Checkout June 2014

National Defense Fund Page 5

Teresa Magee Retires

Kelly Tosato appointed new SecretaryTreasurer of Local 175 – Page 6

Muskoka EMS Pages 10 & 11

World Pride Page 23

Contents LOCAL 175 Shawn Haggerty, President; Kelly Tosato, Secretary-Treasurer; Karen Vaughan, Recorder; Ray Bromley, Al McLean, Harry Sutton – Executive Assistants

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LOCAL 633 Dan Bondy, President; Marylou Mallett, SecretaryTreasurer; Neil Hotchkiss, Recorder DIRECTORS Rob Armbruster BENEFITS Georgina MacDonald - Intake Representative; Sherree Backus, Joce Cote, Laurie Duncan, Joanne Ford, Joanne Harrow – Benefits Representatives COMMUNICATIONS Jennifer Tunney - Senior Communications Representative; Federico Rizzi Communications Representative; Meemee Seto - Servicing Representative HEALTH & SAFETY Janice Klenot - Senior Health & Safety Representative LEGAL Fernando Reis - Co-ordinator; Catherine Davis - Legal Advocate; Natalie DeHaney-Steward, Maryanne Galati, Natalie Wiley - Legal Counsel; Rebecca Woodrow Senior Legal Counsel ORGANIZING Rick Wauhkonen - Organizing Coordinator; Farman Ali, Jeffery Lu, Mike Mattioli, Tony Nigro, Amy Tran - Organizing Representatives TRAINING & EDUCATION Kelly Nicholas - Co-ordinator REGION 1 Dan Lacroix - Regional Director; Colby Flank, Jason Hanley - Union Representatives

President’s Message

Political Action

Secretary-Treasurer’s Message

Injured Workers

Page 3

Page 4

National Defense Fund Page 5

Teresa Magee retires

Page 6

Page 14

Page 16

Negotiations Page 17

Health Care Conference

Page 20

Community Action Network

REGION 2 Kelly Tosato - Regional Director; Mona Bailey, John DiFalco, Anthony DiMaio, John Di Nardo, Chris Fuller, Rob Nicholas, Mark Stockton, Chris Watson, Dave White Union Representatives

Union News

REGION 3 Dan Lacroix - Regional Director; Simon Baker, Shannon Epp, Paul Hardwick, Dean McLaren, Daniel Mercier - Union Representatives; Jacques Niquet Servicing Representative

Legal Notes

REGION 4 Sylvia Groom - Regional Director; Rick Hogue, Ron McGuire - Union Representatives; Orsola Augurusa, Virginia Haggith, Lee Johnson-Koehn, Casey Magee, Arlene Robertson, Brenda Simmons, Melody Slattery Servicing Representatives

Workplace Feature

Outstanding Member Achievement Award

Organizing

Scholarship Application

REGION 5 Jim McLean - Regional Director; Jehan Ahamed, Bob Kearney, Brad Morrison, Mario Tardelli Union Representatives

Page 7

Page 9

Page 10 Page 12

REGION 6 Luc Lacelle - Regional Director; Wendy Absolom, Sam Caetano, Matt Davenport, Tim Deelstra, Joe De Melo, Angela Mattioli - Union Representatives; Ashleigh Garner - Servicing Representative

Page 22

Fundraising Page 24

Page 26 Page 27

REGION 7 Jim McLean - Regional Director; Sharon Kempf, Diane Sanvido, Steve Springall - Union Representatives; Dave Forbes - Servicing Representative REGION 8 Derik McArthur - Regional Director; Jeff Barry, Matt Belanger, Lionel MacEachern, Sandra Rogerson 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

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CAMBRIDGE OFFICE 6628 ELLIS ROAD, CAMBRIDGE, ON N3C 2V4 TEL: 519-658-0252 TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-1977 FAX: 519-658-0255

| June 2014

CORNWALL OFFICE UNIT 5-850 BOUNDARY RD CORNWALL ON K6H 5R5 TEL: 613-932-2330 FAX: 613-932-6687

HAMILTON OFFICE 412 RENNIE STREET HAMILTON, ON L8H 3P5 TEL: 905-545-8354 TOLL FREE: 1-800-567-2125 FAX: 905-545-8355

OTTAWA OFFICE SUDBURY OFFICE THUNDER BAY OFFICE 20 HAMILTON AVENUE N. 230 REGENT ROAD 21-929 FORT WILLIAM RD OTTAWA, ON K1Y 1B6 SUDBURY, ON P3C 4C5 THUNDER BAY, ON P7B 3A6 TEL: 613-725-2154 TEL: 705-674-0769 TEL: 807-346-4227 TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-5295 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-1722 TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-6932 FAX: 807-346-4055 FAX: 613-725-2328 FAX: 705-674-6815

UWWO

President’s Message

Shawn Haggerty

The Ontario election on June 12th is about one thing: What kind of Ontario do you want to live in?

Workers have been, and always will be, at the forefront of change. Workers drive the economy and when we stand united we can accomplish anything.

Tim Hudak’s vision of our province is a bleak one for Ontario’s working families. Hudak’s U.S.-style Republican approach goes against pretty much everything I believe to be Canadian. His values don’t fit with the Ontario that I want to live in.

Hudak’s anti-worker, anti-union platform is full of disdain for the average working person and the things that are important to them. We need a leader who will work to ensure that Ontario’s livable wages, good pensions, public health care, and other vital social programs, are maintained and enhanced.

I want an Ontario that flourishes from good jobs that pay well, so that we can put money back into our economy.

Workers everywhere need to stand more united than ever before. We need to stop bashing what other workers have and turn our attention to the real culprits: Right-wing agendas that make it harder for workers to make progress, and a lot easier for businesses to reap profits.

I want to ask each of you to make sure you vote on June 12.

UFCW Locals 175 & 633 has 66,000 members and we CAN make a difference in this election. Your vote matters. Please get out there on June 12th and vote for the candidate that truly represents what’s important to you.

Our Union Sisters and Brothers at Wing’s have been on strike for more than nine months as they face one of the most underhanded employers we’ve ever encountered. Part of the reason these workers have been able to hold strong so long is that they participate in the National Defense Fund (NDF). The NDF is a strike fund that bargaining units can vote to join. Minimal weekly contributions of between 50 cents and $2, ensure that if those workers go on strike they receive between $50 and $200 per week in additional strike pay. For more details check out page 5.

The strike at Wings is complicated. But we want justice for these workers and your Union will continue the fight and see this through. One of the reasons the strike is dragging on is that the employer is allowed to hire scabs. Hiring scabs was illegal before 1995 when the Progressive Conservatives, under Mike Harris’ leadership, destroyed our legislation and replaced it with regressive anti-worker pro-business labour laws. And Hudak seems to be regurgitating that same anti-worker agenda.

What kind of Ontario do you want to live in? Is it a wasteland of part-time, low-wage, zero benefits, no Union jobs?

Or is it one where you can work one job, afford to feed and house your family, pay your bills, put your kids through school, and enjoy a good quality of life?

It’s no contest for me.

In Solidarity,

Shawn Haggerty | June 2014

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Secretary-Treasurer’s Message

Teresa Magee

Workers often wonder where their dues go. And it’s a fair question. After all, it’s your money and your Union.

Your dues dollars go toward every day servicing for the membership, the costs of publications and administration, organizing and affiliate fees. And some of the money goes directly toward a Strike Fund.

Over the years, Locals 175 & 633 have built a substantial strike fund that puts our Union in a sound position to handle the work stoppages that may come our way in the future.

While strikes are always a last resort, they do happen.

We had four strikes last year alone. The workers at Wings continue to walk the picket line today, and in mid-May, 84 workers at Hagi Community Services for Independence took strike action against their employer as well, after having been without a contract since September last year.

We know all too well that some employers will go out of their way to drag strikes on in an attempt to get their way and undermine the workers’ solidarity.

Standing strong is the key to any strike. But it’s not easy, especially when the financial reality of not getting a regular full pay cheque hits you. Almost 20 years ago, the UFCW developed the National Defense Fund (NDF) to take strike preparation to the next level.

Right now, more than 7,000 members of Locals 175 & 633 at 43 different workplaces already participate in the NDF. Some have gone on strike and have seen the real financial benefit to belonging to this program. You can find more information on what the NDF is on the next page.

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Growing our Union is also an important part of making sure we can stand and fight for workers’ rights well into the future. Workers from almost every sector have faced hard times in the last few years. But many of them are also recognizing the importance of belonging to a Union.

From the moment a group of workers becomes part of a Union, to the ratification of each and every collective agreement, every step is vital to the progress of the labour movement and the quality of life for working families.

Our amazing Organizing Team has helped more than 4,400 workers find a strong, unified voice since 2010. With these new members and through mergers with Local 1977, RWDSU Northern Joint Council, Local 278W and most recently, Muskoka EMS workers, we are growing stronger every day.

You can read about our new members in Muskoka on page 10 and learn more about our Organizing victories on page 12.

In Solidarity,

Teresa Magee

UFCW National Defense Fund

The UFCW National Defense Fund (NDF) took shape in 1986 as a precaution against impending strikes in the packinghouse industry. That year, the 1,000 members at Gainers Meats in Edmonton affected by a 6.5 month strike, and 500 workers locked out by Fletcher’s Fine Foods packinghouse in Red Deer, saw the benefit of the NDF immediately. The NDF, still brand new at the time, was able to unify their cause and help them through their fight for fair contracts.

Since then, the NDF has been integral to a number of strikes and lockouts. For countless members, the NDF has delivered financial relief and provided support such as picket line training and materials, and necessities like trailers and portable washrooms.

The National Defense Fund is like an insurance plan: For a small weekly contribution, you can rely on extra financial assistance, in addition to your regular strike pay, should a strike become necessary. The amount you receive is calculated based on your contribution rate.

UFCW Locals 175 & 633 has more than 7,000 members who participate in the NDF including workers at: Cargill, Mondelez, Canada Safeway, Minute Maid, Weetabix, Watson Foods, Good Humor, Fearmans, Firestone and our newest plan members at Western Waffles.

Joining the NDF is done on a bargaining unit by bargaining unit basis. Workers attend a meeting where they are informed about the NDF and have the opportunity to ask questions, after which workers are asked to vote whether to become a part of the Plan.

Employers recognize that the NDF and its tens of thousands of members bring incredible strength to workers during a strike or lockout.

When Union members are backed by a strong plan that can provide lasting financial support, it makes an employer think twice about provoking a strike or locking out its employees.

Three NDF contribution rates available: $ .50 per week contribution $50 per week in additional picket pay $1.00 per week contribution $100 per week in additional picket pay $2.00 per week contribution $200 per week in additional picket pay *As with all strikes & lockouts, you are required to show up for, sign in for and complete your assigned picket duties each week in order to receive your pay.

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UNION NEWS

Secretary-Treasurer Teresa Magee retires At the Locals 175 & 633 Executive Board meeting on April 23, 2014, President Haggerty announced the retirement of Secretary-Treasurer Teresa Magee.

“I want to thank Teresa for her many years of service and dedication to this Local Union,” said President Haggerty.

“Teresa has been an integral part in the ongoing evolution of Local 175 and an amazing resource for our members, Reps and staff.”

Teresa gained retail and union experience from working in grocery stores in her youth. Before she joined the UFCW staff, she worked at CIBC and was elected as Union Chairperson there to represent 350 members.

Her skills and worker advocacy made her a great addition to Local 175 and in 1990, Teresa was hired as a Union Representative. Teresa was promoted to Director of the South West region in 2001. In 2004, she was appointed as Executive Assistant to the President, which is a role she held for three years before becoming Secretary-Treasurer in 2007.

Among her many achievements in the Local Union, Teresa is particularly proud of her work in the field of diversity and the LGBTQ community. Teresa chaired the Community Action Network (CAN) Committee for a number of years, embracing the diversity of our Local Union, establishing regular cultural celebrations, and providing ongoing support for a number of charitable organizations and community groups. She also served on the Board of Directors for the Working Women Community Centre.

At the 2013 UFCW International Convention, Teresa was elected as Member at Large on the inaugural UFCW OUTreach Committee Executive Board. OUTreach is a group dedicated to building solidarity and mutual support within our LGBTQ communities in Canada and the U.S. “I want to say thank you to the staff and members,” explained Teresa. “I love this Local Union and I have amazing memories from my 24 years here. This family of passionate dedicated people has made my work at Local 175 very easy. And with the work they continue to do, there is nothing that workers can’t accomplish together. I know Kelly Tosato’s experience and commitment to this organization will be a great resource for everyone and serve the members well through any challenge that lies ahead. I will miss everyone but I know I leave the Local Union in good hands.” | June 2014 6

“Teresa is a leader, an activist and a dedicated member of this Union and she will be missed,” added President Haggerty. “I wish her nothing but the best in her retirement. It is well deserved.”

Kelly Tosato named new Secretary-Treasurer With the retirement of Teresa Magee, President Haggerty nominated Director Kelly Tosato to the role of SecretaryTreasurer. Kelly was elected by a unanimous vote of the Executive Board and was sworn into her new role by Teresa Magee soon after.

“Kelly has been a very active worker advocate for a number of years,” said President Haggerty. “She is an outstanding leader, and her experience, dedication and passion will continue to serve the members of Local 175 and bring new opportunities for growth.”

Kelly’s involvement with UFCW began in 1989 at Pinty’s in St. Catharines where she was the elected Union Chairperson. For a number of years, Kelly was a Vice-President of the Local 175 Executive Board and took part in the St. Catharines District Labour Council as well.

In 2001, the Local Union hired Kelly to be a Union Representative in the then Central West region, and in 2009 she became Director for Region 2 – one of the most diverse regions within the Local. Kelly is a strong advocate of community health care centres and the LGBTQ community.

One of her many accomplishments to date is the successful negotiation of extensive collective agreement language for Transgender individuals.

Kelly is a long-time member of the Board of Directors for the Local 175 Housing Residence in St. Catharines and she also sits on the UFCW National Women’s Committee and the NDF Committee.

“I wish Teresa Magee all the best in her retirement. I know the job isn’t easy but I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,” said Kelly. “I will continue to keep the best interests of the members at heart. That is what guides me in every decision I make.”

Karen Vaughan named new Recorder for Local 175 Following the retirement of Betty Pardy last year, President Haggerty has appointed long-time member, steward, and Executive Board Vice President Karen Vaughan, as the new Recorder for Local 175.

Karen is a full-time Registered Nurse. She was hired at Maplewood Nursing Home in Brighton in March 1993, where she’s been a Steward ever since.

“Karen’s a very compassionate person,” explains Executive Assistant Ray Bromley. “She’s extremely committed and very active within the Steward body.”

Throughout her career, Karen has been an advocate for everyone in health care. She was a strong force behind the fight for, and ultimate success in, spreading awareness of the threats that needlestick injuries bring.

Karen joined the Local 175 Executive Board in 2001. In May 2009, while still working full-time at Maplewood Nursing Home, she also started working part-time at Trent Valley Lodge. Karen became a certified member for the Maplewood JHSC in April 2013 and she is an active supporter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC).

Two additions to our Legal Department On February 10, Natalie DehaneyStewart joined the Local’s legal team. Natalie, an Undergraduate of the University of Toronto and a Juris Doctor Graduate of the University of Waterloo, is looking forward to doing her best to serve the members.

In her undergraduate studies, Natalie took part in a labour relation’s course that launched her passion for labour and employment law, and social justice advocacy.

Before joining Local 175, Natalie was a member of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU), working in both the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, and the Ministry of Community and Social Services.

Effective February 27, 2014, Maryanne Galati joined the Legal Department as Counsel. Maryanne has studied at various universities: she has an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Labour Studies and Political Science from York University, and Master of Arts in Work and Society from McMaster University.

Maryanne took her first year of Law School at the University of Ottawa in the English and Common Law Program.

She then transferred to Osgoode Hall Law School at York University where she obtained her Juris Doctor, as well as a certificate in the Labour and Employment Law Program.

Her studies were mostly based around unionized workplaces. During her last year of studies, Maryanne interned at UFCW Local 1000A where she participated in grievances, bargaining and ratification.

“We are very proud to have Karen become part of our leadership,” said President Haggerty. “She’s an amazing Sister to all of our Union members and I’m confident that her new position will bring positive changes and new opportunities to our Local.” | June 2014

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RETIREMENTS Paul Johku

Rob Cullen

Long time Union advocate Paul Jokhu has announced his retirement.

On May 31, Union Representative Rob Cullen retired from the Local Union. Rob started his first job in 1979 in the meat department of a small independent store in Lively, which he attempted to organize just a year later. In 1981, Rob began working for Loeb Canada, now Metro, where he became a Steward and, over the years, got more involved with the Union. He served as a bargaining committee member for several renewals and represented his co-workers as Chief Steward and a Certified Health & Safety Committee member.

Paul got his start in unionized employment when he arrived to Canada in 1972 and started working at Nielson’s Chocolate. By 1973, Paul had become a Steward, then Chief Steward. He also held various positions at UFCW Local 529P including Secretary-Treasurer and President.

As President of Local 529P, Paul sat as a Vice President on the Ontario Provincial Council, President of Toronto’s Industrial Council, and Vice President of the UFCW National Council. Following the 2002 merger with Local 175, Paul worked as a Union Representative for a number of years before becoming Director of the then Central West Region (now Region 6) in 2008, and later the director of the South West Region. In 2011, President Haggerty enlisted Paul’s help and experience at the head office.

“On behalf of everyone at the Union,” explained President Haggerty, “I’d like to congratulate Paul on his retirement.

He has always been an essential part of our team as well as a good friend and I wish him all the best for the years to come.”

Paul’s favorite time with the Union will always be as a Union Representative: “Being a Rep is the dream job; helping people. Getting to the office early in the morning because I really liked what I did. I was very happy. I still am. I’m going to miss that.” Besides the occasional game of golf, Paul will now have more time for himself, his family and his seven grandchildren.

In 2006, Rob was hired as a Business Agent for the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU). At RWDSU, Rob served as Secretary-Treasurer for Local 582 and, following the 2012 merger of the RWDSU Northern Joint Council with UFCW Local 175, Rob was appointed as a Union Representative for Region 8. Rob received a diploma in Labour Relations from Queen’s University’s Industrial Relations Centre in 2009 and an Advanced Labour Relations Diploma in 2012.

Rob remembers his late father, John Cullen, an Industrial Electrician and Instrument Technician, as the most influential person in his life. Rob’s father, the sole provider for his family, instilled in Rob the importance of Unions and the benefits that a good collective agreement can bring to a family’s quality of life. “My involvement with the Union has been personally rewarding,” explained Rob. “I am happy to have been a part of helping workers organize, and bettering the lives of Union members through collective bargaining.”

“I want to thank Rob for all of his years of hard work in the labour movement and his service to the members of this Union,” said President Haggerty. “I wish him all the best for a happy retirement.”

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LEGAL NOTES

Going Viral: Social Media and how it’s shaping Labour Law

The use of social networking sites has become widespread. Social media has become a mainstream communication tool and changed the way people interact with friends, family, and even the general public.

In 2013, Canada ranked among the top three countries for use of social networking sites. Two out of three Canadians use social media in one form or another. The top three social networking sites used in Canada are Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. There are more than 19 million Canadian Facebook users, which is just over half of the total Canadian population.

Social media has not only changed the way we communicate with each other, but it has also shaped our labour laws, which continue to grow and adapt. This is particularly true in the areas of: off duty conduct, time theft, harassment, breach of trust and insubordination.

There have been cases where employees have either been disciplined and/or discharged for their comments made about the workplace, co-workers or management on social networking sites.

Employers have started to expand on their existing workplace policies or created new policies on social media to address the many rapid changes.

Remember, it can take mere seconds for your comments to go viral and your employment relationship can end faster than the time it took to hit the enter key.

Remember that even when you press delete, nothing on the Internet is ever really gone. Be aware of what you are posting and the negative ramifications those comments can have on your employment. Do not post things out of anger or frustration.

While your social networks may feel like a safe space, and you may have your privacy settings locked down, it only takes a moment for someone to capture a screen image and share it.

Developments in Canadian Labour law pertaining to social media include: • Employees do not have an expectation of privacy as Facebook postings were like comments made in the workplace (Leduc v. Roman, [2009] O.J. No. 68).

• The Ontario Human Rights Code may apply to workplace related postings on the Internet (TaylorBaptists v. OPSEU, 202 HRTO 1392).

• Individuals using social media must be assumed to have known that there is potential for virtually worldwide access to those statements (Wasaya Airways LP v. Air Line Pilots Assn., International, [2010] C.L.A.D. No. 297).

• Termination upheld for breach of a confidentiality agreement, insubordination and conduct unbefitting a personal care giver because of the contents of her blog. Her comments were insolent, disrespectful and contemptuous of management and were an attempt to undermine the reputation and authority of management (Chatham-Kent Municipality v.

National Automobile, Aerospace, Transportation and General Workers Union of Canada (CAWCanada), Local 127, [2007] O.L.A.A. No. 135).

• There was a connection between the blogging and the business interests of the company, there were sufficient mitigating factors to justify that the grievor be reinstated without compensation (EV Logistics v. Retail Wholesale Union, Loc. 580 [2008] B.C.C.A.A.A. No. 22).

• Discharge upheld as off duty conduct detrimental to the Employer can lead to discipline or dismissal.

The contents of the employee’s personal blog contained offensive and unflattering comments about a number of her co-workers and management (Alberta v. Alberta Union of Provincial Employee’s, [2008] A.G.A.A. No. 20).

• Discharge upheld as Facebook postings were frequent, derogatory to both the company and the supervisor and prolonged. The second Grievor was reinstated following a one-year suspension (Bell Technical Solutions (“BTS”), and The Communications, Energy & Paperworkers Union of Canada (CEP), [2012] O.L.A.A. No. 481). | June 2014

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WORKPLACE FEATURE

MUSKOKA EMS

Earlier this year, a group of more than 100 Paramedics and Dispatchers merged with the HOPE Sector of Local 175.

The emergency personnel, who work out of five bases in the Muskoka area, previously belonged to the Muskoka Paramedics Association (MPA). In late 2013, however, the MPA and its members were being pressured to the breaking point by a large corporate employer and the Association’s leadership began looking at Unions to join.

Following meetings with representatives from many Unions, and after careful consideration, the MPA chose to join UFCW. “It was kind of a no brainer,” said MPA President, Mark McLennan. “UFCW showed that it had more heart and more passion. It just felt like the right fit for our kind of association.”

With tourists and cottage-goers in the warmer months, the population of Muskoka can be between four to six times higher than in the winter. This dramatically increases the amount of work for these paramedics and dispatchers.

“The Local is proud to welcome these new members into our Union,” said President Haggerty. “Emergency service workers are invaluable to the health and safety of our communities and in turn, we need to make sure that these workers are protected as well. As our numbers continue to grow, it tells me that more and more people understand the importance of Unions, and the fairness and benefits that membership brings.”

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photos on this page courtesy of the members at Muskoka EMS

ORGANIZING

Welcome New Members Golden Boy Foods

Golden Boy Foods workers

In April, the employees at Golden Boy Foods in Markham voted by more than 90% in favour of joining UFCW Local 175. The new bargaining unit is comprised of approximately 60 members. When Post Foods purchased the facility, which produces and packages peanut butter, more than three years ago, the workers’ wages were frozen, health benefits were cut and sick days were taken away.

The workers started their organizing drive because of concerns about unjust terminations, unfair treatment and a lack of respect for their seniority.

In addition, both agency employee and long-time workers had concerns about job security. A number of Agency Employees also expressed a desire to join the Union through proposals that language be negotiated to create more permanent full-time jobs at the workplace.

Lococo’s Grocery About 75 retail grocery workers at Lococo’s in Hamilton have also voted to join Local 175. The organizing drive was successful because the workers wanted to improve their wages, benefits, job security and other working conditions, and they stood strong to accomplish their victory.

Healthcare Food Services Workers at Healthcare Food Services in Ottawa won their certification vote in March by a margin of 85%. The 100 new members of Local 175 work in a manufacturing plant, which produces food for health care facilities. Some of the reasons the workers decided to unionize were to protect and build upon their existing wages and benefits, plus gain better job security.

Members at Lococo’s

Impact Cleaning & J&A Cleaning On April 8, Local 175 welcomed new members from two more work locations after another successful certification vote. Twenty-two workers at Impact Cleaning and six workers at J&A Cleaning, both located in Toronto, voted in favour of joining the Union. The concerns that brought these workers to the Union included wanting to improve wages, benefits and general working conditions.

“Each of these victories was the result of very strong and courageous groups of people who stood united throughout their campaigns,” explained President Haggerty. “We are honoured to represent each of these determined workers and we look forward to negotiating a fair and competitive first contract for each bargaining unit as soon as possible.”

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Members at Impact Cleaning

Deerview Crossing Retirement On May 2, health care providers at the new Deerview Crossing Retirement Residence in Hamilton voted by more than 90% to join the Union.

The 40 new members of Local 175’s HOPE Sector work as Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs), Personal Support Workers (PSWs), Dietary Aides, kitchen staff, guest attendance reception and concierges.

Members are looking forward to having their proposal meetings and getting bargaining for their first contract underway.

Transcare

You could recieve up to $1,250!

Have you heard of the Local 175 Organizing Incentive Program? Just by doing your part to help build good union jobs for workers across Ontario, you can earn some extra money for you and your family!

Several leads for the workplaces on these pages and others, came from existing members of Locals 175 & 633. Local 175 offers an honorarium incentive to members who provide leads for workers that are looking to unionize.

If a lead results in a successful certification, the member who provided that lead will be eligible for an honorarium of up to $1,250.

The 170 workers at Transcare fought to bring justice and dignity to their workplace throughout their organizing drive, which lasted a few months. These health care workers provide community and home care services in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) including some day programs and services such as Meals on Wheels.

These workers had been disrespected on the job continuously, lacked any sort of job security, and were made to feel that if they had any concerns they could walk out the door and find a new job.

“These compassionate people do so much to bring independence and dignity to our loved ones when they need it,” explained President Haggerty. “They now stand united to demand dignity and respect from their employer. And we’re going to help them achieve that.”

In fact, this successful vote marked the 100th victory for non-union workers who have achieved Union representation with UFCW Local 175 since 2010, when our amazing Organizing Team was formed.

“I am so proud of all of the hard work our whole organization puts in every day to help bring the benefits of a Union to workers across the province,” said President Haggerty.

If you know of anyone who needs a Union, please call the Organizing Department at 1-800-565-8329.

Matthew Labelle Local 175 member Neil Maguire, who works at Jadee Meats, provided our Organizers with the name of a contact at Lococo’s grocery store.

Following the successful certification vote, Neil was presented with a cheque for $1,000.

Matthew Labelle, a member of Local 175 at Ridgewood Industries in Cornwall, brought the lead for HealthCare Food Services to the attention of our Organizers and earned himself a cheque for $1,250.

Neil Maguire

CONGRATULATIONS MATTHEW AND NEIL! And thank you for helping more workers realize the value of Union membership!

For details on the Incentive Honorarium, please visit WWW.UFCW175.COM and check out the Join the Union section!

You can also contact our Organizers at 1-800-565-8329 or organizing@ufcw175.com | June 2014 13

POLITICAL ACTION Some stand-out moments for PC Boss Tim Hudak: AWKWARD PHOTO OP! Hudak dodged questions on the irony of using a music studio for his campaign kick off when just last year he voted against the $45 million Ontario Music Fund.

FLIP FLOP Hudak announces he’ll no longer enact U.S.-style “rightto-work” legislation if elected... yeah, right.

DISSENT IN THE PARTY PC MPP John O’Toole was recorded saying the Tories would be ‘screwed’ at the polls if they pushed hard on right-to-work.

MILLION JOBS ACT Stats Canada reports 588,000 Ontarians are out of work, which is unnacceptable, but nowhere near the 1 million Hudak stakes his plan on. Maybe these private sector jobs are coming from the thousands of public sector jobs he plans to cut?

On June 12th, Ontarians will vote to determine the future for our jobs, our families, and our quality of life. It’s hard to feel like your vote matters sometimes. That’s understandable. Most of the time it feels like campaigns are about popularity and sound bites, instead of what really matters to us as citizens.

But as Union Members and Workers in this province, we need to send PC Boss Tim Hudak a strong message: That we don’t want any part of his race to the bottom! He has a Million Jobs Act but keeps announcing how many jobs he’d cut. On May 9, he announced he’d slash 100,000 public sector jobs – mostly teachers and their assistants. At this rate, he’ll need to rename his plan to the “At Least 1.1 Million Jobs and Counting’ plan.

We face a fork in the road with this election: Hudak’s direction is full of pitfalls and dangers for working families. His anti-worker antifamily platform is clearly meant to fill his election coffers with big business dollars while workers will suffer the brunt of his regressive political agenda.

WHAT BOSS HUDAK AND HIS CONSERVATIVES WANT...

UU Take away your rights.

UU Restrict and/or eliminate your Union bargaining power.

UU Put your health & safety in danger.

UU Force you and your coworkers into a race to the bottom for wages.

UU Harm good jobs for the next generation: your children.

UU Reduce Provincial funding: fewer nurses, fewer daycare spots, fewer social programs.

UU Privatize alcohol vendors, eliminating at least 8,000 jobs by closing Beer Stores.

UU To cut 100,000 jobs from Ontario’s public sector: “It will mean fewer teachers and their assistants,” said Hudak. A decision that would affect a disproportionately high number of women.

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The better choice is to elect a government and politicians who will support jobs that pay well, provide us with benefits, and time to spend with our families.

The battle ahead is the same one workers have been fighting for years. We can’t let Tim Hudak take us back to the days before it was even legal to form a Union!

We need a future that protects your right to unionize, to bargain together, and to constantly strive for improvements.

No collective agreement is perfect. Every time your negotiating committee goes to the table, it’s because YOUR RIGHT to bargain collectively is protected by law. And those laws are created – and sometimes destroyed – by the governments we all elect.

Voter turnout in the 2011 Ontario Election was 48.2%. That’s embarssingly low for a province that prides itself on democratic principles and freedoms. Voting in an election is like voting on a new collective agreement. If you don’t show up, you don’t get a say.

Don’t sit back and rely on others to show up and make your decision for you.

GET OUT AND EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT TO VOTE! For more information on voting, please visit www.elections.on.ca

WHAT ALL WORKERS DESERVE...

99 Pensions for all.

The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) provided an insightful take on what Hudak’s Million Jobs Act really means: “And that anti-worker, low-wage platform can only mean one thing: even if a Hudak government would manage to create half of the jobs on promise, they would likely be low paying, precarious jobs that offer little security, few or no benefits, and leave workers on their own to plan their retirement income.

More working poverty. Worsening income inequality. A million jobs, a gazillion jobs – what’s it worth if it simply lowers our standards? The pressing challenge is for a political agenda that addresses the fundamental labour shift underway in Ontario. That requires a jobs platform of substance, not style.”

CCPA Behind the Numbers - January 21, 2014: “The problem with Hudak’s million jobs promise” by Kayle Hatt and Trish Hennessy

99 Strengthened labour laws and improved rights.

99 Increased bargaining strength of Unions through growth and better labour laws.

99 Legislation that makes workers’ health & safety a priority.

99 Good, well-paying jobs.

99 Insurance that those good, well-paying jobs are around well into the future.

99 A strong Canadian public health care system.

99 Continued funding for our vital social programs, nursing, daycare, and education.

99 Fair compensation and a good quality of life for Injured Workers.

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INJURED WORKERS Lately, it’s been happening more frequently and the results are not good. What is it?

Workers are not reporting injuries to their employer immediately and they are not seeking prompt medical attention. As a result, the Benefits department has been receiving an increased number of claim denials from the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB).

In many, if not most cases, injuries develop gradually over time, making it difficult sometimes to identify the specific incident or job task that is the source for the pain and discomfort. Eventually, as symptoms worsen and do not resolve, the worker seeks medical attention without reporting the condition to the employer. This delay is often used against the worker when ruling on initial entitlement, and their claim is denied.

The WSIB insists that the following criteria for reporting an injury be fulfilled in order to allow a claim. The “five point check system” is used for ruling on initial entitlement [Policy 11-01-01]: • • • • •

an employer a worker personal work-related injury proof of accident, and compatibility of diagnosis to accident or disablement history.

For Proof of accident decision-makers may consider the following: • • • •

Does an accident or disablement situation exist?

Are there any witnesses?

Are there discrepancies in the date of accident and the date the worker stopped working?

Was there any delay in the onset of symptoms or in seeking health care attention?

Determining the Date of Injury [Policy 11-01-04] is another WSIB policy used to make initial entitlement decisions: A chance event claim occurs when an identifiable, unintended event causes an injury. The date of injury is the date of the actual incident. Example: A box of supplies falls from a shelf and lands on a worker’s foot, causing a fracture.

An unexpected result disablement claim means the date of injury is the date that the unexpected result of working duties occurs. Example: A worker bends over to pick up a box of supplies and suffers a back injury.

In a gradual onset disablement claim, the date of injury is either the date of first medical attention which led to the diagnosis, or the date of diagnosis, whichever is earlier. Example: Over time a worker develops left wrist and hand symptoms from work-related duties and is diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome.

Delays in reporting are red flags that cast doubts on the causal relationship between the injury and the job duties performed, and the severity of the injury.

While many workers complain to their employer that they have pain and are seeking medical attention, they often fail to mention that they believe their symptoms are workrelated. This means that the work-related injury has not been reported.

If you experience an injury, pain or discomfort as a result of your job tasks, please report it immediately to your employer and tell them that you believe it is work-related.

You should seek immediate medical attention even if it means visiting a walk-in clinic or emergency room if you cannot get in to see your family doctor. Be sure to tell your employer you’re going to see a doctor and make sure to tell the attending medical practitioner that your injury/pain is work-related. It is important that you are able to pinpoint when symptoms began and what job duties or circumstances existed at the time.

REMEMBER: A paper trail is the lifeline of your claim.

Keep copies of all forms and correspondence.

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NEGOTIATIONS

Lockout at Horizon Plastics ends After 22 days on the picket line, workers at Horizon Plastics have a four-year collective agreement that resolved a number of the outstanding issues that resulted in the rejection of earlier settlements. The deal, ratified January 27, saw the employer recalling employees to work as of January 28, based on seniority and operational requirements, as the plant started back up.

“Job security was the major thing the workers at Horizon wanted,” explained Local 175 President Shawn Haggerty.

“This deal ensures that full-time members will not see their hours or jobs disappear because of the use of a unionized flexible work group, and there are now tight constraints on the use of any outside agency workers.”

Language provides just cause protection to Flexible workers after 60 days worked. An extensive letter of agreement ensures that flexible workers will not impact, replace or displace full-time employees including anyone on layoff.

Language clarifies that all full-time workers will be offered any Mon-Fri overtime in order of seniority. Remaining overtime will be offered to Flexible Work Group employees.

Any Flexible Work Group employee who works more than 120 consecutive calendar days (Monday-Friday) will be reclassified to full-time status. Any overtime/additional hours will only be offered to outside workers after first refusal by full-time, part-time and flexible work group.

All employees as of November 1, 2013, receive lump sums of $450 following ratification, $400 in November 2014, and $400 in November 2015. Wage rates for all classifications increase by 1.5% in November 2016. Part-time workers as of November 1, 2013, have the option of: Receiving a shift premium of $1.50 per hour for all hours worked beyond 8 hours per day and a one-time lump sum payment of $1,000 in addition to the lump sum wage payment outlined above; or, continue receiving 14 hours pay per 12 hours worked until April 30, 2014 at which time they would receive the $1.50 shift premium but will not be entitled to the $1,000 lump sum.

The work item allowances increase to provide $400 for tools and $170 for safety boots. Vision care coverage changes to provide $380 per 24-month period. In addition, outstanding issues regarding prescription drug coverage have been resolved.

Union Negotiating Committee: Thomas Bell, Wilfred Coupland, Jamie Hickman, Union Reps Paul Hardwick and Rob Nicholas, and Executive Assistant Ray Bromley.

Katoen Natie office workers ratify Members of Local 175 working in the office at Katoen Natie in Mississauga, ratified a new three-year collective agreement at a meeting held January 27.

Workers all receive a lump sum payment of $850 per year of the contract term. Vacation accrual improves to provide five weeks after 12 years’ service, instead of the previous 15, and six weeks after 16 years’ service, instead of the previous 20 years required. Language improvements address bereavement, probationary period, the training and education fund as well as printing of the collective agreement.

Union Negotiating Committee: Susie Chasapis, Nicole Spencer and Union Rep Tim Deelstra.

Contract ratified by Fin-Aire workers Members at Fin-Aire in Belleville achieved a new collective agreement on March 24, 2014. The four-year contract includes wage increases of 1.75% retroactive for hours worked since the expiry of the previous contract. Workers will receive subsequent increases of 1.75% in years two and three, and 2% in the fourth year. Should the Ontario Consumer Price Index (CPI) be higher than the agreed upon increases, workers will receive the higher amount.

Each year, workers will receive two paid days to take Health & Safety training. Effective in the third year of the contract, overtime will be paid after 42.5 hours per week, instead of the current 44 hours. Members also benefit from improved vacation entitlement of four weeks, up from three, after 15 years’ service. Additional improvements include a boot allowance of up to $125 per year, and an annual clothing allowance of $75, which is effective in year three. New language has also been added regarding a sunset clause.

Union Negotiating Committee: Darryl Strachan and Union Rep Paul Hardwick.

Agreement ratified at ADM Milling On February 18, 2014, the 70-member bargaining unit at ADM Milling in Port Colborne secured a new four-year collective agreement. Wages increase by 2.5% in the first year, retroactive to December 1, 2013, 2.5% in the second year and 2% in both the third and fourth year of the contract term. In addition, workers classified as Maintenance receive an adjustment of $1 per hour effective December 1, 2013 – prior to applying the wage increases.

NEGOTIATIONS cont’d Workers benefit from an improved safety shoe allowance of $450 and language regarding bereavement now includes daughter- and son-in-laws under ‘immediate family.’

Additional language improvements address vacation scheduling and safety in the workplace.

Union Negotiating Committee: Todd Bibeau, Gary Tonelli, Rudy Vink and Union Rep Angela Mattioli.

Improved compensation for Petawawa Firefighters On February 9, 2014, the 35 volunteer firefighters in the Town of Petawawa achieved a three-year agreement. Standby pay increases to $225, up from $150, per week, and a minimum call-out time of 3 hours is effective March 1.

Members required to work a fire call on a Stat Holiday, as indicated in the agreement, will receive pay at 1.5 times the regular rate. In addition, those who have public holidays fall during their scheduled stand-by will receive $25 for each full day and $12.50 for half-days. Workers also receive an annual boot allowance of $120.

Union Negotiating Committee: Peter Moss, Craig Proulx and Union Rep Shannon Epp.\

Ray Plastics workers achieve new deal On March 22, 2014, the UFCW Local 175 members at Ray Plastics in Rexdale, ratified a new three-year collective agreement. Workers receive a lump sum of $225 in the first year and subsequent increases totalling 80 cents per hour over the term of the contract.

Bereavement leave improves to provide five days’ paid leave, up from three, for the death of an immediate family member. Other language improvements address layoff and recall. The company will contribute $1,700 toward the Local 175 Training & Education Fund in each year of the agreement.

Union Negotiating Committee: Bhojmatee Apan, Mattoo Bassan, Doolari Sheorattan and Union Rep Dave White.

New deal for Liberté warehouse workers On February 8, 2014, the 40 members of Local 175 working at the Liberté warehouse in Brampton achieved a new collective agreement. The three-year agreement includes wage increases totalling $1.06 per hour over the deal’s term.

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Premium pay for the afternoon shift increases to $1 per hour and effective January 1, 2016 the boot allowance improves to $130 per year. Severance pay language now provides 1.5 week’s pay per year of service, with no minimum, to a maximum of 36 weeks. Step-parents, step-siblings and stepchildren are now included in bereavement language. There is an increase to the annual sick leave hours entitlement and the employer agrees to maintain the level of health and welfare benefits.

Additional improvements address hours of work and overtime, and language regarding no contracting out of work is renewed.

Union Negotiating Committee: John Buttarazzi, John Gallant, Servicing Rep Lionel MacEachern, and Region 6 Director Luc Lacelle.

Compass Group Canada workers ratify Members at Compass Group Canada, working at Bluewater Health in Sarnia, ratified a three-year collective agreement on March 16, 2014.

Wages increase across the board by 30 cents per hour, retroactive for hours worked back to January 1, 2014, and 30 cents per hour in both the second and third year of the deal’s term as well. Workers assigned as Crew Leader or qualified employees asked to perform the duties of Administrative Assistant, will receive a shift premium of 50 cents per hour. The company will contribute $200 toward the UFCW Local 175 Training & Education Fund.

Union Negotiating Committee: Krysteen Dunn, Carrie Mitchell and Union Rep Wendy Absolom.

Bargaining unit at BFI Canada ratifies Workers at Blenheim’s BFI Canada waste management facility attended a meeting on March 14, 2014, to vote on a new three-year collective agreement. The ratified deal includes an initial wage increase of 2% across-the-board retroactive to December 1, 2013, and subsequent wage increases of 2% in the second and third year of the contract term. In addition, each member will receive a lump sum signing bonus of $600.

Language improvements address Health & Safety meetings, minimum notice for workers not required to report for their shift, holiday work, and benefits.

Union Negotiating Committee: Gerald Coleman, Nick Wrobel and Union Rep Wendy Absolom.

Ratified contract for Ready Bake workers Following five days of negotiations and three days in conciliation, the 90 bargaining unit members at Ready Bake Foods in Mississauga achieved a new collective agreement, which was ratified at a meeting held March 15.

The four-year contract includes a lump sum payment of $1,000 in each of the first three years of the contract term for active full-time workers. Effective the fourth year, full-time end rates will increase by 40 cents per hour.

Active part-time workers receive lump sum payments of $250 in years one through three, and an end-rate increase of 25 cents per hour in the final year of the term. The part-time wage progression has also been amended which will provide an immediate wage increase of 35 cents for a number of part-time employees.

New language provides maintenance workers who have a ‘Refrigeration A License,’ in addition to an existing Millwright/Electrical License and a ‘Refrigeration B License,’ with an additional premium of 50 cents per hour.

Dual ticketed employees (electrician & millwright) receive a shift premium of $1 per hour, up from the previous 25 cents.

Other language improvements address job posting and filling. Coverage for orthopaedic shoes increases to $150.

Union Negotiating Committee: Kevin Jokhu, Betty Mbalire, Ziggy Wojciechowski, and Union Rep Matt Davenport.

First Contract for Flyer Force workers On April 26, 2014, the members of UFCW Local 175 working at Ottawa Flyer Force ratified their first collective agreement.

The 68 workers, who won their certification vote last year, secured a three-year contract including a lump sum payment based on 1.5% of earnings in the previous 12 months, and subsequent increases totalling 45 cents per hour over the term of the contract. Employees who work the cage position will now receive a premium of 25 cents per hour for time worked at that position.

Overtime will be paid after 8 hours per day, or 40 hours per week, instead of the current 44 hours. Additional contract language ensures employees receive a 15 minute paid rest period per half-shift. Workers also benefit from the creation of 18 new full-time positions.

Effective May 1, 2015, the company will contribute 40 cents per hour, for all hours paid and worked to employees with two years of service or more, to the UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Ontario Dental Benefit Trust Fund. Those workers who do not qualify for the dental plan as of that date will receive a lump sum calculated at 15 cents per hour worked up to the point at which they qualify for the dental plan. The employer will now pay 100% of the Life Insurance premium, previously paid at 50%, for employees that qualify.

Improved vacation language provides workers with five years of service with three weeks’ vacation entitlement paid at 6%. Employees with three weeks’ vacation entitlement may break one of those weeks into single days. In addition, employees may request that their day-in-lieu and vacation entitlement be paid at any time, and fulltime workers will receive full shift pay for any Statutory Holiday.

Other improvements include a grievance procedure, minimum paid call-in of four hours, and language preventing managers from performing bargaining unit work. Language also establishes a sunset clause, time limits, steward representation, seniority rights for vacation and job postings, layoff recall and improved bereavement entitlement.

This plant employs up to 100 people during the fall months, where workers collate, package and deliver flyers and advertising materials in the greater Ottawa area.

Union Negotiating Committee: Edith Hernandez, Servicing Representative Jacques Niquet and Union Rep Daniel Mercier. | June 2014 19

TRAINING & EDUCATION

2014 Health Care Conference Ninety Stewards from Local 175 attended the 2014 Annual Health Care Conference on May 7 & 8 in Toronto. Stewards heard from experts on arbitration and violence in the workplace, absenteeism, and what Right to Work really means.

President Haggerty, opened the conference with a message about the precarious state of health care in this province.

“Vital funding needed to run our facilities is gauged over and over again,” explained President Haggerty. “Our health care workers and our loved ones in their care deserve better from our government and it’s time we made that clear. It’s just another reason to get out and vote on June 12.”

Secretary-Treasurer Kelly Tosato welcomed some of the newest health care workers in Local 175 to the growing Health Office & Professional Employees (HOPE) sector of our Union. “We have 100 new members from Muskoka EMS and dispatch services as well as more than 300 new members from Ontario Addiction Treatment Centres across the province,” said Kelly. “I’m so happy to welcome them to our Union and I look forward to seeing them at our Health Care conferences in the future.”

Local 175 Legal Counsel Natalie Wiley spoke to the group about the increased use of Attendance Management Programs (AMPs) by employers to cut losses, improve productivity and deal with more Short and Long-Term Disability claims. This means that members’ work absences are being 20

| June 2014

tracked. Questionable absences could lead to increased discipline and/or job loss. Natalie reviewed a number of examples dealing with late arrival, leaving early, disability, illness, and injury, plus a number of other related issues.

Arbitrator Diane Gee addressed Bill 168 and its implications. Health care members deal with a wide range of patients every day: From those unable to move on their own to those with mental health issues and much more. Aggression, confusion, and physical confrontations are common for workers in this industry. In addition, the nature of what constitutes threats, violence and harassment is changing.

Diane pointed out that uttering a threat, whether someone feels threatened or not, can constitute an act of workplace violence. She also noted that remedies must be decided on a number of factors, and the merits of each case.

Stewards heard from Carl Ariston, a U.S. Field Campaign Coordinator at UFCW International. Carl’s firsthand experience with ‘Right to Work’ laws allowed him to shed light on the devastation this regressive anti-Union legislation brings to working families. He drew similarities between Tim Hudak’s views on workers’ rights, and Right to Work: Both systems severely limit the rights of Unions, workers, and even the Labour Relations Board, while simultaneously giving more power to employers. Carl explained that the goal of Right to Work is to ultimately weaken Unions, and force members to accept substandard collective bargaining.

After a presentation on relaxation and stress management techniques from Gillian Wells from PACE Consulting, the day concluded with a great dinner and raffle draws for a wide variety of prizes. Thanks to everyone’s generosity, the raffle ticket sales raised $1,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC).

On day two, Stewards took part in town hall forums: one for those in Community Health facilities, and the other for those working in retirement, and long-term care homes.

Panel members included Reps, Legal Counsel, and Health & Safety and WSIB experts from the staff of the Union.

“These discussions are an opportunity to hear about our Stewards’ major concerns,” explained Secretary-Treasurer Tosato. “I know a lot of friendships are formed at these conferences. Their camaraderie is built from sharing ideas and experiences, and discussing solutions that have been successful.”

Thanks to everyone who attended for making this year’s conference another great one!

COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK Unions and Cooperatives in Sri Lanka

The Greater Toronto Area is home to the world’s largest Tamil community living outside of Sri Lanka. Many Locals 175 & 633 members immigrated here from Sri Lanka beginning in the early 1980s and they continue to have family particularly in the north of Sri Lanka. Our union’s support for members and their families, both in Ontario and Sri Lanka, helps build the bonds of solidarity that working people around the world need now more than ever.

Unions and cooperatives share a vibrant history of organizing and political activism across Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka’s unionization rate is significantly higher than Canada’s, and the labour movement there has consistently played a direct role in shaping the political landscape of the country. Union activists and cooperative leaders sometimes paid with their lives for speaking out against human rights violations during the war which ended in 2009. Today, these movements continue to organize for peace and social justice in Sri Lanka, confronting attacks on workers’ rights and resisting privatization of public services.

The cooperative movement in the north of Sri Lanka, specifically in the Jaffna peninsula, is an inspiring social movement which has largely survived the devastation of war. One of the strongest cooperatives is an organization representing toddy tappers.

Toddy is a drink distilled from the sap of coconut or palmyra trees and it is traditionally consumed by working people in Jaffna society. Toddy tappers are highly skilled workers who scale the tall, rubbery branches of the trees to tap the sap which makes the drink. During the 1970s, toddy tappers in Jaffna organized and agitated for better pay and fair treatment. As a result, they won the right to organize and today the union membership rate in this industry is UFCW National Rep Kevin Shimmin meets with Union members in Sri Lanka.

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an incredible 100%. The cooperative determines the rate of pay members receive for the toddy they collect and a pension plan is maintained for retired and injured workers.

In an industry which is highly physical and often dangerous, the cooperative pension system is extremely important for members and their families.

Another strong and well-organized cooperative in northern Sri Lanka is an association representing fishers. Fishing is also a fundamental industry in Jaffna society. During the war, which lasted close to three decades, fishing in the north became an immense struggle both in terms of economic livelihood and sheer physical danger. Due to clashes off the coast of the peninsula and militarization of the area, fishers were often prohibited from carrying out their work and were sometimes even killed or ‘disappeared.’

Overcoming such seemingly impossible odds, the fisher cooperative in Jaffna has survived the conflict and today has an average membership rate of a miraculous 80%. The organization determines the price of fish at local markets and, similar to toddy tappers, maintains a strong pension plan for members. Currently, a major obstacle confronting the fisher cooperative is the constant threat of large trawlers from India encroaching on the waters off the coast of Jaffna.

These industrial vessels not only deplete the stocks of fish but also destroy the nets of small, traditional fishers from Jaffna. In a story that is all too common around the world, the only voice fighting for workers is the local union that represents the fishers.

Many of our members of Sri Lankan Tamil origin will identify very strongly with these workers and unions in Jaffna. They are an inspiration to us all. The Community Action Network (CAN) supports cooperatives and unions in Sri Lanka, including the National Association of Trade Union Research and Education (NATURE).

This organization is a voluntary, grassroots organization that provides training and education for union members across Sri Lanka. NATURE is essential for organizing and collective bargaining in Sri Lanka, as workers there face many of the same challenges we face here. Members of Locals 175 & 633 can take pride in the fact that our union fights for dignity, respect and better working conditions right here and around the world.

LUNAR NEW YEAR

Although the Lunar New Year didn’t arrive until January 31, 2014 members and staff gathered on Saturday, January 11 at the annual UFCW Locals 175 & 633 celebration.

While ushering in the Year of the Horse, guests were treated to a great meal and an afternoon of traditional celebrations, including the dance of the Sleeping Lions.

President Shawn Haggerty and Secretary-Treasurer Teresa Magee also attended. “It’s great to be together at events like these spending time with our members and their families,” said Shawn. “We appreciate their hard work and thank them for continuing to be an integral part of our great Local Union.”

UFCW Locals 175 & 633 at World Pride!

UFCW Locals 175 & 633, UFCW Canada, and community partners are gearing up for an exciting celebration of diversity and culture with the quickly approaching WorldPride 2014 from June 20 - 29 in downtown Toronto.

As the host city for this International gathering of LGBTQ communities around the globe, Toronto will also make history as the first North American city to hold the WorldPride festival We are excited to take part in many of the events featured throughout this 10-day international celebration incorporating activism, education, and the history and culture of global LGBTQ communities.

For more information please visit: www.ufcw175.com/unionpride

| June 2014 23

Community Action Network Annual

Cultural Day & BBQ

Saturday, July 12, 2014 – Noon - 3 p.m.

Boyd Conservation Area, Roadside Picnic Area Islington Ave, Vaughan All members, family & friends are welcome!

Call 905-821-8329 to register before July 4, 2014

FUNDRAISING Skate for a Cure

On Friday, May 9 and Saturday, May 10, the 17th Annual Skate for a Cure Hockey Tournament welcomed 12 teams from across the province.

Players included members from Fearmans Pork, Sobeys Milton, Maple Leaf Heritage, Good Humor, Maple Lodge Farms, Zehrs Barrie, Zehrs Windsor, Jadee Meats, Bunge, RCSS Leamington, Rexall Smithville, and Loblaw Head Office.

The team from Fearmans Pork took home the trophy for tournament champs, beating out the Loblaw Head Office team 7 - 4 in the final game.

Each year, the hockey tournament is one of the Local Union’s largest fundraisers for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). This year was no different.

Through the generosity of everyone who played and attended, plus the registration fees from each team, the tournament raised $28,302 for much needed funding into blood cancer research and patient care.

Thank you to everyone who made it such a great weekend.

We look forward to seeing you all again next year!

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Ice Fishing

On Sunday, February 9, 2014, the usual group of winter enthusiasts made their way onto the ice on Lake Simcoe to raise money for the LLSC and to try and land the day’s biggest catch. Despite lots of ice and snow, the fish were scarce.

Murray Backus from Fearmans in Burlington won the prize for the biggest fish, which he donated generously back to the cause. The annual event, which took place at the Peninsula Resort in Pefferlaw, brought in $680 for the LLSC.

Soccer Tournament

More than 250 members, staff, family and friends came out to a great day of soccer at the Local Union’s Soccer Tournament held on March 29, 2014.

The annual tournament, hosted by the Local 175 Organizing Department, raises money for the LLSC. Sixteen teams took to the cutting edge indoor field in Woodbridge, hoping to take top spot by the end of the day. Members from Maple Lodge, Sobeys Milton Distribution Centre, Fortinos, Avis/Budget, Dollar Thrifty, Hertz and National Alamo took part. From entry fees and raffles prize draws, the tournament raised $4,000, which is the most its raised since the tournament began four years ago.

The trophy for first place went to the Blazers (pictured left) who defeated the talented Fiji FC in the final game.

SURVEY CONTEST WINNERS

Congratulations to the winners of our Survey Contest! Thanks to everyone who participated in our survey. Your feedback is very important and the Membership Advocacy Committee will be reading each of the surveys returned to us.

From all the online and mailed in entries, two winners were drawn at random to win the two grand prizes: a 16GB iPad Mini and a $1,500 travel voucher!

Jessica Wu, Zehrs #560, took home the 16GB iPad Mini

Bambi Cochrane (centre) won the $1,500 travel voucher. Pictured with (L) Chief Steward Jaye Bevan & Plant Chairperson Lee Foster.

| June 2014 25

OUTSTANDING MEMBER ACHIEVEMENT Locals 175 & 633 offer four $500 awards (one per criterion) every year to members who: 1. Demonstrate outstanding contributions to the community; 2. Manifest leadership and advancement of the UFCW; 3. Dedicate themselves to fundraising for Leukemia research, or; 4. Enhance and achieve improvements in health and safety for their workplace, including WSIB.

APPLICA TIONS DUE BY AUGUST 31, 2014

* Nominees must be a member in good standing in either Local 175 or Local 633 for at least six (6) consecutive months.

Are you:

nominating yourself?

nominating another member?

If you are nominating yourself, you can skip to Name of Nominee.

If you are nominating another member, please fill out your name & contact info here then proceed with the rest of the form.

Name: _______________________________ Phone: _______________________________ Email: _______________________________

Name of Nominee: __________________________________ Workplace: ______________________________________ Award Category (circle one choice) 1 2 3 4 Nominee’s Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________ Street/Apt City Province Postal Code Phone Number: _____________________________________ Email: ___________________________________________ If you need additional space, please attach a blank page with the rest of your answer(s).

In 500 words or less, please describe why this person deserves an Outstanding Member Achievement Award: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please list the activities, group involvement and achievements of the nominee: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Additional information: ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Signature of person completing the form: ________________________________________ Date: ____________________

Nominations may be submitted by:

FAX Attn: President, UFCW Local 175 905-821-7144

EMAIL Scan this form & send it to president@ufcw175.com

MAIL Attn: President, UFCW Local 175 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga, ON L5N 2K7

TRAINING & EDUCATION Solidarity Scholarships

APPLY NOW for a Locals 175 & 633 post-secondary scholarship valued at $1,000 each !

APPLICANT INFORMATION FULL NAME:

_______________________________________________________________________________________

PERMANENT HOME ADDRESS: __________________________________________________________________________ STREET, CITY, PROVICE & POSTAL CODE TELEPHONE #: ( ____ ) ____________________ E-MAIL:

CELL PHONE #: ( ____ ) ____________________

_______________________________________________________________________________

I AM A MEMBER OF UFCW LOCAL 175 OR LOCAL 633 I AM THE ____________________________________ OF A UFCW LOCAL 175 OR LOCAL 633 MEMBER IF APPLICANT IS NOT A MEMBER, SPECIFY RELATIONSHIP OF APPLICANT TO MEMBER (I.E. SON, DAUGHTER OR DEPENDENT)

UFCW LOCAL 175 OR 633 MEMBER INFORMATION MEMBER NAME: _____________________________________________ EMPLOYER: _____________________________________

MEMBER SINCE: ___________________

STORE OR UNIT #: __________________________

EDUCATION INFORMATION only students enrolled in full-time studies are eligible NAME OF COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY: _________________________________________________________________________ PROGRAM OF STUDY: ________________________________________

START DATE: ________________________

THIS IS A ___________ -YEAR PROGRAM. I AM ENTERING YEAR ______________ EXPECTED COST OF TUITION (PER YEAR) IS $______________________________ I HEREBY CONFIRM THE INFORMATION SUBMITTED HEREWITH IS TRUE & COMPLETE. APPLICANT’S SIGNATURE

___________________________________________________ DATE: _____________________________

DEADLINE - AUGUST 1

Send your completed application to:

Applicants (or their parent/guardian) must be a member in good standing and have been so for at least six consecutive months.

Attn: Training & Education Centre

6628 Ellis Road

Cambridge, ON N3C 2V4

Winners will be drawn in September 2014. Only winners will be notified.

or fax it to 519-658-0255 or apply online @ www.ufcw175.com/scholarship | June 2014 27

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WIN A $2000 TRAVEL VOUCHER

You could be eligible to increase the amount you save when:

UFCW 1-855-UR-UNION (878-6466) csib.org/ufcw

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You are 35 years or older and licensed 10 years or more.

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You are 45 years or older and the property owner.

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Your dwelling is less than 20 years old.

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You have installed a centrally monitored fire and/or burglar alarm in your home.

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Your property policy is claims-free for the last three years.

Contest runs until August 31, 2014, is subject to contest rules at: http://www.travelerscanada.ca/iw-documents/UFCWContest.pdf and is only available to UFCW members, retirees and their immediate family. No purchase necessary. Prize ARP $2,000. Chances of winning will vary. The personal information you supply will be used by Travelers Canada and your broker to administer this contest and award the prize.

Underwritten by The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company. The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company, Travelers Insurance Company of Canada and St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Company are the Canadian licensed insurers known as Travelers Canada. © 2014 The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company, Travelers Insurance Company of Canada and St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Company. All rights reserved. Travelers and the Travelers Umbrella logo are registered trademarks of The Travelers Indemnity Company in the U.S. and other countries.

YOU WORK HARD FOR YOUR MONEY

Lets us help you keep it in your pocket with ‘Your Union All-Inclusive Mortgage’ We have partnered with Dominion Lending Centres - Canada’s National Mortgage Company to offer Your Union All-Inclusive Mortgage! This program will help you build a mortgage relationship for life with flexible prepayments, personalized service, expert advice, best rates at renewal and the BEST mortgage product that meets your specific needs.

Return postage will be paid by: United Food and Commercial Workers Locals 175 and 633 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga ON L5N 2K7 Canada Post Corporation Publication Agreement No. 40064671