THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 1 the Guardian

GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 1 The Guardian

October 2019 – Volume 75 – Issue 2 – Windsor - Essex

NEMAK 2019 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 2

ing due to the 50% drop in I6 production and the delaying of Thelma IT’SIT’S UPUP TOTO US!US! & Louise. For those reasons they said Nemak will be breaking our commit to placing the awarded GM By contract and moving the two new blocks and bedplate in Windsor if the JOHN D’AgNOlO, programs to Monterrey Mexico. extension agreement is ratified. That President, They bargained two new pro- agreement WAS ratified grams in 2016 knowing full well that Unifor Local 200 Secondly, it states based on the Jdagnolo@unifor we would need additional work on current volume projections, the com- local200.org top of the I6 and Thelma and Louise pany will designate the WAP Cast and now they are choosing to move Line D as the SOLE SOURCES for all of the work to Mexico therefore Time Line the GM blocks and bedplate. With not utilizing our plant leaving it to Nemak announced on July 16, the assumption that WAP Cast Line die. 2019, that they would be closing the D will be able to meet customer Chris Taylor and I also discov- Canadian Operations in the 2nd volume demand, delivery, and ered Nemak WAS awarded the FCA quarter of 2020. They said the rea- quantity requirements. Our members block and they have decided to move sons for the closure was that the GM froze their wages in 2016 for this that to Mexico as well. LG block (which consists of 90% of very reason to secure their future. our production) would now be built Flew to Mexico in China. As well the I6- block we The Meeting August 27th at 4 pm Jerry and are building for the GM production July 30th, Chris Taylor and I met the Unifor leadership met with has dropped by 50%. Not to mention with Luis Pena, Director of Nemak CEO Armando Tamez and they were putting the “Thelma and USA/CAN&SA operations and Kurt the Nemak managers. Jerry made it Louise” block and bedplate on hold. Krzewinski, HR Director in South- clear that integrity is all we have. He That all equaled to projections show- field. In the meeting, Luis and Kurt ing our facility at only 10% utiliza- let us know the plant would be clos- . . . cont’d on next page tion, therefore they needed to close the facility. July 19, 2019, the company held a question and answer period for Local 200 Nemak members. During the question and answer period, the reason the company gave as to why they were ceasing operations was based on market conditions and not having a viable path to return to sus- tainability. The company also stated they would continue to look for work for the facility. When Plant Manager Brad Boutros, was questioned about what happened to the FCA block, knowing full well the FCA team came through the plant looking at the great work we did on the I 6 block, Brad said: “at this time we have not been awarded the block from FCA.” What Does the Contract Say? What Nemak failed to discuss was Staff Rep Chris Taylor, Local 444 President Dave Cassidy, Chrystia Free- the agreement we signed on Feb 26, land, Federal Liberal Minister of Foreign Affairs, John D’Agnolo, President 2016! The agreement states effec- Local 200, James Stewart, Sec-Treasurer Local 444. Federal Minister makes tively Jan 12, 2019: Nemak does so a special stop at the Local 444/200 Union Hall. The Guardian –2 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 3

We had an Auto Policy that pro- In the name of profits, they are John D’Agnolo tected us from corporate greed that turning their backs on 180 workers is gone, and so are the jobs. We need and their families with nothing to . . . cont’d our provincial and federal govern- stop them, but us. ments to stop giving them the red told them, “You signed an agree- carpet to the south and put actions in Let us stand together in ment and shook hands, we expect place to prevent this from happen- Solidarity for our jobs. you to keep your word.” Armando ing. hardly said a word and when he did, See you on the picket line! it was only about profits. It was ap- parent that Armando was not chang- ing his mind. Jerry handed Armando his number and told him to call him, and as of this writing, we have not heard from Nemak. Line in the Sand Nemak used our workforce, tech- nology, and skills to win the FCA Block program. Then Nemak awarded the program to Monterrey Mexico. To add salt to the wound, Nemak is building a brand-new Dye Cast facility in Monterrey. Nemak made it clear it was a business decision based on cost, and we made it clear when you signed the agreement, you made a business decision to build it in Canada, and it's not leaving the building. Tim Little, Vice-President of Local 200, John D’Agnolo, President of We had to take action, and on Local 200 and Dave Croswell, Past Sec-Treasurer of Local 200, Monday, Sept 2nd at 10:45 a.m. we surveying the Nemak site. shut down operations. We had no choice but to fight for our jobs. Nemak was handed millions of taxpayer money, our workers froze their wages for promised investment, and Nemak is just going to walk out on their obligation. We do not have ANY policies in place to stop Nemak from breaking our contract, closing our plant, and moving to Mexico. Both the Conservative and Lib- eral Parties continue to watch jobs go south and turn their backs on Canadian workers. Greedy corporations like Nemak take the tax breaks from our Federal and Provincial Governments with ZERO stipula- tions attached to it. Ken Anderson (Skilled Trades, Local 200), holding the line! The Guardian –3 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 4

LOCAL 444

DAVE CASSIDY President Unifor Local 444 President Windsor-Essex Skilled Trades Let us Breathe a Little Easier [email protected]

t least for the moment. It strong! Putting calls out through so- ment will stop them? No, they are was good to hear on Au- cial media and having that picket going to stand their ground, where AAgust 14 that the company line just packed at 11 p.m. with our hope can be found!! Local 444 will decided to extend the life of the members… Makes a President be there right beside them in soli- damn proud! third shift until at least the end of darity. 2019. This is not a final solution, I admit I was a little disheartened but every one of these extensions to hear callers on AM 800 or to read Federal Election provides us with more opportunities comments on FB saying that the With a Federal election around Nemak workers were taking the to work with the company to get a the corner, I have been inundated by final resolution that maintains our wrong stance. These workers did the media with questions about 3rd shift and current workforce for everything to keep their jobs. They whom I am supporting this fall. Let the future. froze their wages to secure future me be clear about my stance. My Talks continue with top FCA work and ratified a more extended focus is and always will be about management and with top Federal contract into 2022. This company, and some Provincial leaders as we because they believed it was our membership and their jobs. continue to work on locking in a cheaper, decided to break that con- When I became President of this new product and filling a gap be- tract and pick up and move to Mex- great Local, I made it clear that our tween now and a new product. None ico, and there is no legislation to core has to be in our workplaces — of this will be easy and but I have stop Nemak from doing that. fighting for our brothers and sisters never been known as one to give up. on the shop floors and at the bar- I know these are challenging So, what should these workers gaining table. It is easy for some to times and I know folks are worried. do? Hope that Nemak changes their get swept away into the politics However, I also know we can get minds? Hope that Nemak one day when parties and candidates come through this! We as a membership comes back? Hope that the govern- . . . cont’d on next page have faced plant closures, bankrupt- cies, strikes, being sold and pro- posed elimination of our third shift….and at every moment we have risen to meet these challenges. Know that we are still more produc- tive than anyone else on earth! We are the best at what we do. We know, and they know- If you want it built right, YOU BUILD IT WINDSOR! Trust that your local will not standstill. We will continue to fight for avenues to maintain three shifts. Nemak It has been an honour to stand with our Local 200 brothers and sisters on the picket line. The support Local 444 Officers standing with Local 200 Brothers and Sisters on the line at the plant has been at the Nemak plant The Guardian –4 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 5

Brian Masse in Windsor West, how they would be beneficial to our Dave Cassidy has stood up time and time again workers or our industries. Previous and told everyone who would listen Conservative Prime Ministers em- . . . cont’d about the need for a National Auto braced radical trade deals, privatiza- Policy. Brian has also been a big be- tion and cut 25,000 public service jobs. courting looking for your support liever that passing Single Sports We currently have a Conserva- and they have come. I admit in the Betting legislation will help save jobs for our community. Brian has tive Premier in this province who past our membership has felt they continually been there to support has been a butcher when it comes to were told whom to vote for, and that Windsor workers. He walks the talk. jobs. We could NOT be more oppo- is something the officers and I do site. not believe in doing. I am a fighter I live in Essex, and my MP is My goal, my focus, my life is for workers; it is what I do; it is who NDP Tracy Ramsey, whom I have about fighting for our workers and I am. I have been fighting for work- had the privilege of getting to know our jobs, and I do not get a sense ers’ rights for the last 25 years of my well. She is a strong voice for Essex, supports labour, and her con- that the Scheer Conservatives life. Unfortunately, every time the would be allies in our fight for the folks way up in Ottawa or in stituency. In my area, that is who I will be voting for, again. working class. Scheer is offering Queens Park make a decision, it af- plenty of tax cuts for the wealthy. I fects the lives, jobs, and well-being Windsor Tecumseh is shaping worry he will follow the pattern of of our membership. That is why up to be an exciting battle with a Harper and Ford and cut jobs to off- there are times we as a union HAVE couple of great candidates. Irek set those tax cuts. to get involved and DO get in- Kusmierczyk, is currently looking volved. for the Liberal nomination, he is a I urge all of you to go out and vote! Whoever forms our new gov- I have never been a big fan of councillor whom I admire, a bright guy who works hard for the people. ernment, know that your local will the Federal Liberals, yet I have to A number of our members who live be reaching out to them to keep our say, when looking to them for sup- in his ward rave about him. He will workplaces in their focus. port during the announced cancella- be running against NDP incumbent tion of the third shift, they could not Your Local Cheryl Hardcastle. have been more willing to help. It is great to see our number of Wanting to help save the jobs of We Need Allies members at our gatherings and thousands of our membership ad- As for Andrew Scheer and the meeting continue to rise. I encour- mittedly goes a long way with me. Conservative Party, I just do not see age everyone to come out to our events, meetings, or even join a committee that are now just beginning to get back in full swing. This is YOUR Local, there is a place for YOU here. Conclusion As fall is upon us, so is the beginning of football. I am hoping in the next Guardian edition I will be able to mention the Lions on pace for the playoffs lol. Keep the Main thing the Main thing. In Solidarity!

“In the War Room” The Guardian –5 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 6

LOCAL 444

. . . cont’d on next page JAMES Attacks on Workers STEWART Sec.Treasurer Unifor local 444

Email: Everywhere [email protected]

At the beginning of the year, I 2016. During that round of bargaining, idarity we have here. These workers A had high hopes for workers in Nemak committed to keeping opera- have done everything asked of them to A2019. The housing boom was tions going until at least 2022 in ex- keep their plant running. This corpora- in full swing; the Windsor economy change for a lengthier than usual tion is showing its greed by wanting to seemed relatively stable; unrest collective agreement involving cuts move to a lower wage destination to seemed to be at bay. At FCA, the big and freezes to compensation. The reap more in profits concern at the time was dealing with workers agreed to help themselves the potential loss of FCAT (our truck- keep the work going. Only Recourse ing division). For the most part, we Breaking the Now the big question is why did we had been able to keep the company at Agreement "jump the gun" and take this plant over bay and keeping our members working so soon. We have heard some of the So why is it that Nemak can break critics saying that maybe the contract steadily. Then out of nowhere, FCA an agreement and move to Mexico? announced that they wanted to elimi- language wasn't strong enough!! This How is it that Nemak, after the work- has nothing to do with how strong the nate the third shift at the Windsor As- ers have done so much and sacrificed sembly Plant. Potentially putting 1500 language is. Nemak has already recog- continuously be facing a plant closure nized by closing that plant before the junior FCA members and hundreds of two years before the end of their con- our feeder plant members on the street. year 2022 they were breaking the col- tract? How can an employer just up lective agreement, although their inter- More on the third shift a little later in and move mid-contract and not expect this article. pretation continues to change. The any fightback from the workers! Did demand for the product is still strong Nemak they assume because there are only and making money! They just wanted Monday, September 2nd marked 180 workers left that it would be easy to make MORE money by moving to another Labour Day and the usual fes- pickings? Does this company not fully a low-cost region in Mexico. tivities for workers were being carried understand contracts in good faith? Or The problem is when Nemak out throughout our community. Unbe- maybe they are just a company that closes their doors ahead of schedule, knownst to most, there was a small only cares about profits and sharehold- the only recourse left to us would be group of activists made up of different ers and does not care about the work- to file a grievance. If the company area locals, (under the leadership of ers or the communities they live in? I loses the grievance, THE ONLY John D'agnolo and Local 200,) had do know that this company underesti- PUNISHMENT would be to pay a quietly assembled at the Windsor mated the sense of community and sol- . . . cont’d on next page Nemak plant to take over the facility. Some Background A few years ago, Ford Motor Com- pany was closing this plant, but it ended up being sold to Nemak, a multibillion-dollar conglomerate spe- cializing in automotive parts production. The workers that decided to stay at Nemak were forced to take significant cuts in pay and benefits to keep the jobs. The alternative was to face long term and permanent layoffs. The federal government also gave millions of dollars in incentives to Nemak to aid in R&D development which Sec-Treasurer James Stewart holds early morning meeting with Casino helped in getting us to bargaining in representation Steve Dzudz, Charie Virga, and Casino Chair Dana Dunphy. The Guardian –6 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 7

look. They changed their date and good-paying jobs, but it doesn't stop James Stewart gave us a drop-dead date of October there. The impact of those jobs in the 21st. Now it has been postponed once . . . cont’d community is massive. again until the end of the year. As the When employers are successful, leadership, we will continue to work to they pay property taxes to the city or small fine. This would do absolutely extend the shift cancellation as often county, which in turn pays for our nothing for the workers of that facil- as possible until we can hopefully get roads and sewers, etc. When workers ity that have already made sacrifices the company to rescind it altogether. have a steady, good-paying job, they to keep the plant open. Our members should keep an eye are contributing to the Federal and There is no current legislation that out for any leaflets or bulletins put out Provincial Governments in the form of would stop this company from moving by the leadership, and those will be income taxes which pay for our social otherwise. The only option left to us done whenever there is something to programs, health care, infrastructure was to take over the plant, making sure report. There is no sense of writing lit- improvements and many other things the equipment stays in the plant. It is erature that is frustrating members be- we use daily. When workers make a forcing the employer to check them- cause there is nothing new being good income, they spend money in the selves and meet with us. We want reported. For the time being, we tell community, and they buy goods and them to live up to their contractual our members to keep doing what they services that they might not otherwise agreement with the members of Local do best, building a world-class vehicle be able to afford. When this happens, 200. with the hope that the market will we as workers are driving the econ- Solidarity eventually pick up. Many meetings omy, people are being employed at I am disgusted by how Nemak is and discussions have taken place and smaller businesses because we are treating its workers this way. I want to will continue to with FCA and our spending money in the community. It encourage anyone that can stop by the Federal, Provincial and Municipal is such an important piece to not forget Nemak site to please do so. Let the Governments. We will continue to po- about, we are the drivers of workers there know that they do matter sition our plant for a secure future long Windsor/Essex, that without these jobs and that their fight is our fight. Anyone term. We cannot stop the rumors from that are being attacked today, this com- of us could be the next, no matter what happening, but we can say that unless munity would look very different. Our industry we work in. At the time of this it comes from us, don't put too much fight should be the entire communities writing, I cannot predict the outcome, weight on it! fight. but these workers deserve our support! Get involved in your union, get in- Community Impact volved in your community, together FCA Third Shift In a community like Windsor- we can win these fights and make pos- Now, in contrast to this announced Essex, our workplaces such as Nemak, itive impacts that are lasting and im- plant closure, we at FCA have the po- FCA, Ford, Caesars, etc. provide many portant to all of us. tential loss of the third shift. The market is driving FCA's plan, and the sale volumes are not there with the amount of competition in the marketplace. FCA IS NOT moving production out of the country to any low-cost region like what happened at GM's Oshawa plant or what is happening currently at Nemak. Let me be clear, our plant has been the crown jewel of the FCA cor- poration forever and a day. Our members have brought this company through some rough times, and FCA OWES THIS WORKFORCE A THREE SHIFT OPERATION even if that means adding a new product. Originally FCA had given us a date in September to end the 3rd shift. The union leadership has been pushing our numbers and always suggesting they Holding the line until hell freezes over then they are going to keep sharpen their pencils and have another holding it on hockey skates! The Guardian –7 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 8

LOCAL 195

EMILEBy NABBOUT President, President’s Report Unifor Local 195

Greetings Sisters and Brothers, standers and we are committed to es- As this is my first Guardian report, calating our fight in order to preserve Email: [email protected] as President of UNIFOR Local 195, I our workplaces and community as a wish to express to you that I am hum- viable resource to a healthy economy. Congratulations and thanks to Sue bled and grateful for your trust in my We need a government that respects Markham -Chairperson, Mike Jee, ability to assume the responsibility of workers and unions, in every part of Vice-Chairperson; Dan Plesa, Rec. President in our Local. A local that has this country, so that no community will Secretary; James Pearson, Committee fought on behalf of all workers and for be left behind. We are fed-up of free person; Karma French, Committee the common good of our community, talk from politicians that bring nothing Person; Mike Renaud, National Rep.; since its charter on December 11, but false hope and creates disastrous Tammy Pomerleau, 1st vice president 1936. outcomes, like Doug Ford’s agenda. Local 195. I have been a proud member of this Together, we can layout a clear di- Tilbury Concrete Local since 1990, serving our mem- rection with the changes needed in Transport inc. bers at Kautex Textron unit and Local order to see our vision to transform the On May 13, 2019, we ratified a 3- 195 in many different capacities. I am government - that will serve all Cana- year agreement with 61% approval by thankful for all the knowledge and ex- dians. But in order to make these the membership. The members’ turned perience I have gained by holding changes possible, we must get in- down the first tentative agreement, these various positions, throughout the volved and not take our right to vote however, we managed to make slight last 29 years; always striving to assist for granted. Many people had sacri- gains. This agreement includes a wage and make positive differences in peo- ficed their lives to achieve this demo- increase of $1.80 over the 3 years, ple’s lives. cratic right to elect our government. which brings the lowest-paid classifi- Today, I can say that I am energized Therefore, on Oct 21, 2019, get in- cation to $28.45 at the end of the and committed to continue to serve our volved, make a difference. Vote for agreement. members on many different levels. labour friendly candidates, that value New leave of absence language to Our work cannot be achieved without worker’s rights and want to preserve include: 10 ESA days, medical leave, the support of this great team we have our jobs. family caregiver leave, domestic/sex- assembled, beginning with our late Units Agreement ual violence leave, compassionate President John Toth. John’s leadership updates Catalent leave. Also, we agreed on a new ap- and mentoring have given me the ut- Pharma Solutions. prenticeship program, an increase for most motivation to lead, following his dental and vision benefits, with a $300 footsteps, which will allow me to bat- On April 26, 2019, we ratified a 3- spending account for dental. We tle the challenges we face every day. year agreement with 78% approval by gained one holiday for Family day. Moving Forward . . . the membership. Despite the chal- Also, a new safety shoe allowance of lenges in this set of bargaining, we Our Local union is moving forward $150 per year and a pension increase managed to make gains in several with a clear and bold agenda, to protect in every year of the agreement. and defend workers’ rights. We will areas of this agreement, such as Congratulations and thanks to Ian continue to speak up and work on our woman’s advocate, job posting, health, Tessier, Chairperson; Joe Lucier, Com- driven action plan for all the work- and welfare. We also saw many im- mitteeperson; Theresa Farao, National places we represent and the issues improvements for health and safety & Rep.; Emile Nabbout, President, Local pacting our community. Further, we WSIB representation and allotted time 195. are committed to lobbying against any and access to our union, to protect our Flex’N Gate Canada elected government that has an agenda members. We ratified a 3 year deal with many to roll back on workers’ protection, Wage increase is $1.50 over the improvements throughout the agree- labour laws, education, pension, health life of the agreement, with a $500 sign- ment. The highlights include a wage care, wages, and trade agreements, ing bonus and reduction in the growing increase in each year of agreement, which can take our jobs elsewhere- wage for new hires from 6 years to 4 with a $1,000 signing bonus. Paid time outside of Canada. We refuse to be by- years. . . . cont’d on next page The Guardian –8 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 9

Emile Nabbout . . . culty we faced during negotiations, we day, 12.01 a.m. The committee agreed were able to make significant gains in to give the owner an opportunity over Local 195 Report the language which includes represen- the weekend to reach back to us. But . . cont’d tation and protection prior to disci- nothing happened. pline, and creating a clear process, The union took strike action and off and vacation % increases, – em- COLA Improvement. set the picket line as of Monday, Sept ployees with 25 years’ service, will Wage – Year 1 to fold in COLA and 2, 2019 at 6 p.m. Our local union made have 5 weeks off with a 9% payout. 20 cent increase. In years 2 and 3 of the commitment to support the 75 They also have a pension increase in the agreement, pension increase by 1 workers in the facility and told the em- every year of the agreement, benefit %, reporting allowance language, ESA ployer that we no longer accept con- and shoe allowance improvement, leave of absence language, in addition cessions or role back on the workers’ Five (5) personnel illness & three (3) to any days off under the agreement, benefits and pension while the com- family emergency. These days will not employee orientation and time stud y. pany is making a fortune from the hard include days are taken for bereavement Improvement in contracting out lan- work of very skilled workforce for or time off approved by the company, guage which now allows our members over 80 years. early retirement incentive and commit- the ability to do work in house. Many ment to maintaining its manufacturing new letters of understanding to cover University of Windsor Campus Police, operation at this plant and bid for fu- some ongoing issues in the facility. ture work. Performance Ford, Congratulations and thanks to Emrick Plastic Congratulations and thanks to Gre- Randy St. Pierre, Chairperson; Pat gory Rocheleau, Chairperson; Bryan Hickey, Vice-chairperson; Bassam We hope all talks go well and will Pare, Committeeperson; Dave Wilders, Bashir, Committeeperson, Mark improve the quality of life for our Committeeperson, Mike Lovric, Na- members. Malec, Committeeperson, Theresa • • • tional Rep.; Sarkis Gaspar, Secretary- Farao, National Rep. Sarkis Gaspar, Treasurer, Local 195. Secretary-Treasurer, Local 195. Community Activist Recognition Award Nickleson Machine PAPP Plastics & & Tools Garry Parent Award, May 27, In July 2019, we ratified a 3-year Distributing Limited 2019. Our sister, Nicole Simpson was agreement with Nickleson with a 68% In August 2019, we ratified a 3- the recipient of the Rolly Marentette year deal with 82% approval by the approval by the membership. The membership. The highlights include award. Congratulations. highlights include language improve- wage increase of $1.15 per hour, tak- Also, at the same event, the United ment, fold in of current COLA float of ing wages to $19.25 for production Way put forward the John Toth 32 cents per hour plus future COLA, labourers and $22.25 per hour for set Award. His wife Shelly presented the increases to generate 3% wage in- up classification. New pension plan, award with Phil Lyon, from the United crease over the life of the agreement, health & welfare increase for Dental/ Way. taking wages to $21.52 /hr. for general Orthodontic and medical supplies, A Tribute to . . . Brother labour and $33.97/ hr. for tool & die Bereavement leave for grandparents, maker, 5-year vacation after 20 years and many language improvements. James Campbell of service, a new provision for mas- Congratulations and thanks to sage therapy, increase in safety shoe Martin Nesin, Chairperson, Octavian On Aug 25, 2019, a Great Union ac- allowance to $155/ year. Ioanesiu, Committeeperson, Roberto tivist, James Campbell lost his battle Vukovic, Committeeperson; Mike Congratulations and thanks to with cancer. UNIFOR Local 195 is sad- Renaud, National Rep.; Sarkis Gas- dened to see Jim pass away. Our brother Shawn Manning, Chairperson; Darren par, Secretary-Treasurer, Local 195 Roy, Committeeperson; Mike Renaud, gave countless hours to fight on behalf and Tammy Pomerleau, Firstst Vice of workers. He was a great activist, in- National Rep.; Sarkis Gaspar, Secre- President, Local 195. tary-Treasurer, Local 195. structor and dedicated man who helped Units in Bargaining improve the quality of life for all our Titan Tool and Canadian Engineering, Unfortu- members at Local 195. Many people Die Limited nately, the talks broke off the company were touched by his compassion for In August 2019, we ratified a 3- after 17 straight hours of negotiation safety and the environment. He was an instrumental human being, that was able year agreement, with a 58% approval on Thursday until Friday morning. The by the membership. This set of nego- to make a difference in so many peoples’ employer walked away from the table lives. tiations was very difficult as we at- and refused to resume talks. The union tempted to build a better relationship Our Condolences to his family and is in a legal strike position as of Satur- with the employer. Despite the diffi- to the entire Labour Union. 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LOCAL 195

SARKISBy Busy Summer GASPAR Sec. Treasurer Unifor Local 195

for Local 195 [email protected]

hope everyone had a safe and en- joyable summer. Well, we have had a relatively quiet summer on the labour front, but as you all know IsinceI the beginning of September, there are now two workplace challenges facing our Labour Community here in Windsor/Essex. The recent Nemak announcement that employees 270 and the strike at our Canadian En- gineering Facility, which happens to hold the distinction of being one of the oldest Tool & Die Companies in the city and employs seventy-five people. Our members there are holding strong and united on the picket line and are hopeful a resolution can be had soon ALZEIMER’S . . . cont’d on next page

JOHN TOTH FAMILY

BURSARY

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on facts and not fiction. Your “VOTE” tee at Kautex Textron for sponsoring Sarkis Gaspar will impact their lives and the lives of the food and drinks for both days and their families and communities in to our Local Union in the sponsorship . . . cont’d which they live. of all the t-shirts that carry the picture More than ever, the Organized of our late President Bob White. Well to the monetary issues that separate the Labour Unions recognize the impor- done to all those who took this cause Bargaining Committee and Company. tance of all those young & old alike on. Certainly, any support the Labour who have been put off from politics. Annual Al Carriere Golf Community can give by stopping by to Please stress the importance with your Tournament say hi goes a long way in keeping their family and friends that the outcomes at the ballot box next month will affect On June 1, 2019, our Local Union spirits and Solidarity strong. the quality of their everyday lives. It is held its 38th Al Carriere Memorial Nemak imperative that as Canadian Citizens, Golf Tournament at Sutton Creek Golf & Country Club. We had 104 golfers The Nemak announcement on Sep- we must cast a ballot and participate in registered, and despite the bad weather tember 2nd certainly rocked the this incredibly important democratic & that day many of these golfers stayed Labour Community here in political process that will shape this the course and walked the field. Many Windsor/Essex, and once again we are country for the next four years and be- thanks to all the various Companies, faced with yet another company that yond. Organizations, and many Unifor Lo- will be allowed to close up shop and Local 195 Engagement cals in Windsor/Essex for their support move their business assets and inter- in the Community and & participation. A Big Shout Out to ests out of Canada to Mexico. How Alzheimer Walk Green Shield Canada for making a many times have we seen this happen? Sponsorship sizeable contribution & sponsoring How many companies such as Nemak this great event again this year. All who have received millions of dollars On May 25 and 26, 2019, our Local . . . cont’d on next page in provincial & federal support just Union participated in the Alzheimer pack up and move away with little or Walk in the town of Leamington and no concern for the 270 workers and Windsor. Our Local has been engaged their families that they leave behind. with this organization for a few years Once again, this is an issue that now. More than 50 people from our must be dealt with by the various lev- Local Union walked the Ford Race- els of governments to ensure that this track in Windsor and Seacliffe Park in trend does not happen time & time Leamington to help our community in again. At the very least, such a move the ongoing challenges this terrible as planned by this company should not disease presents with those families af- even be considered until their collec- fected. Thanks to the sponsors, to the tive agreement bargained in good faith Executive Board and Local 195 Units expires in 2022. that participated in the walk or donated On behalf of Unifor Local 195 I to this cause. Special thanks go to GOLF want to assure our Unifor Local 200 Dany Tannous and the entire Commit- Brothers & Sisters at this Nemak facility that we are there for them in any way we can. Solidarity to all and we will not stand back passively and watch yet another company pack up & leave without a fight! Upcoming Federal Election October 21 2019 Our job as a union is to inform the Membership of the political issues and positions taken by various political parties and how it affects them. Our goal is for each member to go to the ballot box well informed and be able DON WHITE FAMILY to make their voting decisions based The Guardian – 11 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 12

Memorial Trees out front of our Local tion was passed to increase strike pay Sarkis Gaspar 195 Hall. Each of these trees bares to $300 per week, and provisions were Memorial Stones with the words “For- made to give equity-seeking groups a . . . cont’d ever Our Brothers” in Honor of our stronger voice. late President John Toth and Secretary- Our Local Union alongside thou- Treasurer Don White. We were very sands of delegates from all around proceeds from this event went to The honored to have both their families in Canada coast to coast rallied outside Canadian Cancer Society and more attendance that day for the dedication. the Bell Canada building in Quebec specifically to Hospice of Windsor to Following that, we had a great City demanding that this Telecommu- alleviate some of the financial hard- time, with lots of food and great enter- nication Company bearing our country ships for the families of those battling tainment provided by the band “Dream name maintain good jobs in Canada & suffering from this life-altering dis- Catcher” and capped off with a small and not outsource the jobs of tomor- ease. firework display later that evening. It row to the lowest offshore bidder. Annual Local 195 was a fantastic way to celebrate Our Local Union is both thankful Bursaries Canada Day with our Sisters and for the opportunity to be part of the Each year, Local 195 issues sixteen Brothers of the Windsor/Essex Labour Unifor. An organization that allows (16) bursaries of $ 750.00 each in ho- Community. our members to voice their opinions in nour of the original Chartered Mem- Family Picnic the democratic process and shape the future of our great Union. I can say bers. In addition, we added this year Our Annual Picnic started a few with absolute certainty that all our new two (2) scholarships of $1,000.00 each years ago continues to be a huge suc- delegates who attended this conference in honour of our brothers President cess. Great time for our Members and for the first time were absolutely in- John Toth and Secretary-Treasurer their families. On Sunday, September spired by the work and the strategic Don White. 8, 2019, our joint Local 195/ Flex N planning that was put forward to fight These bursaries are to be awarded Gate Howard Picnic was held at our for better rights for all workers. They to the child of Unifor Local 195 mem- Local Union Hall. There were ham- also experienced first hand the energy bers who is attending full-time post- burgers, hotdogs, popcorn, ice cream, & commitment needed to take a stand secondary education in September. cotton candy, face painting, jumping on key issues within our community The participation was terrific this year castles and a special Windsor Fire As- including political action which is so and the winners for this year were sociation Aerial Truck & firefighters relevant with a Federal Election taking from eleven different Local 195 work- on display and many more activities place in October next month and this places and were as follows: for children of all ages. I am both of course will then elect a government Jonathan Tannous (Kautex), happy and proud to say that at the time that can best represent the interests of Thomas Saba (Flex N Gate of this report being penned, it was in- the working class in our country and Howard), Phetsavong Aatthana deed a huge success and attendance the vast majority of Canadians. (Flex N Gate Howard), Noah Re- was well above our expectations. naud (ADM), Jessica Popescu (Flex I am sure you have heard that N Gate), Julia Gouin (Team GSO), Constitutional Unions are not as relevant or practical Thomas Kottoor (Kautex), Madison Convention as they once were. Well, I am here to Sulja (Syncreon), Miols Gusic Unifor Local 195 sent 16 delegates say to you today that is by far not the (Jamieson), Elias Said (Flex N Gate to attend the Constitutional Conven- case and the furthest thing from the Howard), Emily Francis (Lakeside tion August 18th – 23rd 2019 in his- truth. We only need to look at situa- Plastics), Jocelyn Lieu (Gates), toric Quebec City QC. At that tions looming at facilities like Nemak Shawna Bart (Ventra Plastics), We- convention, our National Union made and others like companies across this ston Simpson (Catalent), Hannah a resounding commitment to support country of ours. Now more than ever Sleiman (Flex N Gate Howard), greater rights for migrant workers and that Unions are indeed relevant, neces- Madison Picard (Nickleson Tool), a call to ensure an expedite start to sary, and vital to the preservation of se- Brooke Guidolin (Kautex) and contract talks for new Bargaining cure, good-paying jobs, and benefits. Kaleia Fields (Lakeside Plastics) Units joining our Union. These are the very issues that we as a Constitutional amendments in- Union collectively fight for day in and Canada Day Celebration cluded, but not limited to increased day out and the way of life our retirees On June 29, 2019, our Local Union representation for retirees on Local alike and we continually fight so hard held our second Canada Day Celebra- Union Executives which will allow to preserve. Make no mistake, Broth- tion. It was a great turn out this year as them the opportunity to share their ers and Sisters, there is both strength it was last. Our opening ceremony that knowledge and experience with new and power in a collective Labour day began with the planting of two Local Union Leaders. Also, a resolu- voice, and this voice is Unifor!! The Guardian – 12 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 13

LOCAL 2458

By TUllIO DIPONTI President Where is Accountability? Unifor Local 2458

[email protected] n late July, a compliance report get caught, but many more continue from the Ministry of Health and to operate unchecked with similar the province, mainly for PSW's. Long-term Care revealed that appalling conditions. The chronic inadequate staffing possibly led to understaffing and inability to recruit The report currently being writ- Ithe deaths of two residents. and retain staff, especially personel ten by the Ontario Health Coalition I support workers, are symptoms of based on the PSW shortage roundta- Healthcare workers represented system-wide underfunding, deterio- bles that were held across the by Unifor Local 2458 at Brucelea rating working conditions, and province will be released in the com- Haven, a home for the aged in Walk- skilled workers face low compensa- ing weeks. The anecdotal evidence erton, were not surprised. They tion in the long term care sector provided by all participants, includ- know the living and working condi- across Ontario. ing employers, educators and PSW's tions at the home. This employer has committed to will tell the story. A decade of For months now, workers have hiring 13 additional personel support below-inflation wage increases com- raised the issue of lack of adequate workers, an additional registered bined with ever-increasing work- staffing to the employer, including nurse support position, two directors loads has led to more and more holding a rally in front of the home of care, a new clinical care co-ordi- PSW's finding work in other sectors. on May 16. Our members will al- nator position and developing a new ways put the residents first, and risk schedule that will aim to improve the We will continue burnout to work hundreds of hours consistent delivery of baths to resi- to Step Up of overtime, yet they still work short dents. The ministry has given Bruce- Unifor remains committed to the 95% of the time. If the employer had lea Haven until February 2020 to be fight for fair wages. listened to the repeated warnings of fully compliant with all its orders. workers, residents, and families to We will continue our support of increase staffing levels, I believe Province Needs the Equal Pay Coalition as an inter- these tragic incidents could have to Step Up venor in the LTC employers' appeal been avoided. But ultimately, the Ontario Gov- of the decision that demanded they On July 24, the ministry issued a ernment must stop passing the buck. maintain proxy pay equity. compliance order that included a They must immediately address the And of course, we will continue staggering 31 written notifications ongoing crisis in long-term care. As to push for provincial staffing stan- with two directors orders and 18 we saw from the Wettlaufer Inquiry, dards that establish appropriate and non-compliance orders for the home and this report, there is a severe need safe ratios of staff to residents and address. for increased investment and staffing encourage everyone to support the actions on our web site; www.care- in the province's long-term care sys- The report found that a lack of takestime.ca Lives depend on it. adequate staffing resulted in, resi- tem to avoid another tragedy. These www.caretakestime.ca dents not receiving baths, mouth recommendations for Brucelea care, toileting assistance, timely should be applied right across the In Solidarity! medications, or assistance with feed- board. People's lives are at stake, and ing. we need the government to act. A recent arbitration award for Ex- Our Elderly tendicare Homes, including the two Deserve Better in Local 2458, had wage increases that were far above the employer's Sadly, inadequate staffing levels offer, but the modest increases will are not unique to Brucelea Haven. not provide any relief in addressing When tragedy strikes, some homes the severe staffing shortages across The Guardian – 13 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 14

LOCAL 2458

By KEN Our Local in the DUROCHER Sec.-Treasurer Community Unifor Local 2458 [email protected] rothers and Sisters of Local 2458, Bob Probert Ride waste to feed 30,000 people locally and it is hard to believe the summer is B Another significant cause that our additional servings being sent through- Balready over. Here at the Local, Local is a major sponsor in is the Bob out the provinces. It is an incredible pro- we have had a full summer. I wanted to Probert Memorial Ride. It is a motorcy- gram that helps those in our very own mention some of the events your local cle poker run in support of Cardiac Ser- community. In Conclusion . . . was a part of this past couple of months. vices. Unfortunately, studies have proven the Workers Unite Friends of Tecumseh Thun- At this time of penning this article, der Baseball Camp correlation between shift work and cardiac illness and many of our members our brothers and sisters just averted a Tecumseh Thunder Baseball Camp is work shift work, and that is one of the strike at the University of Windsor and one of the events I am most proud to be big reasons we support this ride. Since came to an agreement at 4 a.m. associated with. It is a not for profit char- 2011 the Bob Probert ride has raised over Our brothers and sisters at Nemak and Canadian Engineering are not currently itable organization for the good folks at ONE MILLION DOLLARS to support in the same boat. We all know the only Community Living. Community Living the creation of a second angioplasty answer to organized greed is organized helps over 650 individuals of all ages suite,–the new wellness exercise room labour, and we will continue to stand with an intellectual disability and huge for cardiac patients and a satellite loca- hearts. For the last 11 years, Tecumseh with our brothers and sisters of Local tion. 200 at Nemak and Local 195 at Canadian Baseball has been hosting a baseball Engineering. I encourage any of you who camp for the men and women who are in Farm to Food can stop by these picket lines and show the care of community living. Even some Another program we as a local supported was the Unemployed Help Cen- your support and solidarity. light rain did not stop us from having just ter’s Farm to Food initiative. UHC Our local might not be the biggest, a great time. It was an honour for our headed up by June Muir to take good, but we try to make the most significant Local to supply the stencilled shirts and quality, healthy food that would usually impact we can with our membership and hats for this camp. This Baseball Camp be sent to landfills or used for biofuels the communities we live in. I invite all was the kind of event that was good for and instead turn it into delicious soups our members to come to our Local and your soul to be a part of. for the hungry in our area. This program see the many areas where you can get in- diverts millions of pounds of food from volved in. We have room for everybody. 2458 Golf Charity In 14 years, our Golf tournament has raised a whopping $370,000 for charity! This year, we saw 144 golfers on the beautiful terrain of Sutton creek, and we could not have asked for better weather. In the previous 13 years, all proceeds went to the Wounded Warriors of Canada. This year, we decided that all proceeds would go to two local charities. It was our honour to give $10,000 to Ronald McDonald House of Windsor Essex County and $10,000 to the Alzheimer’s Society of Windsor. Thank you to the golfers our sponsors and vol- Sec- Treasurer Ken Durocher, Tecumseh Thunder organizer Rex Murphy, unteers who made this a great event! and VP Mike Kisch join in the fun with Community Living campers. The Guardian – 14 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 15

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Unifor Convention 2019

The Guardian – 16 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 17 vention 2019

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By SCOTT RICHARDSON Chairperson

The SWORC Council meets monthly to discuss the recreational activities for our respective Locals and Unifor sponsored tournaments. We encourage all Unifor E-mail: [email protected] members and their families to get involved and take advantage of these and other events we coordinate throughout the year. There is no other union that gives back to its members in terms of entertainment and recreational events. Visit our website for more information www.uniforsworc.ca or join our group “UNIFOR SWORC” on Facebook. We encourage all Unifor members to participate and join in our friendly competitions. FISHING TOURNAMENT REGIONAL GOLF Another successful fishing tourna- TOURNAMENT ment organized by Mal McIntosh and his On May 26th, we held our Regional UNIFOR NATIONAL group of volunteers. The weather was Golf Tournament. Thank you to every- GOLF TOURNAMENT perfect for the Annual Bud Jimmerfield one that participated and volunteered in Memorial Fishing Derby held on May this event, it was a fantastic day despite • UNIFOR REgIONAl 19, 2019. A total of 98 entries were re- the looming weather. Congratulations to TEXAS HOlD’EM ceived. All those attended enjoyed great Patty Marcus and Colin MacEachern TOURNAMENT food (special thank you to the kitchen who had the low net rounds for the day qualifying them for the National tourna- Sunday October 20, 2019 staff at A.M.A hall), refreshments and local 200/444 Hall swapping fish stories. Final results are as ment.: follows: Women’s Flite Men’s A Flite Net……. • UNIFOR RETIREES Special Prize Winners: 1. Patty Marcus Local 200 Net “SWEET” PEPPER Perch 1. Colin MacEachern Local 200 TOURNAMENT 2. Jo-Anne Jurecko Local 444 Wed., October 30th, 2019 1st Dennis Alagic, Loc. 195 8 3/4” Canadian legion Br, 143 2nd Ivan Gyori, Loc. 195 8 1/4” 2. Ken Ware Local 444 3rd Scot Kani, Loc. 444 7 1/2” Men’s B Flite Men’s C Flite • UNIFOR NATIONAl Net……. TEXAS HOlD’EM 1. John Maurina Local 1973 Net… Pickerel TOURNAMENT 1st John Del Bianco, Loc. 444 - 26 1/2” 1. Roger Dzugan Local 200 TBA November 2019 2. Todd Thibert Local 200 2nd Mike Del Bianco Local 444 24 3/4” local 707, Oakville 2. Ron Bellemore Local 1973 3rd Brian Gardin Local 195 23 1/4” We hope to see you all, once again, Men’s D Flite Net……1. Glen Fox Local 200 • UNIFOR REgIONAl on the May long weekend next year. BOWlINg TOURNAMENT January 2020 Applications available November 2020 A group of golfers participating Check our Website at in the www.uniforsworc.ca SWORC and/or join our group Regional “UNIFOR SWORC” Golf on Facebook for applications, Tournament. future tournaments and past tournament results.

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LOCAL 240

By JODI NESBITT President Unifor local 240 Perseverance Works [email protected] Beach Grove Golf & Country Club Karren Burdge, Chairperson, along with Ian Craigmyle As of my last writing, Beach Grove Golf and Country and Brian Bobbie did a great job achieving an agreement that Club membership ratified a new collective agreement. The included increases to benefits (compression stockings, or- chairperson Paul Roy and the bargaining committee, Sandy thotics and vision increases) and a hike in sick day paid for Frecker and Chris Hager did a tremendous job in negotiating the part-time members. many gains. They were able to achieve significant wage in- We also addressed a more significant issue, and that is creases to every classification, increases to uniform allowance, management doing our work which resulted in our members safety shoe allowance improvements and several changes to losing opportunities to make a commission. We received let- their language. ters of understanding that support our position on the current The Employer recently hired a new General Manager, practice of management performing bargaining unit work and who understood the importance of wage increases. Their de- any future incidents. Congratulations! termination and unwavering position to improve wages was Thank you to our National Staff Representative Theresa recognized by management. The employer clearly understood Farao, for her experience with this employer and her hard for our members to move forward and to move past years of work in getting the membership a great deal! getting minimal increases, our membership would not accept less than a fair and respectful increase. Thank you to our National Staff Representative, Mina Sarajcic for her perseverance and “thinking outside the box” to ensure we brought our members back to or in most cases above the wage they were making a few contracts ago.

Front Row, left to right: Bargaining Committee member, Ian Craigmyle & Karren Burdge, Chairperson; Back Row left to right: National Staff Representative, Theresa Farao and Front Row, left to right: Bargaining Committee members, President, Jodi Nesbitt, Sandy Frecker & Chris Hager; Back Row, left to right: Chair- person Paul Roy, President Jodi Nesbitt, National Staff Rep- Welcome to our newest members from resentative Mina Sarajcic Windsor Women Working with Freeds Members Ratifies New Agreement Immigrant Women (W5) We reached a new collective agreement with Freeds in Welcome to our newest Local 240 union family, W5! We July that our members ratified. Although a bit challenging are so proud to be representing members of an organization gave the economic climate in Windsor and the looming job whose fundamental principles are deeply aligned with ours. I losses, there was reluctance from the employer to agree to had the privilege of attending my first AGM on September 5, wage increases. With many difficult conversations, we were along with Jack Robinson, Area Director who is also the na- successful in receiving wage increases that were higher than tional representative for W5. I continue to be in awe each time the last couple of agreements. I learn more about the essential services they provide to im-

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at cuts there instead of addressing the actual problems. That’s Jodi Nesbitt . . . cont’d because Ford doesn’t have any knowledge or regard for the gaps that exist in both sectors. Guess who Ford wants to si- migrants and refugees coming to Canada. I have a deep lence? The labour movement! That is because we are expos- respect for the programs that are offered and am so proud that ing him and his party every single day for the constant attacks these employees are the faces that give newcomers their first that are happening to workers and affecting all of us in On- impression of the beautiful country we live in. tario. And we will continue to expose him until he is no longer At the AGM we paid special tribute to the late Daphne the Premier of Ontario. Clarke, who was the founder in 1982 of this outstanding or- Let’s all pledge to hold Mr. McNaughton accountable, ganization. The dedication of the employees who work at W5 and we are here to send a strong message to him; we got is a testament to the respect she garnered for her tireless ef- Hudak out by sharing his disrespect for workers, healthcare forts to bridge the gaps that many new immigrants and and education and we will do the same to him. refugees faced. These members couldn’t have fit more perfectly with our union or local. I look forward to growing a community and working partnership. I want to thank Sara Alamar for her courage and hard work she put forward in organizing this workplace. She was instrumental in educating members about Unifor and the many opportunities they have to belong to a very strong The Bargaining Committee consisting of Martyna, Nan- dini and Sonia, along with myself and Jack Robinson opened up bargaining on September 3rd. We are confident we will be able to achieve a respectful and fair agreement, as does the Interim Executive Director, Olivia Brezeneau and Board of Director President, Christine Lucier who both expressed their Local 240 attending the meeting at willingness and eagerness to work towards an agreement and Monte McNaughton’s office. also their confidence in Unifor representing the members. Ontario Labour Minister Needs To Farewell and Best Wishes to Bob Orr Work on Behalf of Workers On behalf of Local 240 Executive Board, we want to wish Bob Orr the very best in his retirement as Secretary-Treasurer Local 240 members went to Labour Minister Monte Mc- of our national union. We appreciate all the years of dedica- Naughton’s office in Glencoe to meet with him and have an tion he has provided to our union and the labour movement open conversation about his views on right to work legisla- that improved the lives of so many. Bob has always supported tion. We let him know that we are prepared to take him and our local and our ETOP industry council, and he will be the conservative government of Ontario on and that the missed. Labour Minister has an obligation to Ontarians to ensure labour laws are improved. They cannot roll back and disman- Historic Moment in our Union- First Female tle years of laws that have been established to prevent the right National Secretary-Treasurer Acclaimed to work rhetoric he has cited in the past while under the Tim I was so proud to have the privilege to witness the very Hudak government. He ironically got called to the last-minute first woman in our union to accept the position of National meeting and could not meet, so we ensured we took our mes- Secretary-Treasurer. Our union represents many women, and sage to the streets of Glencoe. Our taxpayers’ dollars went to- Lana has and continues to be a great mentor to so many wards creating laws that protect workers, and we will not women. They have witnessed her fierceness and progressive accept any setbacks. actions that have significantly contributed to building equity There are studies by experts in the United States that demonstrate how right to work laws have reduced wages and within our union and our country. She continues to pave the lessened worker protections. We cannot let that happen in On- way for many women to follow in her footsteps and continues tario. to work towards equality for all. There’s no question that Ford has put someone like Mc- Without any question, our union is in capable hands under Naughton in to continue his attack on workers. Look what the leadership of our President Jerry Dias and Lana Payne. he’s done in health care and education. He has spent more They are a dynamic duo, and I can’t wait to see where we will time attacking the worker's collective agreements and looking go next. The Guardian – 20 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 21

childcare. Our seniors and those sick aren’t receiving the Jodi Nesbitt . . . cont’d level of care as a result of years of cuts to our essential services. Workers are stretched thin after so many years of cuts, and we collectively need to work together to create the change that will shape the values we have as Canadians. We must do all we can to ensure we do not have a conservative government in power. We can not afford any further attacks on worker’s rights, on Canadian health care, or on the fundamental values that set us apart from other countries. This is the time more than ever to dig deep to find a few spare hours. Go for a walk with your children to drop pamphlets in mailboxes. This creates an opportunity to teach them the importance of democracy and for our next generation to understand the freedom we have as Canadians to stand up for our own beliefs. This is not possible in many Lana Payne, Unifor’s 1st Woman elected as places around the world. National Secretary-Treasurer If you are watching what the Ford government is doing to workers in Ontario, I know that you will recognize the im- Pride Parade portance of your involvement in this upcoming federal elec- Our local participated in this year’s Pride Parade. Each tion. If we all push a little bit and give a bit of our time, year our local’s participation increases and is a testament to collectively we will be saving ourselves a lot of work and the work we continue to do to recognize that love is love. I time we will need to spend pushing back until the next fed- look forward to the continued growth in participation, as we eral election, not to mention the work we will have after that all work together to build a more inclusive and loving world. to restore legislation they’ve recklessly dismantled and re- Thank you to Dana Dunphy from Local 444 for the work peal legislation they passed while in government. It only she and her local put into the float that had some great music makes sense to put the time in now so we can continue to that added to the great vibe. Unifor was well represented! focus on moving forward as Canadians.

Local 240 members volunteering for Tracey Ramsey Members of Local 240 had so much fun celebrating in the Pride Parade. If Not You, Then Who? I know we are all busy in our everyday lives trying to work, raise families and more often than not caring for our ageing parents or grandparents. We are often struggling to bal- ance work and home life responsibilities and the thought of trying to find spare time to volunteer can seem daunting. With the upcoming elections, I implore each of you to find a few extra hours to volunteer for a candidate that represents work- Maureen Curtis has been an icon in the labour com- ers and Canadian’s values. munity in Windsor Essex and also the face of United Many retired workers are busy caring for their grandchil- Way for many years. Wishing Maureen a wonderful dren because the parents don’t have accessible and affordable and well deserved retirement. Thank you for all you’ve done for our community, Maureen! The Guardian – 21 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 22

LOCAL 240

By STACEY FERgUSON Secretary Treasurer Greetings Sisters and Brothers! Unifor Local 240 s summer is winding down, things at Local 240 [email protected] continue to be busy. Year 2019 has been an Retiree Summer Gathering AAeventful year so far, and we continue to look at On July 17, 2019, Local 240 held a luncheon for the each new day and challenge as an opportunity to create retirees at The Riverside Sportsmen Club. Retirees and better working conditions for our members and to sup- executive board members socialized and shared news port our communities. and information regarding important issues in our com- Len Campbell Bursary 2019 munity and our country as well as caught up on each The Len Campbell Bursary was established to recog- other’s life events. nize Len and the countless hours he has worked and ded- We recognize the importance of all that our retirees icated himself on behalf of workers in our local, in our have done to pave the way for us and enjoy spending union and our community. As a retiree, Len continues to time sharing a meal, catching up, reminiscing, and laugh- work for the labour movement and represents our local ing together. Without their strength and commitment with pride. Thank you Len for that you have done and throughout the years, many of us would not be where we continue to do. are today. Each year Local 240 issues the $1000.00 Len Camp- Everyone enjoyed the day, and we look forward to bell Bursary to a child of a Local 240 member. This year next years’ gathering. five applicants submitted essays on different social issues affecting Canadians. The three-member panel took the time to review each essay carefully, and each had chosen a separate essay. We then went to a fourth member to review all five essays which ended in the result of this years’ recipient, Miranda Koresky. Miranda is the daugh- ter of Ford Office Local 240 member, Richard Koresky. Miranda’s essay “A Fair and Just Society Starts with Acceptance” was thoughtfully written and incredibly in- sightful. Thank you to all the applicants for taking the time to learn about these critical social issues and for submitting such meaningful essays. Best wishes to all for a successful academic year. Congratulations, Miranda! If you are a retiree of Local 240 and are interested in getting involved, there is still time. Our retiree chapter meetings are held every third Wednesday of the month at 11:30 am. The meetings are held at the Riverside Sportsmen Club and are a great way to stay connected and informed! Meeting Dates for the remainder of 2019 - September 18, October 16 and November 20. Labour Day 2019 WDLC (Windsor & District Labour Council) Labour Day Parade was held on Monday, September 2, 2019, and Local 240 members and their families were there in full force. This parade recognizes all the gains made on behalf Stacey Ferguson, Jodi Nesbitt, Richard Koresky, of workers over the years, the hard work that still needs Miranda Koresky, Len Campbell and Mark Radvanyi) to be done and gives families some well-earned time together. The Guardian – 22 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 23

Guest speakers; Marie-Philip Poulin and Kendall Stacey Ferguson . . . cont’d Coyne (Hockey Players), spoke about the inequality in sports for women and girls. They told us of their resolve to bring this practice to an end to ensure our daughters We heard from local MPs about the vital work they will have more opportunities. continue to do. We saw the solidarity as local leadership led by Unifor President Jerry Dias, headed over to the The delegation heard from our local NDP MPs Tracey Nemak to support the workers there who had taken over Ramsey and Brian Masse who both spoke of the impor- the facility. tance of the upcoming federal election and their commit- It is this commitment that speaks to the values and ment to their constituents. Remember to vote on October strength of our union. 21, 2019. Children enjoyed freezies, face painting and playing Hearing our brave members tell the heartbreaking in the many inflatable toys while the adults enjoyed a day and infuriating stories of their missing and murdered in- of friendship, laughter, and most importantly, family. digenous sisters, daughters, cousins, aunts, and mothers is something I will never forget. The pain these families have gone through all the while with little concern from local authorities and government is unacceptable. With the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls report complete, reconciliation must occur. We must hold the feet of those responsible for the reconciliation to the fire and demand a meaningful reconciliation. It is all of our responsibility to ensure these horrific events do not happen again and acknowledge the unnecessary and unacceptable suffering that has occurred and continues to occur for these families. Unifor Constitutional Convention 2019 Resolutions and our constitution bylaw amendments “WHATEVER IT TAKES” put forth by the locals were read, debated, and voted on Constitution Convention was held August 19-23, by elected delegates that form the vision moving forward 2019 in Quebec City on the land of the Nation Huron- for Unifor. A vision for better laws and legislation to pro- Wendat. tect Canadian jobs; a vision of equity and inclusiveness; a vision of acknowledging mental health issues as a real The convention theme “Whatever it Takes” sums up medical issue and removing the stigma; an overall vision what we must all do to ensure all Canadians voices are of creating a better Canada for all Canadians not just heard not just now but in the future. those who can afford it. At a time when Conservatives are looking to roll back As a first time attendee to the Constitutional Con- workers’ rights, break down unions, provide breaks for vention, I want to say that I was inspired by the leaders, the wealthy, and create unfair conditions for the working activists, first-time attendees, and speakers on the floor class. Unifor is stepping up to make a difference, to face and guests. To be a part of something too powerful was these challenges, and to do #whateverittakes. an honour. Over the five days, we heard about many issues fac- Well done. ing our union. We discussed equality, inclusiveness, mental health stigma, keeping good-paying jobs in Canada, and the upcoming federal election. Unifor honoured great visionaries, movement founders, humanitarians, and many more. We marched as a united group through the streets of Quebec City to Bell Canada Headquarters, demanding a stop to job ero- sion across Canada by a greedy employer. To see our members at the windows waving and smiling was a great moment. The Guardian –23 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 24

LOCAL 1941 By BOB ASHTON President, Unifor Local 1941 President’s Report [email protected] Accurcast a year, and this should help in reduc- This Unit has just ratified a new ing the number of 1-day layoffs we and also donated to the breakfast 3-year collective agreement at 72%- face. production and 85% in the trades. September 28th, 2019, we will club. The committee was able to bargain be celebrating our 20th anniversary. Hudson Manor increases to wages, pensions and The company will be holding an The committee has developed a benefits. Trades secured an additional open house for immediate family good working relationship with the mould maker, and millwright, failure supplying food and activities. new management staff. Edna Larsh to hire off the street will result in ap- We have the President of Amer- and her committee continue to re- prenticeships. IPS task force lan- ica’s visiting Dan Garcon and the solve the day to day issues. guage was obtained for preferential President of Canadian operations Mahle hiring and commercial contracts. Kirk Holden. Active membership is currently Unifor Identity language was also Welcome to our new elected reps at 224. Sales continue to be soft obtained, and this unit is proudly fly- Deb Southerland, 8-hour rep and coming in at about 80% of the bud- ing the Unifor Flag. Steve Millyard Larry Bond, Health & Safety Co- get. We have several new BMW jobs (chairperson), Ron Walker, Pat Stuart Chair, John Turton, Plant Chairper- in the facility and orders remain (committeepersons) and Jason John- son. Congratulations to all. strong. We have been awarded the son (Skilled Trades), job well done. We are currently working with carbon canister for the Ford Bronco, Autoliv the company in creating a materials which will be launched in 2020. The Currently, we have 272 members class this will help save four mem- extension of the third shift at Wind- ten on a benefit eight on lay off with bers from a layoff with the chance of sor Assembly was great news for our 4 who have resigned. Our orders increasing the class size in the future facility as we have multiple products have decreased over the last three A shout out to Chris Mason for his running for the minivan. In-plant months, which has caused 8 layoffs continuous effort for the backpack elections will be held shortly, and the and a couple of 1-day layoffs for the for kids program. Chris and Local current collective agreement is set to entire plant. Coating/scouring and 1941 were able to supply 60 unfor- expire in August of 2020. customers focus are back to 8-hour tunate children with backpacks with Tilbury Manor shifts from 12-hour continental after all school supplies need for the year Nursing Home With the change in owners early this year, we have had an influx of payroll issues. Tiffany Ellerbeck and her committee have been dealing with these issues as they arise. There is one grievance that is slated for arbitration that deals with the Job Post- ing procedure. In closing, I would like to wish Darlene Prouse all the best in her retirement. As the service representative for our Health Care Units, she provided a wealth of knowledge at the bargaining table and the many other issues that arose. Thank- you for providing our members with the Vice-President Chris Anderson, Scott Dewar and President Bob Ashton take part in a rally in support of Bell Canada workers in Quebec City. representation they deserved. The Guardian – 24 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 25

LOCAL 1498

By STEVE MORASH President, President’s Report Unifor Local 1498 STEVE.MORASH@FCA gROUP.COM

he Auto industry certainly also violating a contract that is sup- has not been having a good posed to keep the work in Windsor TTyear. until 2022, where workers agreed to There needs to be consequences a 4-year wage freeze to save those for these companies to stop this cor- There seems to be problems at porate greed. every manufacturer that has union jobs. Workers are currently protest- representation. ing the company’s action by barri- Soon, the Liberals will drop the cading the plant and shutting down writ and call an election to happen in At the beginning of the year, we operations. October. Please look at the issues saw General Motors announce plans Yes, analysts can say all of this is that are important to you – whatever to shutter select plants in Michigan, they are – and then look at those can- Ohio, and Oshawa Ontario. due to a softening of the vehicle market. Also, they can say that there is didates in your riding. Look at They were closing them due to a shift in consumer preference to- which of those candidates and their having no product allocated to those wards SUVs from cars. Of course, party are going to help you with your plants. For the longest time, Mary those analysts can use the age-old issues and views. Most likely, it is Barra would not acknowledge that crutch of union members are paid not going to be a conservative gov- there were alternatives to throwing too much money for the work they ernment that will help you. thousands of workers out of work. It do as an excuse. Look at the chaos the govern- wasn’t until after Unifor ran adver- However, the overlying issue is ments in Ontario and Alberta, caus- tisements during Super Bowl and ing. Perhaps the best bet for our Academy Awards before GM sat that there still is no Auto Industry strategy or policy by our Provincial country is for the next term to be run down with the union to figure out by a minority government where what could be done. and Federal Governments. We need to pressure the next sitting govern- other parties can bring in checks and In late March, FCA Canada an- ment to have such a policy. We need balances to ensure Canadians are nounced the elimination of the 3rd to protect workers and communities better served. shift at Windsor Assembly Plant and when companies with the signed On Election Day, please take a reduction inline speed-reducing contract, break those contracts – es- someone to vote with you – a par- production output at Brampton As- pecially when they want to move ent/family member/neighbor – but in sembly plant. The shift elimination jobs to cheaper regions. the end, please vote! was to take place on September 30 but was delayed to October 21 in late June. Then in mid-August, the company delayed the elimination again until the end of the year. Ford has been eliminating management and hourly workers in Eu- rope and the USA over the past year. Oakville Assembly plant will have layoffs this fall due to reduced consumer demand for the products they produce. Just recently, Nemak, a Mexican owned company that produces aluminum engine blocks and other parts, announced they are closing their plant in Windsor to send the work to Mexico. That’s 180 workers Local 2458 was proud to be able to donate $10,000 to Ronald McDonald without pay and a devastating toll on House Windsor, and $10,000 to Alzheimer’s of Windsor through our their families and community. It is annual golf tournament. The Guardian – 25 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 26

future. I am committed to the NDP’s plan to deliver a National Seniors Strategy that will work to make seniors Windsor Area health care a priority, reduce isolation, and tackle seniors’ poverty. Trade remains a serious issue for our region, and I Office Update have been dedicated to securing fair and progressive By trade that lifts working people up. Trade agreements con- JACK ROBINSON tinue to place our jobs at risk, threaten farm and food se- Unifor Canada Windsor Area Director curity, and make drugs more expensive. U.S. imposed [email protected] tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum have left manu- LOCAL MPs ON ISSUES facturing workers reeling. These tariffs cost Canadian FACING WINDSOR/ESSEX workers thousands of jobs. I have continued to defend I recently had the opportunity to working people and jobs in the House of Commons. We meet with our current local MPs on need fair trade that lifts working people up not just numerous concerns in our community and issues our sweetheart corporate deals. Trade can be truly progres- members are facing. I asked them if they would provide sive and protect our jobs, our environment and human me a brief answer or opinion on how they believe some rights. The NDP will always defend Canadian workers of the critical issues are being dealt with or how they be- in trade negotiations, protect supply management, and lieve they should be dealt with. Obviously there is no stand up to unfair tariffs. shortage of issues but I've included their answers on Together we will continue to fight for pharmacare, some of these key concerns that are frequently being taking care of seniors and fair trade. I’m proud to be a raised by our members. working person in parliament and we need more people TRACEY RAMSEY, MP Essex – Answer On in Ottawa who have shared our life experiences. To- Pharmacare, Trade Agreements gether we can make a difference in Canada. In Essex, too many people are worrying about what CHERYL HARDCASTLE, MP the future holds for our families and communities. Peo- Windsor-Tecumseh ple continue to face serious challenges with a lack of af- – Answer On - fordable prescription drugs, seniors struggling and the Health Care, People Living With importance of fair trade that keeps jobs here in Windsor- Disabilities Essex. I appreciate this opportunity to highlight serious is- Canadians are struggling under the cost of medica- sues our federal election must focus on. We know that tion and in Essex that means making difficult choices of our bankruptcy laws allow pension theft and this has paying for groceries or filling a prescription. Seniors are been allowed to continue under Conservatives and cutting pills to make a bottle last longer and in many Liberals in government. People are struggling because cases skipping prescriptions altogether. Our benefit pack- the government allows it – we should be rejecting ages aren’t what they used to be either, and our employ- these parties outright across the nation. It’s time for ers have been steadily chipping away at packages they proper health care – from head to toe – that means pre- offer us resulting in much less coverage and—in many scription medicine and dental care as well as mental instances—almost no coverage at all for certain prescrip- health support. tions. Medication prices are simply too high, and we As the NDP critic for Sport I pushed for our study need a universal, single payer delivered pharmacare plan on concussion in sport and learned of the gaps in treat- that covers everyone equally. Our health is too important ment and support regarding brain injury. to risk. In 2018, 52 per cent of the complaints received by Too many of our seniors are living in poverty after a the Canadian Human Rights Commission were on the lifetime of hard work building the communities we all ground of disability and half of those complaints were enjoy today. Some are living on one meal a day, while related to mental health. This is according to the Cana- others are forced to choose between paying for their dian Human Rights Commission 2018 Annual Report hydro bills, their drugs, or their food. Seniors deserve to issued earlier this year. be able to age with dignity and Canada owes them a debt It is titled “Speak Out”! This is a call to action if of responsibility. In the very near future, 1 in 4 Canadians I’ve ever heard one and as the NDP critic for People will be 65 years of age or older, which means it is ab- With Disabilities I am determined to use the Federal solutely critical that we have a concrete plan for the Election to push against the discrimination that people . . . cont’d on next page The Guardian – 26 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 27

taxpayer funds must be retained by It does not have to be this way. JACK ROBINSON the government. Companies need And it will not be this way. We can cont’d to be put on notice that abandoning change it. All it takes is leadership Canada and Canadian workers has and determination. For example in living with disabilities face. I don’t a real cost and real penalties, espe- the federal budget the Liberal plan know anyone who doesn’t feel cially when they agree to all these electric vehicle incentive program somehow connected to this issue obligations to get government didn’t even include the only Cana- and together we can make sure that funds and workers to accept lower dian built electric vehicle. Outra- the systemic negative barriers for wages in the first place. Nemak or geous and absurd. With our people living with physical, invisi- any company must follow the law collective action and public sham- ble and episodic disabilities are re- and the rules like any other coming we forced the liberal govern- moved. This means addressing munity member. I have written the ment to capitulate and send the housing, poverty, rules and policies Prime Minister to stop dithering minister here to Windsor to an- that are applied inconsistently by and finally act on this. nounce that they were going to in- the CRA, employment rules, and The Trudeau Liberal govern- clude the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid giving teeth to a national Accessi- ment has done basically nothing for in the program, but showing up to bility Act. The issues around living the auto sector since they have apologize for a mistake doesn’t with disabilities are crucial and come to power.Allowing our pro- create jobs or restore our competi- must be prioritized. duction and assembly numbers to tiveness. fall. Over the last ten years in North In February 2019, Fiat Chrysler BRIAN MASSE, MP, America, Canada received only 7 announced it will invest $4.5 bil- Windsor West, On percent of the auto investment that lion in five plants to build new Auto Industry, Sports Betting was made versus Mexico which models of Jeeps to compete in the As I walked the picket line at got 20 percent and the US which lucrative market for full-size, three- Nemak with the workers and lis- received 73 percent. We used to re- row SUVs. This investment will tened to their stories I got angrier ceive between 15 and 18 percent, bring nearly 5,000 jobs to the De- and angrier. Here is a company that the same level as our level of pro- troit and an overall total of will cre- received millions from the federal, duction which has now fallen to 12 ate 6,500 jobs in Michigan provincial and municipal govern- percent of the North American I wrote Minister Bains on Feb- ments and got workers to take pay market. This is the lowest it has ruary 27, 2019 and demanded that cuts to keep the local plant operat- been since our auto production the government establish a task ing. Now they are trying to run peaked in 1999. force to ensure Canadian compa- away with tax payer funded new The Liberals and Conservatives nies and autoworkers benefit from products and abandon their com- abandoned the autopact, they abol- this once in a generation invest- mitments to their employees and ished the auto investment funds, ment. The Minister has still not the community. When they have and they have been derelict in hav- acted. The Government needs to record revenues of $ 4.7 billion and ing no auto policy while our com- establish the task force to ensure want to keep profiteering while petitors around the world not only Canadian companies and au- treating Canada and our workers as have an auto strategy they back it toworkers benefit from this invest- bunch of suckers to be taken ad- up with billions of dollars of in- ment and those in the future. We vantage of and people that don’t vestment and subsidies. Even our need a national auto policy to en- count. This is an outrage that has to neighbours to the south, the leader- sure the long term of this industry be stopped. ship at the very top fight for auto that is so essential to our economy, Nemak must be forced to hon- investment and autoworkers and our workers and our community. our their legal obligations, like are getting results while Canada’s everyone else has to, and pay the Liberal and Conservative leaders Pharmacare workers their agreed upon salary are not only silent, they advocate As the cost of drugs have in- for the duration of the contract. abandonment. Liberal Prime Min- creased at an enormous pace, far Next they must pay back all the ister Trudeau actively campaigned outstripping the ability of individ- funds they have received from the on transitioning away from manu- uals, companies or organizations to federal, provincial and municipal facturing and apparently he is get- pay for them, insurance companies governments. All the patents and ting his wish as autoworkers lose have been cutting back on their for- intellectual property developed by jobs. . . . cont’d on next page The Guardian – 27 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 28

Single Sport Betting sports betting in Canada now just JACK ROBINSON Years ago my former colleague to protect the jobs we have and en- cont’d Joe Comartin introduced a bill to sure that the gaming sector in this allow single sports betting in country remain competitive. The mulary, or the list of medicines Canada. I then took up the fight for time to act is now. they will pay for. They are increas- eight years with two different bills. • • • AREA OFFICE UPDATE ing co-pays and premiums yet pro- C-290 passed the House of Com- viding less and less. In case of rare mons and was killed in the un- Congratulations to Gord Gray diseases and “new wonder drugs” elected Senate. C-221 was stopped on his retirement, his dedication to they are not being covered at all, by the Trudeau Liberal government our Union and outstanding work as leaving the unfortunate individuals even though it would reduce orga- the Guardian Editor will be missed. and their families to have to fend nized crime’s involvement in the Congratulations to Maureen for themselves- even with insur- sector, generate significant new Curtis, the United Way Labour ance coverage. revenues for government and pro- Programs Representative on her re- vide additional job growth in the tirement, and I want to thank her The only way to solve this prob- industry. At the time I warned the for her loyalty in never forgetting lem once and for all is to do what Trudeau liberals that we are putting her labour roots. all other countries that have na- our gaming sector and union jobs Congratulations to Bob Orr, our tional public medicare do-provide at risk since it was just a short pe- Unifor Secretary-Treasurer on his full coverage of all medicines for riod of time before the United retirement and best wishes on his all conditions and diseases. This al- States approved single sports bet- new endeavours. lows everyone for be covered for ting which would drive the busi- All three are great friends of any problem, forces the pharma- ness, the revenues, taxes and the mine and they and their work will ceutical companies to negotiate jobs, south of the border. be missed. prices to levels that are way below I want to welcome in these po- where they are now saving every- On May 14, 2018 the US sitions Jeremy Glajch, Laurie one money and guarantees access Supreme Court ruled to allow Green and Lana Payne respec- to the newest drugs and those for states to legalize single sports bet- tively, there is no doubt they will be ting. It has been a mad rush since outstanding in their new roles and rare diseases. The NDP is the only I look forward to working with party that has presented a plan to then with 16 states having already them. do this just as we were the only legalized and another 23 in the In closing, have your voice party that introduced public process of doing so. The govern- heard, vote in the Federal Elections medicare decades ago. ment must act to legalize single October 21st.

Jack Robinson Unifor Windsor Area Director, Tracey Jack Robinson, Unifor Windsor Area Director and Ramsey MP Essex, Brian Masse MP Windsor West and Cheryl Hardcastle MP Windsor Tecumseh at the Nemak Jodi Nesbitt President Local 240 at the Constitutional Plant Action on Labour Day. Convention in Quebec City. The Guardian – 28 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 29

LOCAL 2027 have to make sure the Conservatives MUST GO!!! - WHATEVER IT By TAKES- The Conservatives are at- STEVE TAYLOR, tacking the rights of workers and cut- President’s President, Unifor Local 2027 ting vital services in long term care Report facilities and much more. It is good steve.taylor@ to see Justin Trudeau has come out pernod-ricard.com Permanent with amendments to the Labour Code, similar to the Better Jobs, Fair Afternoon Shift knowing that I will not be seeing Workplaces Act that was squashed Here at Hiram Walker and Sons, many of the union brothers and sis- by the Ford Conservative govern- we have some good news. For the ters from the other provinces that ment. These are changes needed to first time in my 31 years working in have become like family to me. I protect the working class and their the plant, we are going to a perma- thank them all for their help, knowl- families everywhere! nent afternoon shift in our Bottling edge, and friendship! Room, Shipping and Receiving and In closing, I would like to thank Blending departments. It started Au- Federal Election and congratulate Gord Gray on his gust 12/19 and has resulted in hir- With the upcoming election, we retirement. ing!! So far this year, 57 people have been hired, 10 of which have gotten their seniority, 12 have been let go, and 35 are in the 90-day probation- ary period.

Rotten Practice Since 2014, the company has hired 267 people, and only 55 have managed to get their seniority. The company continues to use our proba- tionary period as a temporary workforce, and they even refer to these employees as TEMPS. I’m sure that is not why hundreds of people in our community lined up President Steve Taylor with keynote speakers Marie-Philip Poulin and for hours when the company held Kendall Cohen-Schofield (Professional Women’s Hockey Players their job fairs. I wish the 35 proba- Association) at the Unifor National Convention tionary employees the best of luck. There have been many that have worked so hard only to be let go, shy of 90 days, and they are left asking why? ---- Let’s hear it everyone-. . . . “S H A M E ” ! ! ! This needs to be dealt with at the next round of negotiations. End of a Chapter I know many of us are just recently returning from the Unifor Constitutional convention held in Quebec City Aug 19-23, 2019. It was a fantastic convention with several excellent speakers. Congratula- tions to Jerry and his team on their elected positions. It was my last Canadian Council and it was sad Presidents Bob Ashton, Local 1941 and Steve Taylor, Local 2027 The Guardian – 29 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 30

Unifor Windsor Regional Environmental Council By MARK BARTlETT President, Windsor Regional A New Climate Reality in Environment Council Ontario! [email protected]

Time to Vote for Our adoption, have a direct effect on our Unifor has not formally endorsed this Environment and Jobs! members in all the sectors we represent. action, but we must recognize it for what Your vote in the upcoming federal We have seen the direct effects of it is, a sincere effort to move toward sus- election is crucial for our future. Other climate change locally in the form of tainability involving many young people. contributors and I have written in this flooding and heatwaves and globally, the On September 27, the anniversary of magazine countless times about the im- unprecedented high temperatures around the publication of Silent Spring, the book portance of voting and being politically the world in Europe, the Arctic and that kick-started the environmental aware and active to protect our jobs and Greenland. movement, the Earth Strike organization our right to a clean and healthy environ- We see the Amazon Rain Forest, will begin a General Strike to Save the ment. which provides 20% of the earth’s oxy- Planet. Our NDP representatives in our area gen, burning. This organization is taking direct ac- have stood beside us to protect our jobs We also see irresponsible politicians, tion demanding the following: and our environment, and I urge you to pundits and corporations trying to cast An immediate start on global co-op- support and stand with them. Most re- doubt on the reality of climate change or eration to reverse the damage done to the cently they have fought to have our Paci- trying to convince us we can’t solve it earth’s climate, through unambiguous fica Hybrid included in the EV rebates without hurting our economy. Don’t let and binding agreements, by both world and Brian Masse has led a campaign to anyone convince you that we can’t have leaders and corporate entities, following make the important Ojibway complex a good jobs and a sustainable environment. IPCC projections of halving carbon net As our Unifor Environment Policy National Urban Park. emissions by 2030 and zero net emis- states, “There are no jobs on a dead sions by 2050. Climate change is the defining issue planet.” of our time. It will require an unprece- International, unambiguous and bind- dented effort from all sectors of society Earth Strike! ing commitments to halt the destruction to tackle climate change. The UN will I think it is essential to mention the of rainforests and other wildlife habitats. host the 2019 Climate Action Summit on efforts of this organization. Led by a di- International, unambiguous and bind- September 23 in New York to “showcase verse group of activists and promoted by ing agreements designed to hold corpo- a leap in collective national political am- Greta Thunberg, they are calling for ac- rations accountable for the greenhouse bition and… demonstrate massive move- tion on the “climate crisis.” gases they produce. ments in the real economy in support of the agenda.” We need what the UN calls

a “race to the top” among countries, com- Established 1952 panies, cities and civil society” to meet the Sustainable Development Goals we agreed to under the 2015 Paris Climate The Guardian Change Agreement. INC. OF WINDSOR, ON The Directors are: Coincidentally, on September 24 & Local 195–Emile Nabbout, Sarkis Gaspar 25, our union is hosting a “summit” of Local 200–John D’Agnolo, Dan Cassady Local 240–Jodi Nesbitt, Stacey Ferguson our own on a Just (fair) Transition to a FINE TOUCH Local 444–Dave Cassidy, James Stewart, GRAPHICS sustainable environment and economy Local 1498–Steve Morash, Allison St. Pierre for our members and our communities. Local 1941–Bob Ashton, Dean Mitchell Local 1959–Bill Wark, Matt Kelly JEREMY GLAJCH, Editor Inevitable and necessary technological Local 2027–Steve Taylor, Steve Moon Local 2458–Tullio DiPonti, Ken Durocher change is happening very quickly. These The Guardian, 1855 Turner Road, Windsor, Ontario, N8W 3K2 changes, such as electric vehicles and ve- Telephone (519) 258-6400, Fax 258-0424. Address changes should be directed to your Local Union Office hicle automation and renewable energy The Guardian – 30 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 31

LOCAL 1959 Workplaces we represent throughout Windsor / Essex President’s Report County. By BILL WARK President, Nemak Unifor Local 1959 ADM Agri Industries First off, I would like to take this [email protected] Ag Simpson opportunity to recognize the workers Accucaps and leadership at the Nemak plant. Amherstburg Chevrolet We all have seen what his Conserva- Brinks Standing up for what is right is not tive predecessor accomplished, lots Butcher Engineering easy! Corporations become parties for the rich and nothing for the rest Campus Police - U Of W to a legal binding agreement when Canadian Engineering of us. Central Stampings they sign a collective agreement, and Chrysler Security they should be held accountable Local 1959 Colonial Tool when they attempt to vacate their re- Within, the Local things are gear- Comfort Inn & Suites sponsibility. ing up for bargaining at the Quarry Comfort Suites and Salt units, so we have a busy fall D&C Tunnel Federal Election E.R. St. Denis and early 2020 lining up. New prod- Emrick Plastics Next up is the Federal election. uct allotment at Precision Plastics is First Student It's going to be an exciting election a welcome news story, and things Flex-N-gate this October. Locally we have been look busy for them for the next gates Jamieson laboratories fortunate to have three valuable re- while. JD Norman sources with our NDP, MP's. Never This article marks the first with Kautex Textron has there been a time where a phone Gord Gray not as our editor. I want lakeside Plastics lanex Mfg. call has been missed or a message to say thank you to Gord for all his help over the years, and congratula- Morrice Transportation not returned by our area representa- Motor City Chrysler #1 tions, Gord on your retirement, you tives. How the election shakes out Motor City Chrysler #2 earned it. Nickleson Machine will be interesting, – let's make it a I look forward to working with Papp Plastics priority that Andrew Scheer doesn't his replacement, Jeremy Glajch, in Performance Ford get a chance to be Prime Minister. Pm Plastics the continued future. Precision group Provincial Chrysler Riverside Inn Romeo Machine Shurlok Products Syncreon Canada Team Industrial Team Industrial gS Tilbury Concrete Titan Tool Veltri Howard Veltri lakeshore Ventra Plastics Vets Cab Viking Pump Waterfront Hotel We would like to take this opportunity to thank the membership and their families for patronizing the facilities we serve and buying the products we build. Buying Unifor unionized products re-in- forces our commitment to our *2.45% based on a 45 month non-redeemable term. Some conditions may apply. Rates subject to change without notice. community. Thank you!

The Guardian – 31 GUARDIAN with Centre Sprd.- Sept 2019.qxp_ THE GUARDIAN 9/13/19 12:04 PM Page 32

PUBlICATION MAIl AgREEMENT NO. 41456533 The RETURN UNDElIVERABlE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: CIRCUlATION DEPT, THE gUARDIAN BOARD, Guardian Outstanding 1855 TURNER ROAD, WINDSOR, ON N8W 3K2 Board

RECYCLED Retiree of the PAPER Year Award!

ot a loud, charismatic or flashy leadership Loudly”. Humble, calm demeanour but one would be style but the man could move mountains. hard-pressed to find any Labour gains in his 40 plus NNGary started on the line at the age of 18 at the years that did not have his fingerprints all over it. Chrysler Truck plant in 1965. Almost immediately after Wise and calculating, Gary always found a way to being hired, Gary was involved in his union and 1967 complete and fund big projects that the membership was elected as a shop steward. Gary held and the community needed. Gary gave numerous elected positions of steward to importance to social issues and was Chairperson at both Plant 1 and plant 6. often described as the voice of reason in In 1987 Gary was elected to Finan- labour disputes. Gary worked hard for cial Secretary-Treasurer of our great his Local and the community that he local, a position he held until he retired loved. His dedication is evident in the in 2009! many awards he has collected over the Gary was also instrumental in years. strengthening the Windsor District Greater Windsor Foundation Merit Labour Council where he was the Pres- Award, CAW's Bud Jimmerfield Award ident from 1987-2009. for work on behalf of injured workers, Commemorative Medal, Chair Award of His resume is IMMENSE! Gary has Distinction from the United Way, been on every board connect to labour Charles Brooks community Award, Recipient of the or our community. Board of Education advisory com- Queens Jubilee medal. Honorary Diploma from St. mittee, Transit Windsor, Coalition for Better Child Clair College and a Doctor of Law degree from the Care, several Mayors committees, Labour Community University of Windsor, this list continues today. Service committee, Sports Club 444, Chair of UHC, Greater Windsor foundation, Medical Education task Still extremely active as a retiree, yesterday the Uni- force the list goes on and on. for Retiree community honoured Gary with the 2019 It was said about Gary that the man “Whispers Outstanding Retiree of the Year Award!

Congratulations and thank you, Gary Parent!

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