 2016, ten first responders including four police officers and six paramedics, died by suicide in Canada. In 2015, a total of 30 first responders also died by suicide. The Ontario government has introduced Bill 163, Supporting Ontario’s First Responders Act (Posttraumatic Stress Disorders), which amends the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act (WSIA), 1997 and the Ministry of Labour Act. “Our hardworking first responders are there for our families in times of need and they deserve the support that this legislation provides,” said President Shawn Haggerty. “This is a victory for these workers and an encouraging step toward improving workers’ rights.” In its news release on Bill 163, the government noted that “… First Responders are at least twice as likely compared to the general population to suffer PTSD, due to the risk of routine exposure to traumatic stressors.”1 The new legislation, which is long overdue, will expedite the WSIB claims process for those diagnosed with PTSD. It will also remove the burden of proving a causal link Ministry of Labour news release: Feb 18, 2016 at https://news.ontario.ca/mol/en/2016/02/ ontario-to-introduce-legislation-to-support-first-responders-with-ptsd.html
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between the PTSD and a traumatic work event, and require employers to have a PTSD prevention plan in the workplace. All of this will go a long way to ensuring a positive recovery for workers. “We hope that this is the first of many positive changes for workers in this province who deal with work-related illnesses and injuries,” said President Haggerty. More than 70,000 workers in the province will be covered by Bill 163, including members of UFCW Local 175 who work as volunteer firefighters in Owen Sound and Petawawa, and paramedics, and dispatch operators at Medavie and Muskoka ACS.
UFCW members at Heinz were left without jobs when the company – a century-long fixture in the Leamington economy – shut down operations in 2014 as part of its global restructuring plan.
come to rely on this facility and these Local 175 members.
Highbury Canco purchased the facility and now employs about 250 people to produce tomato paste for French’s, which is used in its new ketchup. The members at this plant now belong to Local 175 following the merger of Local 459.
The push to buy Canadian-made products will help keep this plant viable long into the future.
It’s a far cry from the 1,000 workers employed before the closure, but we are optimistic that more French’s items will
Keeping French’s ketchup Canadian also means that local farmers, who supplied Heinz for decades, will also benefit.
It’s important to be conscious of the things you purchase and where they are grown, manufactured, or packaged. As we enter a new era of global trade deals like the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) or the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), it’s more important than ever to make sure we make good choices when shopping. From your groceries to your clothes, your housewares, and more, please support Canadian workers whenever possible.
NEGOTIA Members avoid strike; Ratify new contract at La Rocca On December 13, 2015, the 140 members working at La Rocca Creative Cakes in Richmond Hill achieved a new collective agreement after negotiations reached a point where a strike deadline had been set. Wage increases range from 1.6% to 2% in each year of the contract term with red-circled employees receiving lump sums of $450 per year. An additional 22 employees will be hired bringing the total number of members at this facility to 162. New classifications include Sanitation, Machine Operator, and Maintenance Helper. Language provides scheduling for preferred start times based on seniority, and hours worked on a statutory holiday or paid sick time will count as time worked for the purpose of overtime. Employees benefit from short notice (two-week) vacation requests, and entitlement improves to provide five paid weeks after 20 years of service. New language provides drivers working out of the Ottawa area with benefits and a wage rate of $18.10 per hour for a 30-hour workweek with overtime payable after 30 hours in a week.
Members receive an improved boot allowance of $100, and the company will contribute $500 per year toward the UFCW Local 175 Training & Education Fund. Union Negotiating Committee: Manuel Aragon, Mario Francomano, Hamed Kalhor, and Union Rep John DiNardo. ... Walfoods Workers ratify A three-year agreement was ratified unanimously by members at Walfoods Ltd at St. John’s College in Brantford, on December 16. The contract includes wage increases of 80 cents per hour with the first increase of 30 cents per hour retroactive for hours worked since December 1, 2015. In addition, members receive a signing bonus of $50. Company contributions to the employee’s dental plan increase in each year of the agreement. Union Negotiating Committee: Karen Brennan and Union Rep Tim Deelstra. | March 2016
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NEGOTIA
continued
Members at Grandview Lodge ratify new deal On February 16, health care workers at Grandview Lodge secured a new four-year collective agreement. The more than 100 members at the Dunnville nursing care home belong to the Health, Office & Professional Employees (HOPE) Sector of Local 175. All rates and classifications receive increases of 2% retroactive for hours worked since January 1, 2016, and subsequent increases of 1.75% in each of the next three years. Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) receive an additional wage adjustment of 50 cents per hour effective July 1, 2016. RPNs also receive a premium of $2 per hour for each hour worked in the absence of a Registered Nurse (RN). On-call maintenance employees assigned to carry a pager receive a daily premium that increases from $16 to $25 over the term of the agreement. Vacation language improves to require fewer years of service for full-time workers to reach entitlement of four, five, and six weeks’ paid vacation leave. The employer will contribute toward the UFCW Local 175 Training & Education fund each year. Union Negotiating Committee: Pam Caughell, Jim Fleming, Cheryl Lemos, Angie MacArthur, Kathy Sitter, Irene Stirling, and Union Rep Ashleigh Garner. ... Dean’s Valu-Mart workers achieve new contract On January 14, 2016, the 25 members at Dean’s Valu-Mart in Gore Bay achieved a new collective agreement. Wages increase over the term of the agreement by $1.25 per hour. The first increase is retroactive for hours worked since the expiry of the previous contract. In addition, a new minimum wage grid for part-time employees ensures that those in progression receive an hourly rate that stays ahead of any adjustments made to minimum wage by the province. The boot allowance improves to $100, up from $50, and all fulltime employees receive a floater holiday. Union Negotiating Committee: Ethel Newburn, Jean Pearson, and Union Rep Lionel MacEachern.
language for temporary assignment premiums, and a safety boot allowance. Each member will receive an additional 21 hours per year for sick leave time and the health spending account for full-time members will increase from $600 to $1,000 per year. Vacation increases include the addition of a third week of vacation paid at 6% after five years of service, and a fourth week of vacation paid at 8% after ten years of service. The first agreement includes significant new language in the areas of health and safety, paid bereavement leave and jury leave. These members now have the protection of a collective agreement with a grievance procedure and union representation language. Negotiating Committee: Tina Barton, Mado Limoges and Union Representative Simon Baker. ... HOPE Sector members secure new deal Members of Local 175’s HOPE sector at The Richmond Retirement Residence in Belleville, achieved a new contract on December 14, 2015. Employees receive wage increases of 4.5% over the term of the agreement. Sick pay improves to 75% on the first day, up from 66%, and 100% on days two and three, up from 75%. New language reduces the hours between shifts to 12 instead of 15.5, and a new weekend shift premium is 10 cents per hour. Those with three weeks of vacation entitlement, instead of the previous four weeks required, may now split up a week of that entitlement. Vacation requests are now booked by seniority all year instead of just the summer months. To qualify for an additional floater holiday, employees need four years’ seniority, down from the previous five required. Union Negotiating Committee: Loretta Conley, Deborah Juby, Stacey Renaud, and Union Rep Dean McLaren. ... Canlyte contract ratified by members
On December 14th, the new members of Local 175 working at Herb & Spice in Ottawa ratified their first collective agreement.The agreement includes end rate wage increases of 25 cents per hour for all classifications,
On December 17, 2015, members at Canlyte in Cornwall ratified a new agreement which will see them through the beginning of 2020. Wage rates increase by 1.5% for hours worked between January 11, 2016 and July 4, 2016. Subsequent increases total 5.25% over the remaining years of the contract. Breaks increase to 15 minutes, up from 12, and workers receive an additional vacation day in 2016.
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Pension contributions increase to 1.95% by the third year of the agreement. Eye exams and eyewear are now covered
... First Agreement for members at Herb & Spice
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All of our negotiations don’t always fit into the magazine! You can find more online at www.ufcw175.com up to $300 per 24-month period. Workers will also see improvements to the boot and clothing allowances over the term of the agreement.
ance improves to $100 every year for full-time, and $100 every two years for part-time. All current full-time employees also receive a paid floater day.
Union Negotiating Committee: Victor Morin, Garfield Plumadore, and Union Rep Shannon Epp.
Union Negotiating Committee: Kelly Bodick, Shawn Goodman, and Union Rep Matt Belanger.
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Contract ratified at Canadian Linen
Members at Broadview Nursing Centre ratify
Members at Canadian Linen in Ottawa and Kingston ratified a new three-year contract in December 2015.
The 60 members of Local 175’s HOPE Sector working at Broadview Nursing Centre in Smiths Falls had a ratification vote on December 9, 2015.
Wages increase by 1% in the first year, 1.5% in year two and 2% in year three. Employees receive a lump sum payment at the end of this year, in lieu of retroactive pay, in the amount of $150 for full-time and $50 for part-time. Employer contributions to the workers’ pension plan increase to 50 cents per hour worked effective the first year, 55 cents in the second year, and 60 cents per hour worked in the third year of the contract term. Company contributions to the health and welfare plan will also increase over the life of the agreement.
A new two-year contract, which was ratified at the meeting, includes wage increases for all rates of 1.5% retroactive to the expiry of the previous contract, and 1% in the second year. Employer contributions to the benefit plan increase to 9% of a worker’s gross earnings. Remembrance Day has been converted to provide an additional floating statutory holiday.
The agreement also contains enhanced language regarding discrimination, harassment, and bullying.
The contract includes new Dignity & Respect language, new Health & Safety provisions dealing with infection disease, and new language regarding the creation of a new job classification. Additional new language allows workplace servicing by the Union Representative.
Union Negotiating Committee: Jorge Garcia, Stacey Hansen, Charlotte Teepell, and Union Rep Simon Baker.
Union Negotiating Committee: Ashley Colling, Geneva Donaldson, Sandra Proulx, and Union Rep Simon Baker.
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New contract for members at Pettenuzzo’s YIG
Barrington Retirement members achieve new contract
On December 8, 2015, the more than 80 members working at Pettenuzzo’s Your Independent Grocer (YIG) in Kirkland Lake ratified a new contract.
In December, Local 175 HOPE Sector members at the Barrington Retirement Home in Barrie secured a 3-year agreement awarded through the Hospital Labour Disputes Arbitration Act (HLDAA). The 22 employees had been without a contract since December 31, 2014.
Current full-time and part-time workers receive end rates increases totalling $1.25 per hour over the term of the deal with the first increase of 25 cents retroactive for all hours worked since expiry of the previous contract. All part-time workers hired after ratification receive hourly increases totalling 75 cents per hour. The majority of part-time employees will see an immediate increase of between 5 to 70 cents per hour, based on hours worked, because of a new wage grid. The new grid also ensures that part-time rates always stay ahead of minimum wage. Full and part-time workers scheduled for the night shift receive a premium of $1.05 per hour for hours so worked. The lock-up premium increases to $8 per closing shift. In addition, workers receive a signing bonus of $100 for those with more than two years of service and $50 for those with less than two years of service. The Safety Footwear allow-
In the first year of the new agreement employees receive a 2% wage increase, paid retroactive to January 1, 2015. Workers receive an across-the-board increase of 2% in each the second and third of the agreement term as well. New language allows a bargaining unit member to accept a temporary non-bargaining unit position for up to one year. They will be required to continue to pay dues and will not lose seniority within that year.Improved language address scheduling over the Christmas holiday. The employer will contribute $1,000 toward the UFCW Local 175 Education & Training Fund. Union Negotiating Committee: Debbie Alton, Dianna Hollett, and Director, Chris Fuller.
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Workers at Wolseley Canada in Milton won their certification vote on November 12, 2015. Employees at the warehouse are responsible for the distribution of plumbing and heating products, and plastic pipe and valves for oil and gas projects. Currently, the facility employs 115 workers but that number will increase as the company’s location in Vaughan is slated to close. The workers decided to fight for Union representation because they wanted the ability to negotiate better wages, benefits, and working conditions. On December 17, 2015, Local 175 welcomed newly certified members at the Holiday Inn Express in North Bay. The hotel employs approximately 32 workers at the front desk and in housekeeping. The major issues for these workers were improving working conditions and achieving better pay and benefits. Employees at Saturn Integrated Logistics in Etobicoke, pictured below in a meeting with Local 175 Organizer Mike Mattioli, voted to join our Local Union on December 18, 2015. The company employs about 90 workers who repair pallets at the facility. There were a number of concerns for the workers that prompted the Union drive including job security, health and safety issues, as well as wages and benefits. Current provincial legislation does not allow for card-check certification - where if a majority of eligible employees signed a card, the workers would be certified automatically. Instead, Ontario’s biased voting system not only requires cards to be signed by 40% of the eligible employees, but they must also then vote at a secret ballot up to seven days after the Union files for certification with the Labour Board. That leaves a week of wiggle room for employers to coerce, intimidate and threaten workers into voting against the Union. “The uphill battle these workers must struggle through just to join a Union is unfair,” said President Haggerty. “We need our government to enact progressive labour laws that actually protect workers. All of our new members deserve a congratulations for standing up and fighting for their rights.”
If you know someone interested in joining the Union please contact our Organizers at 1-800-565-8329 / organizing@ufcw175.com.
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Shhh! You’ve got yourself a deal: Confidentiality and Settlements “The Grievor and Union agree that the terms of these minutes of Settlement will be kept strictly confidential and shall not be disclosed to anyone.”
If you’ve had any experience with a personal injury claim or other civil claim, it’s likely you will be familiar with confidentiality language of the kind shown above. It’s an example of the legal jargon you can run into when working with lawyers. Sometimes people gloss over statements like that and don’t pay much attention to their meaning or purpose. It’s very important to remember, however, that confidentiality language is a critical part of any settlement agreement. In short, these provisions grant protection to the parties involved and their reputations. In the labour movement, confidentiality provisions are an essential part of the arbitration process. Whether dealing with an unjust termination, unpaid benefits, or a violation of human rights, almost all matters settled through the mediation-arbitration process will include some terms of confidentiality. Recently, confidentiality provisions have been in the spotlight following the decision in Globe and Mail v. CEP Local 87-M (2013). In that case, journalist Jan Wong, a 21- year employee of the Globe and Mail (the Globe), had suffered from depression following the publication of a contentious article. After publication, Wong took time away from work but the Globe refused to pay her sick leave benefits. The Globe denied Wong’s disability and eventually terminated her employment. In response to Wong’s termination, her union filed a grievance and succeeded in obtaining sick leave benefits and a lump sum payment of over $200,000. As part of the settlement agreement, Wong agreed to terms of confidentiality coupled with a claw-back provision. That provision required repayment of the $200,000 lump sum should Wong divulge the terms of the settlement. In 2010, Wong published a book titled “Out of the Blue” in which she disclosed the existence of a settlement with the Globe. Wong made no mention of the amount paid by the Globe but hinted a number of times that a large settlement had been provided. Despite not stating the specific amount of the settlement the Arbitrator in her case ordered repay-
ment of Wong’s settlement award. The repayment order was upheld on two subsequent judicial review applications. This case demonstrates that confidentiality provisions are more than just filler in a settlement agreement. Although it’s not likely that the average employee would disclose the terms of their settlement in a widely published book, this case reveals that confidentiality provisions will be strictly enforced. Whether meticulous details are discussed or someone discloses simply that a settlement was paid, both forms of disclosure may be considered worthy of penalty. In the context of arbitration settlements, confidentiality agreements may specify a penalty or may leave the penalty up to the determination of the Arbitrator. A Union member who is signing a settlement agreement should be wary of disclosing pertinent information to anyone other than the people specified in the agreement. For example, a member will often be able to disclose information to their immediate family. But even when a settlement allows a Union member to tell some information to certain individuals, that Union member is still responsible for any disclosures those individuals make. If a family member discloses information, a settlement agreement will likely treat it as though the Grievor violated the terms and would require the Grievor to pay a penalty. Consequently, a Grievor must be sure that any conversation on the matter is restricted to the language specified in the Agreement. Generally speaking, such language will be limited to a statement that ‘the matter has been settled.’ In closing, members who are party to a settlement should review – and make sure they understand – any confidentiality provisions in their agreement and adhere to those terms. If you have any questions or concerns at the time your settlement is presented or after the fact, please make sure you speak to your Union Representative before you disclose any information. | March 2016
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FUNDRAISING
$1,500 raised at Super Bowl fundraiser
On Sunday, February 6, 2016, Region 4 Union Rep Brenda Simmons assisted with the annual Super Bowl fundraiser to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). The event, organized by Local 633 Recorder Neil Hotchkiss and his wife Michelle, had a great turnout and brought in $1,531 in donations. Everyone enjoyed celebrating Super Bowl 50 and watching the game in good company while raising money for this worthwhile cause. Thanks to everyone who attended for their generosity.
FUNDRAISING EVENTS APR 16 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
APR 23 9:30 a.m. Kick Off
MAY 6 7 p.m. Midnight
MAY 6&7 Schedule TBA
MAY 14 11:00 a.m. Regist. & Lunch
MAY 20 & 21 All Day
MAY 28 7:00 p.m.
SCRAPBOOK CROP 6628 Ellis Road, Cambridge $45 per person Call 519-625-0252 / 1-800-267-1977 SOCCER TOURNAMENT TrioSportsplex, 601Cityview Blvd,Vaughan $300 per team Call 705-715-8367 / 519-501-4773 DIAMONDS & DENIM Banquet Ctr, 1 Alhambra Sq, Belleville $20 per person (must be 19 yrs or older) bit.ly/diamonds-denim or 613-601-8122 HOCKEY TOURNAMENT Mohawk 4 Ice Centre 710 Mountain Brow Blvd, Hamilton $800 per team / Call 1-800-567-2125 x 231 GOLF TOURNAMENT 1:00 p.m. Tee Off following lunch $125 for Local Union members Call 1-800-565-8329 x 2263 for info PETERBOROUGH CARES Join us Friday & Saturday of the May Long Weekend at Morello’s YIG. ARTS FOR LEUKEMIA Royal Canadian Legion Barrhaven 3500 Fallowfield Road, Ottawa $10 donation to enter
full details on all events available at ufcw175.com to support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada
London – Victoria Park Saturday, October 15, 2016 Toronto – Nathan Phillips Square Wednesday, October 19, 2016 Ottawa – Landsowne Park Saturday, October 22, 2016 lightthenight.ca
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COMMUNITY ACTION NET Family Day celebration! Thank you to all the members who brought their family and friends to this year’s Family Day celebration on February 20 at the Local Union’s head office in Mississauga. Everyone enjoyed a day of good company, great food, lots of fun, plus entertainment from John Park and Chris Westfall.
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$1,000
You could win a scholarship toward your college or university tuition!
The Solidarity Scholarships are open to members of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 and your children and/or dependants! Every year, the Local Union gives out 88 Solidarity Scholarships of $1,000 each to members and their children planning to attend, or already attending, college or university. “Helping to make tuition more affordable for working families is very important to our Local Union,” says President Shawn Haggerty. “I am proud to work alongside staff and Executive Board members who recognize the importance of this too.” The window to apply opens April 1 and all applications must be received by August 1, 2016. Only winners are notified (by mail in September). The winners list will also be published on the website. Fill out the form on the following page and mail it in or apply online at ufcw175.com/scholarships starting April 1!
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Dear Local 175,
Thank you for the generous scholarship . I was very happy and appreciative to learn that I was selected as the recipien t of your scholarship. By awarding me this scholarship you have lightened my financial burden which allows me to focus more on school. Sincerely, Adam Costa
Apply now! SOLIDARITY SCHOLARSHIPS PLEASE FILL OUT THE APPLICATION COMPLETELY AND CLEARLY. Full details and online application at www.ufcw175.com/scholarships - Deadline for submissions is August 1, 2016. Scan/take a photo of the application & email it to tcadmin@ufcw175.com OR Fax it to 519-658-0255 OR Mail it in an envelope [postage required] to: Attn: Training & Education Committee, 6628 Ellis Road, Cambridge ON N3C 2V4
First & Last Name:
Education information for applicant
Note: Only students in/entering full-time studies are eligible
______________________________________
Name of College/University: ______________________
Permanent Home Address:
______________________________________
______________________________________
Program of Study: _______________________________ Start Date: _____________________________________
______________________________________
This is year ______ of a ______-year program.
Street, City, Province & Postal Code
Expected cost of tuition (per year) is $ _______________
Home Phone #: ( ____ ) ________________________
Cell #: ( ____ ) ________________________
Email: ______________________________________
Please check one of the following: I am a member of UFCW Local 175 or Local 633. I am the _________________________ of a UFCW Locals 175 & 633 member. Specify relationship to member (i.e. son, daughter, step-son, step-daughter, legal dependent)
Information for the Member of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Member’s Name: _________________________ Member Since: _________________________ Employer:
_________________________
Store or Unit # (if applicable) _________________________
I hereby confirm the information submitted herewith is true & complete. Applicant’s Signature: ________________________________
Date: ________________________________
Return postage will be paid by: United Food and Commercial Workers Locals 175 & 633 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga ON L5N 2K7 Canada Post Corporation Publication Agreement No. 40064671