NEW BC FED | COMMUNITY PARAMEDICINE | KICKSTART SUPPORT | PHS UPDATE
PUBLIC EMPLOYEE
WINTER 2015
BRAND NEW DAY LABOUR-ENDORSED CANDIDATES REDRAW THE CIVIC MAP IN B.C.
LEADINGUS MARK HANCOCK, PRESIDENT “Over the last decade CUPE’s wage settlements with local governments have tended to mirror those negotiated in the private sector.”
A reality check for the neo-con set MUNICIPAL WAGES WITHSTAND NEGATIVE FRASER INSTITUTE ‘SPIN’ In November, thousands of British Columbians put their names forward to run as city councillors, board of education trustees, or regional district representatives. Congratulations to them all. CUPE locals engaged as they always do in talking to candidates and getting involved in the political process. We are up front and open about our involvement in local elections. But we saw other factors at play by those who were not as open. For instance, just ahead of the Union of BC Municipalities annual meeting in September, a report commissioned by the B.C. government that was highly critical of local government wages and salaries was “leaked” by the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, which also contributed to the report. I said at the time that the report represents a direct assault on the autonomy of elected municipal councils, with its recommendation for the establishment of a provincial body to control compensation levels and conduct bargaining with civic employees. After the report was shamelessly flogged by Black Press columnist Tom Fletcher, appearing in many community papers, we responded in kind.
Consider the source We know that the report relies almost entirely on information supplied by a narrow set of interests, including the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, the Business Council of British Columbia, the Independent Contractors and Business Association, and the Fraser Institute — all groups dedicated to suppressing wages. We noted that Rona Martin, president of the UBCM, which represents almost every local government in B.C., was not even consulted despite the potentially significant implications of the report’s recommendations. If Mr. Fletcher had spoken to Ms. Martin, or even read the UBCM statement, he would have found that the provincial report acknowledges 26 times that there are limitations in the data to support analysis of municipal pay. Ms. Martin and the
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GREAT EFFORT Amber Hockin’s bid for the BC Fed presidency inspired CUPE delegates. See page nine. UBCM noted that compensation for police and fire fighters, and even BC Ferries and TransLink, is lumped in — even though local governments have no control over compensation for these groups.
The myth of “runaway wages” On Mr. Fletcher’s key target — CUPE wage settlements — the fact is that, over the last decade, these wage settlements with local governments have tended to mirror those negotiated in the private sector. And counter to the spin of runaway wage costs, B.C.’s statistics agency data shows that both CUPE and private sector agreements have been lower than the growth in the province’s wealth (Gross Domestic Product) and lower than the increase in average weekly wages for the province as a whole. With community elections over and a new set of elected representatives in place for the next four years, it will be critical to make sure that they understand the real facts about their employees’ wage costs. EQUALITY EMPOWERS US ALL — CUPE has always been at the forefront of the fight for equality, and now is a critical moment for equality and the labour movement. Despite the gains we’ve made, growing inequality, globalization, privatization and the rise of precarious work are threatening the progress we’ve made on human rights. That’s why CUPE National’s human rights conference (February 5-8, in Winnipeg) is so important. If you haven’t already registered (visit cupe.ca), you’ve got until January 12 to do so. Twitter: @cupebc MORE ONLINE www.cupe.bc.ca + News +
Commentary + Leaders’ voices
CUPEACT ION MEMBERS ON THE FRONT LINE CUPE BC SUES NPA, LAPOINTE, FOR LIBEL
ON NOTICE CUPE BC’s lawsuit is aimed at preventing future violations of libel law during election campaigns. BURNABY On November 25, CUPE BC filed a libel lawsuit against the Vancouver Non-Partisan Association and Mayoral candidate Kirk LaPointe. During the recent Vancouver election, LaPointe and the NPA alleged “corruption” with regard to financial contributions from CUPE 1004 and CUPE BC to candidates recommended by the membership. The libel of CUPE and the individual plaintiffs by the NPA and LaPointe is one of the most extreme forms of libel recognized by law, particularly of the individual plaintiffs. The publications repeatedly accuse CUPE of criminal misconduct, as well as libeling union members in their profession and occupation. LaPointe, an adjunct professor of ethics in journalism at UBC, made no effort to conduct even a minimal inquiry into the truth of these accusations, the lawsuit says. CUPE BC is seeking an injunction, the removal of the offending language from websites, and substantial general as well as punitive damages.
ICEBREAKER Delegates to CUPE BC’s OH&S conference in the fall enjoy a panel discussion on different aspects of psychological health in the workplace.
OH&S conference promotes mental health as key to safe workplaces VICTORIA CUPE members attending the B.C. division’s 2014 OH&S conference (October 22-24) focused on building safe psychological and physical workplaces. CUPE BC President Mark Hancock, relaunching the Spot the Hazard campaign, talked about the importance of addressing mental health in creating safe psychological workplaces. Keynote speaker Dr. Jennifer Newman gave a thought-provoking presentation on the OH&S role in cultivating safe and healthy working environments. She encouraged the use of the National Standard of Canada for Psychological Health & Safety in the Workplace.
NEW ASSISTANT REGIONAL DIRECTOR FOR B.C. BURNABY Meena Brisard is CUPE’s new assistant regional director for B.C., replacing Rhonda Spence who retired in the fall. Brisard first became active in CUPE in 1997, when she was an inside organizer during a successful run-off representation vote for emergency dispatchers in the Lower Mainland. The first female voted to the provincial executive committee of CUPE
873 (Ambulance Paramedics of BC), she was hired as a National Servicing Representative in 2002. Brisard played a key role in many CUPE organizing drives, campaigns, and rounds of bargaining in which she served as lead negotiator and spokesperson, and has held a servicing assignment in almost every sector CUPE represents in B.C. In
A panel discussion offered insights on different aspects of psychological health in the CUPE workplace. Participants chose three from the following workshops to attend: ergonomics; assisting workers with workplace mental health issues; knowing your rights; bullying & harassment; occupational hazards, diseases & near hits and misses — inside and out; women’s health & safety in the workplace; and violence in the workplace. CUPE BC Secretary-Treasurer Paul Faoro, closing the conference, thanked participants, members and staff for making it successful.
less than two years, she organized nearly 20 certifications, bringing more than 600 new members into CUPE. She has also served on CUPE BC’s “Strong Communities” working Brisard group, and as sector coordinator, staff advisor to numerous provincial and national committees, and mentor to new servicing representatives and local executives.
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CUPEACT ION MEMBERS ON THE FRONT LINE
voices WHAT CUPE MEMBERS ARE SAYING “There’s no requirement to be affiliated with any party. [Although], if you’re a Harper Conservative, you may have a little trouble.” CUPE 409 President Marcel Marsolais, co-chair of the New Westminster and District Labour Council, notes that NDP membership is not a prerequisite for a council endorsement in the November elections. Royal City Record, Friday, October 31, 2014.
“I think it’s great because the United Church has always been involved with Naramata Centre. For them to say they’re not involved … flies in the face of everything I saw for the last 20 years.” Striking CUPE 608 member Kathy Dean welcomes news that her union has filed an application with the LRB to have the United Church and the Naramata Centre Society recognized as a common employer. Penticton Herald, Friday, November 21, 2014.
"We’re encouraged by the amount of community support. We get out there and people are honking and waving. We talk to people coming to City Hall and most respect our picket line. I think the secret to keeping our morale up is that we stay positive and we don't bash, even though we have been frustrated by much of the misinformation put out by the city.” CUPE 2262 member Jo Petit, a payroll clerk, sums up her Local’s first month on the line. Castlegar News, Thursday, December 4, 2014.
“It was the residents of Prince George who were not happy with some of the actions of some of the councillors — and they were held accountable. The residents of Prince George spoke and that includes union members and non-union members.” CUPE 1048 President Janet Bigelow, celebrating a sweep by labourendorsed candidates for city council, attributes the election result to a city-wide effort — not just the union’s member-to-member campaign. Prince George Citizen, Tuesday, November 18, 2014.
“There’s a lack of cutting at the top, and nobody in the support staff is on that $75,000 [salary] list … I want people that will question in board meetings. That’s so key to me — people that ask questions.” CUPE 561 President Dave Ginter, noting that management has thrived while support staff is cut, calls for a whole new board of education for School District 43. Tri-City News, Friday, October 24, 2014.
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HEALTH CARE CHAMPIONS Council of Canadians Chairperson Maude Barlow prepares for her presentation while Duncan Etches of Canadian Doctors for Medicare chats with CUPE National President Paul Moist at the Courtenay health care town hall on October 21.
Rejecting the Harper vision TOWN HALLS DECRY HEALTH CARE CUTS CAMPBELL RIVER, COURTENAY Nearly 600 people braved wet and windy mid-autumn weather to hear CUPE National President Paul Moist and Council of Canadians National Chairperson Maude Barlow call for an end to the Harper Conservative government’s gutting of public health care. The town hall meetings (October 20 – 21), sponsored by CUPE, HEU, and the Council of Canadians, highlighted the crisis in Medicare. The federal government’s retreat from its commitment to health care is far more significant than the anticipated $36 billion in cuts over the next 10 years, said Moist. “The Conservatives [also] walked away from discussions with the provinces to control the cost of drugs and forge a national drug coverage program,” he said. “They closed the Health Council of Canada. They cut health care for veterans. They cut refugee health coverage. They refused to uphold the Canada Health Act’s protections for patients against user fees and extra billing. And they walked away from providing coverage for home and continuing care.” Barlow, challenging the right-wing orthodoxy pushing publicprivate partnerships, argued that a quality health care system could be properly funded if corporate Canada paid its fair share. “Canadians for Tax Fairness say that $185 billion a year would be saved if we closed loopholes for offshore tax havens,” she said. Duncan Etches, of Canadian Doctors for Medicare, spoke of CDM’s intervener status in a lawsuit against the B.C. government by a group of for-profit clinics led by former Canadian Medical Association President Dr. Brian Day, owner of Vancouver’s Cambie Surgery Centre.
CUPE BC CONVENTION Keep your calendars open for CUPE’s 52nd annual convention, to be held at the Westin Bayshore in Vancouver from April 29 – May 2. Check out www.cupe.bc.ca for updates.
CUPEACT ION MEMBERS ON THE FRONT LINE NARAMATA UPDATE NARAMATA CUPE 608 members at the United Church’s Naramata Centre have been on the picket line since last May. CUPE is ramping up demands for justice for the 30 Naramata workers with a national letter campaign and information delivered directly to United Church goers in B.C. The Church maintains it has little to do with the facility, but CUPE has won the right to an LRB hearing to have the Church and Centre recognized as a common employer. The Church just raised $500,000 for the financially troubled Centre in less than a month, but it’s unclear whether the cash will be used to reopen the facility.
IT’S ABOUT THE KIDS B.C. CUPE delegates Valeria Mancilla, Cindy Chisholm, Margot Young, Michael Lanier, Jamie Kass, Sheryl Burns, and Lucia Rincon take time out from the National Childcare conference in Winnipeg (November 13-15).
HUMAN RIGHTS FOR ALL
Drawing attention to child care
Online registration (cupe.ca) closes on January 12 for CUPE National's human rights conference. At the National union’s human rights conference, “Equality Empowers Us All” (February 5-8, Winnipeg Convention Centre), CUPE activists will gather to share ideas and develop strategies in areas where workers have power: bargaining, organizing, mobilizing, and political action.
CONFERENCE CALLS FOR FULLY-FUNDED PLAN WINNIPEG A national child care system that delivers quality, affordable early education and care is not only possible but must be a top priority in the next federal election, concluded delegates to CUPE National's Childcare2020 conference, held in Manitoba’s capital (November 13-15). Voluminous research and economic reports cited by conference participants showed that there is more than enough government funding to pay for universal child care, and that achieving a national plan is simply a question of political priorities. Conference speakers argued that the
economic benefits to government of universal child care programs are too great to ignore. A national child care plan will cost less than the child tax benefit and incomesplitting scheme announced by the Harper Conservatives, which will not create a single new child care spot. In contrast to the Conservatives, said federal Opposition leader Thomas Mulcair, the New Democrats’ $15-a-day child care plan would create one million new child care spots. “The solutions are there, the reasoning is there, the support and economics are there,” said B.C. delegate and CUPE 1936 President Michael Lanier. “It is time for serious action to make this the reality we all want.”
City workers grateful for support CASTLEGAR As Public Employee went to press, Castlegar civic workers remained on the picket line in their first-ever strike. The 34 members of CUPE 2262 hit the bricks after mediated talks failed. The outstanding issues were the need for a clear definition of bargaining unit work and the ability to properly represent members through union book-off. CUPE 2262 president Leford Lafayette said it’s difficult to convey what the support of
community members has meant to those on the line. “Every time you honk your horn, stop by for a chat or drop off donations, it strengthens our resolve,” he said. The union has been pushing for the mayor and council to show leadership and take up the local’s invitation to settle this dispute. “Their job includes ensuring that the qualified professional city workers are on the job keeping our streets and community clean and safe,” said Lafayette.
UNBOWED CUPE 2262 members walk the line in their first strike in 60 years - warmed by strong community support. WINTER 2015
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NEWSBRIEFS K-12 AGREEMENTS ALL RATIFIED
CONVERGENCE CUPE members from across Canada found much common ground between the sectors.
NATIONAL SECTOR CONFERENCE A FIRST TORONTO CUPE’s first national sector council conference in October offered a unique chance for 1,200 members and staff to connect in 11 sector meetings and a variety of plenary sessions. National President Paul Moist opened the conference saying that the time was right to come together, given tough rounds of bargaining and unprecedented attacks on union rights. National Secretary-Treasurer Charles Fleury led a packed session on the Unite for Fairness project and bargaining. Members and activists shared stories and insights in a plenary session on protecting pensions while another session on “Raising the Floor” focused on resisting downward pressures on working conditions. In sector meetings, members listened, learned, strategized and identified common priorities like mobilizing grassroots members and electing progressive governments. Conference keynote speakers were Lee Saunders, from CUPE’s sister union AFSCME in the United States, and Betsey Hoover, US President Barack Obama’s 2012 director of digital organizing.
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Conference reports will go to locals and feedback will be sought in an online survey.
OKANAGAN REGIONAL LIBRARY FACES CUTS KELOWNA The Okanagan Regional Library (ORL) is proposing significant cuts to staff hours in its library branches. CUPE 1123, representing workers in the ORL, says that cuts in many communities would limit library and other services, reduce library opening hours, and result in more one-person operations in smaller branches, raising serious safety concerns for staff working alone. Given the lack of community discussion of the proposed cuts prior to the October public announcement, CUPE is encouraging library users to make sure their voices are heard by municipal councils, who are the major library funders.
LOCAL NETWORK CUPE 825 President Raman Braich, Burnaby-Deer Lake MLA Kathy Corrigan, CUPE BC Secretary-Treasurer Paul Faoro, and Port Moody Mayor Mike Clay enjoy the CUPE BC reception during the Union of BC Municipalities convention in late September.
All 57 CUPE K-12 locals reached and ratified their collective agreements by the November 30 deadline. “We’re pleased that all locals were able to conclude local bargaining issues by the deadline,” said K-12 Presidents’ Council chair Marcel Marsolais. “Locals can now focus on and look forward to the gains we achieved in this round of bargaining.” The Support Staff Education Adjustment Committee (SSEAC), with CUPE regional representation, other support staff unions and the employer, will jointly ensure that funds are disbursed in accordance with the provincial framework agreement. This includes negotiated items such as the Support Staff Learning Improvement Fund, Education Assistants’ Committee, benefit standardization, and job evaluation that will be implemented during the five-year term.
BARGAINING BEGINS IN POST-SECONDARY Bargaining tables at UBC and UVic have begun negotiations, with the rest of the university sector locals expected to open talks early in the New Year. Locals are asking CUPE members to support their efforts by
e u g i t Fa LS
KIL
ENOUGH’S ENOUGH As Public Employee went to press, CUPE 7000 members working for Southern Railway were facing the potential of a protracted labour dispute over several issues, including contracting out, job security, and overtime effects on health and safety. The members raised awareness with a new campaign button and hat.
visiting universitieswork.ca (Stop the Cuts tab) to send a letter to Minister of Advanced Education Amrik Virk telling him to restore post-secondary funding. The Colleges and Support Staff Bargaining Association, covering most CUPE college locals, reached a five-year template agreement in November that includes a 5.5-percent increase over five years and improvements to the drug formulary program. Locals now have the opportunity to address their individual issues at their local tables.
CUPEFOCUS COMMUNITY PARAMEDICINE
A fresh look at emergency response CUPE 873 PLAN SEES NEW ROLE FOR AMBULANCE PARAMEDICS RICHMOND During the Union of BC Municipalities convention last fall, the Ambulance Paramedics of BC (CUPE 873) launched the Local's highly anticipated framework document for implementing community paramedic programs in British Columbia — a plan aimed at making the best use of one of the largest ambulance services in the world. Community paramedicine (CP) is an innovative approach to the delivery of health care services by paramedics that allows them to use their training and expertise in community-based, nonemergency care roles. CP programs have been successfully implemented in other provinces and in countries such as the U.S., UK, New Zealand and Australia. In Ontario, there are more than 48 CP programs in operation; in 2014 the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care announced the allocation of $6 million to support the expansion of such programs.
STRONGER SERVICE CUPE 873’s paramedicine plan would make better use of B.C.’s existing emergency response service while establishing ambulance paramedics as a key part of the health care system.
An evolving system Although B.C.’s health care system is one of the best in Canada, a number of issues have arisen in recent years that require innovative solutions. Many of our larger communities are facing serious paramedic response time delays and emergency department overcrowding, as a result of population increase that has outstripped SMALLER AND RURAL available ambulance COMMUNITIES ARE FACING services. Metropolitan SERIOUS PARAMEDIC communities have also RECRUITMENT AND seen a sharp increase RETENTION PROBLEMS in ambulance call volumes, in part due to residents who don’t need emergency medical care but find it difficult to access more appropriate health care services. Smaller and rural communities are facing serious paramedic recruitment and retention problems, as low emergency call volumes make it difficult to justify the expense of full-time paramedic staffing. The withdrawal of locally-funded training has resulted in a steep decline in the number of paramedic applicants for rural communities and thus critical staffing shortages across the province, which leaves many communities facing long periods of time with reduced or no ambulance service.
Locally specific solutions In this time of fiscal health restraints where human and financial resources are stretched to the limit, innovative designs must be considered for the delivery of rural and urban health care. No two communities have the same ambulance and health care needs, so solutions must be found that are individually tailored. B.C.’s paramedics are a key part of the province’s health care system, and can be part of the solution to address its health care challenges. For a number of years, APBC’s strategic priority has been the implementation of CP programs in B.C. For new programs such as these to be successful, however, they need the support and involvement of all stakeholders. To help achieve that support, CUPE 873 engaged consultants to research and write a foundation document (see www.apbc.ca/files/3814/0916/4457/APBC_Community_ Paramedicine_Framework.pdf) that explains the full spectrum of CP programs and how they can fit into the B.C. health care landscape. As strong patient advocates and the professional voice of paramedics in B.C., APBC is excited to be part of the solution to B.C.’s health care challenges. CUPE 873 looks forward to working with the BC Ministry of Health and health care partners in pursuing the community paramedicine approach to provide better health care to all B.C. residents. To read more about how Community Paramedicine programs can benefit B.C.’s rural and metro communities, visit: www.apbc.ca/ news/cp/.
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LINKINGLABOUR
ROBIN JONES, REGIONAL DIRECTOR
“If what you’re thinking of Tweeting or posting to Facebook violates your workplace’s anti-bullying and harassment policies — or CUPE’s Equality Statement — then you should not be pressing 'Send'.”
The social media trap 'OVERSHARING' WHILE AT WORK IS NOT WORTH RISKING YOUR JOB Given the increasing popularity of social media platforms over the past seven or eight years, it should come as no surprise that more employers are introducing computer-use protocols that specifically address social media. What is surprising is that, despite this, many workers continue to be victimized by a ‘TMI’ (Too Much Information) approach to social media. Workers are routinely disciplined, or even fired, for ill-advised ‘Tweets,’ for something offensive posted on their Facebook page, or for inappropriate YouTube videos of themselves that they or others have posted. Sometimes, the post is seen as a problem because it’s obscene or otherwise compromises the employee’s reputation or professional image. But more often, the problem is that the post causes harm to co-workers or the employer. One noteworthy Labour Board decision involved an employee at a car dealership who forgot that his boss was a Facebook ‘friend.’ The worker got fired after being critical of him on FB during an organizing drive. CUPE, too, has seen members disciplined for online “oversharing,” but only the most extreme cases tend to go to arbitration.
Off-duty time is no defense In 2010, an Ontario decision upheld the firing of a hospital worker who had taken photos of a suicide scene — a mental patient had jumped from his hospital room window — and posted them on Facebook. Sometimes, the worker gets tripped up by a lack of awareness around confidentiality issues. In 2009, a residential care worker in B.C. received a verbal reprimand after breaching confidentiality by posting pictures of clients on Facebook. There can also be a mistaken assumption that what you post during off-work hours should let you off the hook. It doesn’t: if something you have posted while off duty has a negative impact on the employer’s reputation — see the car dealership example above — chances are that an arbitrator will rule against you. (Of course, if you don’t include where you work on your Facebook profile, then your employer will have more difficulty establishing a legitimate business interest in what you say on Facebook on your own time.)
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WELCOME, SISTER! CUPE’s new assistant regional director for B.C., Meena Brisard, looks forward to a busy 2015. Brisard, who comes from a strong servicing and organizing background, assumed her position in November. See page three.
Nothing is private Assumptions can get us all into a world of trouble, but here are a few you can take to the bank: • If you’re going to put something out there on social media, assume that the content is public and can be seen by almost anyone — regardless of your privacy or security settings. Once you post something you lose all control of it, so don’t put anything out there that you wouldn’t want the whole world to see. This is really just common sense. • Assume that most information circulated amongst employees will eventually find its way to the employer. Obviously, Facebook “friends” are not as loyal as actual friends, and a juicy piece of gossip or otherwise inappropriate comment can be awfully hard not to share. Why risk your job with an indiscreet moment? • Assume that, if what you’re thinking of Tweeting or posting to Facebook violates your workplace’s anti-bullying and harassment policies (or CUPE’s Equality Statement), then you should not be pressing “Send.” If you have any lingering uncertainty about your own TMI tendencies, it’s always a good idea to seek advice from your national representative. We are in the process of putting together educational materials that will be available to rank and file CUPE members to help ensure that all members know the acceptable boundaries. Better safe than sorry, right? MORE ONLINE www.cupe.bc.ca + News +
Commentary + Leaders’ voices
CUPEFOCUS BC FED CONVENTION
BIG TURNOUT CUPE’s delegation at the 2014 BC Federation of Labour convention was the largest in the union’s history.
BC Federation of Labour turns a new page CLOSE LEADERSHIP CONTEST HIGHLIGHTED NEED FOR PROGRESSIVE CHANGE VANCOUVER The 56th BC Federation of Labour convention (November 24-28), the largest in Federation history, resulted in the election of President Irene Lanzinger and new Secretary-Treasurer Aaron Ekman. “CUPE BC supported Brother Ekman for secretary-treasurer, and while we supported his running mate, Amber Hockin, for president, Lanzinger we congratulate Sister Lanzinger on her victory,” said CUPE BC President Mark Hancock. “As Amber said throughout her campaign, regardless of the outcome of this hotly contested election, the labour movement in B.C. will come together as one and take on the right-wing conservative governments that are opposed to our very existence. “Only by working together can we truly make real gains on behalf of all working people in the province.” One of the more significant CUPE BC resolutions passed at convention, targeted especially at the upcoming federal election, was a call to oppose strategic voting and re-affirm the labour movement’s support for the NDP.
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FEATURE
CIVIC ELECTIONS
CIVIC ACTIVISM PAYS OFF Union campaign helps elect progressive candidates throughout B.C. BURNABY Thanks to increased voter turnout in the November 15 local government elections, CUPE’s more than 50,000 members working for municipalities, school boards and regional districts can now look forward — in many cases — to four-year administrations by local elected officials determined to protect and enhance public services and defend public education. “Congratulations to all Locals who took an active role in this campaign,” CUPE BC President Mark Hancock said, summing up the Union’s successful political action campaign. “From small towns to big cities, CUPE members made a positive impact that will help build stronger communities across B.C.” CUPE Locals’ political action committees and executives began work early last year to develop processes for questioning, interviewing, vetting, and finally recommending candidates to all CUPE members in their respective communities. More than 200 CUPE-endorsed candidates were successful on Election Day.
Unprecedented outreach “We know that, in at-large local elections, voters are faced with long ballots with many choices,” said Hancock. “Members benefitted from CUPE Locals’ taking the time to
SHAKING THINGS UP Labour endorsed candidate Ben Isitt (2nd left), seen here with CUPE 50 president John Burrows and flanked by CUPE BC’s Paul Faoro and Mark Hancock, was re-elected to Victoria council. separate the wheat from the chaff, and advise who would be the best option for voters.” In informing workers, CUPE BC helped facilitate an expansive communications endeavour that reached out to members by mail, e-mail, and phone. Many Locals’ member-to-member work also involved worksite visits as well as door-to-door canvassing and get-out-the-vote mobilization.
"I'M PROUD THAT CUPE BC AND CUPE LOCALS GET ACTIVE POLITICALLY AND WORK TO ADVANCE PROGRESSIVE CHANGE." MARK HANCOCK, CUPE BC PRESIDENT “The results are clear,” said CUPE BC Secretary Treasurer Paul Faoro. “Progressive governments were re-elected in every region including Vancouver, Burnaby, Cranbrook, Salmon Arm, and Prince Rupert. And candidates campaigning for better public services and schools broke through in Prince George, New Westminster, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Powell River, Parksville, Castlegar, Kelowna, Langley, and dozens of other communities.” DOUBLE VISION Although twin brother David Mossman (left) was unsuccessful in his bid for a Kelowna city council seat, CUPE BC Alternate Regional VicePresident Lee Mossman did win a seat on the Central Okanagan School Board.
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FEATURE
CIVIC ELECTIONS
WELCOME TO ‘CUPE COUNTRY’
Albrecht
Many CUPE members were successful on November 15, including CUPE BC Executive Board members Paul Albrecht and Lee Mossman. Albrecht, regional vice-president for the Fraser Valley, is a newly elected councillor for the City of Langley, while Mossman, alternate regional vice-president for the Okanagan, is a newly elected trustee to the Central Okanagan School Board in Kelowna.
Other CUPE members, retirees and staff successful in the BC Local Government elections:
■ Local 382 member Denise Riley won re-election to the Sooke School Board;
■ Local 873’s Darrell Mussatto won re-election as Mayor of the City of North Vancouver;
■ First time candidate Lisa Beare of Local 4078 won a seat on the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows School Board, while Kiersten Duncan of Local 498 won a seat on Maple Ridge Council;
■ Colleen Jordan was re-elected to Burnaby city council (along with Mayor Derek Corrigan and all Burnaby Citizens Association candidates); ■ CUPE retirees Laurie Larsen and Terry Allen won re-election to the Surrey School Board; ■ CUPE staff representative Kirk Oates won a seat on Parksville City Council;
■ Local 498’s David Murray won re-election to council in Pitt Meadows;
NEW VOICE Newly elected Lisa Beare will defend public education on the Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows school board. Westminster along with Local 718 member Patrick Johnstone. And Local 23 member James Janzen was elected to New Westminster School Board; ■ Local 873’s Robert Southcott was elected in Powell River, now part of a new progressive majority council;
■ Local 593 member Danny Plecas was elected to council in Mission;
■ Retired Local 2262 member Bruno Tassome topped the polls as a newly elected councillor in Castlegar;
■ Former CUPE staff representative Bill Harper won re-election to council in New
■ Local 1767 member Tim Morrison won a seat on the Township of Esquimalt’s council;
Targeting the privateers Member mobilization in Prince George was especially intense as members of CUPE Locals 399 and 1048 struggled against a conservative council. During its last threeyear term, Prince George engaged in a reckless Core Service Review that pushed community asset sell-offs, privatization, service cuts and contracting out. Moreover, members battled the Employer at the bargaining table and were forced to a picket line right before Christmas of 2013. “Things had to change,” said Janet Bigelow, president of CUPE 1048 representing Prince George inside workers. “CUPE worked with the North Central Labour Council to put forward the best candidates and then actively worked to get them elected.”
All candidates for Mayor and Council recommended by CUPE and the NCLC were successful, defeating two long-time conservative incumbents and forming a new, strong, progressive majority government in Prince George. “I’m proud that CUPE BC and CUPE Locals get active politically and work to advance progressive change,” said Hancock. “We are a force to be reckoned with. When politicians go after our members and threaten our work, it is going to get them fired on Election Day.”
■ Local 105 member James Horne won a spot on the Prince Rupert School Board; ■ CUPE retiree Alice Lutes was re-elected to Sechelt Council; ■ Tom Stringfellow of Local 873 was re-elected to council for the District of Houston; ■ Local 173’s Alfie Trill was elected to Ashcroft village council; and ■ Local 873’s Tabatha Webber won a seat on the council for the Village of Fruitvale.
STRONG SUPPORT CUPE 1004’s Frank Lee and Vision Vancouver’s Heather Deal.
On to the federal campaign With the success of the local election campaigns, CUPE BC can now turn its attention to analysing the results and endeavouring to expand on what worked best in order to mobilize members to vote in the federal election later this year.
“Stephen Harper is next,” added Hancock. “CUPE is campaigning now to elect Tom Mulcair as the next prime minister of Canada, and will support NDP candidates in every single riding across the country.”
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CUPECOMMUNITIES MEMBERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
PHS lives to see another day CUPE BC CAMPAIGN TO PROMOTE VITAL SERVICE
KICK START FOR ART CUPE BC’s support for the Fine Line Project from Kickstart Disability Arts & Culture made a difference this year. The project included readings, artist talks, music, lantern making, screen writing, hip hop, and expressive arts. The focus was on the many fine lines in disability art, including art that heals and art that is therapy, and the line between individual and collective creation. Audiences were excited about the variety of programming Kickstart was able to offer, and discussion was always lively. Kickstart Artistic Director Emma Kivisild said that financial support from CUPE BC and others was essential to the project’s success.
VANCOUVER Previous issues of Public Employee have featured information on the important work that CUPE 1004 members do at the Portland Hotel Society, which provides vital housing and addiction services to vulnerable residents of the Downtown Eastside (DTES). Last year, when the provincial government took direct control of the formerly independent service provider, Local 1004 members took CUPE BC President Mark Hancock and Secretary-Treasurer Paul Faoro on a tour of PHS operations and facilities. That tour showed Hancock and Faoro how innovative and effective the PHS’s integrated approach to housing really is while demonstrating the importance of maintaining the organization’s independence from the rest of government. “We will be working with Local 1004 over the coming weeks and months to implement a campaign to ensure the PHS retains both its independence and its service delivery model,” said Hancock. “We’ll be
fighting hard, not just for our members’ jobs but for the incredible range of services they’re able to provide, making life just a little bit less difficult for the women and men Goble who’ve found themselves battling addiction, poverty and often mental illnesses while homeless.” The PHS campaign will include a new video about the services CUPE members deliver in the DTES, shot and produced by Local 1004 member Colin Askey, as well as a wide range of promotional and lobbying efforts. The campaign will start rolling out in the New Year. On a sad note, CUPE BC extends condolences to all PHS workers and everyone who worked with or knew Brian Goble, a longtime staffer at the PHS, who died suddenly at his desk in early December. Brother Goble was perhaps better known as “Wimpy Roy,” the bass player in legendary Vancouver punk bands the Subhumans and D.O.A.
New life for a banned film PRO LABOUR “SALT OF THE EARTH” BACK IN THEATRE AFTER 60 YEARS CASTLEGAR CUPE’s Kootenay District Council was part of a unique cultural and historical event on November 16: the KDC co-sponsored the screening of a film at the Castle Theatre first shown there 60 years ago but blacklisted shortly afterward by a U.S. government hostile to its left-wing politics. “Salt of the Earth,” a low budget 1954 film about a mining strike in New Mexico, follows the story of Mexican-American workers at the Empire Zinc mine and their protest against unsafe work conditions and unequal wages compared to their Anglo counter-
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THE PUBLIC EMPLOYEE
parts. The film was banned as subversive shortly after its release. The 200-seat theatre was nearly filled for the screening, mostly with members of various unions. Many in the audience were moved by the courage of the women who fought back against their employer. “I have never in my life been more proud to be a woman trade unionist than I am at this moment,” KDC president Cheryl MacLeod said after the screening. Labour historian and documentarian Ron Verzuh, a former director of Communications for CUPE National, was on hand for the screening. “Remembering Salt”, a short historical video by Verzuh to be released this year, recalls events of the 1950s that inspired the showing of “Salt of the Earth” at the Castle Theatre in 1954.
DEJA VU This year’s screening was a poignant event for those who recalled their first viewing of the film in 1954.
CUPECOMMUNITIES MEMBERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
WORD HAS IT… CUPE 391 (Vancouver, Gibsons and Sechelt Public Library Workers) was once again front and centre at the main Sunday event for Word Vancouver, Western Canada’s largest celebration of literacy and reading (formerly known as “Word on the Street”). Reading at the CUPE 391 tent on September 28 was Vancouver author Brett Josef Grubisic.
FRESH SHEET This Zamboni ad, seen at Abbotsford's MSA Arena, is one example from a CUPE 774 (City of Abbotsford workers) community awareness campaign.
COMMUNITY PRIDE CUPE BC Secretary-Treasurer Paul Faoro (front centre) joined a capacity crowd at Carnegie Community Centre for the 2014 Hope in Shadows awards ceremony.
Local empowerment in the DTES VANCOUVER With the launch of its 2015 calendar at a packed awards ceremony in October, the Pivot Legal Society (PLS) celebrated the twelfth anniversary of its Hope in Shadows project to a chorus of praise from community leaders and union sponsors, including CUPE BC. Hope in Shadows is a community-based photo contest and calendar project for lowincome residents of Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside (DTES). By using photography as a vehicle for people living in poverty to share their stories and represent their community on their own terms, the project reinforces the power of stories to create connection and transform lives. At the ceremony, held before a packed meeting room at the Carnegie Centre, 38
awards were handed out, including for photos adorning next year’s calendar. CUPE BC Secretary-Treasurer Paul Faoro, presenting two jury awards, praised Hope in Shadows as a vital source of local empowerment. “Projects like this take pride in our community while truly helping people,” he said. “So we have been pleased to be strong supporters of this project, and all the other work that Pivot does throughout the province, and we are proud to continue that support.” CUPE BC provides support for PLS projects through the Colleen Jordan Humanity Fund. For more information about the 2015 calendar, visit www.hopeinshadows.com.
FUN LEARNING CUPE BC’s Young Workers Task Force held a union educational and social event on November 2 in conjunction with Vancouver Theatresports. With “Alive After Five,” an occupational health and safety initiative of the BC Federation of Labour, participants learned valuable skills in facilitation and leadership on occupational health and safety rights. CUPE 389’s Aaron Young and CUPE 728’s Cassandra Sahay helped organize the event. WINTER 2015
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POWERINNUMBERS PAUL FAORO, SECRETARY-TREASURER “When we take the time to talk about politics in our workplaces … we build a greater level of activism amongst our members.”
Solidarity works! IN B.C., A RECORD NUMBER OF PROGRESSIVES ELECTED A big thank you to every CUPE Local and every CUPE member that participated in our local election member-to-member campaign! Our collective efforts helped elect a record number of progressive candidates to local government and school boards across B.C. on November 15. It was especially gratifying to see the election results in communities like Prince George. During the last local election, our Locals in Prince George weren’t as active in the campaign as they could have been, and one of the results was the election of a right-wing conservative mayor and council. Another result was that, thanks to the same mayor’s antiunion, anti-public service, ideological approach to governing, nearly a half million dollars of taxpayers’ money was wasted on a so-called “core services review,” thus forcing our members out on strike.
Early organizing the key This time, our members in Prince George got politically active well in advance of Election Day. There were training courses and membership surveys, and there was an unprecedented level of cooperation and coordination with other unions in the community. The result this time was a near sweep of mayor, council and school board seats for progressive candidates. That, sisters and brothers, is why political action is so very important to our members, our union, and our labour movement. When we actually take the time to talk about politics in our workplaces, and engage one another in dialogue, we build a greater level of activism amongst our members. And that can only strengthen our union and our ability to protect our gains and fight for what’s right for our communities. While Prince George ranks as the most dramatic turnaround from right-wing to progressive government, there were many
TIME FOR CHANGE Paul Faoro (left) and CUPE 1048 president Janet Bigelow (third from right), appeared during the campaign with CUPE-endorsed candidates for Prince George council, from left: Terri McConnachie (new), Frank Everitt, Jillian Merrick (new), and Murray Krause. All four candidates won on November 15. other success stories around the province. That said, along with the positive results for many communities across B.C., the outcome in Surrey wasn’t what we had hoped for despite the re-election to school board of CUPE retirees Laurie Larsen and Terry Allen. And in Vancouver, while Vision Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson was re-elected with a majority on Council, the right-wing NPA was able to take control of the Parks Board. Unfortunately, with the assistance of a newly-elected Green Party school trustee, the NPA also managed to gain control of the School Board despite incumbent chair Patti Bacchus receiving more votes than any other candidate. With the Green trustee's vote, they dumped Bacchus as chair in favour of an NPA trustee who barely squeaked in on November 15 and has no record of support for public education.
Turning to Ottawa... On balance, the results of the election tell us that our efforts and dedication of resources paid off, but they also show us we have much more work yet to do. As we approach the federal election this year, we’ll be ramping up again to encourage more CUPE members to get out and vote so that we can defeat the Harper Conservatives and elect Tom Mulcair as the first NDP prime minister. Again, many thanks to all the activists who contributed so much of their time and energy to stand up for our communities. Your work truly has made a difference. MORE ONLINE www.cupe.bc.ca + News +
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TEL 604.291.9119 FAX 604.291.9043 EMAIL editor@cupe.bc.ca CUPE BC PRESIDENT Mark Hancock SECRETARY-TREASURER Paul Faoro THE PUBLIC EMPLOYEE EDITOR Dan Gawthrop
CONTRIBUTORS Nathan Allen, Murray Bush, Roseanne Moran, Clay Suddaby, Janet Szliske
COVER PHOTO Josh Berson
Paul Albrecht, Lisa Beare, Josh Berson, CUPE 873, Brett Josef Grubisic, John Hall, Michael Lanier, Carlo Sia, Ron Verzuh DESIGN AND LAYOUT Working Design OTHER PHOTOS
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POWERFUL LEARNING, AT ITS BEST!
CUPE SPRING
WEEK-LONG
SCHOOL For the first time in its three decades-long tradition, this year’s CUPE week-long school is being held in the heart of B.C.’s Interior. CUPE Spring Week-long School Coast Kamloops Conference and Convention Centre
May 31-June 5 Book now to expand your horizons and sharpen your activist tools. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT CUPE Education representative Greg Burkitt at 604-291-1940 or send him an e-mail at gburkitt@cupe.ca
THIS YEAR’S WORKSHOPS CUPE and human rights NEW! Financial Officers Facing Management Introduction to Stewarding and four Steward Learning Series modules Advanced Occupational Health and Safety
March 20 - March 22, 2015
Check out the sneak preview at
Full program available early February
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