Progress Report

United Steelworkers National Policy Conference Toronto, 27-29 April 2010 Build ng for tomorrow’s jobs

Progress report on the USW’s 2007 National Policy Conference

Building from Workers First Progress report on the USW’s 2007 National Policy Conference

the 2007 National Policy Conference, the resolutions that were adopted by USW members became the official policy and direction of the USW in . The following report outlines the accomplishments and progress thatAt has been made in the last three years to support these resolutions These resolutions fall into seven categories: Jobs and the Economy; Environment and a Sustainable Economy; Benefits and Public Services; Health and Safety; Equality Rights; Building Power and Strategic Alliances; Communication, Education and Organizing.

Contents

Jobs and the Economy 4

Anti-scab (A1) 4 Canadian Wheat Board (A3) 4 Bankruptcy legislation – Companies Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) (A4) 4 Industrial strategy (A6) 5 Log exports (A8) 5 Oppose TILMA (Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement) (A9) 6 Skilled trades (A10) 6 WESTAC (A11) 6 Resource policy (A13) 7 Globalization (A16) 7 Crisis in manufacturing (A18) 8 Saving manufacturing jobs (A19) 8

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Environment and a Sustainable Economy 9

Saskatchewan forestry (B5) 9 Sustainable forest (B6) 9 Environment (B7) 10

Benefits and Public Services 11

Child care (C1) 11 CPP and taxes (C2) 11 Employment Insurance (EI): vacation and severance pay (C4), and level of EI benefits (C5) 12 Pension indexing (C6) 12 Maternity leave (C8) 12 Health coverage for retirees (C9) 13 Prescription drugs (C10) 13 Supporting Medicare (C12) 13 Security of pensions (C13) 14

Health and Safety 14

Employee and family assistance (D4) 14 B.C. workers’ compensation (D10) 15 Westray (D12) 15 workers’ compensation (D13) 15 Infectious disease (D14) 16 Psychological harassment (D15) 16 Blame the worker health and safety programs (D17) 16 Fatalities (D19 – also covers D2, D3, D8) 17 Occupational disease (D20 – also covers D6, D9) 18 Health and safety manuals (D21 – also covers D5, D18) 18

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Equality Rights 19

Work and family balance (E1) 19 Older workers (E2) 19 International Women’s Day (E3) 20 Harassment (E4) 20 Violence against women (E5) 20 Status of Women Canada (E6) 21 Women’s and human rights committees (E7) 21 Disability rights (E8) 21 Pay equity (E9) 22

Building Power and Strategic Alliances 22

Colombia (F1) 22 Latin America (F3) 23 Aboriginal rights (F6 – also covers F8) 23 United Way (F7) 23 Iraq and Afghanistan (F9) 24 Global alliances (F10) 24 Union-community alliances (F11) 25 Political action (F12 – also covers F2, F5) 25 Employee security (G3) 26 Literacy (G7) 26 Union counselor (G16) 27 Youth involvement (G19) 27 Whistle blowers (G20) 27

Communication, Education and Organizing 28

United Transportation Union (H1) 28

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Jobs and the Economy

Anti-scab (A1)

USW actively participated in the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) lobby for Bill C-257, An Act to amend the Canada Labour Code (replacement workers). While all (NDP) and Bloc Québécois Members of Parliament (MPs) voted for this anti-scab legislation, many Liberals (including labour critic, Mario Silva) who had supported it on the first two readings voted it down on third reading. USW is now supporting C-386, a bill introduced by the Bloc that is very similar to C-257. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Canadian National Policy Conference calls for the passage of and enforcement of anti-scab legislation in the federal sector, and, if in the event that the current session of Parliament fails to pass the law currently in front of it, to continue its efforts to lobby Parliament until the provisions are made law.

Canadian Wheat Board (A3)

The USW supports the Canadian Wheat Board. The USW supports the NDP, which has led the parliamentary fight to defend the Wheat Board. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW fully support the CWB in its present form as the best economic system in place for protecting Prairie farmers.

Bankruptcy legislation – Companies Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) (A4)

Too often, when an employer goes into bankruptcy, members and their families are last on the list to receive the compensation they deserve. During this economic downturn, the USW has consistently taken the position that unpaid wages and pension obligations should receive top priority in bankruptcy proceedings. Since the last National Policy Conference, building on a proposal developed in collaboration with the NDP, the 2009 federal budget extended the Wage Earner Protection Program to include severance and termination pay. Unfortunately, this coverage is still limited to a maximum of four weeks’ insurable earnings. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW oppose the use by companies of the Companies

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Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) to blackmail workers into giving concessions; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW oppose the use of CCAA to open contracts and force unions to negotiate; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW take the position that labour rights trump corporate rights under CCAA proceedings.

Industrial strategy (A6)

USW has advocated a range of policies to strengthen the steel industry. Some of these policies, such as “Buy Canadian” requirements for public infrastructure, would make our economy more self-reliant. USW also endorsed the attempt by Lakeside Steel, a Canadian company, to buy US Steel’s facilities in Canada. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW oppose the de-industrialization of Canada by monopolies; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW support the strengthening of the Steel industry so that Canada can develop a self-reliant economy, not subject to the latest whim of the corporate agenda.

Log exports (A8)

USW continually campaigns against log exports by: ϐϐ Lobbying B.C. politicians ϐϐ Presenting briefs to governments and communities ϐϐ Supporting the B.C. NDP’s opposition to log exports, and ϐϐ Supporting local groups such as the Save Our Valley Alliance and the Wilderness Committee. Steelworkers strongly opposed the B.C. government’s decision to allow Western Forest Products to remove private lands from its tree-farm licence. A USW representative now sits on the B.C. Timber Export Advisory Committee where we continue to learn more about log exports and advocate against them. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT USW re-affirm its total opposition to the export of unprocessed logs including pine beetle wood.

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Oppose TILMA (Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement) (A9)

The USW opposes legislation such as TILMA, which currently exists between B.C. and Alberta, because it circumvents labour and environmental legislation. USW staff wrote a letter critiquing TILMA that was printed in The National Post and participated in a Council of Canadians news conference the day before TILMA came into force for local governments. We also testified at Queen’s Park against the Ontario Labour Mobility Act, legislation that will have some of the same negative effects as TILMA. USW will continue to oppose such legislation in other jurisdictions throughout Canada. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW oppose the use of the Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement between and Alberta or any similar legislation planned between other provinces; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW oppose the enacting of this type of agreement to circumvent appropriate labour and environmental legislation; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW call on all provincial and federal governments to not allow such agreements to take effect without going through the legislature or parliament.

Skilled trades (A10)

To ensure that manufacturing and other skilled jobs remain in Canada, and to address the looming skills shortages, the USW has promoted apprenticeships through , sector councils like the Canadian Steel Trade and Employment Congress (CSTEC), and provincial federations of labour. In all of these areas, we have advocated a central role for unions in the apprenticeship system. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the National Office in conjunction with both District and Local rank and file representatives coordinate a process in each province that places the union at the forefront of the development of skilled tradespersons; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the results of this process be communicated throughout the union and that resolutions be presented to the next National Policy Conference.

WESTAC (A11)

USW is no longer a participant in WESTAC. After reviewing the cost and discussing it with the , it was decided that at a time of economic crisis, it was too

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costly to continue. However, as the primary benefit of participation is to monitor developments in the transportation sector we concluded that if a report on the transportation industry was needed, the USW Research Department could provide it. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers find ways to continue to actively participate in WESTAC.

Resource policy (A13)

The USW continually advocates for governments to only provide access to Canada’s resources under terms that generate domestic jobs, training and investments. Regarding crown corporations, USW had op-eds printed in the Saskatoon StarPhoenix and Regina Leader-Post noting the billions of dollars lost by the province in privatizing the Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan. On cooperatives, USW has signed a framework agreement with MONDRAGON, the world’s largest worker- owned cooperative. This framework agreement calls for collaboration in establishing MONDRAGON cooperatives in the manufacturing sector within the and Canada. The USW and MONDRAGON will work to establish manufacturing cooperatives that adapt collective bargaining principles to the MONDRAGON worker ownership model of “one worker, one vote.” 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT we encourage governments to only provide access to our resources under terms that generate domestic jobs, training and investments; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT we promote independent sources of investment capital such as crown corporations, cooperatives and social enterprises that augment our ability to plan and manage the development of our natural resources.

Globalization (A16)

In letters to government ministers, testimony before the House of Commons’ International Trade Committee and other forums, USW has made the case for allowing unions to initiate and participate in cases under Canada’s Special Import Measures Act. We have also proposed union representation on the Canadian International Trade Tribunal. While the federal government continues to deny unions any role in this process, it has recently applied duties to some steel casing and tubing from China. It has also joined a World Trade Organization (WTO) complaint against Chinese export restrictions on raw materials.

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2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers create an Action Committee in order to establish a strategic intervention plan; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers, along with the CLC, lobby the Canadian government, exerting all pressures necessary, to: ϐϐ Amend the trade laws in order to maintain and protect the manufacturing sector; and ϐϐ Have a union voice (a seat) on the Canadian International Trade Tribunal.

Crisis in manufacturing (A18)

In an effort to hold government and corporations accountable to working families, the USW has utilized media commentary and political action to push for replacing no- strings-attached corporate tax cuts with targeted incentives tied to real investment in Canada. Similarly, USW has pressed for more infrastructure investment combined with procurement provisions to ensure that it supports Canadian jobs. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW will campaign for a national strategy of effective economic stewardship, including smart incentives for productive investment; increased public spending on social and physical infrastructure; strategic management of key sectors of the economy and expanded industrial democracy; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the union will pressure provincial governments as well to live up to their responsibilities to support working families and manufacturing jobs; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT The United Steelworkers will put pressure on the multinationals through collective bargaining to include clauses related to ensuring that the investments required for maintaining the company’s global competitiveness are made.

Saving manufacturing jobs (A19)

In an effort to save manufacturing jobs, the USW has advocated establishing federal and provincial Jobs Protection Commissioners that have the power to investigate companies slated for closure and to make recommendations that would avoid closure and protect jobs. In particular, we worked to incorporate this item into the federal NDP platform and into some provincial NDP platforms. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW will push for tougher employment standards laws that discourage plant closures and provide real protection to workers including:

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ϐϐ Mandatory negotiations with union representatives before any layoffs, ϐϐ Enhanced severance pay and guarantees of severance for more workers, ϐϐ Longer advance notice for layoffs, ϐϐ Greater checks on an employer’s right to shut down viable plants; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers call on the provincial and federal governments to establish a legislated Jobs Protection Commissioner; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Jobs Protection Commissioner be given broad powers to investigate the financial health of companies slated for closure; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Jobs Protection Commissioner have authority to make recommendations to the appropriate Legislature or Parliament to avoid closure and protect important manufacturing jobs.

Environment and a Sustainable Economy Saskatchewan forestry (B5)

While working to protect good-paying and sustainable jobs, the USW worked with the former Saskatchewan NDP provincial government to encourage Weyerhaeuser to live up to the terms of its Forest Management Agreement and reopen its mills. Although the current Saskatchewan Party government was elected promising to reopen the Prince Albert Pulp Mill and other facilities, it has not pushed Weyerhaeuser to do so. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW insists that the Saskatchewan government enforce that part of the requirement of a forest management agreement is that companies that operate facilities within that FMA will be required to re-invest a substantial percentage of their annual profit back into the facilities to assure updated efficient operations with the full intent of protecting and enhancing good pay sustainable jobs.

Sustainable forest (B6)

To promote sustainable forestry practices, job protection and creation, the USW participates on a number of national and provincial bodies such as the federal Forest Sector Council, the Canadian Standards Association’s Sustainable Forestry Initiative and British Columbia’s Public Advisory Committee on Practices. Through these bodies, we advocate for better forest management, more wood manufacturing in Canada, creating forest-sector employment, and providing training opportunities for forest-sector workers impacted by the global economic crisis.

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In 2008, Steelworkers put forward a 10-point plan for B.C.’s forest industry that includes measures to improve reforestation efforts and intensive silviculture as well as to reduce raw-log exports and increase domestic manufacturing. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers support sustainable forest management that maintains species diversity, functioning ecosystems and renewable industrial use; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT removal of “working forest” only take place based on sound science, in full consideration of economic and social impacts; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT we support development of sustainable use of our forest resources and measures to increase value-added manufacturing to protect existing jobs, to create new jobs and enhance community stability; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT we work for fair international trade agreements that respect workers and human rights and environmental sustainability.

Environment (B7)

USW has developed and put forward policies to reduce Canada’s greenhouse-gas emissions while protecting Canadian jobs. In particular, we successfully lobbied for the inclusion of domestic-procurement requirements in Ontario’s Green Energy Act. Additionally, we had an op-ed printed in the Toronto Star advocating the use of carbon tariffs to prevent corporations from responding to carbon restrictions in North America by relocating production elsewhere. In 2009, through a strategic alliance with Environmental Defence Canada, we formed Blue Green Canada. Through this alliance, we encourage all levels of government to invest in clean renewable energy and good green jobs. To support the transition to a greener economy, Blue Green Canada is building community partnerships and advocates for local procurement standards to create markets for local suppliers. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Union move forward to implement recommendations contained in Securing Our Children’s World to assist local unions with information and tools to take action; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the union develop a course on the environment to help educate and mobilize our members; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers Canadian National Policy Conference calls on the Parliament of Canada to insist that the government take all necessary measures to meet Canada’s obligations under the Kyoto accord; and

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BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW actively lobby both the federal and provincial governments, as well as the industries we represent, to develop concrete plans of action in attacking greenhouse gas emissions.

Benefits and Public Services Child care (C1)

In concert with the NDP, USW has lobbied for public child care and early learning programs in the rest of Canada similar to the one that already exists in . 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW continue to work with labour and community partners for a National Child Care and Early Learning Program, similar to the program in place in Quebec, to effectively meet the child care needs of working families across Canada.

CPP and taxes (C2)

The goal of this resolution is to ensure that all workers have a dignified retirement by increasing the after-tax value of Canada Pension Plan (CPP) benefits. However, a tax exemption for CPP benefits would not be an effective means to achieve this goal. Retirees receiving only an average public pension currently pay almost no federal income tax. The average annual CPP benefit ($6,031) plus the full amount of Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) ($11,022) are about equal to the basic personal tax exemption ($10,320) plus the seniors’ exemption ($6,408). The greatest beneficiaries of exempting all CPP benefits would be wealthier seniors who are in higher tax brackets. A more effective and equitable way to increase the after-tax value of CPP benefits would be to increase the pre-tax value of CPP benefits. USW has been supporting the CLC’s Retirement Security for Everyone campaign demanding that the federal government: ϐϐ Phase in a doubling of payouts from the CPP and the Quebec Pension Plan (QPP). ϐϐ Immediately increase OAS and the GIS for all retirees. ϐϐ Create a national pension insurance fund to ensure that workers’ defined benefit pen- sions aren’t at risk when employers go under or speculative bubbles go bust. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT The USW lobby the federal government to make the CPP pension non-taxable.

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Employment Insurance (EI): vacation and severance pay (C4), and level of EI benefits (C5)

Many unemployed Canadians are finding it difficult to survive on EI benefits that have not increased in a decade. Combined with a government policy that treats vacation and severance pay as income, thereby disqualifying claimants and/or reducing the amount of EI benefits that they receive, current EI benefits are inadequate and will not keep pace with the future cost of living. To address this issue, the USW has testified before parliamentary committees and written letters to government ministers, repeatedly objecting to the clawback of vacation and severance pay from EI benefits and advocating for an increase in EI payments. 2007 resolutions: BE IT RESOLVED THAT USW demands the federal government change the legislation so that vacation pay and severance is not used as income to disqualify claimants from EI benefits; and BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers call on the federal government to increase the weekly payments substantially and to keep pace with the cost of living in the future.

Pension indexing (C6)

USW proposed the full indexing of pensions in submissions to several provincial pension regulators. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT this National Policy Conference urge the Canadian Labour Congress and all unions in Canada to make full indexing of pensions (without restrictions) of present and future retirees a major priority in all future negotiations with employers; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this National Policy Conference and the Canadian Labour Congress call on the federal and provincial government to legislate full indexing without restrictions on all private and public pension plans for present and future retirees.

Maternity leave (C8)

The USW works with Women’s Committees, the CLC, provincial federations of labour, and other unions to lobby for improvements to the Canada Labour Code, other labour legislation and workers’ compensation regimes. In particular, since different Canadian jurisdictions offer different levels of benefits, USW calls on jurisdictions with weaker

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protections for women to adopt the highest available standards. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers National Policy Conference demands that the Canadian Labour Code be amended to ensure that women who are on maternity leave accumulate credit for all benefits as if they were at work; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers National Policy Conference lobby the federal government to amend the workers’ compensation law to allow pregnant women to be compensated for time off work to prevent injury to the fetus.

Health coverage for retirees (C9)

USW has attempted to negotiate extended health coverage for retirees, but employers have often resisted such proposals. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT this National Policy Conference urge the Canadian Labour Congress and all unions in Canada to adopt as a priority the negotiation of extended health coverage for dental care, eye glasses, prescription drugs and other medical costs for all present and future retirees, in all future labour negotiations with employers.

Prescription drugs (C10)

The USW supports the NDP, which puts forward national Pharmacare as major platform plank. We also support efforts by local union bargaining committees to negotiate better benefits of all kinds, including better coverage for prescription drugs. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT this National Policy Conference urge the Canadian Labour Congress and all unions in Canada to adopt as a priority the negotiation of the coverage of all prescription drugs with no limits, lifetime or otherwise; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT this National Policy Conference and the Canadian Labour Congress call on the federal and provincial governments to cover the costs of all prescription drugs not covered by insurance plans.

Supporting Medicare (C12)

USW remains committed to defending and expanding Canada’s public healthcare system. In particular, we are active on the Canadian Health Coalition’s Board of Directors.

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USW was also involved in pushing for healthcare reform in the United States. Improving the American healthcare system will also help defend Canadian Medicare. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers will sustain and expand its actions in defending Medicare by advocating expanding its scope, while fighting the incursion of private, for-profit care.

Security of pensions (C13)

USW has made submissions to the federal government and many provincial governments proposing better protection of workplace pensions, including the establishment of Ontario-style guarantee funds. In particular, the CLC pension campaign proposes a national guarantee fund for federally regulated employers that provinces could also join. We have achieved some success in amending bankruptcy legislation to require the payment of current-service costs. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Steelworkers will lobby for better protection for worker pensions, including creating of benefit guarantee funds in the federal jurisdiction and all provinces, along with enhancements to Ontario’s fund that include a significant increase in the $1,000 per month cap.

Health and Safety Employee and family assistance (D4)

In an effort to ensure that USW members and their families have access to resources to assist them in dealing with unforeseen challenges in their lives, we work with Local Union bargaining committees to negotiate the establishment of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) in their workplaces. We will continue to provide support and assistance to locals that are working towards the establishment of EAPs. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers insist that there are Employee and Family Assistance Programs in all our operations; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the program is made available to all employees; active, retired and disabled, as well as spouses and dependants.

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B.C. workers’ compensation (D10)

Through the British Columbia Federation of Labour and WorkSafeBC, USW has questioned performance-based regulations. As a result of the Gramlich Inquest, we succeeded in restoring prescriptive regulations for first aid. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW work with the Districts in conjunction with all Federations of Labour, to take whatever action necessary to stop the WCB from changing the prescriptive regulations to performance-based regulations

Westray (D12)

USW is lobbying provincial attorneys general to prosecute employers who fail to protect health and safety. We are actively involved in the “Kill a Worker, Go to Jail” campaign spearheaded by the Ontario Federation of Labour (OFL) and the USW. This campaign renews calls for the use of the Criminal Code to hold employers accountable for the health and safety of workers. On March 25, 2010, USW launched an unprecedented private prosecution against Weyerhaeuser Company Limited. The charges are being laid under the “Westray Amendment” of the Criminal Code alleging that Weyerhaeuser Company Ltd. was criminally negligent in the death of sawmill worker Lyle Hewer on November 17, 2004. Due to the hard work and perseverance of USW members, there is now widespread recognition that the must continue to confront ministers of labour and attorneys general about their obligation to protect workers, including laying criminal charges against companies and their management. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers Canadian National Policy Conference re-affirm our commitment to Bill C-45, and that the union exert political pressure on provincial attorneys general and their political master that a policy direction be given to all crown attorneys to make full use of the measures contained in C-45.

Ontario workers’ compensation (D13)

USW continues to lobby the Ontario Ministry of Labour for mandatory Workplace Safety and Insurance Board coverage of all workplaces. USW has participated in public hearings on this subject and will participate in Ontario’s upcoming Health & Safety System Review.

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2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT USW actively lobby our Ontario Minister of Labour and Members of the Legislative Assembly to accept the WSIB Board of Directors’ recommendations and act immediately to include call centre and excluded workers under WSIB; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED USW will inform all members of this injustice and encourage them to support the inclusion of our brother and sisters under the WSIB.

Infectious disease (D14)

USW has lobbied for occupational health and safety legislation to include the precautionary principle. USW issued a bulletin on the H1N1 virus. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Steelworkers national union develop a toolkit that will include methods to assist local union health and safety committees to effectively deal with this emerging threat to workers wellbeing; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT those local unions with the guidance of the Steelworkers are encouraged to meet with local community health officers to develop proper methods so employers can protect their members at work in the event of outbreaks in their communities.

Psychological harassment (D15)

The USW has lobbied for legislation to recognize psychological harassment. This lobbying has succeeded in Ontario. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the National Director organize a lobby to ensure that psychological harassment is recognized at the federal level.

Blame the worker health and safety programs (D17)

Behaviour based safety (BBS) is a management safety system which blames worker carelessness for 90% of all accidents. Companies prefer behaviour based safety because it gives them more control over their employees and downloads their responsibility for health and safety issues onto workers. USW provides training and advice on how to deal with behaviour based safety. We have developed training packages to assist local union leadership, health and safety

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activists, and staff to work together to resist behaviour based safety. The union provides materials with its New Worker Awareness (NWA) health and safety program to educate members of the importance of the union’s health and safety principles and program. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers reject health and safety programs that assume worker’s behaviour is the primary cause of workplace accidents; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers insist that health and safety programs in the operations that we represent have health and safety programs that are firstly, hazard-based – using hierarchy of controls; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers insist that health and safety programs in the operations that we represent enlist the skill, knowledge and commitment of the workforce in finding and correcting hazards.

Fatalities (D19 – also covers D2, D3, D8)

USW demands coroners’ inquests when our members are killed on the job. Since the last National Policy conference, the USW has participated in several inquests including: ϐϐ Steve Ewing, died August 8, 2000. Inquest hearings began in January 2004, and complet- ed in September 2008. ϐϐ Frank Leroux, died on March 20, 2006. Inquest was held June 2007. ϐϐ Robert Nisbett, died on March 6, 2006. Inquest was held February 2009. ϐϐ Chad Lamond, died on March 7, 2002. Inquest was held November 2007. ϐϐ Brian Laughlin, died on March 25, 2002. Inquest was held May 2008. 2007 resolutions: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers demand a coroners’ inquest into all workplace deaths of United Steelworker members and lobby all levels of government to make coroners’ inquests mandatory in every jurisdiction for all workplace fatalities and insist on prompt implementation of inquest recommendations (amended by Resolutions Committee upon friendly request); and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Steelworkers adopt a policy of attempting to negotiate a collective agreement provision that allows the membership to recognize a workplace death of any Steelworker covered by that collective agreement; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT all Steelworker locals, in every set of negotiations, propose that their employer pay the lost time, expenses and travel for the LU president or designate to attend the funeral of all union members killed on the job; and

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BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT USW locals be encouraged to expand this initiative across the labour movement and submit resolutions on this topic to the next conventions of the Canadian Labour Congress and provincial and territorial federations of labour.

Occupational disease (D20 – also covers D6, D9)

USW has developed a training package on occupational disease, trained worker representatives to present claims, and continues to make presentations to high school students through the Young Workers Awareness Program (YWA). Building on the huge success of the YWA program, in recognition of the higher risks and challenges that all new workers face, the USW is developing a New Worker Awareness (NWA) Program that educates our members on the core elements of the union’s health and safety program which include corporate responsibility to make work safe and healthy, the rights of workers to participate and be represented in the process and rigorous enforcement of the law to protect workers. We continue to work on making these materials available on the website. 2007 resolutions: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Steelworkers develop a training package on occupational disease to educate our Local Executive and Union Activists in the explanation of the issues related to occupational disease; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW commit to providing necessary training to worker representatives to present compensation claims and appeals; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW continue to develop and deliver student education programs at the high school level to ensure students are aware of the sources and dangers of injury and disease; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW will continue to develop through the usw.ca website access to information and educational material regarding occupational injury and disease and their effects.

Health and safety manuals (D21 – also covers D5, D18)

All three USW Canadian Districts have conducted a review and made revisions to the Level 1 Health and Safety training material. The goal was to develop a more activist role for our representatives by learning from our history, using popular education techniques to engage participants more effectively, and to integrate strategic thinking for workplace change. Building on work done by our union in the U.S., we worked with the Workers Health and Safety Centre to revise Level 1 training for use across English Canada. A similar process of update and revision took place in Quebec through the Fédération des travailleurs and travailleuses du Québec (FTQ). Additionally, we have produced a

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guide for health and safety activists. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers update the Health and Safety manuals for USW Health and Safety Committee members; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the required information for the effective functioning of both Health and Safety and Compensation committees be consolidated into a pocket-sized guide booklet.

Equality Rights Work and family balance (E1)

For many members, it’s a challenge to juggle the demands of work, family and union activity. To improve work-life balance, the USW has updated and revised its Guide to Negotiating the Balance of Work-Life Responsibilities, that is available on our website at www.usw.ca. This manual and our Human Rights are Workers Rights workshop can be used as a resource to achieve work-life balance through contract language, local union by-laws and political action. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the union work to improve work-life balance through collective bargaining with such options as child care, elder and dependent care, family and compassionate care, flexible work hours, and same sex benefits; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW lobby governments for public policy to support the balance of work and family responsibilities.

Older workers (E2)

USW’s legal department has developed and distributed a document to Staff Representatives on age discrimination and the end of mandatory retirement. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Steelworkers Union develop a strategy and sample collective bargaining language to assist Local Unions in responding to the discrimination against older workers that results from the elimination of mandatory retirement; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the union develop sample collective bargaining language to assist Staff Representatives and Local Union Bargaining Committees for contract negotiations.

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International Women’s Day (E3)

The USW participates in and promotes International Women’s Day events and encourages locals and communities to celebrate these events. We also encourage activists to work towards gender equality every day of the year. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW lobby the federal government to have International Women’s Day recognized as an official statutory holiday in honour of the women of Canada

Harassment (E4)

USW continues to promote our policy, train and support anti-harassment counsellors and work with local committees and leaders to deal with issues of harassment. In addition, we work with other unions and community partners to share educational materials and expertise as well as to lobby for legislation and guidelines to help employers take proactive steps to prevent harassment. We sponsor the USW Anti-Harassment and Building Respectful Workplace training programs. Most recently, we have added a Dealing with Cultural Diversity in the Workplace module to the USW Anti-Harassment program. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT Local unions be encouraged to negotiate the Steelworkers Anti-Harassment Policy and Workplace Training Program into collective agreements; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT Local Unions be encouraged to train activists to maintain harassment-free workplaces, deal with complaints, and deepen awareness and support for diversity in the workplace and in the union; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT Local Unions be encouraged to present the anti- harassment policy, Yellow Sheet at all Local Union functions, post it on union notice boards, and refer to it as a guide for respectful relationships in the workplace and within the union.

Violence against women (E5)

USW continues to promote policies to prevent violence against women. We also support organizations that help the victims of violence. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Steelworkers reaffirm its commitment, and increase

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efforts, to eliminate violence against women; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Steelworkers continue to support organizations committed to the elimination of violence against women.

Status of Women Canada (E6)

In conjunction with the CLC, NDP and women’s groups, USW has lobbied for full restoration of funding to Status of Women Canada. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW lobby the federal government to fully restore funding to the Status of Women Canada.

Women’s and human rights committees (E7)

Through Women of Steel, human rights courses and national committees, USW encourages and supports locals in establishing women’s and human rights committees. The union provides materials to help activists achieve equity goals. We also sponsor national Women of Steel and Human Rights Conferences. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT locals be encouraged to set up committees reflective of the diversity within their membership; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Steelworkers promote the courses to help locals set up Women’s and Human Rights Committees; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Steelworkers continue to support diversity, equity and equality by identifying steps and supporting measures to increase diversity at leadership levels; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the Steelworkers promote greater visibility of the District and National Human Rights and Women’s Committees at union activities and events; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED THAT the Steelworkers continue to work with, and strengthen ties to, labour organizations, Canadian community partners and international organizations in advancing global solidarity.

Disability rights (E8)

The USW encourages Local Unions to integrate people with disabilities into the workplace by adopting the USW’s Opening Doors policy – a comprehensive policy

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supporting the employment of people with disabilities who want to work. Additionally, we have collaborated with workers’ compensation authorities and safety activists to encourage and negotiate return-to-work programs and accommodation for people with disabilities. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW Local Unions participate more actively in the integration of people with disabilities into the workplace, and the workplace parties ensure that accommodations are made utilizing the principles of the Duty To Accommodate up to the point of undue hardship (as amended by the Resolutions Committee by friendly request).

Pay equity (E9)

USW works with the CLC to lobby the federal government to follow up on taskforce recommendations and achieve pay equity in the federal sector. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers, along with the CLC, and in accordance with the recommendations of the Pay Equity Task Force, pressure the government authorities to adopt a proactive, stand-alone law to establish and subsequently maintain pay equity in sectors under federal jurisdiction. Such legislation would include the obligation for employers to eliminate wage discrimination against female workers and would apply universally to female workers. Unions would be included in the pay equity process at the federal level, and the legislation would provide for any independent funding and mechanisms required for its application.

Building Power and Strategic Alliances Colombia (F1)

One of the Conservative government’s legislative priorities in parliament this spring is the passage of a proposed Free Trade Agreement linking Colombia and Canada. Colombia has the worst human rights record in the Americas. Trade unionists – men and women who, like Steelworkers here, represent their fellow workers on a daily basis – continue to be murdered. In 2009, 45 trade unionists were murdered, adding to the 2,700 that have been killed by paramilitaries in the last two decades. In response, the USW – working with the CLC, NDP and Bloc Québécois – has been fully engaged in the fight against the Canada-Colombia Free Trade Agreement. It is crucial that we persuade other opposition members to vote against this very bad and dangerous trade agreement. Additionally, we have hosted Colombian trade unionists in Canada and sent delegations to Colombia.

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2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers Canadian National Policy Conference re-affirm the strong commitment of this union to our fellow trade unionists in Colombia, to the “Stop Killer Coke” organization, by undertaking campaigns among our members and by supporting the legal campaign against corporate Coca Cola; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers sponsor a publicity campaign against corporate Coca Cola and Colombian government representatives in Canada in order to help bring about an end to the repression in Colombia.

Latin America (F3)

In addition to opposing the Canada-Colombia Free Trade Agreement, we are working through Workers Uniting to maintain good relations with the Cuban labour movement – in fact USW members are part of a Workers Uniting delegation travelling to Cuba for May Day celebrations in 2010. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers Canadian National Policy Conference call on the Government of Canada to maintain friendly relations with Cuba and Venezuela.

Aboriginal rights (F6 – also covers F8)

In Ontario, the USW has a framework agreement with the Constance Lake First Nation and is in discussions with the Pic Mobert First Nation on a territorial agreement. We have also collaborated with the Manitoba Federation of Labour to develop the Wings of Change safety seminar specifically for aboriginal people. Members are also encouraged to participate in the USW Aboriginal Working Group. 2007 resolutions: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW will explore cooperative agreements with Aboriginal Peoples/ in resource communities and resource industries; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW will work to build stronger ties, including possible strategic alliances, with Aboriginal Peoples/First Nations groups; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW will promote and expand the involvement of Aboriginal/First Nations Steelworkers in the Union.

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United Way (F7)

USW continues to support, and actively fundraise for, the United Way/Centreaide. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW re-affirm its support for United Way/Centraide in every community where the two are found and actively participate in workplace campaigns; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the International President, the National Director for Canada, as well as District Directors officially endorse the campaign and facilitate locals with a letter of endorsement to help in fundraising efforts.

Iraq and Afghanistan (F9)

USW continues its participation in the Canadian Peace Alliance and other peace groups. We support the NDP and Canadian Council of International Cooperation, both of which have criticized the Afghanistan war. In addition, many union members and staff participated in public demonstrations against war in Iraq and Afghanistan. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers Canadian National Policy Conference reaffirm its opposition to the continuing wars in Iraq and Afghanistan; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT we lobby the Canadian government not to engage in any U.S. provocation in Iran; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW work with peace groups in Canada including the Canadian Peace Alliance to build a nationwide movement against the Bush-Harper agenda for war.

Global alliances (F10)

USW continues to build global unionism, most notably by developing Workers Uniting based on the transatlantic partnership signed at our last National Policy Conference. We have also built and strengthened our relationships with mining unions in other countries, especially during the Vale Inco strike. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers actively promote the creation of global union networks and alliances, linking together workers with a common transnational employer or workers in the same sector; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT these networks be based on mutual respect and

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full recognition of the diversity of legal frameworks, languages and labour traditions of each network participant; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers promote and foster global union networks with active participation from local unions, through organizational tools like a directory and a database, regular communications, work on common issues such as contracting out and mutual solidarity campaigns; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT these such networks work in collaboration with the Global Union Federations such as ICEM and IMF to establish International Framework Agreements (IFA), ensuring that the IFAs are based on real and enforceable commitments and are not simply a public relations ploy that benefit global companies but do not provide benefits to workers.

Union-community alliances (F11)

USW continues to encourage Local Unions to establish union-community alliances and since the last National Policy Conference, we formed Blue Green Canada in partnership with Environmental Defence Canada. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT all Steelworker Locals form Union-Community Alliances to address social, economic and environmental issues; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the National and District offices encourage and support the formation of such alliances.

Political action (F12 – also covers F2, F5)

Outside of Quebec, Steelworkers Vote campaigns have helped members to raise issues, get involved in elections, and elect New Democrats. Political activism was a key part of the Steelworkers Summer program in District 3. We would like to elect more Steelworkers to the House of Commons, provincial legislatures, and municipal councils and are proud of the Steelworkers who are currently serving in elected office. We will continue working with New Democrats, and the Bloc Québécois in Quebec, to ensure that issues important to USW are front and centre on the political agenda. 2007 resolutions: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW reaffirms its support of the New Democratic Party in Canada in English Canada and of social democratic forces in Quebec; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT our union in Canada strongly urge Steelworkers members to become active members of the New Democratic Party; and

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BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT Steelworkers locals will carry out workplace drives to encourage party membership and will participate in Steelworkers Vote campaigns focused on the issues that concern working families in their communities; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT USW locals should be encouraged to educate members on the NDP and progressive candidates in their electoral district; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT locals will be encouraged to establish a Rapid Response communication network in every unit and worksite to allow for the rapid exchange of information, and the ability to quickly mobilize the membership on important issues.

Employee security (G3)

Since the early days following September 11, 2001, the USW has been involved in influencing policy makers about correcting any shortcomings, from a member’s perspective, in airport security. As a key stakeholder in the industry, we supported the creation of CATSA (the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority) and continue to advocate for stability in the industry with good wages and benefits commensurate with the pivotal role expected by Canadians of front-line security officers. With the introduction of extra airport security fees in 2010, the USW is actively pressuring the federal government to use this revenue to invest in upgrading the skills of members and to establish a tripartite industrial council of security firms, government and the unions representing security officers. We continue to promote the USW’s commitment to work with all stakeholders in making further and consistent improvements in Canada’s system of security at critical points of public contact such as airports. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers National Policy Conference condemns the efforts of certain politicians to use security concerns as an attack on workers’ rights, and calls on the federal government to treat labour as a partner, not an adversary, in its efforts to make our ports, railways and airports more secure.

Literacy (G7)

USW has developed a literacy course and a clear-language guide to assist activists in communicating clearly. Along with the CLC and NDP, USW has opposed conservative cuts to literacy programs. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers Canadian National Policy Conference calls for the promotion of literacy by the national union, in partnership with those organizations that focus on literacy issues, and calls on the Parliament of Canada

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to reverse the Harper cuts to literacy programs and to enhance and increase funding for same. Union counselor (G16)

When any local union bargaining committee requires assistance in negotiating collective agreement language that would set out the role of union EAP counselors, such assistance will be provided. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT USW will work to include language in our collective bargaining agreements requiring employers to recognize the role of the union counselor.

Youth involvement (G19)

In an effort to get more young people actively involved in the labour movement, the USW has a representative on the Young Workers Working Group at the CLC. This group’s recent priority has been to campaign for Canada to ratify the International Labour Organization’s Convention 138, which stipulates a legal minimum working age of 15. (Some provinces currently allow employers to use even younger workers.) 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers commit itself once again to furthering young member involvement in every aspect of the union; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers participate in youth committees already established with the CLC and provincial and territorial federations; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the United Steelworkers develop a program of mentorship of younger members by experienced members on the process of day-to- day union business, our history and the benefits of union membership.

Whistle blowers (G20)

USW continues to support stronger protections for workers who report illegal activity by their employer. Additionally, we continue to work in collaboration with the NDP to continue to fight for comprehensive whistle blower legislation. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT The USW support the passing of Whistle Blower Protection legislation, both provincial and federal, that would protect workers who report on their employers for illegal or unethical activities.

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Communication, Education and Organizing United Transportation Union (H1)

USW supported the United Transportation Union’s strike by walking its picket lines, donating the cost of a picket trailer and meeting rooms, making other financial contributions and engaging in joint discussions with CN. 2007 resolution: BE IT RESOLVED THAT the USW declares full support for the members of UTU Canada in their fight for a fair collective agreement; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT the USW calls on the federal government to allow collective bargaining and the legal to run its course, while insisting that CN respect the rights and dignity of all its workers.

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Ken Neumann, National Director for Canada United Steelworkers 234 Eglinton Ave. E. , 8th floor Toronto, ON M4P 1K7 416-487-1571 www.usw.ca