CHECKOUT
SPRING 2025 - VOL XXXIV NO 1
In this issue...
• Outstanding Achievement Award winners announced p. 8 - 9
• Metro members raise $32,000 for LLSC in payroll deduction campaign p. 24
UNION STRONG – UNION MADE
Building a Better Life for All Workers Shop
#UnionMade
On-again, off-again tariffs announced by the U.S. government on Canadian products could have serious and harmful effects on jobs and the economy in this country.
There are some steps we can all take to help reduce the impact of these tariffs and support Canadian jobs.
But it's not as simple as asking people to only buy from Canadian companies.
It’s also not always possible for consumers to buy only Made in Canada products for many reasons. This can include challenges like product availability, affordability, and accessibility. Plus, many products made in Canada use ingredients or other materials brought in from the United States, and other countries.
Whenever possible, #ShopUnion!
We encourage Canadians to shop in unionized stores and buy Union-made products, shop local, and purchase items labelled as 'Product of' or 'Made in' Canada.
Check out the panel on the right for details on what those labels mean. Not sure? Do your research and choose the best option for you.
u Head to page 12 in this issue of Checkout for more. Scan the code or go to ufcw175.com/unionmade for more #UnionMade info.
Product labels
The Competition Bureau of Canada sets standards for product labels.
100% Canadian
Exactly what it says.
Product of Canada
At least 98% of the total direct costs of producing or manufacturing the good have been incurred in Canada.
Made in Canada
At least 51% of the total direct costs of producing or manufacturing the good have been incurred in Canada.
For both 'Product of Canada' and 'Made in Canada' labels, the last substantial transformation of the good must have occurred in Canada as well.
If products don't meet these thresholds, the Competition Bureau recommends labelling such as "Assembled in Canada with imported parts" or more specific such as "Made in Canada with 60% Canadian content and 40% imported content."
Still not sure? Contact the company and ask! Then decide what's best for you.
What’s Inside
H
Director, Long-Term Care & Retirement: Sandra Ashcroft; Union Representatives: Todd Janes, Derek Jokhu, Dean McLaren, Maxine Prince
Director, Community Care: Mike Mattioli; Union Representatives: Sacha Edey, Sabrina Qadir, Meemee Seto. Servicing Representative: Kasiobi Nwankudu
Region 1 Director: Tracy Stubbs; Union Representative: Alex Stubbs; Servicing Representative: Lynn Swiderski
Region 2 Director: Jason Hanley; Union Representatives: Chris Bernardi, Ricardo Bocanegra, Amanda De Melo, Christina Mayberry, Mario Tardelli, Amy Tran
Region 3 Director: Paul Hardwick; Union Representatives: Sean Carroll, Shannon Epp, Kimberly Hunter, Damian Hulshof, Joe Tenn; Servicing Representative: Mirella Fornieri
Region 4 Directors: Matt Davenport, John DiNardo; Union Representative: Jennifer Hanley; Servicing Representatives: Nunzio Cannistraci, Wyllan Dick, Art Gier, Patrick Griggs, Dawn Hanlon, Shirley Hepditch, Alan Reston
Region 5 Director: Angela Mattioli; Union Representatives: Arlene Robertson; Servicing Representative: Liam Aikens-Armbruster, Kelly Dick, Sharon Jones, Justin Poirier
Region 6 Director: Sam Caetano; Union Representatives: Dave Forbes, Chris Mayberry, Nelson Pereira, Melody Slattery, Navidad Talbot, Fred Teeple
Region 7 Director: Chris Fuller; Union Representative: John Beaton; Servicing Representatives: Julie Jodoin, Skip Pavlick, Michael Windley
Region 8 Director: Derik McArthur; Union Representatives: Jeff Barry, Michael Bernier, Richard Eberhardt, Jim Hames
Worker's Compensation Coordinator: Sarah Neath; Workers’ Compensation Intake Representative: Georgina MacDonald; Workers’ Compensation Representatives: Fatima Butt, Joanne Ford, Ashley Hunt, Anneela Perumal, Courtney Salomons
Pay Equity Coordinator: Orsola Augurusa; Pay Equity Representative: Nabeela Irfan
Health & Safety Director: Kelly Nicholas; Health & Safety Representative: Donna Rhodes
Legal Director: Jane Mulkewich; Paralegal: Gord Steinberg; Counsel: Christopher Jagodits, Matthew Jagodits, Ambar Reyes, Brandon Rodrigues
Organizing Director: Tony Nigro; Organizing Representatives: Joce Cote, Tim Hum, Jeffery Lu, Casey Magee
Training & Education Director: Kelly Nicholas; Servicing Representative: Teresa Wilson
Communications Coordinator: Jennifer Tunney; Communications Representatives: Laurie Duncan, Ashleigh Vink
Political Action & Member Engagement Director: Debora De Angelis
Projects Coordinator: Wei Chen
President’s Message
Supporting good Unionized jobs in Canada in the face of
on-again off-again tariffs
Canada is currently part of 15 in-force free trade agreements, like the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). The terms of these deals help guide countries forward when it comes to industry, jobs, goods, resources, consumer demand, and more.
Trade agreements provide a degree of certainty on which industries and businesses – and, as a result, working people – can rely. Those agreements mean that the economies and livelihoods of working people and consumers around the world are deeply interconnected.
But now we have the everchanging threat of U.S. tariffs creating a lot of uncertainty and alarm for working people throughout a number of industries across the country.
Whether you agree or disagree with the principles of Free Trade or Canada’s current agreements, the ripple effects of these ill-considered substantial tariffs will be felt throughout the country.
The 70,000 members of your Union work across a wide variety of sectors and jobs, and
our members produce goods and services you purchase and use every day.
The jobs of our members in many industries depend on the terms of existing trade deals as well as supply management systems that control the import and export of materials and goods moving back and forth across our border.
Those jobs are vital to our provincial and national economies. People across the province rely on those good, unionized jobs being a part of their communities.
We encourage Canadians to shop in unionized stores and buy Union-made products, shop local, and purchase items labelled as 'Product of' or 'Made in' Canada. I encourage you to check out page 2 and pages 12-13 of this issue of Checkout for more information on ‘Canadian’ labels and trying to #ShopUnion.
On our Facebook and Instagram pages, you’ll see us posting #UnionMade features for some of the products and services you can purchase to support your UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Union family.
Outright boycotts of American-owned companies can have negative effects on millions of Canadians employed by those companies here at home, and the communities where those workers live and work.
You control how you spend your money. And while choices may not always be easy or clear, please do what’s best for you and make choices that, whenever possible, support Canadian workers.
With a federal election coming on April 28, Canada’s stance on international relations and trade agreements, and what that means for Canadian workers, is going to be one of the main issues the candidates have to address.
I encourage all of our members to get informed about their candidates and to get out and vote on April 28.
In Solidarity, Kelly Tosato president@ufcw175.com
Secretary-Treasurer's Message
The benefits of belonging: Our commitment to servicing and representation
Your Union membership is an important part of your working life and we take the responsibility of representing our members seriously.
At the core of our Union’s structure is a substantial servicing policy in place, among other services, that you won’t find at a lot of Unions.
Our servicing policy means that your Representative visits the members in the workplaces on their routes on a regular basis. And any member who reaches out to their Reps to ask any questions or discuss concerns can expect a timely response.
The benefits of being a part of this Local Union continue with our representation for members whose injury claims have been denied by the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB). In the December 2024 issue of Checkout, we reported that last year $1.1 million went back into our members’ pockets through the services of our Workers’ Compensation specialists.
Again, this is a benefit that not many Unions provide to their members. But the WSIB
system can be profoundly difficult for our members who are recovering from an injury while trying to earn a living, and President Tosato and I believe that this is an invaluable service that helps our members when they may be at their most vulnerable.
Your Union membership also comes with the resources of a substantial strike fund to support you and your co-workers should you find yourselves on the picket line. We have the funds to help our members stand strong during a strike or lockout to help them achieve a fair agreement back at the bargaining table.
In recent issues of Checkout, I’ve also discussed this Union’s dedication to workplace health and safety and to providing training and educational opportunities to members, and the importance of the collective agreement language negotiated into your contracts by our expert negotiators.
All of these benefits are available to you as members of this Union. And as we welcome new members through
our Organizing efforts (see pages 10-11), I know that these services and values will continue to help working people build a better life through collective bargaining and solidarity.
The labour movement works hard to lift people up, fight for human rights, and build community. These principles are at the very heart of what we do and what makes our Union a strong choice for representing workers.
That strength allows your Union to continue providing these enhanced services, bargaining good collective agreements, and advocating for our members’ rights every day.
Our commitment is, and always will be, to provide the best service and representation to the members of UFCW Locals 175 & 633.
In Solidarity,
Jim McLean treasurer@ufcw175.com
STAFF NEWS
Welcome New Staff
Patrick Griggs has joined Region 4 as a Servicing Representative. Patrick brings with him 24 years of job experience at the Real Canadian Superstore, 17 years as a steward, and seven years as a Joint Health & Safety Committee member. With a passion for assisting members, Patrick is excited to start this new chapter.
“What drives me to do this work is the fact that everyone deserves to have job security and be treated in a fair and professional manner," said Patrick. "Being a labour advocate is important to me because it is vital to have people who fight for rights and make sure that the companies are following the contract that has been agreed upon," he added. "Everyone should get fair treatment and should be treated equally in the workplace.”
"Over the years, Patrick has demonstrated remarkable dedication to workers' rights," said President Tosato. "I am confident that his passion will help drive our mission as a Union forward to the benefit of the membership."
Wyllan Dick has joined the Local Union as a Servicing Representative in Region 4.
Wyllan worked at the Ministry of Labour in Trinidad and Tobago for over five years. There, Wyllan conciliated disputes including unlawful terminations, unpaid overtime wages, and more. Wyllan also advised the public and employers of their rights in the employer/employee relationship and promoted good industrial relations practices throughout the country.
In 2021, Wyllan came to Canada to pursue a Master’s degree in Counselling. After completing
that degree, Wyllan worked as a Job Preparation Counsellor at VPI Employment Services helping clients secure employment. Wyllan's experience in labour relations and strong understanding of collective agreements were a great resource to VPI colleagues during the 2024 negotiations.
“This exposure gave me a greater understanding of what the Union provides," said Wyllan. "It also sparked my interest in advocating for employees’ rights, to be a voice for the voiceless, and to empower members who may be too afraid to speak up."
“Wyllan brings incredible first-hand experience and knowledge to this role and I know it will be of great benefit to the members to have Wyllan in their corner," said President Tosato.
Liam Aikens-Armbruster has joined the Union as a Servicing Representative in Region 5. Liam's interest in the labour movement began years ago when, as a child, his parents first introduced him to the Union at Labour Day picnics in Waterloo. While he spent many years working in restaurant kitchens, Liam got involved in the Union movement through working at Zehrs Stanley Park.
“I immediately became a steward and took any opportunity to engage in training and political action,” said Liam, who also attended the Canada Labour Congress’ Labour College and took part in UFCW Canada’s Young Workers Internship Program. In the 2022 provincial election, he took part in the Locals' member-to-member campaign. Through this involvement, Liam found a passion for helping workers.
"Being a labour advocate means helping people by equaling the playing field for workers," said Liam. "I enjoy connecting with the people wanting to fight for their rights at work and helping them through the issues that they have.”
“Liam comes from a strong labour background
and his passion for advocating for workers is clear," said President Tosato. "Our membership is in good hands with him as a representative."
Anneela Perumal joined the Union in 2013 and has worked as a regional administrative assistant for the last 12 years. Now, Anneela is embarking on a new challenge as a Workers' Compensation Representative.
Anneela holds an Honours Bachelors of Science from the University of Toronto where she majored in psychology and criminology. She also earned a post-graduate certificate in human resource management from Sheridan College.
For Anneela, being a labour advocate is about empowering workers who feel isolated and helping them find their voice when they feel unheard, and she is eager to transition into her new role.
“I know this work will come with challenges, but I’m excited to get on the front lines and start helping our members," said Anneela.
“Anneela is a strong voice for our members in the workers' compensation system," said President Tosato. "That process can be difficult and lengthy, and I know those members will find support and compassion in Anneela."
Justin Poirier has joined the Union as a Servicing Representative in Region 5. For more than 19 years, Justin worked at Metro. As a former steward, he knows what it takes to represent our members and advocate for their rights.
Justin has been involved in coordinating and canvassing for the Union's annual Metro Payroll deduction campaign to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada.
Justin enjoys helping others and being a part of the Union team. He is passionate about workers'
rights and Health & Safety, and encouraging members to get involved and engaged in their day-to-day working lives through advocacy within their workplaces.
“I loved assisting my co-workers in the store as a steward which is why I wanted to take on this new role," said Justin. "Nothing beats the satisfaction of being able to help a member that’s in need of help. That satisfaction is what will drive me to be the best representative I can be.”
“Our Local Union is strong because we have dedicated advocates like Justin whose enthusiasm and hard work ensure the best representation for our membership," said President Tosato.
In March 2025, the Union welcomed Mirella Fornieri as a Servicing Representative in Region 3.
Mirella started her career with Loblaws over 35 years ago as a cashier, then frontend supervisor, and most recently as a full-time bookkeeper at the store.
As a steward, Mirella enjoyed helping people and having a great rapport with her co-workers. “Being a labour advocate means representing the rights of members,” said Mirella, “to ensure they have a safe workspace and that the collective agreements are being respected in an inclusive environment.”
Mirella is excited for the opportunity to help more members. As a believer that being involved in your union is more than just advocating for workers’ rights in the workplace, Mirella has taken many courses and learned invaluable lessons. Recently, Mirella took ‘mental health in the workplace,’ noting that each case is different and each member’s situation requires patience and understanding.
“Mirella is a long-time member and I look forward to what she will accomplish,” said President Tosato. “Her years of experience and the passion she brings to this new role will make her a great representative for the membership.”
Outstanding
Scott Jackson | Highbury Canco
Contributions to the Community
Scott Jackson has been a proud UFCW member for 45 years. He is the Chief Steward at Highbury Canco in Leamington where he works as a Maintenance Line Operator. Scott is also a current Executive Board Vice President for Local 175.
As a leader in the workplace, Scott often puts others before himself and is a source of support and care for his co-workers. He is always looking to expand his knowledge base, especially when it comes to health and safety, and the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) process.
Outside of work, Scott continues his commitment to bettering the lives of others. He volunteers with an Essex County suicide help line, spending his Tuesday evenings speaking with troubled youth.
Scott is a huge help during the Local Union’s annual food drive in Leamington and he is a champion of solidarity, often visiting picket lines to support other Union members.
“Scott is always ready to lend a hand,” said President Tosato. “Whether at work or on his own time, Scott embodies compassion, care, and dedication in everything he takes on.”
Gladys Igharo | Meta Centre
Leadership & Advancement of UFCW
Gladys Igharo has been a member of UFCW Local 175 since the members at Meta Centre first voted to join the Union in 2012. In fact, Gladys was an active participant in that organizing drive.
Since then, Gladys has been a great support to the UFCW members in her workplace. With 10 years as a Union Steward, and by taking an active role on the negotiating committee through three sets of bargaining, Gladys continues to demonstrate her commitment to bettering the lives of her co-workers every day.
Through her active engagement in the workplace, Gladys has helped achieve numerous health and safety improvements by assisting members on WSIB-related issues including return to work meetings, and she always holds management accountable by policing the collective agreement and focusing on best practices.
"Gladys is a capable and compassionate source of support and advocacy for every one of her co-workers," said President Tosato. "She is a strong voice and an incredible ambassador for the Union in the workplace."
Outstandingg
Member Achievement Award Winners 2024
Congratulations to the winning Members! For more information visit ufcw175.com/training-education/#awards .
Shannon Davidson | Metro 495
Fundraising for the LLSC
Shannon has been a member of UFCW Local 175 since May 2023, when she started working at Metro in the grocery department. Her nominators put Shannon’s name forward because she is a hard worker who is dedicated to making the workplace the best it can be for everyone.
One of the many ways Shannon has worked to build a strong community and sense of pride at work is through raising money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC).
As an assistant on the Metro LLSC Payroll Deduction Campaign last year, Shannon’s hard work generated many contributions that led her store to be among some of the highest fundraisers for the province-wide campaign in 2023.
This year, Shannon led the drive and almost doubled the total contributions from the previous year. She spoke with every employee in the store and ended up raising nearly $3,000.
“With her drive to go above and beyond, and her ability to build camaraderie amongst her peers, Shannon has shown herself to be a true inspiration in the workplace,” said President Tosato.
Glenda Idolor | Rekai Centre
Improving Workplace H&S or Workers’ Comp
Glenda Idolor is a long-time member of the Union and has been a part of her workplace Health & Safety Committee for over 30 years.
As a Registered Nurse (RN) at the Rekai Centre, which is a long-term care facility in downtown Toronto, Glenda is an integral part of what keeps the nursing home a safe and healthy place for her co-workers.
Glenda takes her role and responsibilities seriously and has great attention to detail. With a proactive prevention-oriented approach, Glenda prefers to tackle an issue before an incident can happen and she is quick to offer support and helpful suggestions when incidents or concerns do arise.
During the pandemic, Glenda’s resilience and problem-solving skills were a great resource for residents and employees.
"Glenda epitomizes what it means to be a dedicated health and safety activist. Over the years, she has helped build a culture of safety in the workplace and she is well deserving of this award," said President Tosato.
Welcome New Members
Welcome to Your Union
Unity & strength: Irpinia Kitchens workers win vote to join the Union
Workers at Irpinia Kitchens in Richmond Hill, a high-end cabinet manufacturer, have voted to unionize with UFCW Local 175.
On December 4 & 5, 2024, the over 90 workers at Irpinia were given the opportunity to vote to become a part of our Local Union. With an overwhelming majority, these workers have become some of our newest members.
During the two-month campaign, the workers focused on improvements they could achieve by joining UFCW Local 175. These workers wanted better for their colleagues and their workplace and wanted to ensure they had a future that would be stable and strong. Their concerns included job security, seniority, wages, benefits, mistreatment, and favouritism.
Members at Irpinia Kitchens work in all aspects of production including panel processing, shipping/receiving, sanding, assembly, spraying, and as specialists, maintenance, and quality control.
Welcome to our newest members! Joining our Union gives all of these workers a united voice, and the support and resources they need to negotiate with their employer, fight for a fair collective agreement and build a better life!
Kelly Tosato President, UFCW Local 175
Morriston Park Nursing Home workers join UFCW in pursuit of better working conditions
In a significant move towards achieving better working conditions, workers at Morriston Park Nursing Home in Puslinch have voted to join UFCW Local 175. The decision reflects a growing trend among healthcare employees who are looking to UFCW to fight for fair wages, improved benefits, and safer work environments.
These workers want to know their labour and dedication is valued and supported. By unionizing with UFCW Local 175, they will be able to negotiate a strong contract to build a better work life.
Our new members join the growing Health, Office & Professional Employees (HOPE) Sector of UFCW Local 175 where they will benefit from experienced negotiators and dedicated Representatives who will support these workers in their fight for better working conditions, enhanced language protections, and job security.
Karis Disability Services workers vote
Union Yes for better working conditions
On February 4 & 5, 2025, UFCW Local 175 welcomed more than 300 new members at 20 different locations of Karis Disability Services in the city of Ottawa.
This caring group of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) provide support and services to adults who require assistance in their day-to-day lives.
In June 2019, workers at Christian Horizons (now Karis Disability Services) in Toronto and surrounding areas joined Locals 175 & 633.
Then, in 2020, another group of nearly 400 Karis Disability workers in Durham region voted Union Yes to join us, too. And in 2021, a group of 110 workers at Karis Disability in Sudbury also joined our Local Union.
Some of the newest members at Karis Ottawa meet with Organizers and Union Rep Joe Tenn to discuss what's next on their path to a first collective agreement.
Some of the concerns that led these workers in Ottawa to seek Union representation with our Local Union included:
• Better wages and benefits,
• More fairness and less favouritism,
• Improved working conditions,
• Seniority and job security, and;
• Professional recognition.
Your Union offers a Member's Assistance Program (MAP) to help members through difficult times by connecting you with the appropriate professional assistance as close to your community, and as soon, as possible.
UFCW Locals 175 & 633 members can access this confidential service providing counselling referrals to professional assistance for concerns such as substance abuse, spousal abuse, mental wellness, financial stress, grief, child care, affordable housing, and more.
Shop #UnionMade !
Make #ShopUnion, #ShopLocal, and #BuyCanadian a part of your everyday routine!
Everyone needs to make decisions that are best for themselves, and sometimes options we have are limited for any number of reasons. Those reasons might include availability, accessibility, affordability, and genuine need.
But making it a part of your everyday routine to – whenever possible – #ShopUnion, #BuyCanadian, and #ShopLocal is a great way to support Canadian workers and Canadian companies all the time.
We encourage shoppers to visit Unionized stores, and try and purchase #UnionMade products and services whenever possible.
If you’re not sure, do your research and contact the company directly.
Follow us on Instagram & Facebook to share our #UnionMade posts!
From furniture builders to budtenders, and pharmacies to grocery stores. From cakes and eggs, to producing buttertarts and barbecue favourites, milk and cookies, sugar, rice, and much – seriously – much more.
Your Union family at UFCW Locals 175 & 633 is responsible for producing a wide variety of goods you buy for your home every day, plus they work in the grocery stores and pharmacies where you often shop!
Many members are also employed as service providers across a number of industries and sectors like car rental agencies, funeral homes, healthcare, hospitality, building services, delivery, and more!
With 70,000 members working across about 1,300 workplaces, the list of goods, services, and more that is available through the hard work and dedication of UFCW Locals 175 & 633 members, is too long to include on a few pages in the magazine alone.
Negotiation Updates
First collective agreement ratified by members at the Beth Tikvah Foundation
Members at the Beth Tikvah Foundation of Hamilton unanimously ratified their first collective agreement on December 5, 2024.
The members at Beth Tikvah first joined the Union in January 2024. Prior to joining the Union, these workers had not seen a wage increase in ten years!
Now, with Union representation, these members have successfully negotiated wage increases in each year including 3% in year one, 0.5% in year two, and 0.5% in year three.
Members also receive a lump sum payment as of ratification of $1,000 for full-time, and $415 for part-time.
The Union Negotiating Committee bargained to move the members to a trusteed plan for benefit and dental coverage. This move also allowed the Committee to achieve dental benefits for parttime workers who previously were not covered; a huge win for these workers.
Long-term disability premiums are now 100% paid by the employer resulting in $0.63 per hour back in the pockets of our members.
Members at Beth Tikvah secured numerous protections such as a grievance and arbitration procedure, the creation of a labour management committee, and bargaining unit protections including language regarding contracting out.
Members also achieved language that provides:
• More flexible vacation scheduling to the benefit of the members.
• The ability for full-time employees to cash out a week of vacation.
• A full-time rate of pay paid to part-time workers on a temporary vacancy.
• Scheduling of part-time hours by seniority.
• Bereavement leave of four days, up from three, for the death of a parent, guardian, or sibling.
• An additional preferential day and sick day for full-time employees.
• Language that allows union representative to service the units.
• Paid time, up to conciliation, for Negotiating Committee members during bargaining.
• Employer contributions to the UFCW Local 175 Training & Education Fund.
Union Negotiating Committee: Maxine Juradinho, Micheal Santha, Caprice Sedgwick, and Union Representative Sacha Edey.
Members at Lallemand Inc. ratify first agreement as UFCW members
Members at Lallemand Inc. in Cornwall unanimously ratified their first collective agreement on February 2, 2025.
The three-year deal gives members a voice in the workplace, secures numerous improvements to the members' working conditions, and gives them access to a grievance procedure.
A key issue for members during their organizing drive was scheduling. Before having Union representation, the employer went from 12-hour rotating shifts to eight-hour steady shifts. The ratified agreement now gives members a say on this matter, and sets out the type of shifts the employer can schedule and a mechanism to get production employees on 12-hour rotating shifts.
Members on payroll as of ratification receive a lump sum of $600 and increases of $1.20 per hour effective May 1, 2024. Subsequent increases include 80 cents per hour in year one, 80 cents per hour in year two, and 90 cents per hour in year three. New hires shall receive 90% of the above rates until they reach one calendar year of working experience.
This agreement includes clear Training and Evaluation periods for different classifications with language built into the agreement. Prior to bargaining, Production Operators received 90% of the Operator rate until fully trained but the employer was not consistent on when/ if Operators would be trained. This agreement has set training periods and the rate is automatically adjusted after one calendar year of working experience.
The night shift premium improves to $1.30 per hour, up from $1.10, and a boot allowance provides $250 per pair replaced as required due to damage, wear and tear.
The employer will match contributions to the registered pension plan at 6%. Full-time workers will be entitled to 48 hours of sick leave credits each year, 12 paid holidays, and up to 25 days of vacation time.
Union Negotiating Committee: Dean Poirier, and Union Representative Shannon Epp.
Amalgamated Transit Union
members ratify wage and benefit improvements
Amalgamated Transit Union members in Mississauga have ratified a three-year agreement that includes wage increases in each year of the deal.
In year one, members will see a lump sum of $10,000 added to their base salary. In year two, rates increase by 3%, and in year three rates will improve again by 3%.
The Administrator classification will be deleted and new classifications of Administrator Level 1 and Administrator Level 2 will be added to the bargaining unit. The current member in the Administrator bargaining unit position will be promoted to the Administrator Level 2 position, maintaining the higher classification and seniority.
A new health spending account introduced provides $500 which will be available on January 1 of each year in the agreement term.
Further negotiated language improvements mean that members can defer one week of vacation once every three years.
Union Negotiating Committee: Crystal Cadeau, and Union Representative Meemee Seto.
Negotiation Updates
Wage
increases, paid sick days, and more
ratified by members at Heritage River Retirement Residence
Healthcare workers at Heritage River Retirement Residence in Elora unanimously ratified a twoyear agreement on January 2, 2025.
Wages for the members will increase by 3.5% in each year across all classifications. Additionally, the last tier of the wage grid will be eliminated allowing workers to reach top rate 1800 hours earlier. A new evening shift premium will also provide an additional 20 cents per hour.
Overtime will be paid after 80 hours, down from 88. The members will also see an increase to the shoe allowance, and the length of time to use lieu time for stat holidays will be increased.
The part-time in-lieu payment increases from 35 cents to 50 cents per hour, with language to be
Significant wage increases & more ratified by members at Milo-Fais
The membership at Milo-Fais in Wheatley ratified a six-year agreement on February 12, 2025. In this round of bargaining, the two-tier wage grid has nearly been eliminated.
Effective January 1, 2025, workers in Tier 1 receive a raise of $.150 per hour. Workers in Tier 2 have all been moved to Tier 1 and receive a total increase of $3.56 per hour as of January 1, 2025. Engineering workers $2.36 more per hour, also effective January 1, 2025. In addition, all classifications receive 2% increases in each of the following years of the agreement term.
Members will see further monetary improvements in shift premiums. Afternoon premiums increase to 30 cents per hour, up from 26 cents, and the Midnights premium is now 45 cents per hour, up from 42 cents. Plus, the Boot Allowance increases to $250 per year, up from $125.
added to allow earlier entry into the RRSP plan. Members benefit from an increase to their sick days for a total of eight per year, up from five. Plus, the employer will cover the cost of doctor’s notes.
Bereavement entitlement improves to five paid days for family as outlined in the agreement language. These improvements include clarifying language regarding bereavement, and members do not need to attend the funeral to qualify. New language will be added to hold a day in abeyance for interment.
Union Negotiating Committee: Meeka Barnes, Bonnie Boire, and Union Representative Todd Janes.
Language ensures that overtime will be paid at time and one half for all hours worked on Saturday and Sunday regardless of hours worked during the week.
The employer will pay 100% of the cost of health and welfare benefits for all workers. Members also benefit from a Weekly Indemnity increase to $550, up from $320, and the employer dental contribution improves to 47 cents per hour, up from 41 cents.
Union Negotiating Committee: Cody Cayer, Tony Couto, MD Momtaz, and Union Representative John Beaton.
Lococo Wholesale members vote yes to significant improvements in new deal
On January 25, 2025, retail grocery members at Lococo Wholesale in Hamilton unanimously ratified a three-year agreement with significant wage increases and more.
All employees receive a wage adjustment of $1.50 per hour effective October 2024, prior to the expiry of the previous agreement. The deal secures Minimum Wage (MW) + $2.95 per hour for all full and part-time workers in progression, and MW+ $3.70 per hour for all full-time supervisors. And in each year of the agreement, employees at top rate receive raises of 70 cents per hour.
The members' Health Care Spending accounts increase to $500, up from $400, which is an addition to a fully paid benefit plan already in place. Dental reimbursement goes up to $2,000, up from $1,500, over the term of the deal. In addition, vision Care increases to $300, up from $250, and the employer will supply menstrual products at no cost.
A new fifth week of vacation, paid at 10%, applies to employees with 18 years' seniority. Vacation carryover is now available for up to one year; members can carry over unused vacation to the following year or cash out as vacation pay. Both full and part-time workers benefit from an additional personal day, for a total of three paid per year, and guaranteed stat holiday pay minimums of eight hours for full-time and four hours for part-time.
Further improvements include:
• Safety Footwear allowance increases to $150 per year.
• Full and part-time employees with over 10 years seniority receive an annual $500 Long-Service Recognition Bonus.
• Employer contributions to the Training and Education fund will increase to $1,000 annually, and Collective Agreement printing will be 100% employer paid.
Union Negotiating Committee: Nick Cabras, Vincent Defosse, Brianna Herve, Servicing Representative, Fatima Butt, and Regional Director, John DiNardo.
Members covered by No Frills Northern Master agreement ratify wage and benefit improvements
With a strike deadline looming, retail grocery members in the No Frills Northern Master agreement at stores in Sault Ste. Marie, North Bay, and Elliot Lake, ratified a five-year agreement in November 2024.
Full-time end rate wage increases totalling $3.45 per hour over the life of the agreement including $1.00 per hour as of ratification and another 50 cents in March 2025. These members also receive a $1,000 signing bonus.
Part-time end rates improve by 95 cents per hour for end rate employees in 2024, and Minimum Wage (MW)+ $1 for end rate over the term of the agreement. Part-time employees receive signing bonuses of $500 for workers at end rate, $300 for those with 3+ years of service who are not at end rate, and $100 for members with under 3 years service.
The employer contribution to pensions has increased for all workers.
Benefit improvements include that the supplementary healthcare benefit will increase to $70 per visit, 10 times per year. The employer premium will increase from 22 cents to 27 cents per hour for the part-time benefit plan, and dental reimbursement updated to reflect current ODA fee guide.
A new safety shoe allowance provides $80, and optical coverage (per 24 months) increases to $200, up from $175.
Union Negotiating Committee: Edward Bentley, Sean Da Costa, Joseph Newbury, Nathannael McCoy, Kim Skolney, and Union Representatives Jeff Barry, Richard Eberhardt, and Jim Hames.
Negotiation Updates
Wage, premium & benefit improvements in ratified Herb & Spice agreement
On March 11, 2025, members at Herb and Spice Food and Wellness Shop in Ottawa unanimously ratified a two-year agreement.
All employees are now on a Minimum Wage plus (MW+) grid. Members receive increases of up to $1 per hour in year one and again in year two. Premiums for In Charge, Department Head Relief, Buyer, and Acting Supervisor each increase by 25 cents per hour. The premium for Department Head improves by 50 cents per hour.
The Health Care spending account increases to $1,100 for full-time, $500 for part-time who work between 20 to 34 hours, and $350 for part-time who work between 10 to 19 hours.
Sick Day entitlement improves to 28 hours, up from 21, for full-time. Bereavement entitlement for the death of a grandparent or grandchild increases to two days. The agreement also contains improved Health & Safety language including that menstrual products will be available at the workplace at no cost to employees.
Other language provides the Negotiating Committee with one day paid by the employer to attend ratification meetings.
Union Negotiating Committee: Kaitlyn Macdonald, Zack Vigneau, and Union Representative Joe Tenn.
Royal Henley members ratify wage increases and more in new deal
HOPE Sector healthcare members at the Royal Henley Retirement Home in St. Catharines ratified a three-year deal on February 18, 2025.
Members see raises of 3.5% in year one, retro to January 1, 2025, 3.5% in year two, and 3.5% in year three. A one-time adjustment of 25 cents per hour applies to Housekeepers, Dishwashers, and Servers. Language ensures step increases remain intact if the start rate is at minimum wage. Maximum casual hours is now 30 bi-weekly, down from 39, so part-time can pick up more hours.
The Unregulated Care Provider (UCP) premium increases to $1.25 per hour. A new Night shift
premium of 15 cents per hour, increasing to 20 cents per hour in year three, and new Weekend premium of 10 cents per hour, increasing to 15 cents per hour in year three, now apply.
Benefit levels were maintained and protective language will be added for casual workers' benefit coverage. Bereavement Leave can be used within 10 days, up from five, and workers can save two days for delayed interment.
Members have an additional week added for unpaid personal leave for a total of four weeks. An additional Float Day applies after 4,160 hours worked, then another Float Day after seven years of service. A work rotation now applies for Christmas and New Year’s.
The employer will provide an additional uniform top each year for Housekeeping, Laundry and Maintenance.
Union Negotiating Committee: Karen Ellison, Joanne Stephens, HOPE LTC Director Sandra Ashcroft, and Union Representative Sacha Edey.
Workers' Compensation
Here we go again: Ontario businesses to get $2 billion back after WSIB posts huge surplus
Over decades, the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) managed to amass a huge deficit – an Unfunded Liability –which compromised its ability to cover injured workers benefits.
In 2018, however, the WSIB declared that 100% of that liability had been recouped and employer premiums were bringing in enough money to cover injured workers' claims.
The workers' compensation system should provide good benefits and a dignified quality of life to injured workers. Instead, injured workers face a long claims and appeals process, rejected claims, and inadequate benefits – especially with the rising cost of living.
In 2021, the WSIB had a reserve of $6.4 billion. That should have been great news for injured workers. But instead, the WSIB returned over $1.2 billion of that money to employers.
JUNE 1st is
Injured
Workers Day
Attend a rally or protest near you to fight for Injured Workers' rights.
In 2024, the WSIB posted another surplus and in November, Doug Ford announced that about $2 billion of that surplus will again be returned to eligible Ontario businesses. Plus, employers are paying less and less in premiums each year.
Between 2016 and 2020, the average premium rate was reduced by 47%: from $2.59 in 2016 to $1.37 in 2020.
Since then, the average rate has only continued to decrease to reach a rate of $1.25 in 2024. According to the WSIB, that is the lowest rate in more than 20 years.
It is clear that the WSIB maintains its coffers and builds its surpluses by taking money out of the pockets of injured workers through denials of claims, reduction in benefits and services, deeming, and more.
The WSIB is a provincial agency that is supposed to provide no-fault insurance coverage to injured workers. Yet our elected Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs) allow the WSIB to deny claims and benefits and allow corporate pay-backs to occur. Any surplus money has clearly come out of the pockets of injured workers through denied claims and reduced benefits. This surplus shouldn’t exist at all.
Want to see money going to benefit injured workers instead of back to employers? Connect with your MPP and ask them to fight for injured workers, not corporations.
Health & Safety
Sprains & Strains
The number one type of injury for workers is sprains and strains. This is the case year after year across many sectors and industries. Sprains & Strains accounted for 36% of Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) claims from 2023-2024.
In 2024, more than 23,500 workers experienced a Sprains and Strains injury leading to a WSIB claim.
'Sprains and Strains' is a classification that encompasses types of soft tissue injuries with different characteristics throughout the body resulting from different incidents (nature of occurrence).
For example:
• Injury Type: Sprain/Strain
• Injury Characteristic: Left hip and lower left back
• Nature of Occurrence: Colleague reports slipping in the deli department and falling to the floor.
Why did the incident happen?
This is a question investigated and addressed by your Joint Health & Safety Committee (JHSC) or Health & Safety (H&S) Representative at work. There may be a number of reasons and contributing factors for an incident and your JHSC/H&S Rep can put corrective actions in place to prevent future repeat incidents.
The slip and fall in the above example is a result of an unsafe work floor/surface and workspace. But an investigation might reveal that the floor wasn't wet with water, but was greasy instead. That investigation might also reveal that workers are forced to use that path/floor surface because the other path is blocked with items that should not be there.
Be vigilant and proactive. Look out for hazards such as:
• Blocked exits, doorways, stairs and walkways, and congested paths.
• Improperly stacked pallets and merchandise.
• Pests/Rodents
• Unsafe walking surfaces, including indoors and outdoors (wet, icy, greasy, uneven, broken, just-mopped)
• Improper use of equipment including lift trucks, power stackers, hand pallet lifts, step stools, and ladders.
Thorough monthly inspections by your JHSC/H&S Rep coupled with proactive hazard identification can help ensure that corrective actions are put in place to prevent injuries before they happen.
ufcw175.com/contact
Day of Mourning APRIL 28
In December 1990, the federal government passed the Workers Mourning Day Act, establishing April 28 as a National Day of Mourning.
As we honour those who have lost their lives or who have been forever affected by workplace injuries and illnesses, we must also find renewed purpose and strength in the fight for better workplace health and safety.
Every worker deserves to go home healthy at the end of every day.
To mark the Day of Mourning, your JHSC might hold a moment of silence, have flags lowered to half-mast, or wear and distribute memorial ribbons. To participate in a Day of Mourning event in your area, check with your local labour council or visit ufcw175. com/dayofmourning where we will post events as information becomes available.
As Union members, you have resources and support to help ensure your workplace is a healthy, safe space.
Always bring concerns or questions to your Union Stewards and Health & Safety Reps/ Committee (JHSC) immediately.
Your UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Health & Safety Department is always available to answer any questions. Reach us at 1-800565-8329 or membership@ufcw175.com.
ufcw175.com/dayofmourning
Training & Education
Scholarships available to UFCW members
There are several post-secondary scholarships available to the members of UFCW Locals 175 & 633, as well as your children, just by virtue of your membership in the Union.
u UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Solidarity Scholarships
Each year, the Local Union is proud to award 104 Solidarity Scholarships of $1,000 each. Members and their children/dependents studying full-time at a post-secondary institution are eligible.
Application window: June 1 - August 1, 2025 Visit: ufcw175.com/scholarships
u UFCW Canada National Council BDM Scholarships
Every year, the UFCW Canada National Council offers 18 postsecondary scholarships of $1,000 to UFCW members and their family.
Application window: Open now. Deadline to apply is September 30, 2025. Visit: ufcw.ca/scholarships
u UFCW Charity Foundation Scholarship Program
The UFCW Charity Foundation awards several scholarships of up to $8,000 each to UFCW members or their unmarried dependents under the age of 20.
Application window: February 17 - May 11, 2025. Visit: ufcwcharityfoundation.org/scholarship
ufcw175.com/scholarships
The annual UFCW Locals 175 & 633 Golf Tournament raises money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC).
Annual Leamington Food Drive
The 5th Annual Holiday Food Drive in Leamington saw more than 5,500 items collected. Donations went out to four charitable organizations in the Leamington area including Ronald McDonald House, the Downtown Mission, Abode Respite Care, and Saint Vincent De Paul. Thank you to everyone who donated and helped to collect items, and to our volunteers who assisted with the drive. Your support and generosity helps to make this fundraiser a great success year after year. And a big thank you to Local 175 staff Helene Caine for her hard work on this Drive every year.
Bowling for a Cure
In November 2024, Executive Board, members, and staff in Thunder Bay took part in a bowling fundraiser for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). President Tosato and Secretary-Treasurer McLean joined the group and were happy to report back that the event raised nearly $700. Thank you to everyone who was able to attend for your generosity and dedication to the cause.
Metro members raise $32,000 for LLSC
Every year, our members at Metro and The Barn Markets make an impressive contribution to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC) through a payroll deduction campaign.
The success of this past year's campaign means that an incredible $32,000 will go to funding live-saving research and treatments that help improve the quality of life and health for patients and their families.
Members at the participating stores that raise the most money get a chance to win great prizes, too - some shown here, and some on the cover.
Congratulations to members at the stores below for being the top fundraisers in their categories, and to all the prize winners!
• Up to 99 members: The Barn Markets #139, Windsor
• 100 - 149 members: Metro #32, Niagara Falls
• 150+ members: Metro #26, Stouffville
Thank you to everyone who took part in the campaign. Every cent helps and your generosity means so much to those in need of care and treatment.
