Checkout August 2006

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VOLUME XV NO. 4 AUGUST 2006 What are they looking at? Story - page THE NEWS MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF LOCALS 175 & 633 UFCW CANADA

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Page 1: Checkout August 2006

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VOLUME XVNO. 4

AUGUST2006

What are they looking at?Story - page

THE NEWS MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF LOCALS 175 & 633 UFCW CANADA

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President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Secretary-Treasurer’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

EVENTSUFCW is fighting privatization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CONFERENCESUFCW celebrates NDF 20th anniversary at Joint NDF/Sector Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Members reach out to diverse groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Locals 175 & 633 Staff conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

UFCW Women: Empowered for change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

FUNDRAISINGTed on the Roof contributes $14,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Locals 175 & 633 raise $350,000 for leukemia research . . . . . .

2006 Leukemia Walks raise more than $26,000 to date . . . . . . . .

Central West Golf raises $11,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hair cut nets $400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

WORKPLACE NEWSAeroguard members protect passenger safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NEGOTIATIONSWages at Westin increase above industry standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Other Negotiations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

TRAINING & EDUCATIONMembers and Stewards Course Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Members at Ridgewood Industrieslearn First-Aid skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

COMMUNITYLocal 175 supports Success for All . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

HEALTH & SAFETYWhat You Don’t Know Can Hurt You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Health & Safety Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

LOcAL 175President

Wayne HanleySecretary-Treasurer

Jerry cliffordRecorder

Betty PardyExecutive Assistants

Shawn Haggerty, Jim Hastings, Teresa Magee

LOcAL 633President

Dan BondySecretary-Treasurer

Marylou MallettRecorder

Neil Hotchkiss

PrOViNciAL OfficE2200ArgentiaRoad

MississaugaL5N2K7905-821-8329or1-800-565-8329

Fax905-821-7144

Benefits RepresentativesSherree Backus,

Emmanuelle Lopez-TambascoBenefits Intake RepresentativesDiana chaparro, Lesley flores

Communications Representativescheryl Mumford, Jennifer Tunney

Servicing RepresentativeLien Huynh

Health & Safety RepresentativeJanice Klenot

Senior Legal CounselNaveen Mehta, Georgina Watts

Legal CounselMichael Hancock, rebecca Woodrow

Legal Representativefernando reis

Organizing Coordinator & Pay EquityMichael Duden

Organizing RepresentativesSteve robinson, Kevin Shimmin

cENTrAL EAST rEGiONDirector

Luc LacelleUnion Representatives

Jehan Ahamed, Mona Bailey, Tim Deelstra, John Difalco,

Anthony DiMaio, John DiNardo, Paul Jokhu, rob Nicholas

SOUTH cENTrAL rEGiONUnion Representatives

Judith Burch, Sylvia GroomServicing Representatives

Angela Mattioli, Brenda Simmons, Mario Tardelli

TrAiNiNG & EDUcATiON cENTrE (TEc)2200ArgentiaRoad

MississaugaL5N2K7905-821-8329or1-800-565-8329

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� Graphic design by ARTiFACT

cONTENTS

cep Local 571

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cENTrAL WEST rEGiON412RennieStreetHamiltonL8H3P5905-545-8354or1-800-567-2125Fax:905-545-8355

DirectorHarry SuttonUnion RepresentativesMatt Davenport, Joe DeMelo, Linval Dixon, rick Hogue, fernando reis, Dan Serbin, Kelly TosatoServicing RepresentativeSam caetano

EASTErN rEGiON20HamiltonAvenueNorthOttawaK1Y1B6613-725-2154or1-800-267-5295Fax613-725-2328

DirectorDan LacroixUnion RepresentativesSimon Baker, chris fuller, Paul Hardwick, Marilyn Lang, Daniel MercierServicing RepresentativeJacques Niquet

SOUTH WEST rEGiON124SydneyStreetSouthKitchenerN2G3V2519-744-5231or1-800-265-6345Fax519-744-8357

Directorray BromleyUnion RepresentativesWendy Absolom, Kevin Dowling, Julie Johnston, Angus Locke, roy reed, rick Wauhkonen

NOrTH WEST rEGiONRoom21,LakeheadLabourCentre929FortWilliamRoadThunderBayP7B3A6807-346-4227or1-800-465-6932Fax807-346-4055

DirectorShawn HaggertyUnion Representativescolby flank, David Noonan

TrAiNiNG & EDUcATiON cENTrE (TEc)Director of EducationVictor carrozzinoEducation RepresentativesGeorgina Broeckel, Gail carrozzino, Kelly Provost-Nicholas, Ashleigh Vink, Dave White

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Published six times yearly. ISSN no. 1703-3926

CHECKOUT is an official publication of Locals 175 & 633 of the United Food & Commercial Workers.

Web site: www.ufcw175.comE-mail: [email protected]

AUGUST 2006

Labour Day: Brought to you by trade unions

Monday, September 4 is Labour Day. For most working people a paid holiday is reason enough

to celebrate. But for union members the day is also a time to recognize the contributions of workers and acknowledge our debt to earlier trade unionists.

In Canada and around the world, it was the trade unionists who fought for workers’ rights.

Some lost their lives in the struggle to gain decent wages and working conditions. It was due to their sacrifices – literally blood, sweat and tears – and the progressive legislators who listened to them that we now have:

• safer workplaces• employment insurance (EI)• a maximum workweek• paid overtime• a minimum hourly wage• universal Medicare• paid vacations • statutory holiday pay • paternal and compassionate leaves of absence.

President Hanley elected international Executive VPOn April 27, 2006, the UFCW Canada

National Council honoured President

Wayne Hanley. They elected him the

National Director of UFCW Canada. He

now heads the national union and also

continues as President of Local 175, the

UFCW’s largest Local.

President Hanley accepted an additional

responsibility on June 13, 2006. The

UFCW International Executive Board

elected him to the UFCW Executive

Committee. He is now International

Executive Vice-President, serving with

International President Joe Hansen,

Secretary-Treasurer Marc Perrone and

International Executive Vice-Presidents

Patrick O’Neill and Bill McDonough.

The UFCW Executive Committee

establishes priorities and actions and

recommends policies. “I look forward

to working with President Hansen and

the other members of the Executive

Committee,” says President Hanley. “I’m

grateful for the Board’s confidence and

this opportunity to ensure issues and

challenges facing Canadian members are

represented at the highest possible level

of UFCW.”

News Flash:

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As union members, many of our collective agreements also provide additional benefits such as:

• good union wages• medical, dental and vision care plans• pension plans• even safer workplaces• assistance with WSIB or EI claims• extensive training & education programs• employer-paid holidays & vacations that are

greater than required by law• protection & assistance related to layoffs,

closures and unjust terminations.

Working people have these benefits – not because the majority of their employers or parliamentary representatives are so generous – but because a small group of trade unionists fought valiantly to gain these rights and provide a decent standard of living for their families. We retain and improve on these rights because unions and their members continue to demand fair compensation for their work.

Nations around the world celebrate Labour Day at different times. In Europe, Latin America, Africa and Asia it is known as “May Day” – or International Workers Day, and is celebrated on May 1. Other dates are used in Australia and New Zealand. Regardless of the date or location, the purpose is to honour and affirm the dignity and contributions of working people.

I encourage you to join in the special Labour Day Events in your community. It’s a good opportunity to socialize with your co-workers and enjoy family festivities. Find out more by contacting your regional office . . . or visiting our Web site.

If you’re not able to participate, then at minimum, I hope you will take a few minutes to give thanks for the benefits you enjoy today. And remember to raise a glass to toast the Labour Movement: The people who brought you the weekend and other wonderful Canadian traditions.

A canadian History of Labour DayE April15,1872-firstsignificantNorthAmerican

“workingman’sdemonstration”organizedbytheTorontoTradesAssembly.- 10,000protestorsmarchedinaparadeandlis-

tenedtospeeches.- Demandedtheabolitionofthelawsayingtrade

unionswerecriminalconspiraciesinrestraintoftrade.

- Reasonfortheparade:tofree24leadersoftheTorontoTypographicalUnion–theywereputinprisonaftergoingonstriketosecurethenine-hourworkingday.

- Atthattime,itwasstillacrimetobeamemberofaunioninCanada.

- IntheUnitedKingdom,thelawofcriminalcon-spiracyinrestraintoftradehadbeenrepealedin1871.

E September3,1872–membersofsevenunionsinOttawaorganizedalargeparade,morethanonemilelong.- HeadedbytheGarrisonArtillerybandandflanked

bycityfirefighterscarryingtorches.- Wounditswaytothehomeofthethenprime

ministerSirJohnA.MacDonald.- Themarchershoistedhimintoacarriageand

tookhimtoOttawaCityHallbytorchlight.- SirJohnknewabouttheworkers’discontent.- Hepromisedto“sweepawayallsuchbarbarous

lawsfromthestatutebooks.”

E Laterin1872–theCanadiangovernmentrepealedthoselaws.

E 1881–theTorontoTradesandLabourCouncil(TT&LC)replacestheTorontoTradesAssembly.

E 1883–TT&LCplaysacentralroleintheformationoftheCanadianLabourCongress.

E 1880s–LabourDaycelebrationsbeganintheUnitedStates,inspiredbythebeginningsmadeinCanada.

E July23,1894–theCanadianparliamentdeclaredanationalholidayforLabourDay.

E 1894–Thefirstlabourdayparade,inWinnipeg,wastwomileslong.

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BEcAUSE A SMALL GrOUP Of

TrADE UNiONiSTS fOUGHT

VALiANTLy TO GAiN THESE riGHTS

AND PrOViDE A DEcENT STANDArD

Of LiViNG fOr THEir fAMiLiES.

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AUGUST 2006

Unions rally in support of injured workers

Local 175 members participated in the June 1, 2006 rally for injured workers at Queen’s Park, on the 23rd annual Injured Workers’ Day.

When Ontario’s workers compensation system was established in 1919, injured workers gave up their right to sue employers, in return for compensation. But the benefits that injured workers receive today have not kept pace with inflation. In the last ten years, the already deficient incomes of injured workers have lost nearly 20 per cent of their value.

Ontario NDP leader, Howard Hampton, was one of the many knowledgeable speakers at the rally. He said: “Hydro is going up, heating is going up, but workers benefits are going down. It’s time for something to go up for injured workers!”

Later, many of the injured workers and their supporters observed our government in action from the visitors’ gallery of the legislative building. They listened to Andrea Horwath, NDP member for Hamilton East, address the Minister of Labour, Steve Peters. She said: “Minister, during the last election campaign, Dalton McGuinty promised Ontario workers, and I quote, ‘to introduce a fair inflation factor to protect worker benefits from inflation.’ Today we’re joined by injured workers from across the province, and they want to know, why haven’t you kept your promise?” Peters replied: “We’re working to get the financial affairs in order. We realize there is more to be done in assisting injured workers in this province.”

Local 175 agrees there is much more that needs to be done and we will continue to work with the Ontario Federation of Labour and it’s affiliates to ensure the WSIB and the government keep their promises to injured workers.

Please help by phoning, writing or e-mailing Premier McGuinty and your own MPP. Tell them that injured workers deserve adequate benefits, restored to 90 per cent of net earnings with full cost of living increases.

JErry cLiffOrD

Above: children seek mandatory universal coverage for all workers.Left: Local 175 members at the June 1 rally included Servicing rep Lien Huynh, Organizing reps Kevin Shimmin and Steve robinson.

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Canada has a tradition of good public services. These workers provide quality health care, education, drinking water, electricity, roads and other essential functions, such as meat inspection and food safety.

But more and more private companies are pressuring gov-ernments to let them deliver those same services that were once public. In Ontario, the government of Premier Dalton McGuinty is continuing the course set by his predecessor, using Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) to replace or “out-source” some of these services. Although P3s are used in a number of sectors, in Ontario they’re most often found in the health care sector. It involves financing of a hospital by a private partner. Then the public has to pay the principal sum back to the partner, plus the borrowing costs, which of course, must include a profit.

“Health care spending must be for services,” says Local 175 President, Wayne Hanley. “Why should taxpayers pay more in profits and fees, just to make the budget deficit appear to be less, while it is actually increasing.”

Under the Mike Harris Government, P3 financing agree-ments were put in place with the William Osler Health Centre in Brampton and the Royal Ottawa Hospital. More than two dozen hospitals are now targeted for P3 financ-ing, according to the Ontario Health Coalition (OHC).

UFCWisfightingprivatizationThe OHC is a network of activists and organizations committed to fighting for public health care. It includes more than 400 grassroots and community organizations. You can learn more about changes in health care at www.ontariohealthcoalition.ca.

Privatization in health care or other sectors usually means costs going up and quality going down. Workers lose good union jobs, benefits and working conditions. The objec-tive of private companies is to make money. Often they can only win government contracts by submitting lower bids, and then they cut corners and staff to achieve higher profits. We’ve seen this happen with unionized building cleaners. We do not want privatization to hurt our health care system.

At the Against P3s Rally on June 3, 2006, hundreds of union members, activist groups and concerned citizens gathered to learn more about the negative side of privati-zation. UFCW national office Communications Co-ordina-tor Bob Linton was just one of many speakers explaining the pitfalls of P3s. “Health care workers may be the first casualties,” he said. “But private-sector workers suffer too when their employers demand more concessions as health care costs skyrocket under privatization.”

EVENTS

Local 175 members (from left) John Suter and Doug White, both of Goodwill Hamilton, along with Justin Pase from fortinos Eastgate, were three of the several hundred trade unionists participating in the June 3 rally at Queen’s Park.

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The National Defence Fund (NDF) was established in 1986, about the same time as the historic UFCW packinghouse strike by members at Gainers and Fletchers in Alberta.

The purpose of the NDF is to ensure striking members the necessary resources to stand up to employers for better con-tracts. Originally the NDF conference was held just for the Meat and Poultry members in the NDF. In recent years, the NDF conference expanded to include other sectors, such as Flour Milling, Food & Beverage and Hospitality.

From June 11-13 NDF members, and delegates from the other sectors, met for the annual joint NDF/Sector Conference. The purpose of the conference is to identify trends and develop strategies for their respective sectors. Several members of Locals 175 and 633 reported on griev-ances, negotiations and other issues. Those making reports included: John Bernardo, Pepsi-Cola; Mike Collins, Holiday Inn Select; Bruce Dosman, P&H Foods; Bill Foley, Maple Leaf Pork, Burlington; Virginia Haggith, Maple Leaf Consumer Foods, Poultry Division, Brantford; Dave Leonard, Coca-Cola; Tony Nigro, Cargill; Betty Pardy, Sun Valley Foods; Tim Riley, Maple Lynn Foods; Paul Sihota, Delft Blue; Debbie Tenden, Port Colborne Poultry and Pinty’s Premium Foods; Chris Watson, Better Beef; Scott Woodland, Coca-Cola.

Union Reps, who made unit reports included: Simon Baker for Westin Hotel and Matt Davenport for Pepsi-Cola. Joe DeMelo reported on Maple Leaf Poultry in Brampton and Maple Leaf Consumer Foods in Hamilton.UfcW celebrates

NDf 20th anniversary at Joint NDf/Sector conference

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cONfErENcES Locals 175 & 633 members Paul Jokhu and Linval Dixon were two of 15 Canadian trade unionists who attended the 35th International Coalition of Black Trade Unions con-vention in May 2006.

Later, on June 17, Paul, along with Local 175 Union Reps Jehan Ahamed and Kevin Shimmin, togeth-er with Legal Counsel Naveen Mehta, attended the 4th Workers of Colour/Aboriginal Workers Conference. It was sponsored by the Toronto & York Region Labour Council.

Paul says: “Events like these are effective for discussing issues and providing a voice for diverse groups within our union. Also, the ses-sion on globalization highlighted the importance of forming international union alliances to achieve better working conditions.”

Naveen, who facilitated The Youth of Colour workshop says: “The result was a number of significant recom-mendations we will bring forward to the Equity Committee and the Toronto and York Region Labour Council. These youth had a unique perspective on their inclusion and participation in their trade unions and labour move-ment. It was inspiring to see these young minds bring forward their con-cerns and solutions for the future.”

Kevin noted that the Greater Toronto Area is home to the world’s larg-est Sri Lankan Tamil community. “Therefore, it is crucial for our local unions and the Toronto Labour Council to reach out to Tamil work-ers, learn from them and give them the tools they need to organize their workplaces,” he said.

At the end of June, Local 175 staff members convened for an annual con-ference. They discussed key issues affecting the membership. As usual the agenda contained a significant training element. Staff worked hard to develop strategies for ensuring better representation, collective agreements and servic-ing standards, for all members.

members reach out to diverse groups

Locals 175 & 633 Staff conference

Staff members participated in educational sessions . . .

. . . and later convened for a group photo.

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More than 152 members from 20 UFCW Locals across Canada participat-ed in the UFCW Women’s Conference, Empowered for Change.

The conference explored how women members can become more active in the union while balancing responsi-bilities at home. It also examined ways of developing strategies and tools to apply in the workplace to protect our members who work irregular hours at night, alone or in a dangerous environ-ment. Finally, the conference heard from our sisters on their priorities at work, at home and in the community.

Participants were inspired by numer-ous knowledgeable guest speakers, including: Paulette Fialkoff-Amodeo, Chair UFCW Women’s Network; Irene Harris, Secretary-Treasurer Ontario Federation of Labour; Elaine Bernard, Executive Director Labour and Worklife Program, Trade Union Program, Harvard Law School; Barb Byers, Vice-

Local 175 members attending the women’s conference included (back row): Karen Vaughan, Maplewood Nursing Home; Mary Lou Mallett, A&P # 196; Janice Klenot, Local 175 Health & Safety rep; Nancy Melcore, fortinos #54; Sylvia Groom, Local 175 Union rep; and front row: Gail carrozzino, Local 175 Training & Education rep.

Pay Equity, Quebec Parental Insurance Plan; National Child Care; Violence and Psychological Harassment in the Workplace and Violence at the National Level.

Local 175 President Wayne Hanley gave the keynote address as part of his new role as National Director of UFCW Canada. Participants were enthused by the level of support and commitment demonstrated for this conference.

Local 175 members facilitated the “empowering” workshops. I Can Balance Work and Life focused on identifying strategies and develop-ing coping skills for balancing work and family responsibilities. Violence in the Workplace covered examples of harassment and how laws, collec-tive agreements and workplace poli-cies can reduce violent incidents. It also included handling complaints and actions for preventing and eliminating violence in the workplace.

UFCWWomen:EmpoweredforChange

President Hanley motivated and inspired women conference delegates with his keynote remarks.

President Canadian Labour Congress; Deb Higgins, former UFCW member and now NDP MLA and Minister of Learning, Saskatchewan; Olivia Chow, Federal MP, NDP critic for Children and Youth.

There were several panel presenta-tions on important topics including:

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These members in Strathroy are packaging eggs . . .

fUNDrAiSiNG

Peterborough firefighters assist Ted Dawes as he climbs down after his weekend on the roof of Morello’s yiG.

Spike the UfcW Leukemia mascot, makes friends wherever he goes, as in Peterborough.

Neither wind nor rain – not even snow – could keep Ted Dawes away from his 5th annual “Ted on the Roof” fundraiser in Peterborough.

Ted, who works at Minute Maid, raised an astounding $14,000 to benefit leukemia research after spending a chilly two nights and days, – from 4 p.m. Friday, May 19 to 2 p.m. Sunday, May 21 – on the roof of Morello’s YIG in Peterborough.

Ted said he felt really “down” prior to this year’s event. The weather forecast was so bad, he worried that few people would be out to support the event. But they did! Despite the terrible weather, Ted succeeded in raising even more money than in the previous years. This year’s donation was 33 per cent greater than in 2005.

TedontheRoofcontributes$14,000

Ted Dawes describes his fundraiser, as President Hanley listens.

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AUGUST 2006

Local 175 President Wayne Hanley and francois Lauzon, (right) President of Quebec’s largest UfcW Local, applaud the $350,000 contribution for Locals 175 & 633 members, staff and employers.

Locals175&633raise$350,000forleukemiaresearchOn Friday, June 23, 2006, guests

at the annual UFCW leukemia gala were dazzled by a lively Locals 175 & 633 audio-visual production.

Images of fundraisers flashed across the screen in synchroni-zation with upbeat music. The production recognized the out-standing dedication of the Locals 175 & 633 members, staff and employers who raised $350,000, up from $250,000 in 2005. The money comes from payroll deduc-tion programs, numerous fundrais-ing efforts across the province and employer contributions.

Thanks to everyone who donated, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC) will have more resources to fund cancer research, education, advocacy and patient services.

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Once again this year, hundreds of members and their families gathered for walk-a-thons, all across Ontario. Several walks taking place on June 4 enjoyed particularly beautiful weather.

The Thunder Bay walk welcomed a small friendly group of about 15 people who have been coming out diligently through the years. It raised more than $1,500. Three retirees joined the walk to show their support. They were: Diane Connelly, former steward from Safeway #681, along with Marjorie Payetta, former stew-ard from A&P #421 and Gerry Morris, former steward from Safeway #682.

Participants in the LONDON walk, at Springbank / Greenway Park raised $15,831.57.

retirees Marjorie Payetta and Gerry Morris joined others at the Thunder Bay walk.

London walkers included Darra Lyn Marson, a former member from Loeb Montgomery, and her son Taylor. Taylor, who was first diagnosed with leukemia at age 10, underwent five years of treatment and has been in remission for the last five years.

Organizers Sharon Haines and Michele Ellis, who are stewards at the Havelock iGA, reported that the 10th and final annual Havelock walk raised more than $8,000. in the last 10 years, the event which honours the memory of carrie Greenhalgh has contributed $100,000 plus for leukemia research. in the future, the walk will be combined with the Peterborough light the Night fundraiser.

2006LeukemiaWalksraisemorethan$26,000todate

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AUGUST 2006

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central West Golf raises $11,000

Members, their families and others at the HAMiLTON walk raised $934.Thanks to the 8 hole sponsors and 55 golfers, the 2nd annual Central West Golf Tournament raised $11,000 for leukemia research.

Karen McElroy, Rathburn Price Chopper, won the trophy for the Most Honest Golfer. Other winners included President Wayne Hanley who graciously contributed $500 – his winnings for Men’s Longest Drive & Men’s Closest to the Pin – to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC).

The 3rd annual tournament is already scheduled for Sunday, May 27, 2007.

central West Union rep, Joe DeMelo presents the “Most Honest Golfer” trophy to Karen McElroy.

Hair cut nets $400Tracy Lovejoy, had been thinking about cutting her long hair “for some time.”

One work night, during a quiet shift at A&P store #143, she had an inspira-tion that she would cut her hair to help others. Tracy contacted Locks for Love which collects hair donations for finan-cially-disadvantaged children suffer-ing from long-term medical hair loss. Next she spoke with her union rep Ray Bromley, who is now South West Regional Director. Ray gave her pledge sheets so she could ask for financial donations from family, friends and

co-workers. Then she persuaded Deb Harvey, owner of the Nirvana Hair Studio in Port Hope to donate a hair cut. Within two weeks of the “inspira-tion,” Tracy was sporting a new hair-style, Locks for Love had a donation for its hairpieces program and more than $400 was raised for leukemia research.

A B.B.Q. was held on June 10, 2006 in Kanata at an Ontario Slo-pitch Tournament.

Union reps Jacques Niquet and Daniel Mercier, along with Loeb Steward Liam Wall.

Although the weather did not co-operate, it was windy and very cool, we were successful in raising $850. Special thanks to the Kanata Sports Club for their very gener-ous donation. Thank you also goes out to Chris Collins and Liam Wall, Stewards from Loeb March Rd., for all the time and effort spent putting the event together.

Tracy Lovejoy

2006LeukemiaWalksraisemorethan$26,000todate

Members at Grand river Poultry in PAriS held their first-ever BBQ to raise funds for leukemia and were successful in collecting $287 in donations.

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WOrKPLAcE NEW

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Workers at Aeroguard Eastern Group at Thunder Bay International Airport are members of Local 175.

They were first certified under the Canada Labour Code, on April 1, 2004. The federal government regulates employees in industries such as interprovincial and international transportation, banking, waterways and businesses operated under the Canada Wheat Board.

The membership is comprised of 35 full-time and 12 part-time workers. They provide a very high degree of customer service for passengers departing from the airport. As passenger screening officers, they are responsible for ensuring that no weapons or explosive devices make it past the security gate. They are on duty from 4:45 a.m. until 9:15 p.m. to protect departing passengers.

Rose Fong, Donna Pupeza and Jeff Zuback won the recent steward elections. They are eager to ensure the welfare of the members and the enforcement of their collective agreement. The members are also fortunate to have Kevin Oikonen as their Health and Safety Representative.

If you pass through the gate at the Thunder Bay Airport say “hello”. You can rest assured that the Aeroguard members are hard at work to make sure you have a safe flight.

Aeroguardmembersprotectpassengersafety

Photos & article provided courtesy of Colby Flank, Union Rep, North West region.

carmen Jehn Mayo

Viven Satens

from left: Bob Diaczuk and Ted code from left: Sandra Jefferies, Melanie Maille and Sanela Boban

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AUGUST 2006

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from left: Jeff Zuback and cheryl ree

Paul Bouvier

Delores Bouvier

Kevin Oikonen Kyle Baratta

from left: Jody Alexander, Donna Pupeza, Darcy Herman

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for all the most recent ufcW news, including more up-to-date and

NEGOTiATiONS

Westin Negotiating committee members are (from front left) Sylvia Dadshani, Margaret Kossatz, Merle Shepherd, franca Allevato, and George Benham. Back row: Union rep Daniel Mercier, Noel Steele, Brad rose, chuck Molnar and Union rep Simon Baker.

MembersattheWestin HotelinOttawahaveagoodnewthree-yearcontract.

“Thecommitteeworkedveryhardtoobtainthebestdealpossibleforthe325members,”saysPresidentWayne Hanley. “Inadditiontootherimprovements,itnegotiatedwageincreaseswellabovetheindustrystandard.”

Highlightsinclude:

• Increasesof$1.50perhourforworkerswhodonotreceivetips.

• Anadditional50centsperhourfor“HousekeepingRoomAttendant”workers.

• Annualhourlyincreasesof25centsforworkersreceivinggratuities.

• Thoseworkingstatutoryholidaysreceivetimeandonehalf.

Lewisfoods workers achieve first contract OnMay29,2006,membersatLewisfoodsinBurlingtonvotedforafirstcollectiveagreement.Theysecuredthefollowingintheirnewone-yearcontract:

• Alumpsumpaymentof$500followingratification,forallemployeesemployedonthedateofratification.

•Oneweek’sadditionalpayforworkerswhoreach20yearsofservice.Thisbonusappliestoanyfiveyearincrementofservicethereafter(25years,30years,35years,and40years).

• Thecompanywillpay100percentoftheHealthandWelfarebenefitspremium.

• EffectiveJune1,2006,bothfullandpart-timeworkersarecoveredbytheUFCWTrusteedDentalPlan;thecompanywillcontribute30centsperhourforallhoursworked.

• Establishmentofpolicyforahealthandsafetycommittee,includingresponsibilitiesandprocedures.

• Languagecoveringseniority,layoff,andrecallbetterprotectsthemembers’jobsecurityandlivelihoods.

• Workersreceivevacationentitlementofuptofiveweeksat10percentpayforthosewith15yearsofserviceormore.

• Alltrainingrequiredbythecompanywillbepaidforbythecompany;workersrequiredtotravelfartherthantheywouldnormallyforworkreceive22centsperkilometerinexcessoftheirnormaltraveldistance.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:catherine Hammond,UnionRepsMatt Davenport andKelly Tosato andCentralWestDirectorHarry Sutton.

• Anewnightshiftpremiumplusanincreaseto“tourbaggage”premiums.

• Servingstafftoreceiveaportionofcorkagefees.

• Employerpensionpaymentsriseby37.5percentforanimprovedbenefit.

• Full-timeworkersnowreceivethreesickdaysperyear;allworkersbenefitfromincreasedbereavementleave.

• Newlanguagebetterprotectseveryonethroughhealthandsafetytraininganda‘noharassment’policy.

• Bettervacationscheduling,nomandatoryretirementandimprovedlanguagecoveringworkscheduling,grievancesandlayoffs.

NegotiationsbeganinFebruary2006andcontinuedthroughoutMarch,AprilandMay.TheworkersratifiedthecontractonMay25,2006.

Wages at Westin increase above industry standard

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7AUGUST 2006

for all the most recent ufcW news, including more up-to-date and

detailed information on negotiations, visit our Web site: www.ufcw175.com.

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fort William Golf and country club workers ratify Bargainingunitmembersatthefort William Golf and country club votedinfavourofanewthree-yearcollectiveagreement,whichincludes:

• Improvementsinwages,sickdays,vacationpayandsafetyequipmentallowance.

• NewlanguageprovisionsforaJointHealth&SafetyCommitteecovertheroleandresponsibilityoftheemployerinmaintainingasafeworkplace.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Terry Odate, Albert SwiecaandUnionRepDavid Noonan.

Paris poultry workers negotiate new contract MembersatGrand river Poultry inParisvotedinfavourofanewthree-yearcontractatameetingheldApril8,2006.

• Workersin“LiveHang”receiveaone-timewageadjustmentof75centsperhoureffectiveApril1,2006.

• Allothersreceiveincreasesof25centsperhourretroactivetoApril1,2006.

• Allclassificationsreceivesubsequentincreasesof25centsperhourinthesecondandthirdyear.

• Eligibleemployeesworkingmorethan10hoursreceiveamealallowanceof$9.

• Hourlypensioncontributionsincreaseby10centsperhourineachyeartoreach$1.35byApril1,2008.

• Dentalcontributionsincreaseto32centsperhour.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Barb farquar, Betty Hartsgrove, randy McDonaldandUnionRepsMatt Davenport andKelly Tosato.

Hotel workers vote for new contractOnApril15,2006,membersatthePrince Arthur HotelinThunder Baywonanewtwo-yearagreement.Highlightsinclude:

• Anincreaseof20centsperhourretroactivetoNovember1,2005andthen20centsperhoureffectiveNovember1,2006,forallcurrentworkers.

• Newbereavemententitlementlanguageandimprovedlanguagecoversjobfilling.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Dale Gorell andUnionRepcolby flank.

Health care workers secure three-year dealMembersatthecommunity Nursing HomeinWarkworthvotedforanewthree-yearagreementonMay5,2006.The60-memberbargainingunitgained:

• A2.5percentwageincreaseretroactivetotheSundayclosesttoJanuary1,2006forall.

• Asubsequentwageincreaseof2.5percentinboththesecondandthirdyear.

• Visioncarecoverageincreasesto$150per24-monthperiod.

• Part-timeworkersreceive7percentpay‘inlieuofbenefits.’

• Newlanguagecoversthegrievancemediationprocess,stewardrepresentationatdisciplinarymeetingsandbetterhealthandsafetyprotection.

• Vacationentitlementimprovestoamaximumoffiveweeksvacationat10percentpayforworkerswith17yearsofserviceormore.

• Full-timeworkersreceivea$140annualuniformallowanceandpart-timereceive$70.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Linda Bird, Tracey cassalman, Lynn Nicholson andUnionRepMarilyn Lang.

ready Bake workers secure lump sum payment and hourly increases Membersatready Bake foodsinMississaugavotedforanewcontract.TheMay6,2006ratificationsecuresthefollowingimprovementsforthe90workers:

• Aninitiallumpsumpaymentof$800andanother$1.20perhouroverthetermofthecontractforproductionworkers.

• Alumpsumpaymentof$800plus$1.70moreperhourformaintenance.

• Qualityassurancetechniciansarenowpartofthebargainingunit.

• Maintenanceworkersreceiveanimprovedtoolallowance.

• Eyeexamsarenowcoveredbythecompany.

• Improvedlanguagecoversjobpostingsandvacationentitlement.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:rob cormier, Hans Mueller, Tarek Sabri, Jim Scull andUnionRepPaul Jokhu.

young Star House workers approve new contractOnMay25,2006,membersatyoung StarHousein Emovotedinfavourofanewthree-yearcollectiveagreement.Highlightsinclude:

• Across-the-boardinitialwageincreaseof2.5percentandthen1percentinboththesecondandthirdyear.

• Asigningbonusof$300uponratification.

• Thecompanywillcontribute$75permonthtotheworkers’benefitplan,increasingto$80onMarch8,2008.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Jean Dakin, Tyler NordinandUnionRepDavid Noonan.

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NEGOTiATiONS

New contract for Quality Market workersOnApril9,2006,membersatQuality Market inThunder Bayratifiedanewthree-yearagreement,whichincludes:

• Awageincreaseof3percentforeachjobclassificationineachyear.

• ThosewhoqualifyreceiveretroactivepaytoJuly17,2005.

• Thosewhodonotqualifyreceiveaone-timelumpsumpaymentof$50.

• Theshiftpremiumfor“ResponsibilityPay”increasesto50centsperhour.

• Improvedlanguagecoversbereavementleave.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Heather Huntley, christopher PreenandUnionRepcolby flank.

Members at Super 8 ratify OnApril11,2006,membersattheSuper 8 MotelinSudburyvotedforanewthree-yearagreement.

• Allratesandclassificationsreceivewageincreasesof20centsperhourineachyear.

• Workerswithmorethan15yearsservicereceivefiveweekspaidvacationperyear.

• Newlanguageprovidesthreepaidsickdaysperyearandimprovedlanguagecoversstewardrepresentationandbereavementleave.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Tammie MacDonald, cheryl SassevilleandUnionRepTim Deelstra.

Members at cadbury Adams ratify OnMay11,2006,membersatcadbury AdamsinTorontovotedtoacceptanewthree-yearagreementthatwillbringthe450membersthefollowingimprovements:

• Awageincreaseof50centsperhourforallclassificationsretroactivetoDecember4,2005.

• Subsequentincreasesof2.75percentonDecember3ofboth2006and2007.

• LifeInsuranceandAD&Dcoverageeachincreaseto$40,000effectiveJanuary1,2008.

• ExtendedHealthBenefitcoverageincreasestoa$10,000maximum,perthreeconsecutiveyears,onJanuary1,2007andto$10,500onJanuary1,2008.

• Visioncarecoveragenowincludes$50towardthecostofeyeexaminations.

• Updatedjobclassificationsandimprovedguidelinesregardingmaintenancedepartmentovertime.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Allan fallow, Guy Hill, fitzroy reid, Louis rocha, Dan rousseauandUnionRepPaul Jokhu.

Bearskin Lake workers secure improvements MembersatBearskin Lake Air ServiceinThunder Bayvotedforanewthree-yearagreementonMarch18,2006,whichincludes:

• Newpensionlanguageprovidingadefinedcontributionplan.Workerscontribute3percentofearnings,whichthecompanymatches.

• Awageincreaseofbetween9.2and9.3percent.

• Ashiftpremiumof30centsperhourforhoursworkedbetween11:30p.m.and5a.m.

• A$1per-hourshiftpremiumforLeadHands.

• EffectiveJanuary1,2006,full-timeworkerscanbankupto60hoursovertimeandpart-timecanbankupto30hoursovertime,percalendaryear.

• Newlanguagecoversemploymentequity,jobfilling,studentpositionsandcall-ins.

• Part-timeworkersareguaranteedtwoconsecutivedaysoffonceineverytwo-weekperiod.

• Improvedlanguagecoversstewardrepresentationandbereavementleave.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Amy Graham, Tina KaethlerandUnionRepcolby flank.

MemberswhoworkasPassengerServiceAgentsatBearskin Lake Air ServiceinSioux Lookoutratifiedasimilarnewthree-yearagreementonMay1,2006.Highlightsinclude:

• Awageincreaseofbetween9.2and9.3percent.

• Ashiftpremiumof30centsperhourforthosescheduledtoworkbetween11:30p.m.and5a.m.

• A$1per-hourshiftpremiumforLeadHands.

• Workerscannowbankupto60hoursovertimeforfull-timeand30hoursforpart-time,percalendaryear.

• Languageimprovementscoverjobvacancies,promotion,hoursofworkandvacationentitlement.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:cindy DaviesandUnionRepDavid Noonan.

for all the most recent ufcW news, including more up-to-date and

New contract for Breakaway SatelliteMembersatBreakaway Satellite Opiate Addiction ServicesinTorontoapprovedanewthree-yearagreementonMay30,2006.

• WagesincreaseannuallypertheOntarioMinistryofHealthguidelines.AnyincreaseswillberetroactivetoApril1oftheyearinwhichtheincreasesoccur.

• WorkersbenefitfromanadditionalFloaterHolidayandbenefitimprovements.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Sarah Kirby, Lori Naylor andUnionRepfernando reis.

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AUGUST 2006

Three-year agreement for Brantford Maple Leaf workers

improved wages and job security for Western Waffles workersMembersatWestern WafflesinBrantfordvotedforanewcontractonMay12,2006.Itcoversthe120bargainingunitmembersandincludes:

• Alumpsumpaymentof$750onratificationandagaininthesecondandthirdyear.

• Inboththefourthandfifthyear,allreceiveacross-the-boardwageincreasesof3percent.

• Afootwearallowanceupto$175.• Agreementbythecompanytoinvest

intheBrantfordfacilityforoperationaleffectivenessandpotentialfuturegrowth.

• Improvedlanguagecoversstewardrepresentation,grievanceprocedure,andjobpostingandfilling.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Doug conklin, craig Harding, Scott Mccready, Donna NelsonandUnionRepMatt Davenport.

for all the most recent ufcW news, including more up-to-date and

Workers at Bradgate Arms vote for new contract

Workers at A&M cookies approve new contractAtaratificationmeetingheldMay28,2006,theapproximately350membersatA&M cookiesinKitchenersecuredanewthree-yearagreement,whichincludes:

• Awageincreasetotalling2percent,plusontheanniversarydateeachyear,theUnionandthecompanywillattempttorenegotiateadditionalwageincreases.

• Apayequityplan.• Improvedlanguageclarifiessteward

representation,grievanceprocedure,Labour-Managementmeetings,thereturnofsparejobpostingsandovertime.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:April caston-Wood, Joanne ford, Jean Poole, Sharon Thibodeau,UnionRepAngus Lockeand

Approximately50membersatBradgate ArmsnursinghomeinTorontoachievedanewthree-yearagreementonMay17,2006.Itincludes:

• Awageincreaseof25centsperhourretroactivetoFebruary1,2006.

• Totalhourlywageincreaseoverthetermofthecontractis$1.20.

• CompanycontributionstotheUFCWBenefitTrustFundincreasetoreach$157permonthperfull-timeworkerbyJune1,2008.

• Contributionstothebenefitfundforqualifiedpart-timeworkersincreaseto28centsperhourperworkerforallhoursworked.

• BeginningJanuary2008,thecompanywillbeginmakingcontributionsof40centsperhourtotheCanadianCommercialWorkersIndustryPensionPlan(CCWIPP).

• Vacationentitlementimprovestoamaximumofsixweekspaidvacationat12percentoftheirannualgrossearningsforworkerswhohave24yearsormoreofservice.

• Hoursscheduledbysenioritynowincludepart-timeworkers.

• Newlanguagecoversfull-timehoursandclassificationforpart-timeworkersscheduledformorethan24hoursperweekformorethan12consecutiveweeks.

• Part-timeworkersinafull-timetemporarypositionforaminimumofthreeconsecutivemonthsreceiveapremiumof60centsperhourinlieuofbenefits.Iftheworkerisstillperformingthefull-timepositionafterthreemonthsatmorethan25hoursperweek,theworkerwillreceivetheregularfull-timebenefitcoverage.

• Languageimprovementsincludegrievanceprocedure,unionrepresentation,dischargeandarbitrationandbereavementleave.Otherchangesincludeimprovedseniorityandjobfillinglanguage.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Gilda DiMarco, Jamie McEatheronandUnionRepJohn Difalco.

OnMay7,2006,160membersatMaple Leaf consumer foodsinBrantfordratifiedanewcontract,whichincludes:

• Awageincreaseinyearone,retroactivetoApril1,2006,of35centsperhour.

• Subsequentincreasesof35centsperhourinboththesecondandthirdyear.

• EffectiveMarch30,2007,workersclassifiedasMechanicalCategory3andEngineersreceiveamarketadjustmentof$1perhour,plusanadditional65centsperhourinyearthree.

• Companycontributionstotheworkerspensionplanincreaseto$14permonthretroactiveforalleligibleyearsintheplan.

• EffectiveMarch1,2007,thecompany

willbeginhourlycontributionsof26centstotheUFCWTrusteedDentalPlan(Ontario).Theamountincreasesto30centseffectiveMarch1,2008.

• Visioncarecoverageincreasesineachyeartoreach$190per24-monthperiod.

• Newlanguagecoverstemporaryfull-timepositionsandestablisheshealthandsafetylanguageandprovisionsforaJointHealth&SafetyCommittee.

• Improvedlanguageregardingweekendovertime,layoffsandbereavementleave.

UnionNegotiatingCommittee:Virginia Haggith, Kim Hickey, Donna rhodes, Jim Townson,UnionRepMatt Davenport andHarry Sutton,CentralWestDirector.

detailed information on negotiations, visit our Web site: www.ufcw175.com.

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Page 20: Checkout August 2006

in spring 2006, the weeklong

scholarship course for members

was May 1-May 5. There were two

courses for stewards, which took

place from April 23-28 and again

from May 7-12.

if you’re interested in attending

one of these courses in the fall,

contact your Union Steward or Union

representative for information

about applications and deadlines.

Participants in the spring Members course were, front row, from left: Debbie MacDonald, A&P Pharmacy #479; Olivia Jones, Zellers #211; Daniela Pantea, A&P Pharmacy #959; Helen Wensley, Safeway # 674; Shirley Parks, New Edinburgh Square. Back row: Elizabeth Tjoelker, A&P #240; Joe Silva, Maple Lodge farms; Maria Micieli, fortinos #48; Joao Neves, Bearskin Airlines; Bob MacLean, firestone Textiles; Kevin fedorchuk, Kraft St. Davids; John Stewart, coca-cola; Victor Mwila, Dollar Thrifty; Dave White, Local 175 instructor.

Stewards in the April 23-28 course were, front row, from left: Dave Bertulli, ADM Milling; Brenda Strachan, comfort inn; Joseph Onyeani, Sobey’s Milton; Susan Hardy, Maple Lynn foods; Sophia Verrydt, Pharma Plus # 1446. Back row: Kelly Nicholas, Local 175 instructor; Kamal Sengupta, National Alamo car rental; Peggy Anderson, A&P # 124; Dale Gorell, Prince Arthur Hotel; Stewart Smith-fairbairn, Watson foods; Lynn Jillings, Weston’s Bakery; Lisa rooney, Victoria retirement Living; Mary rego-Perez, fortino’s # 53; Kathy Lindsay, A&P # 92; Emmanuelle Lopez-Tambasco, Local 175 WSiB instructor; Lorrie Wigle A&P # 147.

TrAiNiNG & EDUcATiON

MembersandStewardsCourseScholarships

Page 21: Checkout August 2006

AUGUST 2006

Participants in the May 7 – 12 Stewards course were, front row, from left: cheryl Stuart, Safeway # 674; Susan Emon, rosebridge Manor; Donna D’Ambrosio, food Basics # 683; Denise Hamilton, coleman care centre. Middle row: rosa Tallerico, food Basics # 686; Sherree Backus, Local 175 Benefits Dept; Luis Valte, cadbury Adams; Lien Huynh, Local 175 representative; Liam Wall, Loeb # 37760; Kelly Nicholas, Local 175 instructor. Back row: Gerry St.Pierre, Prince foods; Scott Mccready, Western Waffles; Scott Spears , Klunski Transport; Brian Oles A&P # 424; David O’Brien, Burnbrae farms; James Wilson, Sobey’s Milton rSc; Anthony Semaan , Sun Parlour co-Op.

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MembersandStewardsCourseScholarships

On April 1, 2006, members from ridgewood industries in cornwall attended a one-day course in Emergency first Aid and cardio-Pulmonary resuscitation (cPr). They were from left: Albert Boileau, Josee Sabourin, Jean Leroux, christine McEvoy, Jean Patenaude, Warren Waugh, Paul cameron, Justin Massia, rene roberts, Blair Oikle, Michael Lafave, robin Olive, rob Upper and Nancy couture.

Members at ridgewood industries learn first-Aid skills

Page 22: Checkout August 2006

cOMM

UNiTy Local175supportsSuccess for Allprogram

Local 175 will award two annual $500 bursaries to the top student in an innovative new program called Success for All. The program is a combined initiative between unions, industry and the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB). Local 175 is directly linked to the two Toronto schools, Blessed Mother Teresa in Scarborough and Don Bosco in Etobicoke, which offer food indus-try-related courses.

In May 2006, students from these schools attended daylong sessions at the Locals 175 & 633 Training & Education Centre. They learned about their legal and Health & Safety rights. Some may also participate in the Local’s online learning program. At school, they study culinary arts and complete 210 hours of co-op work placements. Many will go on to work in hospitality and tourism after gradu-ation. Some will undoubtedly become UFCW members in the future.

christian Bascur has rotated through various jobs at his Travelodge placement. He says he was aware of some of his rights at work but appreciated the more detailed information provided during the Local 175 session.

Javed Persaud’s co-op placement is at the Delta chelsea. He’s enthusiastic about the program and says: “you get to learn new stuff every day and make improvements.” At the Local 175 session he learned the importance of lock-out and tag-out procedures to ensure safe cleaning of food preparation machinery.

Tolu Aladejebi is assisting the food & Beverage Manager at the Marriott hotel. She’s learning menu planning and other important skills. Tolu says: “Before today, i didn’t know there was a right and a process for refusing unsafe work.”

Philong Le says co-workers at his Kelsey’s placement are friendly and helpful. He found the Local 175 session useful for increasing safety awareness, especially learning about employer violations and the “right to refuse.”

Maria Gabriela Perez is enjoying a variety of duties at her placement, islington Travel Agency Ltd. At the Local 175 session, she was interested to learn that workers have the right to refuse unsafe work.

Local 175 is playing a leading role in helping youth stay in school . . . and learn skills to work in hospitality and tourism.

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AUGUST 2006

HEAL

TH &

SAf

ETy

In Ontario, an average of 42 young workers are injured, made ill, or killed on the job every day. From 2000-2004, approximately 18% of Ontario’s allowed lost-time and no-lost-time claims covered by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) were filed by young workers 15-24 years of age. The total was 73,598 lost-time claims within a five year period! And this does not reflect the claims that were filed but not allowed by the WSIB, nor the ones that were never even filed.

Tragically, in the same period, there were 60 traumatic fatalities for young workers. Our Locals’ Young Worker Awareness campaign is an important initiative to reduce workplace deaths and injuries. It focuses on identifying the job hazards that most affect young workers. Our goal is prevention through education, especially given the alarm-ing statistics across our province.

Young workers are at greatest risk

Young workers are at a higher risk of sustaining injuries, especially within their first month on the job because they lack the experience to recognize and avoid workplace hazards. The top five causes of injury between 1996 and 1999 were being struck against or by an object, overexertion, falls, bodily reactions and being caught in, or compressed by, equipment or objects. The most common types of injuries affecting young people are sprains, strains, cuts, blisters, bruises, frac-tures, chemical, electrical and heat burns, and loss of body parts.

Stop and reflect why it is so important to recognize and be aware of these injuries. Whether it’s in supermarkets, process-ing plants, manufacturing operations or nursing homes, sudden onset injuries – such as being struck by a forklift truck or having a limb caught in equipment – happen frequently. Gradual onset inju-ries are less likely to be reported. Often they are attributed to general aches and pains. Given employer demands for increased production and “standards,” they are also a growing concern.

You have the right to safe work

An important part of prevention involves recognizing the hazards, so they can be assessed and controlled. Remember that The Occupational Health and Safety Act empowers work-ers to exercise a legal right to protect themselves. It gives workers the Right to Know, The Right to Participate and the Right to Refuse unsafe work. You can not be disciplined for exercising a right or responsibility!

Additionally, it is the responsibility of every member in the workplace, includ-ing workers and supervisors, to ensure that the workplace is safe and healthy. Prevention means workers must have the necessary information, training, and equipment to do their jobs safely. Young workers may not report injuries because they are afraid the boss will think less of them. They may not real-ize the extent or seriousness of the injury, especially when it is a gradual onset such as a repetitive strain injury caused by doing repetitive motions on

the job. But reporting to the employer and seeking immediate medical care are crucial in obtaining WSIB benefits when a work-related injury occurs.

Protect yourself by reporting and seek-ing treatment for all work-related inju-ries . . . it is your right, and your life. If you’re a young worker who has had a work-related accident and had to go through the WSIB process to obtain benefits, please contact our Benefits Department to share your story.

Know Your Resources

Your Locals are at the forefront in member education and awareness of workplace safety and empowerment. Our Youth Committee enables young workers to meet regularly and discuss youth issues. You can learn more on the topic of health and safety on the job by enrolling in our on-line or in-class train-ing. There are more than 30 courses, including Reducing Injuries, Solvent Exposure and Machine Guarding. Check out your Locals’ Web site to obtain pam-phlets on the WSIB process, health and safety, and youth initiatives.

Individual knowledge is a step in the right direction . . . a collective approach helps move everyone from a reactive focus, when an injury has already occurred, to a proactive focus so that it is prevented in the first place. Remember that injuries do not discrim-inate by gender, race or age . . . but as a young worker you must be especially aware and say “no” to unsafe work.

WhatYouDon’tKnowCanHurtYou...What you do know can save your life or that of a co-worker

The photograph of Leonard yen is reproduced with the

permission of the WSiB.

Page 24: Checkout August 2006

Return postage will be paid by:

UNITED FOOD AND COMMERCIAL WORKERSLocals 175 & 6332200 Argentia RoadMississauga, OntarioL5N 2K7

Canada Post Corporation Publication Agreement No. 40064671

Members from Maple Leaf Pork (MLP) in Burlington (and others where noted) attended certification training from April 10-13, 2006 in Hamilton. They were, from left: Gilles Grenier, Prince foods; John carrozza, MLP; Andy Martin, Bunzl; Michael Pollard, Loeb; Stacey reed, MLP; Joe Zimmer, MLP management; Kelly cruz, MLP; Janice Klenot, Local 175 instructor; James Metcalfe, MLP; carlos Borsellino, MLP management.

from May 1 – 4, 2006, members from various workplaces in the Ottawa area attended Level 1 Health & Safety courses. They were, front row, from left: co-instructor Michael Pollard, Super c cornwall; Kathleen St. Germain, Prince foods; Louise Summers, Prince foods; Joanne reed, LOEB fallingbrook: Sylvia Dadshani, Westin Hotel; Mary Wyman, Loeb Blackburn; Luc fournier, LOEB St. Laurent. Second row: Denis Proulx, Super c rockland: Elizabeth Deschamps, richelieu Hosiery; Stacey Hanson, canadian Linen; Sheri Hewak, ross’s yiG; Brad Baird, LOEB fallingbrook; Sandra Proulx, Loblaws #1051; Local 175 H&S rep & instructor, Janice Klenot. Back row: Jean Patenaude, ridgewood; flora Bourque, Loeb Greenbank; Elaine Phillips, Jonsson’s yiG; Mike Jones, Jonsson’s yiG; Kevin Whitford, LOEB fallingbrook; Eric Morin, LOEB Elmvale; robert Lolato, coca-cola; Noel Steele, Westin Hotel and Ali Mohamed, impark.

HEALTH & SAfETy