Checkout August 2011

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LOCAL 175 Shawn Haggerty, President; Teresa Magee, Secretary-Treasurer; Betty Pardy, Recorder; Ray Bromley, Al McLean, Scott Penner, Harry Sutton – Executive Assistants

LOCAL 633 Dan Bondy, President; Marylou Mallett, Secretary-Treasurer; Neil Hotchkiss, Recorder

DIRECTORSRob Armbruster, Paul Jokhu

BEnEfITS Orsola Augurusa, Sherree Backus, Laurie Duncan, Joanne Ford, Joanne Harrow, Georgina MacDonald – Benefits Representatives

COmmunICATIOnS Jennifer Tunney - Senior Communications Representative; Emily Groom, Amanda Pereira - Communications Representatives; Meemee Seto - Servicing Representative

HEALTH & SAfETy Janice Klenot - Senior Health & Safety Representative

LEgAL Fernando Reis - Co-ordinator; Michael Hancock, Rebecca Woodrow - Senior Legal Counsel; Marcia Barry, Simran Prihar, Erin Wallace, Natalie Wiley - Legal Counsel

ORgAnIzIng Rick Wauhkonen - Organizing Co-ordinator; Ron McGuire, Tony Nigro, Arlene Robertson, Amy Tran - Organizing Representatives; Mike Mattioli, Joe Pereira - Organizing Apprentices

TRAInIng & EDuCATIOn Kelly Nicholas - Co-ordinator; Ashleigh Garner - Education Representative

REgIOn 1 Dan Lacroix - Regional Director; Colby Flank, Dean McLaren - Union Representatives

REgIOn 2 Kelly Tosato - Regional Director; Jehan Ahamed, Mona Bailey, John DiFalco, John Di Nardo, Linval Dixon, Rob Nicholas, Mark Stockton, Chris Watson, Dave White - Union Representatives

REgIOn 3 Dan Lacroix - Regional Director; Simon Baker, Chris Fuller, Paul Hardwick, Marilyn Lang, Daniel Mercier - Union Representatives; Jacques Niquet - Servicing Representative

REgIOn 4 Sylvia Groom - Regional Director; Rick Hogue, Union Representative; Virginia Haggith, Jason Hanley, Casey Magee, Roy Reed, Brenda Simmons - Servicing Representatives

REgIOn 5 Jim McLean - Regional Director; Lee Johnson-Koehn - Servicing Representative; Bob Kearney, Brad Morrison, Mario Tardelli - Union Representatives

REgIOn 6 Luc Lacelle - Regional Director; Wendy Absolom, Sam Caetano, Matt Davenport, Tim Deelstra, Joe De Melo, Anthony Di Maio, Kevin Dowling, Angela Mattioli - Union Representatives

REgIOn 7 Barry Sawyer - Regional Director; Sharon Kempf, Diane Sanvido, Steve Springall - Union Representatives

ISSn no. 1703-3926CHECKOUT is an official publication of Locals 175 & 633 of the United Food& Commercial Workers (UFCW)

PROVInCIAL HEAD OffICE2200 ARGENTIA ROAD

MISSISSAUGA, ON L5N 2K7TEL: 905-821-8329

TOLL FREE: 1-800-565-8329FAX: 905-821-7144

OTTAWA OFFICE20 HAMILTON AVENUE N.OTTAWA, ON K1Y 1B6

TEL: 613-725-2154 TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-5295

FAX: 613-725-2328

KITCHEnER OffICE124 SYDNEY STREET S.

KITCHENER, ON N2G 3V2TEL: 519-744-5231

TOLL FREE: 1-800-265-6345FAX: 519-744-8357

THunDER BAy OffICE21-929 FORT WILLIAM RD

THUNDER BAY, ON P7B 3A6TEL: 807-346-4227

TOLL FREE: 1-800-465-6932FAX: 807-346-4055

CEP 571-02

contents

®

President’s Message PAGE 3Secretary-Treasurer’s Message PAGE 4Bylaw & Policy Conference PAGE 5Why Buy Canadian? PAGE 9Political Action Committee PAGE 10Workplace Feature: CHCs PAGE 12Health Care Conference PAGE 14Negotiations PAGE 15Arbitration Update PAGE 16Community Action Network PAGE 17Fundraising PAGE 18Health & Safety Update: Bill 160 PAGE 19

HAmILTOn OffICE412 RENNIE STREET

HAMILTON, ON L8H 3P5TEL: 905-545-8354

TOLL FREE: 1-800-567-2125FAX: 905-545-8355

CAmBRIDgE OffICE6628 ELLIS ROAD,

CAMBRIDGE, ON N3C 2V4TEL: 519-658-0252

TOLL FREE: 1-800-267-1977FAX: 519-658-0255

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August 2011

President’s Message

Our Union, the United Food & Commercial Workers Locals 175 & 633 has constantly grown over the years thanks to our appreciation of our rich and dynamic history, its lessons and victories. From a small group of cashiers, meat cutters and food handlers, our Local Union has expanded to more than 60,000 members strong over the last few decades. Our predecessors saw the necessity to continually organize the unorganized in Ontario and across our great country. They saw the necessity to merge with various Locals over the years, strengthening our bargaining power and creating more resources so we can better serve our dedicated membership. We have learned from these important lessons as we continue their work to build our collective power.

In August 2011, we can mark another historic occasion for our great Union. With great pleasure we welcome our newest members. After a successful membership-wide vote in June, UFCW Local 1977 and its 10,000 members are merging with Locals 175 & 633. That makes us 60,000 members strong and still the largest private sector Local Union in Canada.

What does this do for our Local and its membership? With increasing attacks against workers in the form of concessions, layoffs and closures, a larger membership means we as a Local Union have more power at the bargaining table and more weight behind our demands. Each member is strengthened by each

new membership expansion. That is one of the main reasons why Unions can win higher wages, benefits, and health and safety standards than an individual worker can. For workers the bigger our numbers, the greater our power. Ultimately, we are a larger force to be reckoned with. For example, Locals 175 & 633 now have 15,000 members who work at Loblaws. When negotiations come up, we will have a stronger, more unified presence at the table.

Another benefit of the merger is the new regional setup and servicing structure. This will allow a more focused approach to servicing our core retail sector – Loblaws, Pharma Plus, Rexall, Metro and Food Basics. With the improvement of our servicing structure and the streamlining of our operations, we will be able to increase servicing frequency and enhance the quality of our interactions with all our members. Also, with the increase of Servicing and Union Representatives, more resources are available to our strong manufacturing and non-retail industry base.

With this merger, our fierce organizing team will grow and be able to take on even greater campaigns. This will allow for more focused organizing in our core sectors and ultimately increase our sector density, which again gives us more power and greater strength to achieve superior contracts.

You may have noticed the regional name changes listed on the previous page. Before this merger, our regions were carved out based on geographic location, such as North West and South Central. Because of the increase in membership and broader land mass to cover, an extra region has been added and regions are now numbered 1 through 7. This also means some Directors, Union and Servicing Reps, and offices have been moved to best represent our membership. If you have any questions, talk to your Rep or call your Union office for more information.

This merger is another important piece of UFCW Locals 175 & 633’s rich history. I would like to congratulate every member of Locals 175 & 633 and 1977 for taking this monumental step, and welcome our Local 1977 brothers and sisters to our ranks. I look forward to meeting our new members and to what the future has in store for all 60,000 of us.

In Solidarity,Shawn Haggerty

HISTORIC MERGERLocals 175 & 633 with Local 1977

1977 President Scott Penner with President Haggerty at the Cambridge office

President’s Message Secretary-Treasurer’s Message Bylaw & Policy Conference Why Buy Canadian? Political Action Committee Workplace Feature: CHCs Health Care Conference Negotiations Arbitration Update Community Action Network Fundraising Health & Safety Update: Bill 160

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Secretary-treasurer’s message

Lifestyle & Wellness

The health and safety of our members has always been a priority for your Union. Safety measures in the workplace often deal with identifying the hazards of performing job tasks, but overall health entails much more.

Your Union has decided to expand our focus to include issues of lifestyle and wellness outside of the workplace. This means we would like to provide information and resources on your overall health and preventative measures in terms of health issues.

Why? Many of the most significant health problems that our members experience are outside of the workplace. For instance, members may discuss nutrition, health screenings, addictions and more with each other and their Stewards. As a Union that is committed to member support and service, we want to have the tools to assist members with these issues.

For example, as we approach the Fall season, many members take part in the various cancer runs that are held across Ontario. Breast Cancer is one of the leading causes of disease for women. Almost everyone has someone in their lives that has been touched by this disease. Medical screenings are a simple and effective tool for reducing the mortality rate for those at risk. As more people learn about the benefit of early screening, more lives are saved.

Obesity is another issue. With fad diets and trendy cookbooks, it can be difficult to know how to eat healthy. Obesity is a major health issue in Canada, despite the fact that it is for the most part preventable. Obesity can lead to a number of diseases, including diabetes and hypertension. Statistics show that obesity is on the rise in Canada in both children and adults. In the past, obesity

was solely associated with one’s activity level, but there is now research that shows economic, environmental, social and psychological factors all contribute to obesity.

A large part of wellness is prevention. Eating right, staying fit and leading a healthy lifestyle can reduce the likelihood that you will suffer certain illnesses. Many times people only become educated about issues of health when it has already affected them or someone they know. Learning about your health risks and the preventative measures you can take now could be a life saver in the future.

Issues such as those listed above are significant in the lives of many members of the Union. We are in the process of developing a series of articles and a training course on wellness. Stay tuned!

In Solidarity,Teresa Magee

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August 2011

Bylaw & Policy Conference 2011

On Saturday, May 14, 2011, almost 400 Stewards attended the 2011 Bylaw & Policy Conference. The biennial event allows delegates from various workplaces to hear from guest speakers and our Executive Officers. President Haggerty opened his remarks by stating the Local’s main focus: “Our top priorities have been providing the best possible representation of workers in Ontario through superior Collective Agreements and expedited problem resolution.” He discussed how the Local has emphasized strong servicing for all units and the negotiating of favourable working conditions, benefits and improved wages into every contract. It has been a busy two years for our members and staff. Since the last conference, over 33,000 workers renewed their collective agreements. President Haggerty spoke on striving to obtain more than the employer is willing to provide during negotiations. “We negotiate for our members’ expectations. By using this approach, we will always achieve a better result.”

In the past two years 14,449 grievances were filed, of which only 2,075 were outstanding on January 1, 2011. Those statistics do not account for the complaints and issues settled by Stewards every day. President Haggerty acknowledged the impact and contributions of the Stewards. “I think you would agree that a lot of hard work by you, the Stewards, working alongside your Union Representative has paid off and our members are better off as a result of your efforts. I would challenge any other Union to meet this type of quality servicing for their membership.”

President Haggerty discussed the impact of the economic downturn on our units. Several businesses were forced to close and others experienced reduced hours or layoffs. “I am proud to say that we have and will continue to, as a Local, support these members through difficult times. They have benefited from the Locals’ retraining and adjustment programs to assist and help them move on with their lives

Biennial conference leaves Stewards confident in their Union

under these most challenging and trying times.”

The impact of the global recession is still being sharply felt in Ontario, where manufacturing jobs are leaving at an alarming rate and member pension plans are suffering greatly. The Local placed a strong focus on pensions and did everything we could to tackle the issue of underfunded plans. We fought hard at the bargaining table and were proud to save the vast majority of our member’s pension plans.

President Shawn Haggerty

level, but there is now research that

to obesity.

A large part of wellness is prevention. Eating right, staying fit and leading a healthy lifestyle can reduce the likelihood that you will suffer certain illnesses. Many times people only

when it has already affected them or someone they know. Learning about your health risks and the preventative

life saver in the future.

Issues such as those listed above are

developing a series of articles and a

In Solidarity,Teresa Magee

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There was also some exciting news to report. President Haggerty announced the merger between Local 175 and Local 1977. This will grow our Union from 50,000 members to over 60,000. Local 1977 is based in Cambridge, Ontario and has approximately 9,000 members, mostly employed at Zehrs and Loblaws. This merger will greatly benefit all members, with increased staff and access to resources in legal, servicing, communications, health & safety and more.

See the President’s message on page 3 for more information. President Haggerty ended by thanking the Stewards for their dedication. “As Stewards and leaders you consistently show the members at your units the value of being organized, by enforcing your Collective Agreements every day and providing support to these members.”

Secretary-Treasurer Teresa Magee presented the delegates with a breakdown of the Local Union’s financials. She noted that in 2009, $387, 210 was spent and in 2010, $615, 528 was spent on protecting the members rights from the time a grievance is filed through the arbitration process. “Both Shawn and I make it a priority for the Local and the representatives to make every effort to process each grievance within a certain time frame to ensure members’ concerns are resolved as quickly as possible.”

Although the economic climate has been difficult to mediate in the past few years, Secretary-Treasurer Magee pointed out that your Local Union will continue to monitor all our expenditures in order to continue to provide the best services to our members and their families. “For every dollar the Local Union has, we spend 99.1 cents on servicing the membership and associated costs of running the Union and we put .9 cents of every dollar away for the future.”

Secretary-Treasurer Teresa Magee

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resolved as quickly as possible.”

Delegates were up on their feet for a presentation by guest speaker Merelle Rodrigo, a cross-cultural communications expert. Ms. Rodrigo spoke passionately on growing up as an immigrant in Canada, how different cultures interact and the joy of finding common ground. She even got the attendees to dance during the course of her rousing lecture.

Guest speaker Merelle Rodrigo

UFCW International President Joe Hansen spoke on the impact of politics on unionizing. He showed a video on the protest by unionized workers in Wisconsin and discussed the state’s backlash against this group. Earlier this year, thousands gathered in the state’s capitol to protest the severe limiting of Trade Union rights. It sparked a national debate on unionization and footage of the heated crowd was shown all over the world. Members were both moved and disturbed by the treatment of the workers at the hands of their elected officials. President Hansen discussed the need for a worker-friendly government and passionately urged delegates to vote for a party that respects them and their work.

Local politics were also on the agenda as National President Wayne Hanley spoke on the Supreme Court’s recent decision to uphold the ban on farmers’ unions. The ban means that over 80,000 farm workers in Ontario are not legally allowed to unionize. The decision was met with shock and anger by many Canadians, who felt that farm workers should be treated like any other workers who hold the right to organize. In 1995, UFCW Local 1993 had unionized 200 workers at Highline Mushrooms in Leamington, Ontario while the Provincial government was under NDP leadership. The following year the Conservative party came to power and repealed the law. President Hanley earnestly spoke on the challenges Unions can encounter when facing a Conservative government and like his fellow speaker President Hansen, encouraged members to become informed about their political options and vote in the upcoming Provincial election.

It was a busy and informative conference. Stewards left with a great deal of news to report back to their members. President Haggerty expressed the sentiments felt by all the staff by saying, “I consider it a privilege to represent and work for you, our members each day.” The next Bylaw & Policy Conference will take place in 2013.

International President Joe Hansen

National President Wayne Hanley

QUICK FACTSCompared to the 2009 statistics, this year’s conference reported:

• 32 more workplaces

• 9% fewer outstanding grievances as of January1,2011(ofgrievancesfiledin2009 & 2010)

• 111 fewer grievances that went to arbitration

• 207 more contracts renewed

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Why shouldn’t working families go with the cheaper import to save a few dollars? Every time we buy Canadian, we directly strengthen our economy because every dollar spent at home has a ripple effect across the economy. Every dollar that goes into the Canadian economy is one more dollar to distribute within that economy to Canadians. This not only means Canadian merchandise, but also food and the food processing industry, where Locals 175 & 633 represent many members. For those who work at Pinty’s, P & H Foods, Cadbury and the like, this means buying Canadian keeps our members proudly working with good wages and benefits.

It also means more taxes and government revenues to be spent on health care and

Many workers are worried about the state of the economy today. Especially since the last recession and the job losses that hit many, strengthening the Canadian economy has been on the minds of many. There is something that each of us can do, in our day to day lives to make a difference and that is to buy Canadian.

Why buy Canadian?

other important social services that are vital for the well-being of working families. It means more job security for each and every one of us. When we buy imported products, however, that same dollar leaves the country and with it goes one more government service, one more job, one more community.

Buying Canadian means we can be confident that those products were produced in a country with high health and safety standards for the workers who made it. In that way, working families can help themselves and their fellow workers by linking our purchasing power with our commitment to a world where workers can do their job without risking their lives. Similarly, buying Canadian means we can reduce our carbon footprint, with

less transportation required than when importing products from the U.S. or from overseas. Healthier workers and healthier environments is a win-win situation for us all.

There are many more reasons to buy Canadian, from supporting fair labour practices to enhancing our communities. Each one of us can think of a reason too; a sister working in auto sector or a son working in retail. Next time you are deciding how to spend your hard-earned wages, just remember that buying Canadian may be more expensive and less convenient at times, but ultimately it means more money in our pockets and a stronger economy for all. For details on made in Canada products by UFCW members, visit www. ufcw175.com.

9

The reality is that the Canadian manufacturing base has been severely weakened, especially since the recession. With massive job losses in the manufacturing sector accompanied by plant closures and foreign take-overs, workers and the economy they depend on have both been hit hard. So in today’s precarious economy, why should we as working people choose to buy Canadian products? Seemingly, buying Canadian can be more expensive and often national products can be harder to find.

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FAMILY PLATFORM

The starting point for Hudak is his Family Platform. A new face & new slogan for the provincial Conservative campaign can’t cover up the fact that Hudak is just regurgitating the Mike Harris campaign of the 90s. Families find themselves lured in with vows of tax cuts, spending cuts & other hollow promises reminiscent of Harris.

Hudak says he’ll spare families from cuts to healthcare & education. Harris promised the same thing. But between 1996-1997, $365 million was axed from health care. One year later, $435 million was taken out of the system. During this time 6,200 nurses were fired & 10,000 hospital beds were eliminated resulting in the biggest health care provision shortages in Ontario and Canadian history. So much for sparing our families...

Hudak plans to put prisoners to work, but what about the rest of us? His job creation plan includes cuts to employer WSIB premiums. The WSIB already has a funding deficit of 47%! And injured workers are already paying the price!

Hudak announced that he will scrap an agreed-to deal between the province &

Samsung that would have created 16,000 direct & indirect jobs in the green energy sector.

Hudak + Harris Express – Taking Ontarians Back to the FutureDaily province-wide service begins October 6, 2011

PRIsOnERs’ wORk YARD

FLIP FLOP COUnTY

Flip Flop County is the next stop on the Hudak-Harris Express. A couple of years ago, Hudak vowed to replace the Human Rights Tribunal system in Ontario with a courts-based system. He has since changed his mind on this issue hoping voters will forget about it because it would be an ‘unpopular’ position in the fall vote.

What else might he change his mind on? And will it be before or after the election?

It’s no secret that Conservatives favour the priva-tization of our health care system. Working families need to consider what having Hudak in charge of our health care future means for us. Hudak plans to spend $6 billion on health care over the next four years. But this actually works out to be an increase that’s less than the rate of inflation. This amounts to less funding than the Liberals currently provide & we’re seeing cuts already because of that... what happens when our much-needed health care receives even less money under Hudak?

HEALTH CARE wAsTELAnD

WHo’S on yoUr Side? OnTaRIO ELECTIOnS 2011

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Political Action

END OF THE LINE

Hudak + Harris Express – Taking Ontarians Back to the FutureDaily province-wide service begins October 6, 2011

CUT CUT CITY

We already see Toronto Mayor Rob Ford cutting thousands of public sector jobs and services. We know what a Conservative government does to our health care and employment!

Hudak’s plan to further privatize the public sector will of course reduce those workers’ wages and working conditions. In the name of ‘reducing the size of bureaucracy’, he will in fact make it much more difficult to bargain collectively. Hudak’s aim? To restrict the rights of working people!

You’ll notice this bridge is not complete. In fact, this bridge will have to be expanded if Hudak is elected as the gap between rich and poor gets even larger.

But don’t worry. In fact Hudak plans to invest $35 billion

in infrastructure – particularly in transportation – over his first three

years in office. Please check the bus schedule though and leave extra time because there may be delays as Hudak scrambles to find the money for this investment since he’s also cutting taxes – the very taxes that help fund things like... provincial infrastructure.

REALITY BRIDGE

destruction

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workplace feature

Community Health Care Centres (CHCs) are not-for-profit organizations that provide primary health care as well as educational and preventative health promotion programs for diverse communities in our society. CHCs focus on supporting individuals and families as they take control of their health and wellness while promoting healthy living on a long-term basis. Education plays a significant role in health promotion. CHCs have a wealth of knowledge and resources when it comes to important issues such as sexual health, parenting, harm-reduction, counseling, addictions and much more. Because they see the big picture, CHCs know that building a healthy society means having programs that, for example, support youth on their journey, and families in finding housing that is affordable and appropriate. CHCs are an integral part of our health care system, providing necessary services while working to create and sustain healthy community living.

Locals 175 & 633 are proud to represent Community Health Care workers from a number of centres in the Greater Toronto Area. CHC workers are deeply dedicated to their work and focused on the needs of service users. We have members at Sherbourne Health Centre, Queen West Community Health Care (SHOUT), Breakaway Addictions, Access Alliance and Parkdale Community Health. These centres are committed to providing the best and most sustainable health care to some of the most vulnerable and marginalized communities in our society.

Sherbourne Health Centre largely focuses on supporting the health of the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer) community. They provide a wide range of client-focused, primary healthcare services that are responsive to the unique health needs of LGBTQ-identified individuals. Programs include trans health care, counseling, LGBTQ youth health and mentoring services, and LGBTQ parenting and family support.

Over 60 dedicated nurse volunteers staff the ever-popular Sherbourne Health Bus which makes weekly stops at shelters and community drop-in centres to provide on-the-spot care to low-income individuals and those experiencing homelessness. CHC workers are so committed to a vision of health and wellness for our communities that they will go out across the city to reach individuals in need of support.

Queen West offers primary medical and dental services, counseling, harm reduction and needle exchange programs, anonymous HIV testing and specialized medical services for those experiencing homelessness. Our members provide many other equally crucial programs for the community. The staff is dedicated to improving the health and quality of life of all those living in the urban core.

Our members at Breakaway Addictions provide services focused on harm reduction and addictions treatment. They offer

non-abstinence treatments, stressing the importance of practical, viable strategies that reduce the negative effects of drug and alcohol use. Their treatment programs are tailored to the needs and goals of every individual, and are responsive to the real life conditions of drug and alcohol use along with the use itself. Their highly successful work is based on a harm-reduction, client-driven and non-judgemental framework, one that has proven effective where traditional methods have failed.

At Access Alliance Multicultural Health and Community Services, our members strive to improve health outcomes for immigrants, refugees and their communities. The inequities faced by our vulnerable newcomer communities are numerous. This particular CHC endeavours to provide services that remove barriers, improve access to health care and facilitate healthier newcomer communities.

Community Health Care

Clockwise from top left: Shirley Hepditch, Sandra Godoy, Helen De Olieviera, Mahbub-Ur-Rahman, Judy Tsao, Julianne Kingelin

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that reduce the negative effects of drug

are tailored to the needs and goals of every individual, and are responsive to the real life conditions of drug and alcohol use along with the use itself. Their highly successful work is based on a harm-reduction, client-driven and

proven effective where traditional have failed.

strive to improve health outcomes for immigrants, refugees and their

vulnerable newcomer communities are

healthier newcomer communities.

This invaluable work is based on the fundamental principle that everyone in our society deserves the very best possible health care service, without discrimination or barriers.

Parkdale Community Health provides a range of services to the residents in the southwest area of Toronto. They focus on community development and action while delivering primary health care, counseling, advocacy and health promotion programs. Our hard working members serve the LGBTQ and newcomer communities, low-income individuals, women, seniors, street-involved individuals and those experiencing homelessness.

CHCs work tirelessly to reduce barriers to health care, recognizing that some communities are at greater risk of experiencing discrimination due to poverty, racism, sexism, heterosexism, transphobia, ageism, ableism and mental health. In this manner, they play an important role in improving the overall health of our society and creating a more equitable Canada.

Without the hard work of our members in this sector, many people would go without much needed services and treatment.

Julianne Kingelin

Left column: Thandy Younge, Rosa Ribeiro;Centre column: Stephanie Venneri, Liz Herlich, Patti Powell, Vlad Wolanyk, Bernadette Lettner, Daniel Bois, Eric Paquette; Right Column: Lori Naylor, Milyon Woldemichael, Tricia Williams, Victoria Okazawa, Yordanos Kidane Mariam

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health care conference

The 9th Annual Health Care Stewards Conference took place on May 16 & 17 in Toronto. Stewards from a variety of health care units gathered to discuss issues in the industry, develop their leadership skills and connect with others in their profession.

Fernando Reis, Legal Coordinator at Locals 175 & 633, discussed legislative matters affecting health care professionals today, including Bill 21, an act to regulate retirement homes and the two-year wage freeze for non-unionized public sector employees. Bill 21 was of great interest to the stewards, many of whom work in retirement homes. The Retirement Homes Act proposes to license and conduct investigations on these businesses. Fernando outlined concerns about this legislation, including the broad definition given to retirement homes within the Bill, which could give it the medical authority of a nursing home without the same regulations as those facilities. He

also questions the private corporate model of the Bill, which has limited public accountability. The group also looked at information on Bill 16, which seeks to freeze wages for public sector employees. Although this legislation only officially applies to non-unionized workers, the government expected unions to abide by the compensation freeze as well. This Bill was introduced two years ago and since that time the government has been unsuccessful in the attempted restriction. Fernando cited the decisions of several arbitrators who rejected the provincial government’s freeze, due to a lack of legislation.

A popular speaker from last year’s conference, Dr. Leeno Karumanchery, returned to conduct a fun and interactive workshop on emotional intelligence and dealing with difficult people. Dr. Karumanchery began his presentation by discussing the unique challenges and stressful situations faced by health care workers. The

seminar focused on how to cope with these individuals by identifying how and why they trigger an angry response and how to deal with it.

The evening portion of the conference allowed for a dinner with the stewards and staff. It was a great opportunity to catch up with other health care workers from different communities. There was also a raffle to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada.

The second day of the conference had a more collaborative focus, with deeper discussions among participants on issues that affect all health care workers including politics and government impact on health care, safety among workers and navigating the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. A large town forum was held for all participants followed by sessions with smaller groups for more specialized topics. The stewards left the conference with a better understanding of the shared challenges faced by other health care workers and new ideas of how to improve their workplaces.

Health Care Stewards come together to learn

The deal was ratified on May 10, 2011. The contract includes

. A detailed wage increase chart is available

Don Keck, Gary Pettem, Debbie Robinson, Alan Scott and Union Rep Simon Baker

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seminar focused on how to cope with these individuals by identifying how and why they trigger an angry response and how to deal with it.

The evening portion of the

the stewards and staff. It was a great opportunity to catch up with other health care workers from different communities. There was also a raffle to raise money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada.

The second day of the conference had a more collaborative focus, with deeper discussions among participants on issues that affect all health care workers including politics and government impact on health care, safety among workers and navigating the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. A large town forum was held for all participants followed by sessions with smaller groups for more specialized topics.

a better understanding of the shared

workers and new ideas of how to improve their workplaces.

negotiations

Workers at Compass Group Canada in Sarnia have joined the Union. The 20 members from Tim Horton’s ratified their first collective agreement on May 24, 2011. It is a 2 ½ year contract which includes wage increases, a signing bonus and language outlining the terms and benefits of their union membership, such as health and safety policies, grievance procedure, seniority and more. Wages increased by $0.30 per hour at the start of the contract and will further increase by $0.25 each

First contract for Tim Horton’s workers

Metro workers in Brockville have a new six-year collective agreement. The deal was ratified on May 10, 2011. The contract includes wage increases, an additional statutory holiday and significant new language on a variety of policies, including bereavement, night shift premiums and more.

In the first year of the contract, wages will increase by $0.35 with an additional $0.30 in each of the next two years. Lump sum payments will be given in the next three years of the contract, amounting to $0.50 per hour. A detailed wage increase chart is available for workers. There is a signing bonus for all workers. Full-time members will receive $200 and part-time workers will receive $100. Family Day will also be recognized as a paid statutory holiday.

The changes made to several policies and procedures increase the rights and protections for workers. For instance, time off for bereavement is increased from 3 days to 5 for full-time workers, for a parent, spouse, child or grandchild. If bereavement falls during an employee’s vacation, they are able to carry the paid time over. In addition to this, a new policy on dignity and respect in the workplace was added. It outlines unacceptable behaviour including staff bullying and intimidation. Health and Safety is also a focus, with new additions to the contract emphasizing the importance of safety on the job. For example, the company will now pay lost wage time (up to 4 days per year) if a worker is attending Union health and safety training.

Negotiating Committee: Don Keck, Gary Pettem, Debbie Robinson, Alan Scott and Union Rep Simon Baker

Members at Metro Brockville secure new deal

Résidence Montfort Renaissance in Ottawa has a new three-year collective agreement. Members from the downtown Ottawa housing complex, which serves at-risk members of the community, ratified their contract on May 10, 2011.

The three-year deal includes substantial pay increases, additional employer-contributed benefits and more statutory holidays. Regarding pay, members hired before September 2008 will receive an increase of $0.90 per hour in the first year of the contract, $0.69 more in the second year and another $0.51 in the last year. The raises will take place in April of each year. This

Three-year deal for health care workers means workers will increase their wages by $2.10 per hour over the term of the contract.

The employer contributes monthly to the Health and Welfare benefits for members. These contributions increase by $5.00 in August of the contract’s first year, by an additional $9.00 in the second year and $10.00 in the final year. Benefits will also apply to members working an average of 45 hours during a two week period. Prior to this agreement, members had to work 52.5 hours to receive benefits.

Members also have three new Statutory holidays and additional

sick leave. New in this contract, part-time employees will now have their sick leave pro-rated at 0.019 credit for every hour worked up to a maximum of 40 hours per year.

Negotiating Committee: Elizabeth Smith, Servicing Rep Jacques Niquet and Union Rep Daniel Mercier.

year on January 1 in 2012 and 2013. Overall, members will increase their wages by $0.80 per hour over the course of the agreement. In addition to this, there is a signing bonus of $250 for full-time workers, $150 for part-time members and $75 for those on probation.

Full-time workers also receive medical, vision and dental benefits. The issue of pay equity is addressed within the contract. Workers performing similar jobs must be

paid the same amount regardless of gender. If a member objects to the pay assigned to their job, the union and the company will investigate this complaint. The union will provide the employer with the tools to measure the male and female job classes to ensure equality.

Negotiating Committee: Isabelle Casali, Julianne Anson, and Union Rep Wendy Absolom

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(August 11, 2011 / 14:41:31)


arbitration update

The following article is the first in a series of articles about arbitration and the arbitration process. The three remaining articles in the series are:

• The Mediation Process• Rights Based arbitration• Interest Based arbitration

What is arbitration?

It is important to note that most grievances are resolved through the grievance procedure. Unfortunately, sometimes the Union, the employer and the grievor are unable to reach a resolution through the grievance procedure so the Union may proceed to arbitration.

All collective agreements contain a mechanism for grievances to proceed to arbitration, in which the outcome will be resolved by a neutral third party, called an arbitrator.

Arbitration is a formal legal process but in comparison to other legal proceedings such as a criminal trial, it is less formal. Witnesses may be called to testify and they either swear or affirm an oath that they will tell “the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth.” Every witness who gives evidence may be cross examined by the other side’s lawyer about their evidence or the situation which gives rise to their testimony.

The end result of the arbitration will be either a mediated settlement or a final and binding decision of the arbitrator. The arbitrator’s decision is a public document as it is part of a formal legal proceeding.

What can I expect at arbitration?

An arbitration hearing is an adversarial legal proceeding. A grievor who is involved in the arbitration process may hear the employer’s lawyer paint a negative picture of their employment history and the events which give rise to the grievance. This can be quite

upsetting, stressful and emotional for many greivors to hear. The Union is there to support you and the Union’s lawyer will present your version of the events and stand up for your rights! Who is the arbitrator?

Most arbitrators have extensive careers in labour relations and are experts in labour relations matters and the law. They have a general knowledge of the parties and are aware of the ongoing relationship between the bargaining unit and the employer.

Why is arbitration not held in a court house?

As it is a less formal process and a private dispute mechanism, the Union and the employer are required to pay for the process including the hearing room and the arbitator’s fees. Therefore it is held in a hotel or conference room as the public does not pay towards the process.

Do I have to speak at the arbitration hearing?

If you are a grievor, you may be required to testify at the arbitration hearing. The Union’s lawyer will speak to you about your evidence prior to the hearing.

Is there a transcript of the arbitration hearing?

There is no official transcript of the arbitration hearing as you would see on television legal dramas. Instead, the arbitrator keeps and maintains their own notes of the hearing and the evidence which has been heard. Only the arbitrator’s notes are considered to be the official record of the arbitration hearing.

Who will be there from my employer and from the Union?

It all depends on the type of grievance proceeding to hearing but expect at the minimum that there will be several members of management including Human Resources, the plant or store manager and possibly your direct supervisor as well as the employer’s lawyer.

The Union will have present at the hearing your Union Representative, the Plant Chair/Chief Steward and/or Steward and the Union’s lawyer.

When will I know the final outcome?

Arbitration can be a very lengthy process. There may be multiple days which are not scheduled back to back but scheduled in accordance with everyone’s availability. Depending on how complicated the issue is and how many witnesses are required, it could take months, even more than a year before the process has concluded and the arbitrator issues a decision.

Stay tuned to the Arbitration Update section of Checkout for the continuation of this new and informative series on arbitration and the arbitration process.

For more information on arbitration or the arbitration process, please contact your Union Steward or your Union Representative.

Everything you wanted to know about arbitration but were afraid to ask nnual Can BBQ a huge success!

an participates in Hamilton Pride celebrations

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Is there a transcript of the arbitration hearing?

There is no official transcript of the arbitration hearing as you would see on television legal dramas. Instead, the arbitrator keeps and maintains their own notes of the hearing and the evidence which has been heard. Only the arbitrator’s notes are

the arbitration hearing.

Who will be there from my employer and from the Union?

It all depends on the type of grievance proceeding to hearing but

be several members of management including Human Resources, the plant or store manager and possibly your direct supervisor as well as the employer’s lawyer.

The Union will have present at the hearing your Union Representative,

Steward and the Union’s lawyer.

When will I know the final outcome?

Arbitration can be a very lengthy process. There may be multiple days

but scheduled in accordance with everyone’s availability. Depending on how complicated the issue is and how many witnesses are required, it could take months, even more than a year before the process has concluded and the arbitrator issues a decision.

Stay tuned to the Arbitration Update section of Checkout for the continuation of this new and informative series on arbitration and the arbitration process.

For more information on arbitration or the arbitration process, please contact your Union Steward or your Union Representative.

community action network

From June 9 – June 19, the Women & *Liminal Committee along with community partners, including Locals 175 & 633, hosted a ten-day series of events during “HammerPride.” The aim was to host events that were women and *trans positive, and could accurately showcase the many experiences within the *LGBTQ communities.

The Community Action Network made a donation to the organization which enabled them to organize high quality events including the OUTspoken Poetry Slam and the third annual Women & Trans march, which affirmed the importance of our united struggle for our rights in our communities and society at large.

On July 16, 2011, more than 500 members and their families came out to celebrate the Fifth Annual Community Action Network Cultural Day & BBQ at Boyd Conservation Area in Vaughan. Participants enjoyed a variety of barbecued foods, while the kids cooled off after a visit to the jumping castle with snow cones and ice cream. Every member in attendance was given a UFCW beach towel as a token of the Local’s appreciation for their dedication to the Union.

“Our hard working members deserve an event like the CAN barbecue,” said President Haggerty. “Not only is it about communities coming together and celebrating diversity, it’s about taking the time to relax and enjoying the company of each other away from our hectic daily work lives.”

This event has more than doubled in size since the first barbecue five years ago. Members came out from a number of workplaces such as Maple Leaf, Mobile Climate, Quality Knitting, Olymel, Hertz Canada, Wings Foods, Fortinos, Holiday Inn, Hunter Douglas, Compass Group, Avis, Sussex Centre, Pharma Plus and Cargill.

Everyone enjoyed great food, games, face painting and a beautiful sunny day! Thanks to all who helped us celebrate and we look forward to seeing you next year!

annual Can BBQ a huge success!

Can participates in Hamilton Pride celebrations

*Liminal - Occupying a position at, or on both sides of, a (gender) boundary or threshold *Trans - Identifying with a gender other than the biological one

*LGBTQ - Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer

(August 11, 2011 / 14:42:18)


fundraising

Hockey tournament nets over $26,800!

On May 6 & 7, 2011, teams took to the ice to play in the 14th Annual Childhood Leukemia Hockey Tournament. Money collected from the sale of draw prize tickets, team entrance fees and donations from our many sponsors brought the two-day tournament fundraising total to just over $26,800.

“Every year this event draws a lot of participation and raises a lot of money,” said President Haggerty who came out to watch games on Friday and Saturday. “Thank you to everyone who played in this year’s tournament – you made it a great success and we couldn’t raise this money without your help.”

The players from Fearman’s Pork in Burlington skated away as tournament champions playing a great final game against the runner-up team from UFCW Local 633. After the final game, everyone enjoyed pizza as prizes were handed out for most goals, most valuable player and best goalie.

Next year’s tournament is scheduled tentatively for Friday, May 11 and Saturday, May 12 at the Mohawk 4 Ice Centre in Hamilton.

He’s been on the roof, he’s been on the road and he’s been at your door. But for his 10th and final year, Ted returned to the roof where it all began.

After spending six nights on top of Morello’s YIG in Peterborough, Ted Dawes (photo: fifth from left) came down the ladder for the last time on May 21, 2011. He was greeted with an emotional welcome from his family and friends, and union sisters and brothers that have supported him over the years.

Thanks to the amazing public, volunteers, and local businesses and community partners that donated more than 230 silent auction items, the event raised more than $20,000!

The generosity of the public was overwhelming as customers gave willingly to volunteers standing outside Morello’s with donation cups. Volunteers also sold bake sale items and Krispy Kreme donuts to raise money over the weekend! This year’s event brings Ted’s 10-year fundraising total to more than $157,000.

Locals 175 & 633 raise a total of $250,000!

On June 10 at the 22nd Annual Leukemia Gala, Locals 175 & 633 released their grand total of funds raised in 2010-2011 for Leukemia research. Our members and supporters contributed $250,000 to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). The national campaign in which our Local is a part of raised an incredible $2,028,264 in the past 12 months.

“Our members see the need to combat these terrible blood cancers,” said President Shawn Haggerty. “With all the hard work put towards fundraising, I do believe we can make a difference in the lives of our members and families who live with Leukemia. From all of our events - golf tournaments, baseball tournaments, fishing derbies, the Metro Payroll Deduction Program and many more, it goes to show that our members are dedicated to finding a cure.”

To date, UFCW Canada along with various Locals across the country have raised $23,802,066 since the union first joined the fight for a cure in the mid 1980’s.

Executive assistant Harry Sutton and member Elaine Collier announce Locals 175 & 633’s annual fundraising total

Ted climbs off the roof one last time

Tournament champions, Fearman’s Pork pictured with President Haggerty, Executive Assistant Harry Sutton, Central West Director Luc Lacelle and Rep Matt Davenport

Tournament participants watching the action 18

every year, events are held around the province to celebrate Labour day! register with your regional office and visit ufcw175.com for details.

(August 11, 2011 / 14:42:50)


health & Safety

Bill 160 passed third reading on May 18th, 2011. It received Royal Assent on June 1, 2011. Only parts of the Bill became law on June 1, eight other sections will become law on a day to be named by proclamation of the Lieutenant Governor; thirteen sections will become law on April 1, 2012. This bill will make changes to the Occupational Health & Safety Act. The biggest change is that a Prevention Council will be established. The Council will be appointed by the Minster and will include representatives from trade unions and labour organizations, employers, non-unionized workers, WSIB and persons with occupational health and safety expertise. The council will choose a chair among themselves. The Council’s role will be to provide advice on prevention of workplace accidents and occupational disease, establish minimum requirements for certification, among other occupational trainings and preventions. The Minister will also appoint a Chief Prevention Officer.

Another change is Section 50. An inspector will now be allowed to refer a matter to the Ontario Labour Relations Board where a worker alleges that the employer has violated the prohibition against reprisals and where circumstances warrant. The matter cannot have been dealt with in final and binding arbitration; the worker must consent to the referral. Prior to Bill 160, Ministry of Labour Inspectors were not entitled to attend these reprisal hearings at the Labour Board. Only now, they can play an active role in such matters.

Overall this Bill looks promising to workers in Ontario. This Bill, on it’s face, appears to give workers, worker representatives and health and safety specialists input on changes to occur for the benefit of workers. The goal of course remains reducing and preventing accidents and injuries. As more of these laws develop we will keep you updated.

Bill 160: amendment to the Occupational Health and Safety act

LABOUR DAY September 5, 2011!

it all began.

have supported him over the years.

items, the event raised more than $20,000!

10-year fundraising total to more than $157,000.

175 & 633’s annual fundraising total

Haggerty, Executive Assistant Harry Sutton, Central West Director Luc Lacelle and Rep Matt Davenport

Tournament participants watching the action 19

every year, events are held around the province to celebrate Labour day! register with your regional office and visit ufcw175.com for details.

(August 11, 2011 / 14:43:20)


Return postage will be paid by:

United Food and Commercial WorkersLocals 175 and 6332200 Argentia RoadMississauga ON L5N 2K7

Canada Post Corporation Publication Agreement No. 40064671

(August 11, 2011 / 14:43:51)


Documents

Checkout August 2011