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LOCAL 112
MAY 2013 VOL.13 ISSUE 1 Bombardier • Brinks • CUSCO • Hewitt • L-3 SPAR • MacDonald Dettwiler • Northstar Aerospace • Toromont • UTIL • Vitafoam • Woodbridge Foam
A world renowned icon returns (June 11, 2013 / 09:02:41) 81402-1 Aircrafter Spring 2013_p02 rev.pdf .1
CAW Local 112 Executive Board Executive Officers President Roland Kiehne SPRING IS IN Vice President Dan Alushi Recording Secretary THE AIR Maxine DeCunha Financial Secretary Scott McIlmoyle Hugh Lynar, Editor Trustees Terry Howes Fred Schwertner Mary Vukman ood news is that we’ve had some recalls at Sergeant-at-Arms Bob Newby Bombardier, and to those of you who are freshly Guide back in the plant a hardy welcome. It’s really a Mark Grix G shame that in order for the current recall to take place Retirees Chair Maurice Coulter it appears fabrication will pay the price. That being said, it’s still early in the game and the final score is yet to be Unit Plant Chairs Bombardier tallied, so for now I choose to be somewhat optimistic Merv Gray that we can turn this corner successfully. That may Brinks waiver in the coming months but I’ll at least try. Barrie — Ted Nixon Toronto — Kayso Maharaj CUSCO On the other side of the coin is the unmistakable Damian Soroczynski spring that’s suddenly appeared in a small minority Hewitt of our fellow members step, as this rather dire news Dwight Brown has filtered through mainly fabrication, and to a lesser MDA Dennis Borden degree beyond the confines of bay’s 1 and 2. It’s as Northstar if misery and gloom have invigorated you for some Graham Davies perverse reason, either that or you’re gleefully waiting Spar Aerospace Jim Cherry for the hammer to fall. Schadenfreude perchance? I’m Toromont not sure. Try to remember that there are those of us Concord — Joel MacDonald facing what can easily be described as a very uncertain Orenda — Melrose Cornwall future. UTIL Mathi Sithamparanadarajah Vitafoam The good weather is mostly here and I refuse to allow Ahamad Nabi this to end on a sour note, ergo: Woodbridge Foam John Turner Wishing ALL of you a safe and happy summer. Editorial Committee In solidarity. Hugh Lynar (Editor), Fred Schwertner, Terry Stanton Nick D’Alicandro, Wallema Corriveau Patrick Robinson Photographers Ted Sopylo, Nick D’Alicandro, Nick Shearman Executive Assistant Shan White
LOCAL 112 Sign-up for CAW Connected to stay informed about important issues and events the CAW is involved with across the country. You’ll receive 30 Tangiers Road email updates on CAW campaigns and information Toronto, ON M3J 2B2 Telephone: 416-635-5988 about upcoming rallies and demonstrations! Fax: 416-635-5580 Please visit: www.caw112.on.ca The opinions expressed in this newsletter are www.connected.caw.ca those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect those of the Editorial Committee, the local union or the CAW National Office.
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MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER
Roland Kiehne, President
rothers and Sisters, working The only difference here is that Bom- members, activists, leadership and staff people and their families are feel- bardier is sending the jobs the other are steadfast in creating a union that B ing the pain as Canadian cor- way. will be both inclusive and engaging porations globally chase the lowest not only for the members we represent PM Stephen Harper, Ontario Conserv- labour dollar in an effort to cut costs in our respective workplaces but also ative Leader Tim Hudak, Premier Brad and enhance profitability. The result of with our community allies and others Wall of Saskatchewan and others, this has been the loss of a significant in our communities that are voiceless should be concentrating on issues number of Canadian jobs. In March and need a hand up. that are important to citizens and the alone, this country lost 54,500 jobs, communities in which they live. Job Moving forward together in a new the biggest single-month loss of jobs growth and the economy must be at union with over 300,000 members in four years! Our unemployment rate the forefront. Instead workers and strong from coast to coast in a mean- sits at 7.2% If you can imagine, this their unions are threatened with legis- ingful way provides an opportunity for is happening in an environment where lation like The Right to Work (For us to collectively influence decisions we are witnessing an unprecedented Less) that will make mandatory union made in corporate and government right-wing attack on unions. dues collection voluntary creating a board rooms across the country. How- Instead of needlessly trying to under- scheme where some workers become ever, it will be the engagement and activism of the membership that de- mine workers and their unions, govern- “free riders” who opt out of the union termines our influence and ultimately ments at all levels should be working and don’t pay dues, yet all the while our success. The NEW UNION rises together with stakeholders including still receiving the benefits of union Labour Day weekend 2013! the labour movement, to develop and membership. This will weaken the implement a strategy that focuses on power unions have at the bargaining As the warm months approach, I want retaining and growing jobs in Canada. table and in the political arena. to, on behalf of the Executive Board, Our union has been advocating such a wish all members and your families a Working people will not tolerate any strategy for years. safe and fun-filled summer vacation. attack by government that aims at tak- Enjoy this time with family, you have Recently, Bombardier announced that ing away or weakening the hard fought certainly earned it. 80 fabrication jobs in Toronto will be gains of the past. Together, with their off-loaded over the next 18 months to unions, workers have achieved undisclosed suppliers. These jobs are health and safety protection in addition to the hundreds of jobs al- in the workplace, the right ready lost to out-sourcing at the Bom- to free collective bargaining, bardier plant. When will the bleeding improvements to wages, of well-paying aerospace jobs end? benefits and pensions...the list goes on. Together, we accom- Bombardier has had great success in plished the standard of living obtaining financial support from the we enjoy today and together federal government to assist with the we will defend this hard won high cost of research and develop- standard of living. ment and sales financing. I support these initiatives. However, the federal It is in this same spirit of government has an obligation to hold workplace, community and Bombardier to account when they political activism that togeth- move jobs outside Canada. Canadians er, with our colleagues in should be equally as outraged as they the CEP, who are the Com- were when word got out that RBC in- munications, Energy & Paper tends to use foreign workers to take Workers, we are building our the jobs of its Canadian workforce. New Union. CAW and CEP
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New Union is OUR Union! Scott McIlmoyle, Financial Secretary
rothers and sisters, on the week- Having a union is an advantage, and on behalf of Local 112, $2,000 to the end of March 22-24, 2013 I, we all know it. On average, unionized North York Harvest Food Bank. Fol- B along with 12 other Local 112 workers earn $5.11 per hour more lowing the presentation, we toured the delegates, attended the Canadian than the non-union employees. We small yet character-filled building. As Labour Congress Political Action Con- have not even looked at non-contribut- I looked around, it seemed like every ference at the Sheraton Centre. This ing pension plans, vacation time, sick shelf went from the floor to ceil- years theme was “Stand up for Fair- pay/STD/LTD and the benefit plans ing wtih boxed food. The NYFB has ness”. 1,700 delegates from unions covering us and our families. seen a 19% increase in those in need across Canada participated. So you know where I stand. As we from last year. This food bank covers You need to know that unions are move forward to our founding con- Steeles south to St. Clair, and Victoria under attack. But you also need to vention on Labour Day weekend to Park west to Highway 27. Within that know that we are stronger together. witness the birth of a new union, I ask sector, there are six priority neighbour- This is something the government you, let us stand together, united. hoods recognised as having below standard of living status, supporting knows, so do the corporations. As a re- Day Of Mourning sult, the Conservatives want to change 60 different programmes. They deliv- Each year, thousands of workers suf- the rules in an effort to divide workers ered 1.8 million pounds of food last fer injury, disease or death while on the and disrupt workplaces. year, with one-third going to families job due to hazardous conditions or ad- with children. The statistics show that The Conservative government brought verse workplace exposures. April 28 is one-third of the adults using the food in a private member’s bill, Bill C-377. the National Day of Mourning to com- bank have a university degree, 50% This was the start of the attack. It was memorate workers killed and injured have some type of post-secondary edu- an Act to amend the Income Tax Act. on the job. April 28 was chosen as it It’s focus was on organised labour to is the anniversary of the first Work- cation. disclose specific amounts of financial ers Compensation Act passed in 1914. As our federal government sits quietly as well as sensitive information. You Much has changed within the WCA around boardroom tables negotiat- and policies towards workers. We already know that this information ing free trade agreements around the must continue to force our employers is disclosed at our monthly member- world, they are allowing good decent to provide safer workplaces, not only ship meetings through the financial re- paying jobs to leave Canada. We must for ourselves but for the next genera- port. Oddly this private member’s bill keep the pressure on every level of tions of workers to follow. avoids other organisations such as the government to keep looking after Can- Law Society, the Bar Association and As 2013 unfolds, it becomes a very adian jobs. even the Ontario Medical Association. busy time for many of our commit- Now the ‘Harperites’ are drawing up tees. Our Community Services Com- another private member’s bill, this mittee, led by Sister Kim Lloyd, has time against the RAND formula. The helped organise a day to clean up and RAND formula brought harmony to do some gardening and landscaping at the Downsview Long Term Care Resi- labour relations between the union and dency for seniors. We will be joined in company with regard to union dues. It solidarity by Local 673 as well. was designed as a counter-balance to the power of the employer and as a Every year our National Union, means of ensuring that those receiving through the Social Justice Fund, do- the advantage of union working condi- nates to food banks across Canada. tions could not simply opt out in order It was with great pleasure that I ac- to avoid paying union dues. companied Brother Kiehne to donate,
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Good news for some, but not for all Merv Gray, Bombardier Plant Chair
he summer is fast approaching and alot has occurred dress the new union that is taking shape between the CAW since my last report. In the first quarter we have a and the CEP in a founding convention scheduled for this T good news bad news story. The good news is that fall. Both CAW and CEP delegates will vote on the new there have been approximately 50 members recalled to meet union to be formed with a brand new constitution. the ongoing demands of the Global Express program. This Strength in numbers will be the backbone of the amalgama- is great news and hopefully the trend will continue in the tion which, when joined, will be over 300,000 members future, as this aircraft seems to be the product of choice in the business world. It’s great to see lay off members return strong, and that is quite the united voice. in these difficult times, so welcome back. The Recreation Committee has run another fantastic Fish- The other major story in recent weeks was the company’s ing Derby on the weekend of April 19-21 at the shores of announcement of the downsizing in fabrication. This was the Saugeen River. Once again, the Kubicki family who are met with strong opposition from the affected areas and the sons of one of our retiree’s, Nick from the Bombardier understandably so. In recent years the fabrication shops Unit, pulled in the big catches, taking first, second, and have drastically increased their production rates, to the third prizes as well as a first place junior prize. point that recognition awards have been given in some areas The annual 112 Memorial Golf Classic on Saturday June 1 as a gesture acknowledging their accomplishments….then is fast approaching. Family Picnic on Saturday August 24 this. at the Heart Lake Conservation Park in Brampton will be The company informed us of this decision just before gath- upon us before you know it. So get your spots locked in and ering all the affected shops to a meeting to announce the have your tickets ready! news. The expected wind down period is in the vicinity of As we head to print, Brother Barbuto has organised a CAW between 12 to 18 months depending on the location of a 112 Badminton tournament. The 20 spots were filled pretty supplier to perform the work in question. fast and the touring will run over two nights with a social This gives us the time to find a way to continue to engage night to follow. in discussions to not only erode the options put to us, but So in closing a busy couple of months ahead of us, and a to find ways to save the jobs in question moving forward. long winter behind us should give way to a summer of sun- You will no doubt read other articles in this edition that ad- shine and fun.
check out your website for current events and more! caw112.on.ca
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New Forewarned Is Growth Forearmed Dwight Brown, Melrose Cornwall, Hewitt Plant Chair Toromont Orenda Plant Chair
pring always ollowing both the Political Ac- In 1961 Dr Martin Luther King spoke brings better tion Campaign Conference of out against this legislation: “We must S weather and Fthe Canadian Labour Congress guard against being fooled by false slo- the beginnings of (CLC), and the CAW’s Council Meet- gans, such as the ‘Right To Work’. It is new life as flowers ing, it seems clear that all Unions must a law designed to rob workers of their and trees start to find a way to work together to combat Civil rights and job rights. Its sole pur- bloom. I always the vicious attack by both the Federal pose is to destroy labour unions, and find it amazing to and Ontario Conservative Parties. the freedom of collective bargaining, watch something by which unions have improved wages Prime Minister Steven Harper has al- start from nothing and grow to its and working conditions for all work- lowed a member of his own party to full potential. This year we not only ers''. Dr King went on to say: “Wher- introduce Bill C377 as a private mem- have the wonders of nature to watch ever the ‘Right to work’ has been ber’s Bill. The Conservative Govern- but the birth of a new union as a mer- passed, wages are lower and workers ment has adopted this Bill, which ger creates the largest private sector hardly have any rights. Your jobs are would cost taxpayers thousands of union Canada has ever seen. always at the mercy of the employers.” dollars to implement, even though a We cannot allow Ontario or Canada to I wasn’t there for the beginning of private member’s bill should not cost become like those southern U.S States the CAW but we all can see how we the government any money to imple- in this regard, so in the next elections have grown, and I am confident that ment. This Bill would seriously cripple let us send Mr. Hudak and Mr. Harper the new union that grows from this the labour movement in the way they a clear message. bloom will be as strong, as dedicated do business, and how they spend mem- and socially responsible as we have bership dues. I have been talking to as many mem- become known for since the birth of bers and co-workers as I can about the The Government says Unions need to the CAW. It will be these values and merger between the CAW and the CEP, be transparent to their members. What beliefs that a single voice of nearly Communications, Energy and Paper Mr. Harper does not take into account 300,000 people strong can bring to Workers Union, Both Unions at their is that all moneys spent by Unions, or any situation. last respective conventions have al- at least by the CAW, has always been ready approved this merger. The name Here in Ontario and the Toronto approved by members at their monthly of the new union will be announced at area specifically there is a very real general membership meetings. So is the founding Convention in Toronto chance that we could be faced with this really about transparency? Even on Labour Day weekend 2013. right wing governments on 3 levels. If one of his own Conservative Senators this does become a reality the strong spoke out against this Bill: He said that I am both excited and concerned at the voice of a merged CAW-CEP will be this is nothing more than a way to get same time: excited that we will now an important part of the debate on back at unions because they challenged become Canada’s largest private sector how our lives move forward. politicians on behalf of their members. Union, with three hundred thousand plus members, which will result in a Life here at Hewitt has been reason- Also there has been a vicious attack stronger voice for all workers, union- ably smooth recently although the on unions by the Ontario Conserva- ized or not. However, I am concerned bumps in the road are still there they tive leader, Tim Hudak. Mr Hudak over the relentless attack by the right are getting smaller and less frequent. has pledged that should his party win wing Conservative politicians, who ap- In the last year Hewitt has added the next provincial election, he would pear to be only working on behalf of people, made capital improvements introduce what is known in some the CEO’s of major corporations. and restructured some management Southern U. S. States and Michigan as roles. We as a company are well pos- the “Right To Work” Legislation. This We must come together and resist itioned to expand and take on any “Right to Work” law was first intro- the constant vicious attacks on trade upcoming challenge. duced in Houston in 1936, and was Unions in this country. If not for our adopted later by many other southern selves we must do it for our children That’s something else I’m looking States who still held on to the legacy of and grand children. Let us leave for forward to watch grow this spring. slavery. The initial intent was to keep them a better future than our parents workers of colour from earning decent were able to leave for us. wages as the rest of society.
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Strength in Numbers Joel MacDonald, Toromont Concord Plant Chair
irst off I’d like to take this opportunity to thank ATTACK”. For those of you who are not aware of bill you for your support and electing me as your C-377, I strongly suggest you have a look at it. Our F Plant Chair for the Concord Facility. I have been Conservative Government is proposing laws that will with Toromont, Reman Division, for over eight years: weaken unions and thier ability to stand up for work- six of them as a shop steward, and more recently, a ing people. We need to re-connect with our members bargaining committee member for our last round of and build solidarity in order to defeat this right wing negotiations. I have had great guidance along the way agenda. and would like to thank Roland Kiehne, Melrose Finally I’d like to inform you about our “NEW Cornwall, Fizal Karim, and Roger Sanichar for get- UNION”. The Communications, Energy and Paper- ting me to where I am today. In my short time as plant workers Union of Canada (CEP), and the Canadian chair, I feel I have made a lot of good accomplishments Auto Workers Union (CAW), are about to join togeth- and will continue to do so in the weeks, months, and er creating what will be Canada’s largest industrial years to come. union. This new union will represent over 300,000 I recently attended the Canadian Labour Congress members from across Canada, with a strong presence Political Action Conference in Toronto, were about in every province. Its focus will be on advancing the 1,500 brothers and sisters from many different unions interest of all Canadian workers, and giving working and locals attended. We heard many speakers from Canadians the strength they deserve to fight for their around the world, and I attended different work- basic rights. So brothers and sisters I ask that we all shops. What I can tell you is that “WE ARE UNDER stick together in this fight!
Still Improving Ahamad Nabi, Vitafoam Chair
n the business side, things are extremely chal- is still hiring, so that’s a good sign. So we’ll continue lenging right now. Overall activity is slower to be optimistic that things will pick up. than this time last year. There has been a con- O We have survived winter and it’s many inherent tinuing raw material cost increase that has proven dif- ficult to pass on to our customers, and with several hazards. Since last we spoke the workers at Vita- foam manufactures and fabricators in the industry all foam remain injury free thru the tireless efforts of working for a share of the same business opportunities everyone and the hard work of our health and safety is quite limited. This is further compounded by cheap, committee. However as summer approaches we all poor quality, imports from China, so as a result there need to remember to be safe both on and off the has been very little growth. Nevertheless the company job.
n Monday April the 8th L3 met with the union to inform us of their plans to move L3 ON THE SPAR to 25 City Centre Drive. This plant is part of the old Litton’s complex. This is a O welcome move that will bring our footprint in line with current workload levels. There is still a lot of uncertainty moving forward with SPAR as a going concern. There has been MOVE little to no new work in our facility since 2004 and there are no pending contracts. We re- Jim Cherry, cently had layoffs, which have had a great impact or SPAR’S ability to deliver work to our Spar Aerospace customers on time and on budget. The union has been in conversation with the company Plant Chair on this issue but their failure to understand or administer the collective has been very try- ing. We are committed to helping adjust the workforce to its proper levels to help satisfy contractual obligations.
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The Rand Formula Graham Davies, Chair, Northstar Aerospace
policy making for the betterment of all imum wage. Many of these we take for Canadians. granted, but they were gained through the strength of the labour movement. t was almost three decades ago in The Rand Formula was introduced af- 1985, under the leadership of Bob ter a 99 day strike by Ford workers in The federal government who were I White the Canadian Auto Work- Windsor Ontario: In Canadian labour elected by just 37% Canadians has ers Union (CAW) was formed, as we law the Rand Formula, also referred been very outspoken on its attack on broke away from the United Auto to as automatic check-off, is a work- unions. The postal workers who were Workers Union. In the years to fol- place situation where the payment of locked out by their employer then sub- low the CAW grew through mergers trade union dues is mandatory regard- sequently legislated back to work just with other unions and by continuing less of the worker’s union status. This days later? This was nothing more than to organize new members. What’s on formula is designed to ensure that no an attack on the collective bargaining the horizon is a merger with the Com- employee will opt out of the union rights of workers. This government munication Energy and Paperworkers simply to avoid dues yet reap the bene- introduced Bill C-377, which today is fits of the union’s accomplishments, Union (CEP). This is by far the biggest before the senate. The bill is nothing such as ensuring higher wages, better merger of Unions in Canadian history. but an encumbrance to the operation job security or other benefits. Supreme Together CAW and CEP will form the of unions and does nothing to improve Court of Canada Justice Ivan Rand, largest private sector union in Canada. the economy of this country. Our new union will be rolled out dur- the eponym of this law, introduced this ing the founding convention on the formula in 1946 as an arbitration de- It’s no secret as to what a conservative Labour Day weekend in Toronto, and cision ending the Ford Strike of 1945 government in Ontario would look like there couldn’t be a more appropriate in Windsor, Ontario. The Canada under Tim Hudak. Repeal hard fought time or location for such an event! Labour Code and the labour relations labour legislation so corporations can reduce their cost at the workers ex- Few Canadians realize it, but Labour Day is as Canadian as maple bacon. It all began penses while providing them huge tax in 1872, when the Toronto Typographical Union went on strike to demand a nine- incentives. We need to ensure that the hour workday. When Globe and Mail chief George Brown had the protest organizers arrested, Prime Minister John A. Macdonald passed a law legalizing labour unions. next generation doesn’t have to take Thus, a Conservative prime minister became a hero to the working class, and Canada on the fights of the past generation became among the first countries to limit the workday, doing so decades before the again! Why would we elect a govern- U.S. The typographers’ marches became an annual event, eventually being adopted ment whose mandate is to silence the by the U.S., becoming the modern day Labour Day. voice of the labour movement? The relevance of unions may become more Our new union will be looking at new laws of a majority of provinces contain important in the years ahead if the ways of organizing and building an provisions requiring the Rand formula government’s agendas are successful in even stronger union by reaching out when certain conditions are met. In swaying public perception of unions. to those who traditionally can’t gain those provinces where the labour rela- such representation. An emphasis will tions laws do not make the Rand for- I want to take this opportunity to wel- be placed on organizing within the mula mandatory, the automatic check- come the many new hires over the past new union. With government agenda’s off of union dues may become part of few months to Northstar. I know many across this country both federally and the collective bargaining agreement if have never worked in a union environ- from province to province looking to both parties this being the employer ment before, but I’m sure you have al- make it more difficult for unions to and the trade union agree. ready recognized some of the immedi- operate, the timing couldn’t be more The labour movement has been instru- ate benefits. Those of us that have appropriate. The direction of gov- mental in making working conditions been around much longer shouldn’t ernments to suggest the removal of better for all Canadians! From safety take for granted these same benefits. the Rand Formula, such an import- laws that allow the right to refuse un- I know from speaking to those that ant piece of Canadian Law will make safe work, without the threat of being were laid off in the past and recalled, lives far worse for the many employed terminated, to the right to not face they are glad to be back! An attack on in union work places as well as the harassment on the job. Other gains union’s rights is an attack by tea party middle class in this country as a whole. include maternity and parental leave, conservatives looking to line the pock- The union movement has been instru- mandatory stat holidays, public pen- ets of the top 1%, let’s not be fooled! mental in intervening in government sions, paid overtime and a higher min-
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how to alter your information Gord McAlpine, Benefits
t has finally come to that time in So how do you change your address T-4 slip. the collective agreement when with the company? Well there are a Once the form is completed you can: I we will have the benefits booklet few ways. The company form has 3 handed out for everyone to read. This sections: Mail it to the Union Hall Attention year the active employee will receive The 1st section is to be used to change me, Gord McAlpine or, these booklets from their committee your name. You can drop it off at the security person. If you have not received you booklet yet please ask your commit- The 2nd section is to change your ad- office and sign the Mail book #10 or, tee person or come down to my office dress and phone number. tou can go to the Main Reception of- fice and drop it off. to get one. The retiree and surviving The 3rd section is to change your Emer- spouse’s benefits booklet have just re- gency contact information. There have been changes to who pays turned from the printers. These book- out for injectable. It was Industrial Al- If you change your address with the lets are being put into envelopes by liance that covered it under our med- company they will inform Industrial some retiree volunteers, that I would ical plan and reimbursement was at Alliance, Green Shield, and Payroll. like to thank for taking time out of 80%. As of February 28 2013, Green their day to help. The booklet should This is needed for your Pay stubs, T-4, and T-4A slips. Shield will be taking over the payment be on its way, if you haven’t received of the injectable. This injectable is not it already. Retiree’s/Surviving spouses NOTE: paid out thru your G/S card, you must Please note that the address currently The company will not inform RBC purchase the injectable first and then on the company system is the address Dexia! You must call them with your submit the claim as you did with I/A. It that the booklet will be mailed to. new address to receive your Pension is also reimbursed at 80%.
Our n Labour Day this year, our CAW and the CEP (Communications Energy and Paper- workers) will be holding their founding convention in downtown Toronto to finalize new O the merger and unite our two unions. What does this mean to you as a member? Union We will be members in Canada’s largest private sector union. We will have a new name and logo that will be announced and that’s just the beginning. In uniting over 300,000 members across our country it will revitalize the labour movement in Canada. We will be and creating a more diverse union, giving us more bargaining strength and resources to fight back against the downward pressures put on all workers across Canada. It will give us an what it increased political and social presence to fight for the rights of all workers and their fam- ilies and to lobby against laws that infringe on those rights both in our workplaces and the means communities that we live in. As our Canadian unions and working class families face the greatest assault of worker’s rights by the Conservative government, this merger couldn’t for you have came at a better time for us. John Turner, The Labour Day parade in Toronto will be the kick off for our new union and I would en- courage all who can attend this historic event to be there and take part in celebrating this Woodbridge Foam new beginning of what is going to be a brighter future for all of Canada!!! Plant Chair
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The Canadarm returns Dennis Borden, MDA Plant Chair
fter many months of uncertainty, the Canadarm has finally been pre- A sented to the public at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa. This final site was recently selected after lengthy debates regarding the best loca- tion, which at one point almost placed it at the Canadian Space Agency’s Head- quarters in Quebec. The campaign for its proper location included letters writ- ten by Local 112 leadership, expressing our concern to politicians as well as lo- cal and national media.
The unveiling of the Canadarm oc- curred on May 2nd, 2013. Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield beamed in from the International Space Station, had the honour of dropping the curtain that surrounded the ARM with the push of a keystroke from space. Members of the public, dignitaries, Canadian Space Agency representatives, politicians and CAW national & local representatives watched in awe as the Canadarm made its Canadian space museum debut.
In what can only be described as a snub and petty politics, the Federal Conserva- tives failed to extend a formal invitation to Liberal MP, Mark Garneau, Canada’s first astronaut in space and someone that worked directly with the Canadarm. On behalf of Local 112 members at MDA, thank you Mr. Garneau for your con- tribution.
An overwhelming sense of pride was evident. This pride extends beyond the museum and will be felt by both past and present members of Local 112, as well those directly involved in the design and construction of this national icon.
In no small way, it has been the support of CAW members and the citizens of Canada that resulted in this innovation of technology which has been showcased on the world stage. You now have the opportunity to appreciate this amazing piece of world renowned technology in its rightful home at the Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa.
The Canadarm made its space debut on the U.S. Space Shuttle on November 13, 1981. Designed to deploy and retrieve space payloads, the robotic arm quickly became a critical element in the Space Shuttle Program. It worked flawlessly for 90 Shuttle missions, spending a total of 944 days in space and travelling the equivalent of over 624 million km.
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Ancaster Earth Day
ocal 112 Environment Com- mittee held a poster contest L entitled “What does Earth Day Mean to You?” with students at Ancaster Public School in Downsview. There were three age categories for participants and winners received a printed poster of their entry as a keepsake, along with $300.00 from the local to help build their commun- ity garden. The students at Ancaster Public School are very much hands- on in this project, working with staff to build a green space for the entire community, and were very apprecia- tive of the opportunities available to them through this donation. A rous- ing THANK YOU to CAW Local 112 was the message from students to members!!
It’s Not Just Us Bob Hamilton, District 5 Committeeperson
e are still riding they are in meetings. As our members clear message. Let’s see where they go? the roller coaster still on lay off continue to run out of Let’s see how they can implement the W we call the aero- recall because “We can’t increase the ‘Re-structuring’ language in the col- space industry. At a time head count.” Somehow the ranks of lective agreement without it costing when we should be enjoy- management continue to grow and fes- them retirement packages as one direc- ing the benefits of a recovering market, ter. tor was heard to say. The same director we continue to be under the shadow of We are told there are about 4,000 who said there are a lot of questions an ‘austerity program’ from corporate people employed at this site. Consid- still to be answered on this decision. Montreal. With the Q400 still in some- ering only our members can actually You would think prior to making such what of a holding pattern from a mar- build the product and even then many a move, which will potentially impact ket perspective, it is a good job that the of them are in support roles such as the livelihood of as many as 80 people, Global Express is doing as well as it is. inspection, production control and the questions should have been asked almost all of Skilled Trades. So only The company keeps talking about and answered. about 1,000 people are actually hands competitiveness and looks to us for on. You would think something just Certainly the union’s response was that answers. You have all heard the speech doesn’t add up. we will not help the company in any on how we must work harder. How way shape or form take work that has taking an extra minute at break to let We do have certain job guarantees in been here for over 75 years. We will your teabag soak is cutting into the our collective agreement under the corporate profit. Yes it is all our fault. ‘Work Commitment’ clause. This is not continue to explore our options and It can’t have anything to do with us inclusive of the Fabrication shops. So watch out for who will be their next not being given the right tools to do the recent announcement that the com- target. If they want any suggestions on the job. Or the parts shortages. Not to pany intends to contract many of those how to save money. They know where mention anytime you need a manager jobs to somewhere else really sends a we stand.
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Women’s Committee News Kim Lloyd, Women’s Advocate
AW women’s committee has tional, Social Justice Fund, for $2,000, es-depression, bipolar disorder and fundraised for the North York which was issued to our Local 112 debilitating anxiety affect workplace C Women’s Shelter for many years. Women’s Committee and donated to productivity and the lives of employ- This year on December 6th, a cheque the Adyn Women’s Shelter. ees and their families. It took 14 years for $1,650 was presented to the shelter. The Women’s Conference 2012 was an of research and advocacy to create. We thank you for your support with incredibly informative 3 days at Port The standard will assist employers our fundraising efforts. Elgin. Approximately 300 women at- and unions wishing to promote men- Since 1984, the North York Women’s tended from CAW locals all over Can- tal health and with their approach to Shelter has been assisting women and ada. This year “We are the Many, Not prevention in the workplace. Although their children. It presently accommo- The Few Organizing The Revolution- this standard is not mandatory, the dates up to 30 women and children towards 2015”, was to prepare women hope is that employers will embrace it and it offers them safety and hope for a with knowledge and confidence to voluntarily and workers will be able to future. The shelter also offers 24 hour build a strategy for the future. approach the company or union, and crisis counseling and is actively in- feel safe when speaking of mental ill- In Canada, women now make up half volved with outside education regard- ness. of the workforce, and represent 52% ing domestic violence at schools and of Canadians. In 2015 we can make a Louise Bradley, president and CEO other agencies. difference at election time. The voices of the Mental Health Commission of This organization succeeds by the of women in the political process help Canada stated that with 20 per cent of fundraising of many dedicated volun- to ensure that the lived experiences Canadians dealing with mental health teers. Our Women’s Committees at- of over half of the population are in- problems at some point in their lives, tended the Hope Gala fundraiser for cluded in a meaningful way. Being in- reducing stigma in the workplace and volved in the political process allows us the North York Women’s Shelter. It has ensuring that there is support for them to have control over the quality of our been held for the last 7 years and helps is critical. Federal Labour Minister Lisa lives. Simply voting is a step to having the shelter continue to provide pro- Raitt added that in some cases people a voice. grams and services. During this Gala, who suffer from mental illness are women who had lived in the shelter New Workplace Mental afraid that they are not going to be re- were honored for their courage as well spected and they will be treated differ- as individuals who work tirelessly to Health Guide ently if they reveal there is a problem. fundraise as well as volunteer. A new workplace mental health guide has set a national standard in Canada. Some are afraid of losing their jobs. CAW will remember the fight for jus- This 61-page code of good practices is The Mental Health Commission of tice for Aboriginal Women the CAW called, “Psychological Health and Safe- Canada promotes the thinking of pledged support to the Native Women’s ty in the Workplace”, and is endorsed mental well being in the same way as Association of Canada to draw atten- by business, labour, federal govern- physical well being. It also recognized tion to missing and murdered aborig- ment, non-profit sector and the aborig- that 1 in 5 Canadians will experience inal women. Sisters in Spirit were a re- inal community. It acknowledges that a mental health problem or illness and search led by Aboriginal women. Their mental illness can no longer be neglect- that it is the fastest growing disability goal was to raise awareness of the high ed or treated as a personal weakness. rates of violence against Aboriginal claim in the Canadian workplace. The Federal Government, Bell Canada women and girls in Canada. This re- and Great-West Life Centre for Mental This new standard is free and avail- search proved that more than 582 Ab- Health in the Workplace, funded this able by download. “It is a significant original women and girls are missing project. The two men who started it step forward at a time when corpor- and murdered. Sisters in Spirit worked were Michael Wilson, the former Fed- ate downsizing, and global competi- with Native Women Association of eral Finance Minister who watched tion are leading to stress and anxiety Canada to educate and find justice for his son struggle with depression and for many employees”, says Canadian their families. take his own life, and Bill Wilkerson, Labour Congress president Ken Geor- This year a cheque from the CAW Na- who had seen how psychiatric illness- getti.
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going forward last of Joe Rudnick, the CAW Health & Safety Representative, Bombardier tourneys
y the time you read this construction should be well underway in Bay 10. I would like to remind everyone that this is an official B construction site. Also would like to take the time to thank you for your cooperation during this construction. Dan Alushi, Yes, I know that we had problems with the painting and the paint fumes Recreation but again if the Engineers in charge of these projects would listen, these Committee problems would go away. Instead no one is held accountable when these issues occur. I am continuously reminding the company to coordinate some of this work during times of low production such as weekends and midnights. This way it would disrupt fewer people and we would only Bowling have to make arrangements for the ones affected to be accommodated Congratulation to the DelaCruz during painting. Bowling team for Representing Lo- cal 112 along with the many other A year into Bay 2 and we still have several outstanding issues that have teams from the Local. The De- not been dealt with. Our joint Health and Safety Committee and I are laCruz Team came home National pushing to get these items addressed. I have a commitment in place as Champions. Also congratulations the company has agreed to add two vents on the roof, which would move to all the other teams from Local 45,000 cubic feet per minute of air. This should be completed within four 112 that took part in the Bowling weeks. I have had a commitment that by the end of August there will be Tournament. I believe we had two a makeup air unit added to the roof to bring in fresh air. Hopefully it will other teams that placed 3rd and 5th be completed earlier. as well others in the top 10. Bay 11 hasn’t been forgotten. We have been pushing for some kind of noise abatement program to no avail as of yet. We are continuing to in- vestigate options with hopes to come to a resolution soon. Our HASMAT committee will be releasing a web page in the near future. They are diligently working on reducing the known carcinogens that are still in use within the plant. You’ll be pleased to note that there have been several reductions in the past few years. The ergonomics committee will also be releasing a web page. They con- tinue to work on correcting some ergonomic issues in the plant. If you feel that you are working on something in a manner that is not ergonom- ically correct, please let me know and I will have our Ergonomic commit- Hockey tee review it. Ergonomic injuries are number one, despite the company Congratulations to the Two Hockey telling us that it is head injuries. Ergonomic injuries are one of the most teams that took part in the CAW difficult to track as many attribute the aches and pains to age and the National Hockey Tournament. nature of our work. • The 35 and over team lost in Please remember that the SMS system is for reporting safety issues on the the Silver Semi’s. airplanes, not health and safety issues regarding the work place as some people believe. They’ve been lead to believe that by reporting a health • The 45 and over team lost in and safety issue this way they’ll get a quicker response. This is not the the Silver Finals. case. To both teams a job well done. Please remember if you have a health and safety issue to call me at exten- sion 33726. I hope that you have a wonderful spring.
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112’s 38th Annual Fishing Derby This years Fishing Derby, at the Saugeen River (below Denny’s Dam) started on Fri- day, April 19 in the evening, and went until Sunday, April 21 in the afternoon. And once again was a great success – everyone had a great time. Kudos once again to Derby Organizer Broth- er Ernie Spasov as well as all his helpers who make each years Derby a great experience for all the participants. This years winners LBS/OZ 1st: Eric Kubicki 7.0 2nd: Alex Kubicki 6.9 3rd: Glen Barret 6.7 4th: Desmond Singh 6.6 5th: William Howie 6.0 Junior Winners: Justin Kubicki 3.3 Brittany Maynard Spasov 2.7 Sarah Bowers 2.5 Jamie Remauf 1.1
The reason these will be the last CAW Tournaments is the fact that the CAW will no longer exist as we know it once the merger with the CEP takes place. As you are all aware or should be by now the CAW and CEP Unions will merge together about the Labour Day Weekend making the CAW Tourna- ments a thing of the past. Other notes don’t forget to sign up for the Local 112 Golf Tournament played the first weekend in June. The Picnic this year looks to be moved to August after plant shut down date and place yet to be determined. Any- one interested Volunteers are still needed.
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RETIREES CHRISTMAS 2012
Diamond Jubilee Recipient… Congratulations to C.A.W. member from Bombardier Unit Salome Goncalves who was awarded the Diamond Jubilee Medal. Created in 2012 to mark the 60th an- niversary of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the Throne as Queen of Canada, the prestigious award serves to honour significant contributions and achievements by Canadians. As a community leader, Salome has been elected 11 times as President of the Casa Madeira Community Center and has been an active community volunteer for over 35 years.
Local 112 would like to congratulate Sammy on his receipt of the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee medal. It has always been the cornerstone of our local to engage and support local charities and causes. This medal represents an acknowledgement from some of the highest levels of the tireless work performed by our members in this regard. From all of us at Local 112 we’d like to say ‘Way to go Sammy’.
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NEWLY INSPIRED
Maurice Coulter, Chair, Retirees Chapter
n the 24th of May weekend I pounds that negatively impact our world and what it would mean to here will be celebrating 57 years as ground water quality. generation. To summarize what then a member of local 112 for you took place, with the support of the O As an example fracking is a proced- see I was hired on that famed holiday mayor and city council is that a resolu- ure that uses millions of liters of water weekend. tion was passed recognizing water as along with thousands of liters of chem- a fundamental human right, which in icals to extract natural gas and bitu- I enjoyed my years at dH working with turn was a key component to the city men oil from rock, in turn wasting my union brothers and sisters and al- becoming what’s known as a ‘Blue water and polluting the earth. This is though many had come from different Community” thereby promoting pub- countries of the world we were like a then placed in pipelines and transport- lically funded and operated water and big happy family. Since February of ed across the country waste water services while in turn ban- ’89 I have been able to enjoy my re- We need to stop tar sands oil from ning the sale of bottled water in public tirement years without financial hard- coming east and further potentially places and at municipal events. ship thanks to the tireless work of our polluting one of the world’s most pre- union pension and it’s inherent bene- Lesson learned by this old retiree, we cious resources, the Great Lakes. are leaving the future of our commun- fits. A young girl is making a difference in ities in very capable, if young, hands. As a grateful retiree I would like to the Kingston area. When she was in The fight to inspire access to clean and say that today’s workers are almost grade 7 her class was shown a docu- safe drinking water for all our com- trouble free, however this is not the mentary titled Blue Gold: The World munities, and to maintain control over case, as today they’re faced with al- Water Wars. She was scared when she our shared water services will go on, most insurmountable problems the learned that the world is running out of demonstrated by one 13-year-old girl first of which is water. Every person water, that in 10 or 20 years we might who made a difference. requires water to survive, clean free find ourselves in a world water war. water is a basic human right, so water After telling her mother about what After a long and seemingly ceaseless is not a commodity to be bottled and she had learned she decided to write a winter I’m looking forward to some sold. It is vitally important that every- letter to the Kingston mayor outlining summer weather and the May flowers. one become aware of the many com- her fears about the loss of water in the
RETIREMENT CHRONICLES T.M. Stanton, Retiree
ello Again! Once again it’s time tirement planning classes or pursuing to talk about retirement activ- a law degree, online college courses Hities. This time, we’re taking a are much more convenient than the My entire family is currently enjoy- class! dreary daytime school routine. ing my newfound talents. From But- ter chicken to Low Country Bog, I can You’re never too old to learn, and re- I am currently up to my palate in cook- cook it all! tirement offers a great opportunity to ing classes. My kids bought me a nice expand your horizons. You don’t have assortment of evening classes through I’ll be back in the next issue with some to be near a college or university to do Loblaw’s cooking school. Each one more on retirement. I’ll show you how it since online college programs are represents a different type of cuisine to scour the Internet for some incred- plentiful these days. Whether you look and dinner is included. For thirty dol- ibly superior travel deals. In the mean forward to an interior design class, re- lars it doesn’t get any better! time, Stay Healthy!
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SpaceSpaceSpace forforfor rantrant
o the word has come down that Fabrication will be we’re small fry, and if they were HONESTLY serious about reduced to a support function only, meaning that ap- it they’d not start with the low hanging fruit. proximately 80 people are now officially ‘nails’. It S Here’s where the rubber meets the road as it were. I have seems that we need to cut costs in order to be competitive. a fair number of sources that’ve pointed out vast wasting ATR is moving vast amounts of product, mostly in the cat- of resources, usually in areas that the rest of us are all too egories that we were assured were dead in the water, and aware of, and vehemently denied by the powers that be, they’re basically eating our lunch. every time this issue raises it’s ugly head. The unfortunate So after being the first to certify under AES, being the most side of this is if we open this can of pricey worms the indi- engaged in change, leading the way in Xcells, seeding focus viduals who’ve been ‘little whispers’ won’t be too tough to groups throughout the plant, achieving the company wide ferret out. And we know just how vindictive they can be. AES score of 4.6, the HIGHEST in all of aerospace, we’re So for the moment we’re stuck within the ‘cone of silence’. on the chopping block. This doesn’t even begin to coun- tenance the fact that the pipe shop, as but one example, is That said, using one simple example, no names, no releas- considered the darling of all aerospace, beating hands down able details, we mathed out an approximate savings in the all other sites for quality, speed and output. This, mind you, area of $250,000 to about $320,000 based on the facts as is predicated on the fact that the part mark system they’re we had them. This was for essentially made up positions using grinds to a total halt when their 1970’s era TYPE- and the waste that’d been left in their wake. WRITER packs it in, then it’s off to garage sales to find a Wow just who the hell is monitoring the cookie jar anyway? replacement??? The hell you say..... We’ve hit $300,000 annually for NOTHING. This is one A word to the wise, helping them out ensures that the con- small example, so if I find say ten of these, shouldn’t be tractor that takes your job has an easier time of it. So co- tough all things considered, and fix them, how much have operate at your own risk. You have been warned. we saved? Nothing but $3,000,000 annually. However, seeing as how cost cutting is the soup du jour, Wait isn’t that the number they’re trying to shave off the and, me being a “team player”, I’d like to point out that cost of a Q400? Wonder if I qualify for $50 on an Xcell?
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Changing names for changing times KEN LEWENZA and DAVE COLES ay 30 will be a date to re- sonal things to our increasingly diverse union landscape. member. It was the day membership. A strong union protects and defends Mthousands tuned in — some Unifor will be a union built for its members and stands for safer work- in person, many online — to find out workers. But it will also be a union for places, secure employment, wages and the long awaited name of our new the unemployed and self-employed, a benefits. union. union for women and young work- This was a message we heard loud The word “Unifor” appeared on ers — a union for everyone. That’s its and clear from both members and the screen midway through a spectacu- strength. general public, young and old. lar public event in Toronto. The new For too long, unions have had their The shield logo reflects this sense of name appeared alongside a bold new image constructed for them — by well- protection and strength. logo — a shield housing a stylized let- resourced opponents. Unions have al- The colours — a bold red and blue ter “U” in the middle, reflecting the ways brought forward new, progressive — were chosen to make Unifor stand coming together of two unions. ideas for a better society yet we have out and have instant recognition. The You could hear 200 participants in been tarnished as constantly fighting fiery red conveys our passion and com- the room gasp and then break into an “against” the decisions of others. mitment to our members. We will be uproar of applause. The most an- unmistakable. ticipated union renewal project in All that said, it is difficult to part Canadian labour history finally with the past. Our unions each had a name and an identity. have a long, proud history — one Unifor: the new Canadian defined as much by our struggles as union. our successes. In the days following the We will carry those memories launch, many have asked: Why with us, in our minds and in our Unifor? I like it, but I don’t get hearts, as we bear down and face it. Some have said they think it’s the challenging road ahead. a refreshing change, something We wouldn’t be honest if we new. Others feel we’ve missed the said we weren’t afraid of change. mark — and that’s OK, too. There’s something unsettling with There’s no question Unifor has got Unifor will push “for” positive and the unknown. people talking. Not just our members progressive ideas and not get stuck But if we don’t change, the move- but the public at large. And that’s a fighting “against” bad ones. Our goal ment dies and working people suffer. good thing. is to help set the progressive agenda. Canada becomes a more unequal, more Major television, radio and print As a national Canadian union, it was unfair and less inclusive society. We news outlets across Canada and essential that our name be bilingual. In would have betrayed those that have around the world carried the story. French the name combines the words come before us. Online polls sprouted up asking people “unis” (united) and “fort” (strong). Change is what the CAW did in 1985, to cast their votes about the name. Al- Unifor reflects, in both languages, the when it broke from its U.S.-based par- ternative media outlets reported on it core values that our new union stands ent to form a daring new organization. extensively, too. for: unity and solidarity, strength and Change is what unites Canadian com- Marketing experts attempted to dis- determination, and a modern, for- munications, energy and paper work- sect it. And social media sites lit up ward-looking perspective. ers together as a diverse and potent with conversation (“Unifor” was ac- Our new name is dynamic and ver- new union in 1993. tually a top trending topic on Twitter satile. It has possible applications as Our willingness to change saved our across Canada). diverse as our membership. It reflects unions. These changes made for a bet- Unifor is a unique name. It’s atten- the hard work our union will do to im- ter Canada. tion-grabbing. Part of its appeal, as prove the lives of all Canadians. Let’s never forget our history but we’ve seen since the launch, is that it’s Unifor is strong, principled, and in- let’s embrace change. It’s served our hard to ignore. clusive. New membership approaches union well in the past. We’re certain it And it’s intentionally ambiguous. will redefine who can be a union mem- will serve us well in the future, through We want it to mean different and per- ber and radically change the trade Unifor.
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The Impending Rogue Wave Fred Schwertner, Editorial Committee
Have you ever seen customers. Sub- the movie The Po- sequently Boeing seidon Adventure? had to ground In it the ship’s cap- the entire Dream- tain is forced, at liner fleet due to a the insistence of the battery fire. Press owners, not to take reports had indi- on any additional cated that Boe- ballast for stabilisa- ings’ overly exten- tion purposes. By sive outsourcing riding higher in of components the water the ves- resulted in the sel would be able loss of its qual- to maintain full ity control. When speed towards its a manufacturer destination. This lack of sufficient bal- ing unions as their primary culprit for loses its focus on building a product last meant the ship was top-heavy and their diminished profitability or even and becomes more analytical and more thereby increased its risk of capsizing their actual financial ruin. top-heavy, it resorts to reducing its bal- in rough seas that eventually occurred last by laying off unionized employees, when it encountered a tidal wave. A “American auto workers the term they like to use is value-added, ship requires ballast to remain stable didn’t send the industry and pressuring the remaining worker in water. When it becomes top-heavy into a decades-long force to perform at higher efficiency it loses its ability to function efficiently tailspin. Managers did.” levels to reduce costs. In turn the same on the open sea. A rogue wave could This statement was made by no other company then hires more non-value upset this diminished equilibrium re- than recently retired GM auto execu- added managers, or NVA’s. No won- sulting in the ship overturning and tive Bob Lutz. He went on to say that der profitability is being negatively sinking. The same analogy could be “Management became way too scien- affected. Concerns should have been made in the corporate world. tific, business-school oriented and way voiced but instead this practice has continued or even escalated in both In 2007 General Motors had finally too cost focused. It was considered al- the private industry and in the public come to the realization the organiza- most childish to be enthusiastic about sector, with the worst offender being tion had a disproportionate high num- automobiles.” Even though Bob Lutz did blame incompetent management government of all stripes. ber of management when compared to as being primarily accountable for the those that work on the production line. Witness the same tell-tail signs today, decline of the American auto industry The term of being too “top-heavy” as unionized employees, who in many he did put, to a much lesser extent, would be a good comparison. Even cases make up less than 20% of the some of the blame on high Labour though GM would lay off over 25,000 operating costs, remain the focus of costs. Here in Canada with our gov- management. Corporations continue executive staff the impending financial ernment universal health care system to place the onus on us to increase rogue wave arrived the following year. significantly reducing a corporations’ profitability while remaining oblivious What was once the largest corporation overhead therefore plant closures are or ignoring to the actual culprit. in the world had descended into bank- more the result of politics and greed. ruptcy. In a business article back in “We have met the enemy July of 2011 Aaron Task interviewed Emphasis appears to be always on the and he is us” a highly respected top executive with process not the product. This same Let’s hope that the impending rogue over forty years’ experience in the mindset unfortunately has transgressed wave is a long way off and it’s not too business world. It sheds a great deal of into the aviation industry. Recall Boe- late to alter a mindset. light in opposing the view many ma- ings’ over three year postponement in jor corporations have taken in target- delivering the highly touted 787 to its
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Falling Behind Michael Beaudoin, Bombardier unit
hese days it seems as if it’s get- Ontario we see that in March 2013, it in our spending. During this period ting harder and harder to make was $24.54/hr. Compare that to the we have lost 9.3% of our spending T ends meet. And, as if that‘s not minimum wage of $10.25/hr, which power. In effect we have seen a mostly bad enough, working harder doesn’t has not increased since 2010, and involuntary wage reduction of 9.3%. necessarily mean that you will get you might think that we are actually During this period, in order to keep ahead. In fact it seems that you have doing ok, yet we’re not. The average pace with inflation, we should have to work harder, now more than at family income, after taxes, for 1999 increased our income to $67,717 af- any time in the past, just to keep what was $55,100. It climbed to $63,800 in ter taxes. It is also worth noting that you have. As we strain to survive in a 2009. This is an increase of just 13.6% household spending in 1999 was less world of ever increasing inflation, high or 1.4% per year. than income, resulting in a surplus of debt ratios, high under or unemploy- Average household spending in 1999 $2,484. However, in 2009 household ment and stagnant or falling wages we was $52,616. In 2009 household spending exceeded family income by ask ourselves, is it even possible to get spending had increase to $71,117, an ahead? $7,317. Assuming that the change in increase of 26.0% or 2.6% per year. spending was due, in part to increas- Average family income, as provided by That is almost double the average ing inflation that resulted in a $3,917 family income increase. In comparison Stats Canada, will be used to provide short fall, this indicates that not only a starting point for this comparison of the average CPI of Canada from 1999 have debt levels likely increased but income vs. spending. The most recent to 2009 increased by 22.9%. However, that we are not even keeping up with set of figures provided is from the per- it should be noted that an increase in inflation. iod of 1999 to 2009. Also, I will take a household spending doesn’t necessar- brief look at the Consumer Price Index ily mean that it is solely from an in- Given the results of this simple analy- (CPI). The CPI indicator is based on a crease in inflation. sis, the question of whether we can get fixed basket of goods, which is com- A simple comparison of these two ahead or not appears to be irrelevant. posed of goods and services that share very important factors shows what the Unless there are major improvements, an unchanging or equivalent quantity majority of Canadians already know. income increases or inflation decreas- and quality. The increases in our income simply es, we will be better served just con- When we look at the average wage in haven’t keep pace with the increases centrating on surviving.
SPRING 2013 21 LOCAL 112 (June 7, 2013 / 09:13:20) 81402-1 Aircrafter Spring 2013_p22.pdf .1 rade Justice Network ony Biddle and T Illustration © T t’s funny how such a small acro- our health care system to possible pri- Steven Harper in which stressed in no nym can mean so much. Canada vatization? Canadians have stressed uncertain terms, what impact CETA I – European Union Comprehen- in polls as high as 94% approval, that would have on our economy. Our sive Economic and Trade Agreement our health care system is not for sale or Honorable Prime Minister, hope you known as CETA. A tiny acronym with open for bargaining. Obviously Steven feel the sarcasm in that title, said that huge ramifications on Canada and Harper is in the opposing 6%. Other if he receives another mandate from Canadian workers, and the Economy. issues on the table: Canadians, that we will have free trade What is CETA? There was a summit agreements with every industrialized • Restrict how our local or Municipal that was held between Canada and the nation. Brother Lewenza talked very Governments spend our money European Union, A conglomerate of passionately about this erosion of our • Increasing Canada’s trade deficit 17 Nations, in October of 2008. Part economy and the spin off degradation with Europe of that agenda was a “ wish list “ that of the manufacturing base in our won- • Give European corporations legal- was submitted by a group of Corpora- derful Country will disappear. ities in which to fight environment tions of things they wanted in CETA. and health issues Our Auto Industry will disappear in a The bargaining agenda was now set. • Push for privatization of our local decade since important legislation like Canada’s public infrastructure is up water, transit, and energy systems the Auto Pact that was signed in 1965 CETfor negotiations. Water, Health Care, A to ensure a fair production-sales ratio, and Municipal services are all on the Brothers and Sisters these are but a was dismantled in 2001 by the WTO, table. few issues that are being discussed. It World Trade Organization. An organ- is designed to attack our manufactur- A couple of the major Health Care ization of nameless, faceless bureau- ing base and undermine our financial concerns at these talks. The Multi- crats who have the legal authority to stability. If it’s about trade, then why is national Pharmaceutical Companies strike down our ability as a democratic all this negotiating done behind closed are pushing for Canada to lengthen nation to pass bills or negotiate as a doors and virtually kept out of the the period of drug patents thus de- free nation. The WTO deemed that media and public eye. It’s about priva- laying the ability to buy lower priced the auto pact between Canada and the tizing the Canadian system. generic drugs. Of major concern is United States was illegal. This is a dan- the European Union’s demand that I had the pleasure of hearing our Na- gerous proposition my friends brought NAFTA, North American Free Trade tional President Ken Lewenza speak about by a dangerous Conservative Agreement that protects Canada’s in Port Elgin recently about CETA agenda. Such a small, small Acronym. health care system from international and the impact on Canada. He talked trade deals be opened up, opening up about having his first meeting with Des Rodrigues
22 SPRING 2013 (June 7, 2013 / 09:13:21) 81402-1 Aircrafter Spring 2013_p23.pdf .1
Key facts about Unifor
✔ Unifor will be the largest private-sector union in Canada, formed by the coming together of the CAW and CEP. ✔ Unifor will have over 300,000 members in every province and territory in Canada. ✔ It will represent workers in more than 20 sectors of the economy. ✔ Unifor will have more than 800 locals and 3,000 bargaining units. ✔ The founding convention will take place Labour Day weekend, Aug 30 – Sept 1, 2013 in Toronto. FAQ
What does Unifor stand for? and upper case ‘FOR’ give the word mark strength and momentum. Our new visual identity is strong, • Unifor stands for making the benefits of a union simple, clean and clear. available to every Canadian. It will be a union for workers, the unemployed, the self employed, Why was the name chosen? women, youth and students, diverse communi- ties and newcomers – a union for everyone. Through an extensive membership survey, count- less meetings and the focus group testing, CAW • The name is the same in French and English. It and CEP members, as well as members of the public reflects, in both languages, the core values that were clear that they wanted a non-traditional name our new union stands for: unity and solidarity, for the new union that symbolizes a modern approach strength and determination, and a modern, to trade unionism, and is more than a listing of our forward-looking perspective. members’ industries or sectors of work.
• It stands for safer work places, secure employ- Unifor was chosen as a name that is expressive, ment, wages and benefits that provide a decent dynamic and symbolic of our aspirations as a new standard of living, and dignity and mutual organization: united, strong, modern, and forward- respect in the workplace. looking.
• Unifor advocates for, and defends the rights of, How was it chosen? working people in every sector of the economy and in every community in Canada. A survey of members by CAW and CEP in the winter of 2013, followed by focus group research in early spring 2013, shaped the process of determining What do the logo, word mark and colour an appropriate name. Based on the results of this symbolize? research and membership consultations, a joint committee undertook a rigorous naming process Members value the strength, protection and over the past few months. A large list of hundreds of security that our union offers. The ‘shield’ logo possible names was generated, which was gradually speaks to that protection and the lower case ‘uni’ reduced to a short list of names for the new union.
neWUnionconvention.ca (June 7, 2013 / 09:13:22) 81402-1 Aircrafter Spring 2013_p24.pdf .1
BE PART OF From all of us at SOMETHING Local 112 558 BIG! to all of you... 9,000 27,800 17,359 12,280 52,090 330 THE 10,000 155,878 11,800 NEW UNION 6,160 IS IN THE MAKING CEP AND CAW MEMBERS: THIS INCLUDES YOU! 300,000 WORKERS IN Learn more, have your say and get involved! + SECTORS CEP and CAW will hold the founding convention for CANADA'S 20 the new Canadian union, August 30-September 1 LARGEST in Toronto (Labour Day Weekend!]. PRIVATE The name, structure, representation and membership models will be changing to offer you and all Canadian SECTOR NEW workers strong workplace protection. UNION Get informed and take part in creating your new union. We want to talk to you about our new union and will be getting in touch and visiting many MEMBERS IN EVERY REGION communities to ensure you can learn more, have your say and get involved. OF THE COUNTRY Jos s Macl ennan Design, CEP 591-G
Sign up today for updates and to find out more at:
newunionproject.ca www.cep.ca