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

VOLUME XIVNO. 6

DECEMBER2005

Peace on earth and justice for

all Workers

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

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

ORGANIZINGAnother 102 workers choose Local 175 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

WORKPLACE NEWSToo good to eat – Almost! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CONFERENCESRaising work-related injury awareness at the 2005 South West and North West regional stewards’ seminars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

FUNDRAISING UPDATEPeterborough Light the Night walk raises $45,000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Innisbrook golf day nets $16,725 for leukemia research . . . . . . . . . . . .

GRIEVANCE & ARBITRATION NEWS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

LOCALS 175 & 633 UFCW CANADA MEMBERSHIP SERVICES & DISCOUNTS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PEOPLESteward Profiles . . . . . . . . . . . .

Retirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

NEGOTIATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . .

YOUTH NEWSThe National Youth Internship Program: What it’s all about . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

HEALTH & SAFETYJudith Moore wins activist award. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Instructor training course receives great reviews. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Members applaud Windsor Health & Safety course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Work-Related Injuries and the WSIB process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

TRAINING & EDUCATIONWinter is here… . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

First Aid and CPR courses are also available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

UFCW LOCAL 175President

Wayne HanleySecretary-Treasurer

Jerry CliffordRecorder

Betty PardyExecutive Assistants

Shawn Haggerty, Jim Hastings,

Teresa Magee

UFCW LOCAL 633President

Dan BondySecretary-Treasurer

Marylou MallettRecorder

Neil Hotchkiss

PROVINCIAL OFFICE2200 Argentia Road

Mississauga L5N 2K7 905-821-8329

Toll free 1-800-565-8329Fax 905-821-7144

Benefits RepresentativesSherree Backus,

Emmanuelle Lopez-TambascoBenefits Intake Representative

Brenda Simmons

Communnications RepresentativesCheryl Mumford, Jennifer Tunney

Health & Safety RepresentativeJanice Klenot

Senior Legal CounselGeorgina Watts

Legal CounselMichael Hancock, Naveen Mehta,

Rebecca WoodrowLegal Representative

Fernando Reis

Organizing RepresentativesSteve Robinson, Kevin Shimmin

Pay EquityMichael Duden

CENTRAL EAST REGIONDirector

Luc LacelleUnion Representatives

Jehan Ahamed, Mona Bailey, Tim Deelstra, John DiFalco, Paul Jokhu,

Anthony DiMaio, Rob Nicholas

CENTRAL WEST REGION412 Rennie StreetHamilton L8H 3P5

905-545-8354Toll free: 1-800-567-2125

Fax: 905-545-8355Director

Harry SuttonUnion Representatives

Joe DeMelo, John DiNardo, Linval Dixon, Rick Hogue, Fernando Reis,

Dan Serbin, Kelly Tosato

2 Graphic design - ARTiFACT graphic design

CONTENTS

cep Local 571

UFCW LOCAL 175

Wayne HanleySecretary-Treasurer

Betty PardyExecutive Assistants

Shawn Haggerty,

FUNDRAISING UPDATE

CONFERENCES

NEGOTIATIONS

RIEVANCE & A

SOUTH CENTRAL REGIONDirectorSharon GallUnion RepresentativesJudith Burch, Matt Davenport, Sylvia Groom, Angela Mattioli, Roy Reed

EASTERN REGION20 Hamilton Avenue NorthOttawa K1Y 1B6613-725-2154Toll free 1-800-267-5295Fax 613-725-2328DirectorDan LacroixUnion RepresentativesSimon Baker, Chris Fuller, Paul Hardwick, Marilyn Lang, Daniel Mercier, Jacques Niquet

NORTH WEST REGIONRoom 21, Lakehead Labour Centre929 Fort William RoadThunder Bay P7B 3A6 807-346-4227Toll free 1-800-465-6932Fax 807-346-4055 DirectorShawn HaggertyUnion RepresentativesColby Flank, David Noonan

SOUTH WEST REGION124 Sydney Street SouthKitchener N2G 3V2519-744-5231Toll free 1-800-265-6345Fax 519-744-8357DirectorRay BromleyUnion RepresentativesWendy Absolom, Kevin Dowling, Angus Locke, Julie Johnston, Rick Wauhkonen

TRAINING & EDUCATION CENTRESuite 700, 1450 Meyerside DriveMississauga L5T 2N5905-564-2500Toll Free 1-800-728-8902Fax 905-564-2898Director of EducationVictor CarrozzinoEducation RepresentativesGeorgina Broeckel, Gail Carrozzino, Kelly Provost-Nicholas, Ashleigh Vink, Dave White

WAYNE HANLEY

Pres

iden

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Your union fights for your WSIB rights – AND you should too!

The right to a safe and healthy workplace should be a fundamental right, guaranteed to all working people.

No worker should be injured or become ill because he or she is trying to earn a living.

The stated “vision” of the Workers Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB) is to eliminate all workplace illness and injury while serving and supporting injured workers. There is, however, a tremendous gap between the “vi-sion” and the reality. In 2004, there were 357,116 claims filed as the result of injuries at work. And it’s not im-proving! In the first seven months of 2005, WSIB repor-ted 333 deaths in Ontario workplaces and more than 300,000 injuries. This is in addition to the injuries that go unreported. And to add insult to injury, many workers who do file a claim are denied initial entitlement.

Workers’ claims are most often denied in situations that involve missing or unclear documentation re-garding proof of accident. They may also be denied benefits, to which they should be entitled, when there are issues related to accommodation or Early & Safe Return to Work, such as when programs don’t provide suitable modified work. Additionally, workers can be adversely affected when Labour Market Re-Entry (LMR) plans are mandated by the WSIB.

The fact that there are a large number of injuries in the workplace is not surprising. Workers today are confronted with increasing demands to speed up production, achieve quality quotas . . . and then work overtime – putting in extra day shifts, evening shifts or weekends. At one time, most work-related injuries were thought to be caused by a single incident or accident. To-day, the majority of claims are either repetitive strain injuries (RSI) or occupational disease.

Retail and plant workers are particularly susceptible to RSI injuries because work as a cas-hier, meat cutter, food processor, computer or other machine operator involves repeated tasks and/or bending the body into unnatural positions. RSI injuries affect bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments and other soft tissues. They generally develop over time. The gradual onset may make these injuries more difficult to identify as work-related and com-plicate the claims process.

If you suspect that you or a co-worker has a work-related illness, you need to seek medical attention and consider filing a WSIB claim. See page 26 for important information about the WSIB process.

Documenting your accident or illness, at the onset of aches and pains, can mean the diffe-rence between an accepted claim . . . or one that is denied. You need to act as soon as you have an accident on the job or suspect that you may have a work-related illness. This will increase your chances of having the claim allowed from the initial onset of pain. Getting help at the early stages may also prevent your injury from progressing to a disabling disease.

Remember that you and/or your co-workers should file a claim even if you do not take time

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: membership@ufcw175.com

DECEMBER 2005

WORKERS TODAY ARE

CONFRONTED WITH

INCREASING DEMANDS

TO SPEED UP

PRODUCTION, ACHIEVE

QUALITY QUOTAS …

(Continues on next page)

Secretary-Treasurer’s Message

away from work. In other words file a WSIB claim whether or not lost time is involved. Because employers pay into the WSIB compensation fund based on the history of accidents and illness in their workplace, there are many who will want to avoid employee claims.

If you do suffer a work-related accident or illness you will likely need to partici-pate in a rehabilitative program. You have the right to choose a medical profes-sional and you need to remain with the same practitioner throughout the course of treatment. If the WSIB and your employer want you to return to work, your medical professional must complete a functional abilities form (FAF) stating the restrictions and limitations that apply. Often an employer will expect you to perform work that is not appropriate for the “modified duties” that your doctor will allow you to do. Employers, however, are legally required to accommodate injured workers with work that is suitable to their restrictions. This work should encompass essential and comparable employment, in accordance with duties performed prior to the injury. If issues arise as to whether the modified work is indeed suitable, there are WSIB resources – such as mediation – that should be discussed with the adjudicator overseeing the worker’s claim. It helps to have a return to work committee in your workplace that has union representation to speak up for the health & safety rights of injured workers.

An injured worker is required to co-operate in the rehabilitative treatment and the employer has a duty to accommodate – to the extent that the accommoda-tion does not cause the employer undue hardship.

If the injured worker is unable to achieve an “early and safe return to work” that restores pre-injury earnings the WSIB no longer wants to provide compensation income. Instead it wants the injured worker to enter a “Labour Market Re-en-try” (LMR) program. The purpose of this program is to “ensure that the worker has the skills, knowledge and abilities to re-enter the labour market and is able to restore pre-injury earnings.” Some injured workers are successful in finding appropriate new employment. The statistics show, however, that LMR programs often fail, given the reality of competing in a challenging labour market once handicapped with a disability. Additionally, when injured workers sever ties with their “accident” employer, they lose benefits, seniority and other supports.

The WSIB has an incentive program that rewards employers who have a low number of claims, and then rebates them millions of dollars because of claims they don’t make. Some employers don’t encourage worker claims because of ig-norance; some because of greed. Many try to pressure workers onto short-term disability, rather than WSIB.

If you are injured because of work, do not go to company management, who have an inherent conflict of interest. Instead take your claim directly to your union’s benefit staff at the Locals 175 & 633 Benefits Office in Mississauga. The number is 905-821-8329 or 1-800-565-8329. If you prefer, you can E-mail your questions to benefits@ufcw175.com.

Remember that work-related injuries and occupational diseases do not discrimi-nate by race, beliefs, gender or age. We are all susceptible to becoming an injured worker at any time, and we need to work together to stay safe and healthy.

For the holiday season, and all year through, the leadership and staff of Locals 175 & 633 want all members and their families to be safe and healthy. Please remember to protect yourself and your co-workers by speaking up about unsafe working conditions – most Ontario workers have the right to refuse unsafe work – and enjoy a happy and healthy holiday with your family and loved ones.

There is no question that 2005 has been a difficult and challenging year

for many people around the globe.

Thousands of people have been tragically affected by natural disasters like the Tsunami in South East Asia, Hurricanes Katrina and Wilma in the Caribbean and Southern United States, and the earthquake in Pakistan.

In the spirit of giving, all year round, Locals 175 & 633 members contribute generously to those who need assistance. Members have donated money to assist those affected by these natural disasters in other parts of the world, as well as their ongoing donations to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Canada.

On behalf of the Locals 175 & 633 executive board, officers and staff, I want to thank all of you for your gifts of time and money to assist those who are less fortunate. Although Locals 175 & 633 members celebrate the holiday season with different customs and beliefs, I am sure we can all feel grateful for the many accomplishments and gains we have achieved in 2005.

I wish all of you, and your families, a wonderful holiday – along with a joyous and prosperous 2006.

We wish you a joyous holiday

(Continues from previous page)

DECEMBER 2005

Another 102 workers choose Local 175 Since early spring this year, Local 175 Organizers have been on a winning streak. Our Union has won seven consecutive application votes at the Ontario Labour Relations Board, as well as a successful certification at the Canada Industrial Relations Board. As reported in the June 2005 edition of Checkout, more than 350 new members joined Local 175 after organizing victories at Schneider Foods and M.G. Packaging. Since then, Organizers Kevin Shimmin, Steve Robinson and Mario Tardelli have certified six more workplaces.

needed the same dignity and respect that the cleaners had achieved as members of Local 175,” says Organizer Mario Tardelli, “So, we won the vote by a large margin.”

Employees at G.S. Dunn in Hamilton were also determined to join our union. The 24 workers grind dry mustard seed for much of the world market. Following a strong organizing campaign, the workers voted almost unanimously to join Local 175. These new members chose our Union because of strong servicing, health and safety and good collective agreements. For these same reasons, and many more, 24 general freight drivers and riggers at First Team Transport in Mississauga also joined our local union.

“Despite the terrible labour laws in Ontario, as well as the usual employer intimidation, all of these workers stood up united and fought to join Local 175,” says Local 175 President, Wayne Hanley. “Our Organizing team is having a great year and we are always encouraged by all the support we get from our members, stewards and union reps. Congratulations to all our new members!”

“Our Organizing team is having a great year and we are always encouraged by all the support we get from our members, stewards and union reps. Congratulations to all our new members!”

President Wayne Hanley

Shortly after the successful Schneider Foods campaign, 16 employees of Sodexho Marriot Services at Sir Sandford Fleming College in Lindsay voted overwhelmingly to join Local 175. The workers clean residence and campus buildings at the college. “These new members overcame high levels of intimidation and fear-mongering to get their workplace unionized,” reports Kevin Shimmin. “They wanted a grievance procedure and a strong collective agreement, so they worked hard to win the vote.”

About the same time, 26 truck drivers employed by Ready Bake Foods in Mississauga and Ottawa voted to join our Union. For four years prior, the drivers watched Local 175 members in production at Ready Bake receive strong representation, wage increases and other benefits of unionization. Hence, it was a natural fit for the drivers to join too when they realized they needed the same protection and security.

Similarly, 12 front desk employees at Woodlawn Hotelsin Guelph recently joined their sisters and brothers who are cleaners at the hotels. “The front desk employees

ORGA

NIZI

NG

WORKPLACE NEW

S

almost!Too good to eat –

DECEMBER 2005

WOR

KPLA

CE N

EWS

The fruit cakes made by Local 175 members at Weston Bakeries in Cobourg

are such works of art . . . that it almostseems a shame to eat them.

As soon as you walk through the doors into the production area of the plant, the fi rst thing you notice is the truly heavenly aroma of hundreds of baking fruit cakes. They’re all made from wholesome ingredients, such as fl our, sugar, eggs and a variety of fruit and nuts. And for many of the cakes the last step is either a glazing or an almond-fl avoured, white marzipan topping . . . the icing on the cake for sure.

These cakes are undoubtedly a good source of dietary fi bre and tasty nutrients. For the fi rst time this year,

trans fats are being reduced or eliminated in many of the recipes, which makes them even healthier. The cakes are mixed, baked and packaged to order, to meet the specifi cations of the particular restaurant, institution, or retail store that buys them.

Local 175 members are involved in every step of the operation, from receiving to packaging and shipping, and everything in between. They track the supplies inventory, measure the ingredients, mix the batches, bake the cakes and add the toppings. They scrub and sanitize the pans and maintain all the equipment in the plant.

The plant is operating around the clock, six days a week, so the 21 full-time members and 100 plus seasonal workers can fi ll all the holiday cake and Christmas pudding orders.

If you want a truly delicious treat for the holidays, look for cakes and puddings made by Local 175 members at Weston Bakeries in Cobourg. They’re marketed under the names of Weston’s Deluxe, Farmers Market, Dutch Oven, Master Choice, Entenmanns and the Weston Fruitcake Company.

As soon as you walk through the doors into the

The fruit cakes made by Local 175 members at

are such works of art . . . that it seems a shame to eat them.

As soon as you walk through the doors into the As soon as you walk through the doors into the production area of the plant, the fi rst thing you notice

are such works of art . . . that it seems a shame to eat them.

As soon as you walk through the doors into the

Entenmanns and the Weston Fruitcake Company.

Local 175 members are involved in every step of the operation, from receiving to packaging and shipping, and everything in between.

almost!Too good to eat –

CONFERENCES

More than 200 stewards participated in the 2005 South West Region stewards’ seminar held in London on October 15 and 16, 2005.

“This is my fi rst conference as director of this region,” says Ray Bromley, who was promoted to South West Regional Director earlier this year. “This weekend is all about stewards’ education and the instructors tell me their classes are extremely enthusiastic. I’m very happy to hear that.”

“I want to thank everyone for their generosity in purchasing raffl e tickets, candles, t-shirts and gifts in support of leukemia research,” says Wayne Hanley, President of Local 175. “Together we raised more than $16,000 during the two days.”

President Hanley spoke to delegates about the importance of understanding the process of fi ling for compensation due to workplace injury or work-related diseases.

Raising work-related injury awareness at the 2005 South West and North West regional stewards’ seminars

This weekend is all about stewards’ education…Ray BromleySouth West Regional Director

DECEMBER 2005

Raising work-related injury awareness at the 2005 South West and North West regional stewards’ seminars

Work-related injuries and diseases were also the subject of the Health & Safety report, presented by Staff Representative Janice Klenot, at the North West Region’s conference in Thunder Bay held earlier in the fall.

She informed the stewards that the Ontario government is taking steps to reduce workplace accidents and improve compensation for injured workers, as a result of the efforts of Locals 175 & 633, working with the Ontario Federation of Labour and its affi liates. Janice said that the Ontario Ministry of Labour (MOL) has announced plans to reduce accidents by at least 20 per cent, over the next four years. To achieve this goal, it plans to hire and train 200 new workplace inspectors who will focus inspections in workplaces with the highest frequency and severity of accidents. In the last year, the provincial government has also given MOL inspectors the right to fi ne employers for specifi c violations of the Ontario Health & Safety Act.

CONF

EREN

CES

Approximately 50 stewards attended the Thunder Bay conference, which raised $1,400 for leukemia research.

A report on the Eastern Region’s conference, scheduled for Kingston on November 5 and 6, will be published in the February 2006 issue of Checkout.

FUNDRAISING

Peterborough Light the Night walk raises $45,000

On September 24, 2005, members, their families and friends, joined the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC) at the first Peterborough Light the Night walk, which raised $45,000 for leukemia and other blood cancer research.

More than 200 people came out to support the cause. Participants included leukemia survivors and their family and friends, as well as some who had lost loved ones. The weather was perfect and everyone enjoyed the five-kilometer walk.

“Locals 175 & 633 Eastern Region members and staff did a superb job in organizing this impressive event, which included collecting and distributing large quantities of food and drinks,” says Executive Assistant to the President, Teresa Magee. “Everyone involved worked hard to ensure the event’s success.”

DECEMBER 2005

FUND

RAIS

ING

Ninety-two golfers participated in this year’s tournament at the Innisbrook Golf and Country Club. Each was hoping to pick up one of 13 cash prizes of $500. The tournament, which started three years ago with 40 golfers raising $8,000, continues to grow.

Innisbrook golf day nets $16,725 for leukemia research

Tournament winners were Lynda Clifford, who took low gross for the ladies, shooting a 65, and Greg Chesser who took low gross for the men, shooting a 61. Longest drives went to Bridgette Quesnell and Doug McCann. Richard Bartholomew

won $1,000 for closest to the pins. Individual winners were Ron Dean, Dave Charlebois, Ted Wauchope, Daryle Gaurlie, Greg Chesser, Kevin Beasly and Jay Bayley who picked up $500 each.

Locals 175 & 633 would like to thank all the sponsors who donated graciously to make both these events possible. A special thank you also goes out to all the members, staff and participants for their support. It could not happen without you.

Major victory for Locals 175 & 633 and working people across Ontario

On October 17, 2005, the Ontario Divisional Court released its decision to uphold the earlier ruling of the arbitrator in a grievance against the Lapointe-Fisher Nursing Home.

The original arbitration, concerning the employer’s obligation to pay a health premium introduced by the McGuinty Liberals in their first budget, took place in September 2004.

The arbitrator ruled that the employer was responsible to pay this premium on behalf of its employees and based his decision on the collective agreement language, which required the employer to pay 100 per cent of the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) premiums.

The employer fi led an application for judicial review claiming the arbitrator’s decision was unreasonable. The Divisional Court ruled that the arbitrator’s decision was reasonable and dismissed the judicial review application. As a result, the arbitrator’s decision stands and the employer is required to pay 100 per cent of the OHIP premiums in accordance with the language of the collective agreement.

The payment of the OHIP premium has been at issue in a number of workplaces and has been the subject of numerous arbitrations. The obligation of an employer to pay the premiums, notwithstanding the Court’s decision, is dependent upon the language in each collective agreement.

“This decision will have ramifi cations for unionized workers throughout Ontario,” says President Wayne Hanley. “Locals 175 & 633 saw this as an important issue for working people and fought this battle at arbitration and in the courts; hopefully other employers will read this decision and follow suit even though the company is appealing the ruling to a higher court.”

Employer jailed for ignoring terms of collective agreement

In a ruling dated September 16, 2005, the owner of the Rainy Lake Hotel in Fort Frances was found to be in contempt of court and sentenced to 30 days imprisonment, with the warrant enforced by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).

The judge wrote: “With respect to the issue of incarceration, this is normally used as a last resort where less intrusive sanction fails to ensure compliance. However, in this case, there is no reasonable prospect that Mr. Syrovy will obey any court directives or pay a fine. In these circumstances, given his history of defiant disobedience, I find that any personal sanction other than incarceration would be ineffective and bring the administration of justice into disrepute.”

The Rainy Lake Hotel, its registered owner, 777604 Ontario, and Ladislav Syrovy, in his capacity as President, General Manager and Secretary of 777604, and manager of the hotel, were all found to be in contempt. They had ignored three earlier arbitration rulings requiring them to pay wages, provide employees with T4 slips, and remit health & dental plan and group insurance premiums, union dues and other payments required under the collective agreement signed by Syrovy.

The arbitrator required Syrovy and/or 777604 Ontario to comply with the terms of the collective agreement and additionally to pay a fine of $25,000 on or before October 15, 2005. Failure to pay the fine will result in it increasing, by $1,000, on the 15th of each subsequent month. The employer is also responsible for court costs of $15,000, payable within 90 days.

On October 4, OPP officers arrested Ladislav “Larry” Syrovy, 47, and took him to the district jail in Fort Frances where he was expected to spend the subsequent 30 days.

Member awarded $3,748

A worker on short-term disability benefi ts from UBF Food Solutions(formerly Lipton Monarch) in Belleville received an additional payment from his employer, after the union fi led a grievance on his behalf.

The collective agreement stated that the worker was entitled to a 13-week benefi t of 70 per cent of his usual wages. During that period, however, the grievor received only 37.4 per cent as the insurance plan had a weekly cap of just $333. The latter had allegedly been in effect since 1983, without the knowledge of the union until 2003. The Arbitrator agreed with the union’s position, fi nding the employer responsible for the disability payments outlined in the collective agreement, regardless of the benefi t actually provided by the employer’s insurance carrier.

GRIEVANCE & ARBITRATION

GRIEVANCES

NEWSNEWSNEWS

Applewood Chevrolet CadillacSpecial discounts on purchases or leases of any GM products (except Cadillac, Saturn, Saab or Isuzu.) Will sell or lease factory-ordered vehicles for 3% above cost less any applicable rebates. Stock units are 4-5% above cost subject to avail-ability. Visit www.applewoodauto.com.Contact Barb Tate at 905-828-2221 x 257

Auto Resources Leasing Inc.Members can purchase or lease a vehicle & save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.Call Robin McLeod to have him negotiate a special price on new or used vehicles (all makes and models) including highest market value on trade-ins & discounts on aftermarket items such as extended warranties & rustproofing.1-800-413-7472

Meadow Mills PontiacMembers are eligible to purchase vehicles at 3% above dealer cost or stock units at 4-5% above dealer cost. To find out more call Gary Camilleri in Mississauga at 905-821-0002.

Your Locals 175 & 633 membership is the key to receiving discounts and special offers from numerous merchants and service providers. Just show your membership card or, if phoning, say you’re a member of Locals 175 & 633 UFCW to receive these special values. This listing is a brief overview of the available specials. For details contact the retailer or service provider directly.

WAYNE HANLEY - President

JERRY CLIFFORD - Secretary-Treasurer

BETTY PARDY - Recorder

Auto Sales & Service

LOCALS 175 & 633UFCW CanadaMembership Services & Discounts

Parkway Plymouth ChryslerMembers are eligible to purchase vehicles at 1.5% over fac tory invoice. For more information call Gary Spring. In Mississauga call 905-567-1700.

Sheridan Chev, Olds, CadillacMembers can purchase or lease in-stock vehicles at 4% over factory invoice or factory-direct-ordered vehicles at 3.5% over dealer invoice. Offer may not apply to select vehicles based on availability.Enjoy preferred pricing on used vehicles and a 10% discount on services (excluding Goodwrench Value menu items) & 15% off on most genuine GM parts. Contact Hans Heller.Pickering: 905-683-9333 or 905-706-6776E-mail: hans4cars@yahoo.ca

Speedy Auto ServiceMembers receive a 15% discount on all regu-larly priced services (excluding tires) and a 5% discount on tires & advertised specials at any Speedy store in Canada.Speedy guarantees every part and repair and its warranties are honoured at every Speedy store nationwide. It also offers free written esti-mates and never charges more than what you approved. Additionally, Speedy will provide a semi-annual rebate of 1% of the total net Locals 175 & 633 UFCW purchases in the form of a donation to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). Quote Speedy Club #14 or UFCW.

Auto Rentals

Avis Car RentalsMembers receive reduced rates on car rent-als. Call 1-800-879-2847 and quote your Avis Discount (AWD) #C078700.

Budget Rent A CarMembers receive reduced rates on car rentals. Call 1-800-527-0700 or 416-622-1000 and quote the UFCW Identification #A-501800.

Audio & Video Equipment

Electronics For LessSave up to 40% on big screen TVs, TVs, home theatre systems, DVD players, cordless phones and other electronics. Offers name brand elec-tronics at warehouse prices.410 Denison Street, Markham - 905-944-9339

Center Hi FiTo purchase your brand-name audio or video equipment at just 6% above dealer cost, call Daniel, Bruno or Angelo. They will arrange delivery of goods throughout Ontario.1846 Dundas Street East - Mississauga905-273-3120

Clothing and Work-Related Wear

Mark’s WorkWearhouseMembers receive a card that entitles them to a 10% discount on the following regular priced items (both men’s and women’s styles): Any work pants/shorts, coveralls or overalls, industrial out-erwear (incl. Carharrt), work gloves, socks, winter underwear, safety accessories, polos, t-shirts, woven shirts, casual pants & jeans and any casual CSA approved footwear.Where an item is sale priced the lower price will apply. Card is required to be eligible for discount & is not to be combined with any other offer. Purchase must be paid for at point of sale by Credit Card, Debit Card, Cheque or Cash. If you have not received your card, please ask your Union Rep for one.

DECEMBER 2005

NEWS

Funeral Services

LOCALS 175 & 633 - MEMBERSHIP SERVICES & DISCOUNTS

Dignity Memorial Funeral ProvidersThroughout Ontario this company provides UFCW members a 10% discount on services & mer-chandise when purchased together. This discount will be honoured for those members wishing to prearrange. It may not be used in conjunction with any other discount or promotion. Locations in Hamilton:Cresmount Funeral Home - Fennell Chapel322 Fennell Ave. East - 905-387-2111Cresmount Funeral Home - Upper James Chapel1020 Upper James Street - 905-575-1154Markey Dermody Funeral Home1774 King Street East - 905-547-1121Swackhamer, Blachford & Wray Funeral Home1341 Main Street West - 905-522-9221Truscott Brothers Funeral Home594 Barton Street East - 905-544-5755Truscott Brown and Dwyer Funeral Home1309 King Street East - 905-549-2417

For the rest of Ontario, members may find a Dignity Memorial Provider at www.dignitymemorial.com.

Financial Services

RBC Financial ServicesAssisting UFCW members in attaining RBC finan-cial products with your best interest in mind. Preferred rates on lines of credit and investments as well as access to a wide array of financial products, including mortgages.Call Domenic D’Urzo anytime, seven days a week at 416-244-1242 or send him an e-mail at domenic.durzo@rbc.com.

UFCW MasterCardCall 1-800-263-2263 for an application and information on various card options with attrac-tive features and competitive prices.

Gymnasiums

Bodies By Design Fitness StudiosOffers a 25% discount on annual memberships, including 9 one-on-one personal training ses-sions, for UFCW members. Visit www.bodiesby-design.ca. Located at 5875 Hwy 7, Unit #10 in Woodbridge, ON - L4L 8Z7.905-850-2202

Fitness 365 Offers a 10% discount to UFCW members. Located at 840 Ronson Drive, Etobicoke. Call 416-243-2503.

Hair Styling

Fantastic Sam Hair Salons (Windsor/Essex Counties)Owner Dean Taylor offers a 15% discount on any service or product in his stores to all UFCW members. No coupon required - simply inform the receptionist that you are a UFCW member. Six locations:Malden Village: 519-250-0622East Park Centre: 519-945-2882West Grand: 519-972-6196Walker Road: 519-967-8091Ambassador: 519-977-7933St. Clair Beach: 519-739-2225

Remembrance Services Inc.Offers up to a 15% discount off all funeral purchases & 10% off all cemetery purchases. Should you live outside the Toronto or Hamilton area, Remembrance Services Inc. staff may be able to provide you with a contact at an affiliate Funeral Home or Cemetery that would honour this discount, as their parent company has funeral homes and cemeteries across Canada. Locations in the GTA:

McDougall & Brown Funeral Home - Eglinton Chapel1812 Eglinton Ave. West (at Dufferin Street)Toronto - 416-782-1197

Ross Craig Funeral Home1357 Queen St. West (east of Lansdowne Ave.)Toronto - 416-532-4446

Scott Funeral Home - Mississauga Chapel420 Dundas Street East (one block west of Cawthra Road)Mississauga - 905-272-4040

Washington & Johnston Funeral Home717 Queen Street East (at Broadview)Toronto - 416-465-3577

Cellular Telephones

Bell - Union SavingsMembers receive a competitively priced cellphone package with low rates and valuable options pro-viding easier access, security and flexibility. Basic monthly fees are only $22.50 including 200 free anytime minutes per month.Bonuses include unlimited evening and weekend calling (8 p.m. - 7 a.m.) and a $50 billing credit on your first invoice. Other benefits also included. Visit their Web site at www.unionsavings.ca or call Mike Ragone at 1-866-697-0676.

Stellar Communications GroupProvides a flyer illustrating specials, bonus offers and accessories.Locations: 980 Eglinton Ave East, Unit 1, Mississauga2901 Bayview Ave, Bayview Village Mall, TorontoOr call 905-629-8300 or 1-888-838-8300 - ask for Graham Shockness at extension 222 or one of his assistants.

LOCALS 175 & 633 - MEMBERSHIP SERVICES & DISCOUNTS

Insurance

Jewellery

Finch Centre JewellersPresent your union membership card at any location to receive a 25% discount on all regular-priced watches and jewellery. Locations include: 2375 Finch Ave. West, Toronto - 416-745-333031 Colossus Dr. #104, Woodbridge - 905-264-66692563 Major Mackenzie Dr., Maple - 905-832-2753

Home Services

Home Heroes Inc.Your Indoor Air Quality Experts offer a FREE air quality assessment of your home to test the air that your family breathes. Take advantage of a 10% savings off of all home services such as air duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, mold & odour removal. Special promotional discounts on HEPA Air Filtration Systems & High Efficiency Furnace Filters are also readily available. Serving the GTA & surrounding areas: 905-814-1828 or 1-866-595-HERO (4376).

Sears Homesecurity (Operated by Home Protection Plus Inc.)Offers a free security system, to protect you against break-in, fire or emergency, when you sign a three-year monitoring agreement. The monthly package costs $25.95 plus GST and includes full warranty on parts and labour.3850 Chesswood Drive, Toronto 416-444-HOME (4663)or 1-800-274-PLUS (7587)

Hotels

Belaire Hotel Toronto AirportOffers a 15% discount off bedroom and meeting room rates. Free services include extended park-ing (up to two weeks, subject to availability), local calls and morning papers. For meetings or other questions ask for James Yang.Belfield Road & Hwy. 27416-241-8513 or 1-866-8-BELAIR (23-5247)

Holiday Inn Select – WindsorSecure a room rate of $99 per night when you present your union card.1855 Huron Church Road519-966-1200

Travel Lodge Inn Hotels & SuitesOffers a 20% discount on all hotel rooms across Canada, subject to availability. Call well in advance of your travel date and quote corporation ID #63744 to receive this discount.1-800-578-7878

American Income Life (AIL) CanadaDues-paying members or retirees are automati-cally covered for a $2,000 AD&D benefit. You must complete an enrolment card to designate a beneficiary. The card is available through AIL agents or the Web site www.ailcanada.com/ufcw/175&633. Life & other insurance products are available.For inquiries on existing AIL policies call 1-800-433-3405. For all other inquiries please call 416-483-2520 or 1-866-433-0133.

Haber Blain Insurance BrokersCall us for your auto, house, and life insurance needs. Ready to serve UFCW members.1-800-611-4411

Insurance (Working Enterprises Insurance Brokers Inc.)Offers great auto and home insurance group rates with “Better Rates, Better Coverage, Better Service.”1-888-908-6466

ING NovexJardine Lloyd Thompson Canada Ltd., in conjunc-tion with ING Novex, offers fast, competitive, no-obligation quotes on home & auto insurance. Benefit from group rates with 24-hour emer-gency claim service & a no-fee monthly payment plan. There are premium discounts for combined policies, multi-vehicle, new homes, good drivers, mature & claims-free customers as well as for homes that have alarm systems or are mortgage-free.1-888-999-UFCW (8329)

Legal

LPI LawcallFree, unlimited preliminary legal guidance on the telephone. If actual legal services needed, you can save up to 60% on legal fees by purchasing one of LPI’s optional membership plans.Call 1-877-529-7768.

Meat – Retail

Jadee Meats5% discount on all in-store product. Located in Beamsville, ON. For info send an e-mail to sales@jadeemeats.ca.

Scholarships

Locals 175 & 633 Mckay-Thompson-Hoebink-Gibson Scholarship - $1,000The Local awards 56 scholarships each year to members & their children. Application deadline is August 1. Winners are drawn at random from all entries. Ask your Union Rep or download forms at www.ufcw175.com.

UFCW Canada National Beggs, Dowling, Mathieu Scholarship – $500Eighteen scholarships are offered through the UFCW Canada National Office. Application dead-line is September 30.Applications are available online at www.ufcw.ca or at the UFCW Canada Office of Education at 300-61 International Blvd., Rexdale, ON, M9W 6K4 or call 416-675-1104.

UFCW International Scholarships – $4,000Contact the UFCW Canada Office of Education (as above) for information and deadline. Take advantage of FREE education courses through Locals 175 & 633. Call 1-800-728-8902 or e-mail tcadmin@ufcw175.com for more information.

DECEMBER 2005

LOCALS 175 & 633 - MEMBERSHIP SERVICES & DISCOUNTS

Real Estate/Mortgages

RBC Royal BankAre you buying your first home, second home or would you like a better interest rate on your cur-rent mortgage? Free mortgage consultation & pre-ferred rates below the bank’s already discounted rates. Cashback available for new purchases or to pay out penalties on existing mortgages. Mobile Mortgage Specialists with Bank network to assist you with other financial products including lines of credit, preferred rates on investments & help with any other financial products RBC has to offer. Personalized solutions to help make your dreams a reality. Call Domenic D’Urzo anytime, seven days a week at 416-244-1242 or send him an e-mail at domenic.durzo@rbc.com.

Locals 175 & 633 publish these specials as a service to members. If you have a good or bad

experience with one of these retailers or service providers, please tell your Union Rep. You can

also send an e-mail to membership@ufcw175.com. All offers, discounts & rates are effective as

of August 31, 2005, & are subject to change without notice. Any updates will be made as soon as

possible, following receipt of those changes, to the online listings of these discounts and services,

which you can view at www.ufcw175.com.

Coldwell Banker PropertiesUnlimited RealtyFor all your residential/commercial/investment needs get the smart help you expect and deserve. In the GTA, as well as throughout the rest of Ontario and North America, professional agents are ready to assist you, your family and friends with the best price, best mortgage and rates with discounts on mortgages, reduced real estate fees and free expert real estate advice.Ask about the ‘no-money-down’ mortgages. Identify yourself as a UFCW member to ensure that a donation from every transaction goes to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC).Contact Wendy LeBlanc, Broker at 416-424-1300 or at cbpurl@aol.com.

Homelife Experience Realty Inc.Thinking of buying or selling a home in Brampton, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Oakville or West Toronto? Call Marlene Wright BEFORE you call a realtor and save thousands with a low 3.5% commission and full MLS exposure. When purchasing you can receive $1,000 cashback toward legal and mov-ing expenses in the locations listed above. Lesser cashback amounts apply in other geographical areas. Additionally, you will receive a free mortgage appraisal, up to 1% discount off published mort-gage rates and your name entered into a $10,000 sweepstakes. As well, when you arrange a mort-gage through TD Canada Trust, it will make a $50 donation to the LLSC.416-720-6454 or 1-888-581-8898

Rust Prevention

Ziebart Tidy CarReceive a 10% discount at 6707 Winston Churchill Blvd. (at the corner of Winston Churchill Blvd. and Aquitaine Ave.), Mississauga. Call David M. Brown (Owner/Operator) at 905-821-9131.

Travel Discounts

For all travel bookings and prepayments verify your insurance coverage for unforseen events such as natural disasters or bankruptcies.

Union PlusTwo companies offering discounts to Canadian union members are:Norwegian Cruise Lines - 1-866-867-0593Go Ahead Vacations - 1-800-590-1104For more information visit www.unionplus.org.

W.E. Travel – Union SavingsMembers receive special negotiated discounts with W.E. Travel that are not available to the gen-eral public. Real-time booking with 50,000 hotel properties, 500 airlines, 368 tour operators, 33 car rental companies & all major cruise lines.W.E. Travel is owned by the labour movement with unionized, experienced workers who recognize the special requirements unique to the labour movement, its members and their families. Visit www.unionsavings.ca or call 1-888-676-7747.

Vision Care

LenscraftersReceive a 20% discount on all eyewear through our group vision plan at locations throughout the province. See what’s available at lenscrafters.com or call 1-800-522-LENS (5367) to locate a store near you.

Sears Optical or PearlevisionProvides a 10% discount off the lowest promo-tional price on both frames & lenses. This is a Corporate I-Care program associated with AIL Insurance. If already enrolled you can visit Sears Optical Department and request a new Cole Vision Canada discount card. If not already enrolled, you should call 416-483-2520 or 1-866-433-0133 to receive an enrolment card from an AIL agent.

Locals 175 & 633 UFCW Canada2200 Argentia RoadMississauga, ON L5N 2K7905-821-8329 - Toll Free: 1-800-565-8329Fax: 905-821-7144E-mail: membership@ufcw175.comWeb site: www.ufcw175.com

WAYNE HANLEY JERRY CLIFFORD BETTY PARDY President Secretary-Treasurer Recorder

STEWARD PROFILESLynn Jillings (below) started working at Weston Bakeries in Cobourg in 1994 and became a steward after she helped organize the plant in 1996.

She said she’s noticed a positive change as a result: “There’s less favouritism and more fairness regarding shift scheduling and other concerns.” There are still some issues that need to be sorted out, but the number of grievances in the plant has dropped and they’re making steady progress.

Being a steward is often a “thankless” job she says but she likes helping her co-workers and continually learning about ways to improve conditions in her workplace.

Lynn is a strong supporter of leukemia research fundraising. Her daughter Ashley was diagnosed with the disease eight years ago, when she was just 12 years of age. Ashley has been in remission for six years now but Lynn continues her fundraising efforts every year to advance the research, which will help others afflicted with the

disease. Lynn has participated in the Havelock Walk for A Cure each year since 1999. She also sells tickets at fundraisers and at the Brighton ball tournament. She’s hoping to put together a Weston team to compete in next year’s tournament.

June Maruschak (above) is an extremely active union steward from Zehrs #506 in Sarnia. She has been with the store for 27 years – starting with the original Gordon’s store in Petrolia – and has been a union steward since 1980.

She is a past member of the Local 175 Executive Board and frequently participates on collective agreement negotiating committees. June has supported leukemia fundraising for a number of years, assisted the United Way campaign and is on the Employment Insurance Sarnia Board of Appeals. In November 2002, June received the Health and Safety Activist of the Year Award for proven dedication to the well-being of her co-workers. She is certified as a health and safety rep and a WHMIS trainer.

June is also the former secretary of the Sarnia District Labour Council (SDLC) and currently the first vice-president. She is an active member of the Labour Council Health and Safety and the Labour Day Parade committees. Various Local 175 union reps have worked with June over the years and are most appreciative of her efforts on behalf of labour relations.

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DECEMBER 2005

Kelly Kitchen is a ten-year employee at Loeb Island Park, on Carleton Avenue in Ottawa. She has been a steward for the past three years, from the time her store was unionized. She’s an outspoken person who’s not afraid to argue any case on behalf of the members.

Derrick Belair (left) and Alexander Doe have been stewards in the same store for just a short while, but are both eager to assist their co-workers in any way they can. As young workers, they are looking forward to learning more about the Union, their rights in the workplace and the challenges of advocating on behalf of Locals 175 & 633 members in their store.

Central West Director Harry Sutton and Union Rep Paul Jokhu joined the retirement party held earlier this year for Bob Whitten of the S. Gumpert Company in Mississauga.

“I wouldn’t miss the opportunity to wish him a well-earned retirement,” says Harry. “It was my pleasure to be his union rep for more than 14 years. He was a gentleman who completely supported the union. Bob was always there to help his co-workers and served on every set of negotiations. He never thought of himself . . . just what was best for everyone.”

RETIREMENTS

PEOPLECivil Rights Leader DiesRosa Parks, a black woman who was considered to be “The Mother of the Modern-day Civil Rights Movement,” passed away on October 24, 2005, at age 92.

She inspired a generation to fi ght for civil rights after she was arrested almost 50 years ago, for refusing to give up her seat on a city bus to

a white man in Montgomery, Alabama. The American Supreme Court subsequently ruled that segregation on transportation was unconstitutional.

Progress has been made, but racism and discrimination have not been eliminated. Locals 175 & 633 continue to defend the principles that Rosa fought for – justice, dignity and equity, in the community and in the workplace. We support equal opportunity for all members and negotiate collective agreements with strong anti-discrimination language.

DECEMBER 2005

City of Mississauga workers win outstanding first collective agreementApproximately 28 new Local 175 members working for the City of Mississauga ratifi ed a fi rst collective agreement on August 14, 2005. In addition to general contract language, the highlights include:

• Annual wage increases of 3 per cent for both full and part-time with the first increase retroactive to April 1, 2005.

• Additionally, full-time workers receive an another 3 per cent on each anniversary date, subject to a satisfactory perfor-mance review and Lead Hands gain an extra 3 per cent per hour worked at that classification.

• Vision care coverage of $300 and Hearing Aid coverage of $300, both per 24-month period.

• $2,000 annual coverage for visits to each of the following: Speech Therapist, Psychologist and Chiropractor.

• $500 annual coverage for visits to each of the following: Naturopath, Podiatrist, Masseur, Chiropodist and Osteopath.

• Group Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) cover-age for full-time workers are both at $400,000 maximum.

• Vacation entitlement ranges from 10 days, for 1 year of service or less, to a maximum of 30 days after 24 years of service.

• Part-time workers receive two weeks vacation after one year of service and vacation pay of 4 per cent of annual earnings.

$24,000 pension buyback for Markey Funeral Home workersMembers at Markey Family Funeral Homes in Hamilton secured a three-year collective agreement, which includes:

• Wage increases of 3 per cent on December 1, 2005, 3 per cent on August 1, 2006 and 2.5 per cent on December 1, 2006.

• Workers classed as Apprentice Funeral Director receive $2 per hour.

• Increased company contributions to the Canadian Commercial Workers Industry Pension Plan (CCWIPP) and the dental plan.

• Improved language covering temporary full-time workers, seniority, sick leave, hours of work and overtime.

Union Negotiating Committee: Robert Lambier, Ken Salisbury and Union Rep John DiNardo.

Loeb workers achieve wages and benefit increases

• Three days bereavement leave in the event of the death of an immediate fam-ily member.

• Language established includes seniority, steward representation, grievance proce-dure, health and safety policy and com-mittee, job postings, layoff and recall.

• Letters of understanding cover the establishment of part-time seniority, shift schedules, location of work, breaks and job security.

The bargaining unit includes customer-service-representative and receptionist classifi cations.

Union Negotiating Committee: Susan Cassidy, Anna French and Union Rep Rob Nicholas.

Approximately 100 members at Loeb Ogilvie in Ottawa ratifi ed a new six-year collective agreement at a meeting held August 29, 2005. Highlights include:

• Annual increases of 35 cents per hour for those at end rates.

• A signing bonus of $150 for full-time and up to $100 for part-time.

• New shift premiums apply to the Courtesy Desk and Assistant Department Manager.

• Increases in company contributions to the pension plan, as well as numerous other improvements.

Union Negotiating Committee: Gerry Crabtree, Patrick Eagan, Betty-Ann Felteauand Union Rep Daniel Mercier.

Quality Knitting workers win 3-year contractDespite company efforts to implement a wage freeze, members at Quality Knitting in Toronto secured a new three-year agreement with pay increases and other improvements. Highlights of the August 2005 agreement include:

• Wage increases totalling 30 cents per hour.

• Increased company contributions to the workers’ UFCW Benefit Trust Fund.

• A letter of agreement covering arbitra-tion time limits.

The company, and in turn the workers, face increasing pressure from China and India-imported goods. Since the last round of negotiations, the workforce has shrunk from 100 workers to just 50.

Union Negotiating Committee: Dai Nu Huang, Foom Khoon Yip (Shelly) and Union Rep Paul Jokhu.

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IONSvisit our Web site: www.ufcw175.com.visit our Web site: www.ufcw175.com.

For all the most recent UFCW news, including negotiations,

NEGOTIATIONS

Workers at the University Club of McMaster secure new agreementOn August 3, 2005, members at the University Club of McMaster voted in favour of a new three-year contract including the following highlights:

• Wages increase across-the-board by $5 per hour in year one, 2 per cent in the second year and 3 per cent in the third.

• Workers hired after August 1, 2005, will be placed on a tiered wage scale.

• Increased pension plan contributions, an additional personal use day and a new letter of agreement covering Casual Employees.

• Improved language regarding the work-ers’ grievance procedure, leaves of absence, bereavement leave, hours of work and overtime, vacation and breaks.

Better health and welfare coverage for P&H Foods workersP&H Foods members in Hanover ratifi ed a new three-year collective agreement at a meeting held August 14, 2005. Highlights include:

• Across-the-board wage increases of 3 per cent retroactive to June 2, 2005, and 3 per cent on June 2, 2006 and 2007.

• Shift premiums increase to 60 cents per hour.

• Increases in CCWIPP contributions, Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.

• Improvements in chiropractic, vision care, dental care and prescription drug coverage.

Union Negotiating Committee: Todd Bahri, Bruce Dosman, Sharon Fidler, Gord Kennedy, Doug MacKinnon and Union Rep Richard Wauhkonen.

Workers at the Canadian Forces Base in Borden ratify new contractMembers at the Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Borden ratifi ed a new four-year collective agreement at a vote held September 1, 2005. The contract, covering several outlets of the Base, includes the following:

• Wage increases for all end rates of between $1.40 and $2 per hour.• Language improvements covering shift cancellation notification, scheduling of two con-

secutive days off for both full and part-time workers, shift changes and bereavement leave.

• Workers recall rights increase to 12 months. • New letters of understanding regarding seasonal workers and part-time benefits.

Members at this unit work at the following Base locations: CANEX Retail Store, CANEX Expressmart, Borden Golf Club, Rod and Gun Annex, Theatres, Recreation, Offi cer’s Mess, Canteens, CANEX Food Services, Junior Rank’s Mess, Sports and Fitness and Bleachers bar and restaurant.

Union Negotiating Committee: Debbie Ferris, Carol-Ann Swinimer, Union Rep Rob Nicholas and Central East Regional Director Luc Lacelle.

Pharmaphil workers vote in favour of new agreementMembers at Pharmaphil in Windsor secured a new collective agreement on August 4, 2005. Highlights of the three-year contract include:

• Wage increases totalling 50 cents per hour, plus a 75-cent hourly premium for those on any eight-hour afternoon shift.

• Increased contributions to the UFCW Dental Benefit Trust Fund and the CCWIPP.

• New Letters of Understanding cover-ing shift filling, overtime and overtime equalization, a training premium and contracting out.

Union Negotiating Committee: Terry Gray, Art Greenham, Gary MacMillan, Union Rep Julie Johnston and South West Regional Director Ray Bromley.

Canadian Forces support workers ratify Canadian Forces Support Unit (CFSU)members in Ottawa ratified a new three-year agreement on August 10, 2005. Contract highlights include:

• A 2 per cent lump sum payment for all hours worked between June 1, 2005 and July 31, 2005.

• Wage increases of between 2.5 and 4.6 per cent to all rates retroactive to August 1, 2005.

• Additional increases for all rates of 2.5 per cent in the second year.

• Top rates receive an increase of 2.75 per cent in the third year.

• Improved bereavement language now includes step-parents, foster parents, common-law spouses and the son or daughter of a common-law spouse.

Union Negotiating Committee: Joe Joseph, John Macko and Union Reps Jacques Niquetand Marilyn Lang.

For all the most recent UFCW news, including negotiations, visit our

Three-year contract for Compass Group cafeteria staffMembers working for Compass Group at the London Free Press cafeteria secured a three-year collective agreement at a ratifi cation meeting held August 8, 2005. Highlights include:

• Wage increases of 2.5 per cent, or more, on September 6, 2005 and 2006 and 3 per cent in 2007.

• A new dental plan with no deductibles, six month recall, current fee guide year, basic restorative, periodontal and endodontic coverage and no annual maximum.

• A letter of understanding regarding pay equity is now part of the collective agree-ment as is a benefit summary.

Union Negotiating Committee: Lee-Ann Pertand Union Rep Wendy Absolom.

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Price Chopper workers keep Sunday shift premiumOn September 21, 2005, members at the Mavis & Bristol Road Price Chopper in Mississauga voted in favour of a new three-year agreement. The Union Negotiating Committee effectively had the Company withdraw the majority of the concessions it tabled resulting in the following contract highlights:

• Full-time workers receive annual wage increases of 35 cents per hour.• Part-time staff members at the end rates receive annual hourly increases of 25 cents. • Existing bargaining unit members will take no concessions regarding Sunday shift

premiums.• Part-time workers past their probation receive a lump sum payment of $75, less statutory

deductions, on the pay following ratifi cation.

Union Negotiating Committee: Marlon Montano, Barbara Reid and Union Rep Dan Serbin.

Three-year contract at health care centreMembers at the Coleman Health Care Centre in Barrie ratifi ed a new agreement on September 26, 2005.

Contract highlights include:

• Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) receive wage increases totalling $2.66 per hour over the three-year term.

• All other classifi cations receive increases totalling 61 cents per hour, retroactive to February 1, 2005, in the fi rst year, and an additional 40 cents per hour in both the second and third year.

• The company’s contribution to the pension and group insurance plans increase.

• Part-time workers completing more than 52 ½ hours biweekly over a six-week period will be classed as full-time.

• Full-time workers can now request, on a yearly basis, a reduction in their bi-weekly shifts from 10 to nine.

• Important new language relates to the Early and Safe Return to Work program, plus improved language covers call-backs, call-in hours and bereavement leave.

Union Negotiating Committee: Sharon Brassard, Terry Levstik, Sandra Barnes, Denise Hamilton and Union Rep Rob Nicholas.

New contract at Maple Leaf Consumer Foods in Toronto

For all the most recent UFCW news, including negotiations, visit our

A majority of the members at the October 16, 2005 ratifi cation meeting voted in favour of accepting the new contract, which was recommended by the union negotiating committee.Highlights of the new agreement include:

• A new classifi cation grid, which will specify wages based on department, job title and seniority.

• Wage increases ranging between $1.70 and $4.10 per hour.

• Additionally, effective on the date of ratifi cation, all active employees will receive a signing bonus (based on paid hours between January 15, 2004 and October 16, 2005), which will result in individual payments of up to $2,000.

• Company contributions to CCWIPP increase 50 per cent, to 75 cents per hour.

• Lead hand positions may be created, with a premium of $1 per hour.

• New “standby” pay of $2 per hour for maintenance workers assigned to weekend standby duty.

• Increase in the afternoon & evening shift premium and supper money.

• A new generic drug plan covering medically necessary prescriptions.

• Increase in the vision care benefi t and company contributions to the dental plan.

• All workers gain an additional fl oating holiday, with vacation increasing to fi ve weeks for those with 20 plus years of seniority.

• Improvements in job-posting language and bereavement leave.

Members process smoked meats and other meat and food items marketed under the Maple Leaf brand name.

Negotiating Committee: Noel Barnswell, Evangelo Christakis, Danny Lepard, Les Parsons, Union Rep Anthony Di Maio and Central East Region Director, Luc Lacelle.

Web site: www.ufcw175.com.

Enver Harbans and Mike Hurley work on their “Talking Union” presentation, which explains unions and workplace rights to students in high schools, colleges and universities.

YouthNEWSwww.ufcw175.com - e-mail: youth@ufcw175.com

YOUTH NEWS

Every year, 10-15 young people are chosen to participate in the UFCW Canada National Youth Internship Program (YIP). Its purpose is to build a core group of young UFCW activists.

The YIP goal is to involve young members and educate them about

their union. For youth, the program is a fi rst step in learning about the work done by labour activists, union representatives, and union organizers. YIP is a catalyst that has created numerous local union youth initiatives across the country.

The four-week session covers: topics in labour education, such as shop steward training, health and safety legislation, labour history, labour economics, politics, and globalization; skills development and fi eld training, including public speaking skills, communication techniques, workplace

rights and hands-on organizing; introduction to affi liate unions and Canada’s political system, including tours of: the Assemblée législative du Québec, the federal parliament of Canada, UFCW Canada Locals, the Féderation des travailleurs et travailleuses du Québec (FTQ), the New Democratic Party (NDP), and the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC).

Young members who are interested in the 2006 YIP program should speak to their Local President. Successful candidates will have demonstrated commitment to unionism and be able to commit to completing the full four-week program.

Local 175 participants in the 2005 YIP program, included Justin Pase, Fortinos # 62; Mark Stockton, Food Basics # 927 and Enver Harbans, Loblaws # 1050.

TheNationalYouthInternshipProgram:What it’s all about …

DECEMBER 2005

The experience was truly a wake up call for me and my fellow interns. The necessity for change and the position that the Labour Movement must play in this vital task for equality and justice is fundamental for social progression.

YOUT

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Dear President Wayne Hanley,

I am writing you this letter to let you know that I am

extremely grateful for the funds that the Local provided

me so that I could experience the UFCW national

internship program this year. The entire program was

an experience that will stay with me for the rest of my

life and I owe that to yourself and the membership for

making this possible. Thank you for your generosity

and your commitment to the youth who are anxious to

become union activists.

This program increased my motivation to get

involved in the labour movement and gave me the skills

necessary to be an asset to UFCW and its struggle

to provide workers with dignity and respect in the

workplace. I want to let you know that I am truly ready

to make a difference amongst Canada’s working-class.

The experience in Brooks, Alberta was very much a

wake up call for me and my fellow interns. The necessity

for change and the position that the Labour Movement

must play in this vital task for equality and justice is

fundamental for social progression. I am especially proud

to be a union member after that experience for I see the

struggle, fi rst-hand that unions assert themselves in for the

betterment of humanity. When I go into work everyday I

am no longer the unconscious drone who completes tasks

with little to no understanding. Instead, today, I work as

a conscious union member who knows what unions are

about, what they fought for, and the importance of not

letting our gains be undermined or rolled back.

Canada’s labour movement is being assaulted by the

Canadian ruling-class, and as recession knocks on the

door, militant and progressive unions, such as our own,

stand as a beacon and as a vanguard to today’s workers.

Training, education and the struggle for ideas must reign

supreme over the lies and deceit propagated by the

ruling elites. For this reason I thank you; the ideological

struggle that UFCW has plunged itself into is making

key advancements on this front, especially among the

youth of the organization. Resources, time and energy

from local membership and staff made my experience

possible. It made the future of the struggle prepared for

what stands ahead, and provided us with the necessary

tools to wage the working-class struggle when the old

guards pass the torch.

I believe our union is preparing for a continued

and just struggle against the parasites that capitalism

breeds. The labour movement in itself needs

revitalization, with a new upbeat tone, one that I believe

is being harvested in the UFCW Youth.

Again President Hanley, I can’t thank you enough

for this opportunity and I am excited for what lays ahead

in the movement.

In Solidarity,

Enver Harbans

During the program, Mark Stockton and Jessie Michor did a role play illustrating how Ontario workers have been pulled down by regressive changes in the province’s organizing laws.

To continue the momentum of educating the membership about health and safety, 21 members attended an Instructor Health & Safety Course from September 24 - October 2, 2005.

Instructor training course receives great reviews

HEALTH & SAFETY

Each year the Workers Health & Safety Centre (WHSC), in conjunction with district labour councils across Ontario, recognizes the contributions of health & safety activists at an awards dinner.

This year, Judith Moore, who works at Pinty’s Premium Foods in St. Catharines, was selected by the St. Catharines & District Labour Council to receive the 2005 Health & Safety Activist Award. She was nominated for the honour by union rep Kelly Tosato, who says: “Judith has worked vigorously for the members for the last 16 years. She’s been instrumental in implementing many positive changes at Pinty’s and has also participated in various labour initiatives outside the workplace.”

Some of Judith’s accomplishments include implementing regular safety inspections and developing a number of training initiatives to improve safety in the workplace. She pushed for a job-rotation schedule in the plant, which has substantially reduced repetitive strain injuries. She is an exemplary health & safety educator, teaching classes at conferences, coaching her peers in the workplace and training management to respect safety protocols. Judith wants to see every worker on alert and ready to speak up . . . whether it’s confronting management or reporting dangerous working conditions to the Ministry of Labour.

Judy herself is truly a health & safety activist role model, always ready to speak out when she sees a problem that management is too slow to correct. “I have a pocketful of quarters,” she says. “And I’m not afraid to use them.”

She is an exemplary health & safety educator, teaching classes at conferences, coaching her peers in the workplace and training management to respect safety protocols.

Earlier this year, John Arnold, of the WHSC, was in Windsor to award certifi -cates to 22 of the local unions’ Health & Safety Committee members and stewards who attended an information-packed four-day course from August 29 – September 1, 2005.

The course was presented by Staff Rep Janice Klenot and Executive Board member Carolyn Levesque. All who par-ticipated enjoyed the course and are ea-ger to bring their new knowledge back to the workplace.

Many of the members expressed a wish to continue with additional classes, so that they too can instruct courses in the future. “The members benefi t tremendously from having knowledgeable and well-trained safety reps in their workplaces,” says Union Rep Julie Johnston. “This was an excellent course; Janice and Carolyn did a fantastic job!”

Judith Moore wins activist award

Judith Moore (centre), with union rep Kelly Tosato and Central West regional director, Harry Sutton, was presented with a commemorative plaque on Thursday, October 13, 2005.

Instructor training course receives great reviewsThis training will increase the number of instructors who can provide more health & safety training for the protection of mem-bers in their workplaces. In the course, these activists worked hard to develop

new skills, techniques and knowl-edge, which they will share with their co-workers. We now have instructors who have extensive H&S knowledge in retail, health care, industry and fed-

DECEMBER 2005

Participants were, from left, First row: Chris Watson, Better Beef; Cathy Arnold, Homewood Health Care; Betty Hentschel, Fortinos #53; Georgina Broeckel, Training & Education Centre (TEC) Staff Instructor; Toni Pettitt, A&P #479; Joyce Vicaire, Huntsville Nursing Home; Judith Moore, Pintys Premium Foods; Cheryl Cassibo, Rosebridge Manor. Second row: John Smukavich, Maple Leaf Pork Burlington; Tom Marsh, Sobeys Distribution Centre; Joe Pereira, Maple Lodge Farms; Janice Klenot, Locals 175 & 633 Health & Safety Rep; Michael Pollard, Super C Cornwall; Al Miller, A&P 118; Jason Maracle, Hamilton TEC Instructor; Mark Stockton, Food Basics; John Compare, Maple Leaf Distribution Centre; Mike Johnston, Aeroguard; Tim Lacasse, Silverstein Bakery; Oscar Arrieta, Loeb St. Laurent; Chris Beer, Super C Barrhaven; Jamie Hickman, Horizon Plastics; Cam Sherk, UFCW National Office Instructor; Garry Kelly, A&P #204.

Members applaud Windsor Health & Safety course

Windsor Course participants were, seated, from front left: Marcelline Joanis, Zellers #1338; Jessica Marcotte, Zehrmart # 529; Terry Woods, Food Basics # 883; Ron Price, Zehrmart # 567; Carolyn Levesque, Zehrmar #571 and Instructor; Doug Stuart, Zehrmart #571.From centre left: Maureen Laforet-Caron, Zellers # 1339; Ramona Gehl, Zellers # 1338; Janice Parent, Zellers # 1338; Grace Rocheleau, Seasons Resturant; Jennifer Tudrick, Zehrmart # 529; Carolyn Renaud, Zellers # 1339; Roberta Thorne, Zellers # 1339; Burnadette McKenzie, A&P # 141; Sue Pare, Zehrmart # 571; Giovanna Dafonte, Zehrmart # 571; Dan Peters, Holiday Inn # 31540.Back left: Ryan Burnett, Zehrmart # 529; Judy Wood, Zehrmart RCS # 567; John Garardo, Zehrmart # 571; John Obeid, RCSS Zehrmart #567; Patt Hobbs, Zellers # 1338; Mike Collins, Holiday Inn # 31540.

eral legislation, which means more and better training in these sectors. With the completion of this course, these members (above) will have the appropriate credentials to instruct for UFCW and also the Workers Health & Safety Centre.

HEAL

TH &

SAF

ETY

HEALTH & SAFETY

If you believe an accident, injury, illness or onset of pain is work related you must:

• Report incident to your employer immediately.

• Complete an Employer Incident Report.

• Have your employer complete a Form 7 (Employer’s Report of Injury/Disease).

• Review and sign the Form 7 or Form 1492 (if available from your employer). It is your legislative right to be provided with a copy of this form.

• Seek medical attention.

• Report your injury to your family doctor and have him/her complete a Form 8 (Physician’s First Report).

• Inform a co-worker or witness.

Work-Related Injuries and the WSIB process

Dear Brother Wayne Hanley

I would like to thank you for the instruction courses that

you offer the membership on an ongoing basis. More and

more these days we hear that safety and health is a big

concern in our workplaces. One would think in this day and

age that it should still not have to be a concern, but we

know it is. We appreciate the importance of good health

& safety training in reducing workplace accidents and

injuries.

Over the last six months the local union has really

opened my eyes – and those of my brothers and sisters in

our membership – regarding the importance of health &

safety issues. And you should know that I will spread the

news to any and all of our membership that I meet, both in

and out of my workplace.

Hats off to a job well done by you and the staff of

Locals 175 & 633!

Thank you as well for the health & safety pins that I

received from Janice Klenot and Dan Serbin. You probably

have no idea how much this little pin means to the

membership, as a safety incentive. Our brothers and sisters

really appreciate receiving these for a job well done. I also

wear mine and am very proud to carry our name banner,

UFCW Locals 175 & 633.

Once again, thank you very much and be proud of the

work that you are doing.

Tom Marsh

Health and Safety Certifi ed Member

Sobeys Milton

Your rights and responsibilities:

WSIB Claims must be fi led within six months of the injury date.

You have the right to receive treatment from your own health care professional including your family doctor, chiropractor, therapist or dentist.

You make your choice of health care professional when you accept treatment after the initial or emergency treatment.

You cannot change to another health care professional without WSIB approval.

You have the legal right to report any workplace accident or injury.

No one can tell you not to fi le a claim!

Keep detailed records of all relevant information pertaining to your workplace injury including conversations, forms, attempts at an early & safe return to work or other items of interest.

If you have questions or problems with your claim, contact the Benefi ts Department at 1-800-565-8329.

More information is available in the Health & Safety section of the local union’s Web site, or by contacting your regional offi ce. Resources include a series of fi ve pamphlets on the following topics:

• WSIB Claims

• WSIB Appeals

• Non-Economic Loss (NEL)

• Future Economic Loss (FEL)

• WSIB Claims & Workplace Injuries: What your doctor needs to know

… and summer is just a distant memory. Children and young people have been back in school for more than three months. If you were to believe the TV commercials, parents and adults in general are happy because they now have more time to themselves. What’s not portrayed in many of these commercials, however, is what many of the parents and adults are doing with this extra time. A large number of Locals 175 & 633 members, in particular, are also “hitting the books” now that the kids are back in school.

In September alone, 1,113 members took at least one course through the local union. Since January 2005, there were 6,389 participants in the numerous free courses provided by the Locals. Members are taking High School credits, English as a Second Language, Health and Safety Training, computer courses and even Instructor Training. The greatest enrolment increases are for the online

Winter is here . . .

courses. Now members can peruse the Web site listing of 50 courses, and then register for whichever ones they choose. It could be simply a three hour “mini-course” – or a full college credit course. The process is as easy as 1, 2, 3 and they can do it at their leisure, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Phone registration is still available, as before, during traditional business hours.

Members’ support of these online courses is very strong. For the new year, the number of new courses will increase, again. Another 12 new online courses have been added, bringing the total selection to 62. And members are still requesting more! In 2007 we expect to add another 16 courses to our offerings. The delivery capacity has increased at a constant rate. It seems that members can’t get enough of them. By the end of this year, more than 3,000 members will have taken at least one course online.

And for more good news . . . if you’re a member of Locals 175 & 633 these courses are also open to close family relatives.

Number of courses that members have taken online

The Mississauga Training & Education Centre

(TEC) will be relocating from 1450 Meyerside

Drive to a newly-constructed building at 2200

Argentia Road. The new facility, which is now

under construction, is located at

the Locals 175 & 633 Mississauga

Provincial Offi ce. The anticipated

move date is early in 2006.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

DECEMBER 2005

2002 2003 2004 2005YEAR

Participants

* First 10 months only – from January to October 30, 2005

150250

1069

2790*

TRAI

NING

& E

DUCA

TION

Return postage will be paid by:

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

Canada Post Corporation Publication Agreement No. 40064671

Be sure and check the Web site, or call the Mississauga TEC to find out about classroom courses, which are offered all across the province.

One such course was an eight-hour workshop in First Aid and CPR, which took place at the Valhalla Inn in Thunder Bay on September 24, 2005. Some of the members participating in this course where from the Valhalla itself, who are members of Local 175, as are most other hotel workers in the city. This is just one of the many workshops that many members and their relatives participate in, provided courtesy of their local union.

In addition to the course mentioned above, the Locals also offer First

Aid, Trauma and Infant CPR. These programs started to be offered three years ago and since then have become a tremendous success. Members have voted with their feet and through their participation. In the fi rst year, 78 attended; last year, 609 participated. In the fi rst nine months of the current year, 820 have already taken these fi rst aid and CPR courses. This is an increase of more than one thousand per cent in three years. And of course, we know from experience that the program will continue to expand in the future.

The reason for the success is that many members are concerned about fi nding themselves in an emergency situation when having – or not

having – these skills and knowledge could mean the difference between life and death. Others need this certifi cation for their coaching or other recreational activities. Many new parents and grandparents take the Infant CPR course, just to have the extra peace of mind.

If you haven’t taken a course… enrol now. It pays to be prepared!

Members and their families from the North West region . . .

First Aid and CPR courses are also available

. . . practiced their first aid skills