CAW Local 114

International Women's Day

2012-03-08T04:42:00.003-08:00

Greetings
Today, March 8th, we celebrate International Women's Day - a day of reflection on the economic, social, cultural and political achievements of women.

We look back on past struggles and accomplishments and look forward to the challenges ahead. On this day women of all backgrounds gather in sisterhood and solidarity to march, strategize and organize for social equality.

Happy International Women’s Day!!

In sisterhood and solidarity,

Julie White
Director, Women’s Programs

http://www.caw.ca/en/5480.htm

Media Advisory Ontario school bus drivers support possible strike, should negotiations collapse

2012-03-07T10:15:00.000-08:00

March 6, 2012

(Toronto) School bus drivers employed by multinational operator First Student have overwhelmingly supported a strike mandate after more than six months of fruitless negotiations.

CAW Local 4268 represents approximately 750 school bus drivers who provide services for school boards and customers in various locations across southern Ontario. Some or all of the customers may see service interruptions if the parties fail to come to a tentative agreement later this month. The strike mandate expires on March 30, so notice may be given prior to that date, at any time.

“The employer, school boards and other customers constantly come up with new procedures, policies and job requirements that add even greater time and responsibilities beyond the route times for drivers,” CAW Local 4268 President Debbie Montgomery said. “The issue is not with the new procedures or regulations, but the fact that the time they require is often not compensated.”

“Drivers are expected to fulfill various tasks before, between and even after their routes. This practice has become so widespread that driving a school bus is now partially volunteer work – instead of regular paid employment. I don’t think this is a reasonable way to treat the people with whom we entrust our children.”

Negotiations have been ongoing since October 2011 and the union has been in a legal strike position since December. The CAW was hopeful that an agreement could be reached, but to date, there is little sign of this happening.

School bus drivers operate large commercial vehicles with a load of up to 70 children and assist students with special needs to attend programs or schools, all on a tight schedule. Many times, school bus drivers have multiple routes or destinations built into their schedule.

“Driving a school bus is a full time commitment for a part time job,” said CAW National Representative Len Poirier. “We are trying to enshrine a higher level of respect and dignity for these drivers. It’s very troubling that the industry requires so much of these drivers, yet the pay scale is often close to minimum wage.”

Poirier said there is another round of meetings between the two sides set up for early March. Should the negotiations continue to fail to produce a settlement, the union will set a strike deadline before the end of March. In addition to these negotiations another 120 members in CAW Local 4266 in Cornwall and Kingston are also in a similar position as they have rejected one tentative agreement and continue with negotiations.

“We will be working hard to try and find a resolve to this impasse but at the end of the day, these drivers have a huge responsibility and the employer, customers and the public need to recognize them,” said Montgomery.

First Student is operated by First Group, the largest provider of school bus services in the home to school market.

CAW members currently in a legal strike position provide services in the following communities for these customers:

Bowmanville: Durham Catholic, Durham Public, STSCO (Kawartha Pineridge (KPR) and Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland County (PVNC)) and the French Catholic Board.

Thornhill: Toronto District School Board, the Toronto Catholic District School Board and the French Board and 1 Private School (Island).

Owen Sound: Three boards through one transportation consortium: Bluewater District School Board, Bruce Grey Catholic District School Board, Conseil Scolaire de District des Ecoles Catholiques du Sud Ouest

Hawkestone (Mississauga): Peel District School Board (English Public), Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (English Catholic), Conseil scolaire de district du Centre-Sud-Ouest (French Public), Conseil scolaire de district catholique Centre-Sud (French Catholic)

Lindsay: Trillium Lakeland District School Board, Durham Catholic School Board, Transit run for the City of Kawartha Lakes.

Port Elgin and Kincardine: Contract services to the Bruce Power Nuclear Plant, Bluewater District SB and Bruce-Grey Catholic District SB

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CAW Supports B.C.T.F. at Huge Rally in Victoria

2012-03-06T22:45:00.003-08:00

Activists from the CAW were out in force today during a rally that drew around 10,000 people from across the province. Stu Shields, Jeannie Blaney, Sarah White, Jim Sadlemyer and Terry can be seen on this video from Global TV. Many more were there and our participation was noticed and appreciated. There is another rally on Wednesday in Vancouver.
http://www.globaltvbc.com/video/other+unions+watching+teachers+strike/video.html?v=2206849531&p=1&s=dd%23stories/video#stories/video

CAW area director Susan Spratt can be seen on this clip from CBC getting off the ferry to attend the rally.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2012/03/05/bc-teachers-support-rally-legislature.html

Christy Clark's comments near the end of the clip seems to show she doesn't get it.

BC Unions to protest Bill 22

2012-03-04T22:32:00.000-08:00

http://bcfed.ca/node/2199

Support Your Kamloops Bus Drivers

2012-02-29T14:29:00.000-08:00

The Kamloops Bus Drivers ( a CAW Local 114 group) are requesting your support during the Request For Proposals (RFP) process. Please visit their site http://www.kamloopsbusdrivers.com/ and show your support by taking the poll, and sending email support messages to the parties involved in this decision. You can also help by spreading the word via Facebook and other social media.

CAW Supports B.C. Teachers Federation

2012-02-27T18:09:00.000-08:00

Activists from Local 333 and 114's Sister Jeannie Blaney supported the B.C. Teachers federation and other labour activists on the steps of the Victoria Legislature today. For more information about the dispute, click here:

CAW President Re-joins NDP to Support Peggy Nash‏

2012-02-22T13:41:00.002-08:00

Media Advisory for National Comprehensive distribution

CAW President Re-joins NDP to Support Peggy Nash

February 22, 2012

Toronto – CAW National President Ken Lewenza has officially taken out membership in the NDP to support the candidacy of MP Peggy Nash.

The union has thrown its support behind Nash and will be encouraging all registered CAW members to pick Nash as their number one choice when they cast their ballot next month. Many CAW members and staff across the country have rejoined the party to support Nash.

“The opportunity to make Peggy Nash the leader of the official opposition and our next prime minister is one we can’t pass up,” said Lewenza.

“She’s a fighter with a long career in community building,” said Lewenza. “I know she can bring progressive Canadians together to defeat Stephen Harper in 2015.”

“Of any of the candidates, Peggy has the strongest commitment to building a more equitable economy, protecting our environment, and sustaining our social programs,” said Lewenza. And she has a proven record of doing so. I support Peggy wholeheartedly.”

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For more information, please contact CAW Communications Director Shannon Devine (cell) 416-302-1699

CAW Champions Human Rights Case of Temporary Foreign Workers

2012-02-21T12:52:00.000-08:00

(Windsor) The CAW is continuing its nearly four year-long case against former Wheatley fish plant owner Joe Pratas, of Presteve Foods today in court. Pratas is standing trial for nine counts of sexual assault and abuse in a human rights tribunal in Windsor, starting today at 10 a.m.

The hearing will take place at 400 City Hall Square East, Room 409 in Windsor.

In 2008, Pratas was alleged to have subjected a number of workers to sexual assault and harassment while they were employed at Presteve Foods. The workers were also being paid significantly less than their Canadian counterparts.

Many of the workers had been housed at a bunk house, attached to the facility and their work permits were tied to their jobs at the plant. Many feared deportation or worsening abuse if they complained or brought in the authorities.

The union intervened on their behalf after successfully unionizing the migrant workers. The Canadian workforce at Presteve was already members of CAW Local 444.

The situation at Presteve points to fatal flaws in the temporary foreign worker program, said CAW Local 444 President Rick Laporte. “These women were vulnerable exactly because of the circumstances of the program,” said Laporte.

“Their work permits were tied to their source of employment and if they left this abusive employer, they would be threatened with deportation. The Canadian government is repeatedly turning a blind eye to companies who exploit migrant workers and put them in unsafe working conditions, with few, if any protections. We know from recent examples that this can have tragic consequences,” said Laporte.

Justicia for Migrant Workers will be intervening in the case, as will CAW Local 444.

Support CAW Local 2182 Marine Communication Officers! Speak out against Harper’s reckless austerity measures

2012-02-20T15:39:00.000-08:00

As many of you are aware, the Harper government is steadily pushing its federal austerity program on working people. The feds made it clear during the last election that about 80,000 public sector jobs would disappear – or one-third. So far, we’ve seen various government Ministries oversee big cuts to staff, including thousands at Environment Canada, Human Resource and Skills Development Canada, Statistics Canada, and many others still on the way.

Even the Canadian Coast Guard couldn’t escape Harper’s axe, despite the fact these cuts could put people’s lives in serious danger.

CAW Local 2182 members work for the Coast Guard. They are Marine Communications and Traffic Service officers. They’re stationed at 22 centres located along Canada’s (very large) coastline. They are the eyes and ears that watch our waterways, watching everything from tankers moving in and out of ports to recreational boaters who may require rescue at sea.

This is important work. A missed distress call or a delayed response could mean the difference between life and death. However, it seems no work is too important when it comes to saving a few federal bucks.

The Coast Guard is proposing cuts to servicing hours at 11 of these 22 centres. They think they can run these centres more efficiently, by trimming work hours during “off-peak” times of the day – rolling the dice that no emergency situation arise during those times. This means staffing levels could be significantly reduced. MCTS officers will have to handle double the workload – or more, in cases that fellow officers are on leave or taking mandatory training.

During a recent “dry run” of this austerity initiative, there’s already been a situation where a vessel in difficulty requesting assistance via radio was missed on Pacific waters. Thankfully, the call was picked up by a neighbouring station (with overlapping coverage of the area), and crisis was averted. What if that call hadn’t been picked up? Why are the federal government and Coast Guard playing this dangerous game?

CAW Local 2182 leaders, with the support of Opposition MPs (Fin Donnelly and Philip Toone), have launched anational petition opposing this wrong-headed cost saving initiative and calling on the government to reverse these cuts. The petition also calls on the government to s top the closure of marine rescue sub-centres in Quebec City and St. John’s.

Please take a moment to print off and fill out the attached petition. These will be presented to the House of Commons in the coming month.

This is a small, but important, gesture in support of our Local 2182 sisters and brothers.

For more information, you can contact CAW Local 2182 President Martin Grégoire (gregoire@globetrotter.net) or Pacific Region Director Allan Hughes (DDDCQ@shaw.ca)

In solidarity,

Angelo

Aux sections locales des TCA partout au Canada

Appuyez les officiers des communications maritimes de la section locale 2182 des TCA!

Prononcez-vous contre les mesures d’austérité insouciantes du gouvernement Harper (pétition en pièce jointe)!

Bonjour!

Comme plusieurs d’entre vous l’aviez constaté, le gouvernement Harper impose sans relâche son programme fédéral de mesures d’austérité sur les travailleurs. Le gouvernement fédéral avait bien précisé lors des dernières élections que près de 80 000 emplois de la fonction publique allaient disparaître, soit le tiers. À ce jour, nous avons vu plusieurs ministères du gouvernement effectuer d’importantes compressions de personnel, touchant notamment des milliers d’employés à Environnement Canada, Ressources humaines et Développement des compétences Canada de même qu’à Statistique Canada, et plusieurs autres compressions sont à venir.

Même la Garde côtière canadienne n’a pu échapper à la hache du gouvernement Harper, en dépit du fait que ces coupes pourraient mettre sérieusement en danger la vie des personnes.

Les membres de la section locale 2182 des TCA travaillent pour la Garde côtière. Ce sont des officiers des Services de communication et de trafic maritimes. Ils sont en poste dans 22 centres situés le long des (très grandes) côtes du Canada. Ce sont les yeux et les oreilles qui surveillent nos voies navigables, qu’il s’agisse des pétroliers entrant et sortant des ports jusqu’aux bateaux récréatifs ayant besoin d’un sauvetage en mer.

Ce travail est important. Un appel de détresse manqué ou une réponse retardée peut faire la différence entre la vie et la mort. Or, il semble qu’aucun travail ne soit trop important lorsqu’il est question d’économiser quelques dollars au fédéral.

La Garde côtière propose de couper les heures de service dans 11 des 22 centres. Elle pense pouvoir gérer ces centres de manière plus efficace en diminuant les heures de travail pendant les heures « creuses » de la journée, en espérant aveuglément qu’aucune situation d’urgence ne se présentera pendant ces heures. Ce qui signifie que le personnel pourrait être considérablement réduit. Les officiers des Services de communication et de trafic maritimes devront assumer une double charge de travail, ou plus, lorsque leurs collègues officiers seront en congé ou en formation obligatoire.

Lors d’un récent « essai pilote » de cette mesure d’austérité, une situation s’est déjà présentée où une demande d’aide par radio d’un navire en difficulté n’a pas été captée sur les eaux du Pacifique. Heureusement, une station avoisinante (dont la zone de couverture se chevauche) a reçu l’appel, et une crise a pu être prévenue. Que serait-il arrivé si l’appel n’avait pas été capté? Pourquoi le gouvernement fédéral et la Garde côtière jouent-ils à ce jeu dangereux?

Les dirigeants de la section locale 2182 des TCA, avec le soutien de députés de l’opposition (Fin Donnelly et Philip Toone), ont lancé une pétition nationale contre cette initiative aberrante de réduction des coûts et réclament au gouvernement d’annuler ces coupes. La pétition demande aussi au gouvernement de suspendre la fermeture de centres auxiliaires de sauvetage maritime à Québec et à St. John’s.

Veuillez prendre le temps d’imprimer et de remplir la pétition en pièce jointe. Cette pétition sera présentée à la Chambre des communes le mois prochain.

C’est un petit geste d’appui, mais fort important, pour nos consœurs et confrères de la section locale 2182.

Pour obtenir de plus amples renseignements, vous pouvez communiquer avec le président de la section locale 2182, Martin Grégoire (gregoire@globetrotter.net), ou le directeur de la région du Pacifique, Allan Hughes (DDDCQ@shaw.ca).

En toute solidarité,

Angelo DiCaro

Service des communications des TCA

English version click here.

French Version

City looks at reducing bus frequency in summer months

2012-02-15T15:42:00.001-08:00

http://www.kamloopsnews.ca/article/20120215/KAMLOOPS0101/120219894/-1/kamloops/city-looks-at-reducing-bus-frequency-in-summer-months

Rob Higgins Celebration of Life‏

2012-02-14T23:59:00.000-08:00

The sudden passing of Brother Rob Higgins from Greyhound shocked many of us. There will be a celebration of life on February 17th. Please click on the link below for more information.
http://www.mccallbros.com/robert-lewis-higgy-higgins/

CAW Local 114 Supports The Variety Show of Hearts Telethon this Weekend

2012-02-10T15:22:00.000-08:00

A number of CAW 114 volunteers will be appearing on the Variety Children's Charity Show of Hearts Telethon this weekend. Bill Gaucher and Gord McGrath have direct telephone lines you can call to pledge your donation to this important fund drive. Please watch and pledge!

Bill Gaucher 604-529-3018 between 10:00 pm—12:01 am

Gord McGrath at 604-529-3017 between 10:00 pm—12:01

Feminists for Peggy Nash

2012-02-08T13:15:00.000-08:00

We want strong, progressive, experienced leadership. We want smart policies that build a more equal and greener economy. We want a child care system that recognizes that a quality, affordable, national program will pay for itself. That’s why Peggy Nash is our choice for leader of the NDP.

http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/feminists-for-peggy-nash/

Hands off the OAS!

2012-02-08T12:24:00.000-08:00

Stephen Harper's announcement to raise the age for Old Age Security (OAS) from age 65 to 67 is a giant step backwards.
The Conservative government never announced such a proposal during the May election. It is indeed revealing that Harper goes to Davos, Switzerland to tell Canadians about his plans to change the eligibility age for the OAS.
Harper used the European economic crisis as his backdrop in hopes that Canadians will be lured into thinking that our retirement savings programs are somehow a danger to the economy.

Don't be fooled.

http://petition.web.net/caw/node/49

NDP Motion re: Caterpillar/Papiers White Birch

2012-02-08T12:14:00.000-08:00

To: All CAW Leadership and Activists across Canada

Please forward the following motion to your contacts and call your MPs for support.

In Solidarity,

Jenny J.H. Ahn

Director, Membership Mobilization and Political Action

CAW-Canada

205 Placer Court

Toronto, ON M2H 3H9

TF: 1.800.268.5763 ext. 8464

Direct: 416.718.8464

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February 7, 2012

NDP Motion re: Caterpillar/Papiers White Birch

The following motion, in the name of Ms. Irene Mathyssen, will be debated this Thursday. We expect the vote to be next Monday, February 13.

“That this House condemn the decision of Caterpillar Inc. to close its Electro-Motive Diesel plant in London, Ontario with a loss of 450 jobs and that of Papiers White Birch to close its Quebec City plant with a loss of 600 jobs and call on the government to table, within 90 days, draft amendments to the Investment Canada Act to ensure that foreign buyers are held to public and enforceable commitments on the ‘net benefit’ to Canada and on the protection of Canadian jobs.”

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La motion suivante, au nom de Mme Irene Mathyssen, sera débattue ce jeudi. On s’attend à ce que le vote ait lieu lundi prochain, le 13 février.

« Que cette Chambre condamne la décision de Caterpillar Inc. de fermer son usine de fabrication de locomotives Electro-Motive à London, en Ontario, entraînant une perte de 450 emplois, et celle de Papiers White Birch de fermer son usine à Québec, entraînant une perte de 600 emplois, et demande au gouvernement de déposer, dans un délai de 90 jours, un projet d’amendement à la Loi sur Investissement Canada pour s’assurer que les acquéreurs étrangers sont tenus à des engagements publics et exécutoires concernant « l’avantage net » apporté au Canada et la protection des emplois canadiens. »

CAW Outraged at Closure Announcement at Electro-Motive in London‏

2012-02-04T18:49:00.001-08:00

Media Advisory for CAW National Comprehensive and US Basic Distribution

CAW Outraged at Closure Announcement at Electro-Motive in London

February 3, 2012

(London) CAW President Ken Lewenza is expressing his anger and frustration at what is he calling the “callous move” by Caterpillar to suddenly close its London Electro-Motive Diesel plant, announced this morning.

Sadly, the closure doesn’t come as a total surprise to the union.

“Caterpillar had no intention of keeping this plant open,” said Lewenza. “From day one, we believed that Caterpillar was trying to provoke a crisis, by forcing deep cuts that were not possible,” said Lewenza. “Our members would have happily continued working under the previous conditions, but that wasn’t enough for this incredibly profitable company.”

Caterpillar locked out approximately 465 workers on January 1, after tabling a final offer that would cut wages and benefits in half. Last week, Caterpillar announced $4.9 billion in annual profits, the highest in its 86 year history.

Lewenza also pointed the finger at government inaction in allowing the closure. He said that 465 workers and another 1,700 workers employed in spin-off jobs are now the casualties of an outdated and dysfunctional Investment Canada Act, that attaches no commitment to Canadian jobs to corporate take-overs.

“The Stephen Harper government is entirely in the pocket of the corporate elite and has shown absolute disregard for Canadian workers and their families,” said Lewenza. “I am disgusted at this government and its indifference towards the suffering of workers and the unemployed. The Harper government was elected by Canadians, but only seems able to represent multi-national corporations.”

“Even though we predicted that the plant could close, it’s devastating when it actually happens,” said CAW Local 27 President Tim Carrie. “This is truly rotten behaviour. Now we’re going to do everything that we can for our members.”

CAW Electro-Motive chairperson Bob Scott said that members learned this morning that the plant would close – the company gave the union absolutely no advance notice. “Imagine the shock that our members felt at hearing about losing their job, on the radio,” said Scott. “It’s unbelievable that Caterpillar would string our members along and lock them out in the cold for six weeks, when it had no intention of reopening the plant,” said Scott. “This is absolutely sickening behaviour on the part of this corporation.”

Chinese New Year Celebration February 5th at the CAW Hall in New Westminster

2012-02-04T10:09:00.000-08:00

http://cawlocal114.tripod.com/chny2012.pdf

Meet and Greet with Peggy Nash in Coquitlam, Surrey and Town Hall in Vancouver

2012-02-02T13:59:00.000-08:00

Here's your chance to meet the next Leader of the NDP and Prime Minister of Canada!

Meet and Greet with Peggy Nash in Coquitlam February 1st, click here.

Town Hall with Peggy Nash in Vancouver, Don't miss this one 7 pm - 9pm February 2nd!

Meet and Greet with Peggy Nash in Surrey February 3rd.

Students Day of Action

2012-02-02T07:19:00.000-08:00

The Political Action Committee of Local 333 and Local 114's Jeannie Blaney cooked and served several hundred burgers February 1st to hungry students of all ages today in support of The Day of Action for the Federation of Students at Camosun College Victoria as part of the National Day of Action to reduce student debt.

National Day of Action - Education is a Right

2012-01-31T06:31:00.000-08:00

CAW Local 3000 as well as others are going to visit the downtown Vancouver
Community Collage Campus to show our support on Feb. 1, 2012. 
  
http://www.vcc.ca/about-vcc/contact-us.cfm 
  
Please join us in supporting students between 11am & 2pm for scheduled
events. As you are all aware, most students these days are working while
they are going to school so that they can attempt to financially support
themselves. Regardless of their hard work and dedication to their studies,
students in Canada still graduate with massive debt. It is unfortunate that
even with post secondary education most students can't find jobs which pay
them fair wages and benefits. Our local strives to increase standards in the
hospitality and service sectors to provide good quality jobs for everyone.
Therefore, student struggles are worker struggles, and I urge you all to
show support by coming with us on Feb. 1, 2012. 
  
http://suvcc.ca/2011/12/30/february-1-2012-student-day-of-action/

Jeni Mathers 
CAW Local 3000

http://educationisaright.ca/en

Family members say care is suffering at seniors homes that contract staff

2012-01-30T13:13:00.000-08:00

Family members say care is suffering at seniors homes that contract staff

CAW Nationwide Caterpillar Rally Vancouver

2012-01-26T18:44:00.000-08:00

CAW Local 114 President Gord McGrath (R) stands in solidarity beside CAW Local 114 1st Vice President Mario Santos (L) as part of a Nationwide Rally in support of locked out Caterpillar Workers in Ontario. To see more photos of the rally click on the slideshow on the right hand side of the page.

Read more about the lockout here: http://www.caw.ca/en/10890.htm

United Steelworkers Launch Burns Lake Fund to Support Babine Workers and Families

2012-01-26T18:11:00.001-08:00

http://victorialabour.ca/wp3/2012/01/25/united-steelworkers-launch-burns-lake-fund-to-support-babine-workers-and-families/

ITF Action Alert

2012-01-24T10:32:00.000-08:00

To all affiliates,

Friends, as you may be aware despite Walmart being the biggest employer in America, it has been reported that workers employed by Walmart subcontractors are being subjected to unfair and unjust working conditions.

We understand that warehouse workers who unload goods within the Walmart supply chain, are working on occasion for less than minimum wage, are not compensated for overtime, have no health insurance, holiday or sick days and are often contracted through temporary labour agencies even if they have been working at the same facility for years.

Now these workers are fighting back. In a bid to stand up for their basic human rights, workers at a warehouse in California filed a Federal law suit in September 2011 based on the company's failure to meet the minimum requirements under US wage law. Since that time these 70 workers have reported being threatened and harassed and have now been told they will lose their jobs on 24 February.

As transport unions working side by side with warehouse workers across the world, the ITF is calling on the ITF family to show Walmart that workers on the global supply chain are watching their actions closely and they don't like what they see.

Sign this petition now to show Walmart that transport workers stand beside their brothers and sisters working in American warehouses >>
http://www.change.org/petitions/stand-with-daniel-lopez-tell-walmart-to-stop-abusing-warehouse-workers

The petition calls for Walmart to put in place a responsible contractor policy obligating contractors it does business with to observe certain standards to protect workers. This would mean a living wage, benefits and a guarantee of respect for workers' legal rights.

In solidarity,

David Cockfroft
General Secretary
ITF
http://www.warehouseworkersunited.org/index.php?id=1

Want to Join a Labour Council in your area?

2012-01-23T15:03:00.000-08:00

If you are interested in attending Labour Council meetings in your area, please contact the local at the numbers on the top of the document. Affecting fundamental grassroots change at the community level is possible through working with your local Labour Council!

Massive Rally in Support of Electro-Motive Workers | Canadian Auto Workers | CAW

2012-01-21T19:28:00.001-08:00

Check out Massive Rally in Support of Electro-Motive Workers | Canadian Auto Workers | CAW

Viking Air Workers Ratify New Agreement

2012-01-21T08:58:00.000-08:00

Andre Tune, Jeannie Blaney (Local Rep), Gavin McGarrigle (National Rep), Dave Ingram, Don Haug (Chief Steward).

CAW Local 114 members who work at Viking Air in British Columbia have voted 95 per cent in favour of a new contract with the aircraft maker.

The CAW represents 270 workers at Viking Air, which builds the latest model of Twin Otter airplanes.

The new agreement includes a $1000 payment for 2010 to 2011, a 2 percent wage increase retroactive to November 2011, a wage increase of 2.5 per cent in November 2012 and another 3 per cent in November 2013. In addition, the union achieved 100 per cent employer paid benefits, vision and LTD improvements and a new drug card. A further gain is a 50 per cent increase in the protective footwear allowance.

On job security issues, the union negotiated a 50 per cent increase in the maximum severance payable in the event of redundancies, making it far more expensive to reduce the work performed by CAW members.

CAW National Representative Gavin McGarrigle said CAW members who work at Viking Air held firm in support of the bargaining committee and negotiated a strong aerospace agreement in difficult times.

"Our members at Viking Air refused to accept concessions and zero wage increases and instead decided that fighting back would make a difference," McGarrigle said.
"The skilled workers at Viking Air stood shoulder to shoulder and insisted that a fair agreement was needed when a company has dozens of orders for planes in its order books. Viking should be making plenty of Twin Otters moving forward," he said.

The CAW represents aircraft mechanics, machinists, sheet metal mechanics, painters, welders, storepersons and labourers at Viking Air, which is an aircraft manufacturing and repair firm based on Vancouver Island near Sidney, British Columbia. Viking is re-starting production of the famed de Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft.

Thousands Expected for London Day of Action for Canadian Jobs, Rally Speakers List

2012-01-19T22:14:00.001-08:00

http://www.caw.ca/en/10866.htm

Reward offered after bus driver is sexually assaulted - News1130

2012-01-16T13:03:00.000-08:00

Reward offered after bus driver is sexually assaulted - News1130

Union Serves 72-Hour Strike Notice at Viking Air‏

2012-01-16T12:51:00.000-08:00

For CAW National Comprehensive Distribution

January 16, 2012

Union Serves 72-Hour Strike Notice at Viking Air

(Victoria, BC) – The Canadian Auto Workers union (CAW) served 72 hour strike notice today at the bargaining table with Viking Air. The union has now set a strike deadline for 12:00 noon on Thursday, January 19.

“The skilled workers at Viking Air have been patiently waiting for well over a year for a new contract that addresses wages, benefits and job security issues,” said CAW National Representative Gavin McGarrigle. “The union reached a new contract with Cascade Aerospace in Abbotsford last year without any disruption and that pattern should work for Viking Air as well,” he added.

The workers at Viking Air voted 94 per cent in favour of strike action on October 28, 2011.

“We’re going to work hard in bargaining this week to reach a fair deal as a strike at Viking Air will completely disrupt production and further delay deliveries of many new Twin Otter aircraft that are already behind schedule,” said McGarrigle.

The current collective agreement expired on October 31, 2010 and the parties will continue to bargain all week in Sidney, BC, starting today.

Viking Air (www.vikingair.com) is an aircraft manufacturing and repair firm based on Vancouver Island near Sidney, British Columbia. Viking is re-starting production of the famed de Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft. With the new product, Viking will be the only manufacturer of complete aircraft in western Canada; the firm has also opened a satellite facility in Calgary, Alberta to deal with the expansion.

CAW Local 114 (www.cawlocal114.com) currently represents a bargaining unit of 270 workers at Viking Air including aircraft mechanics, machinists, sheet metal mechanics, painters, welders, stores persons and labourers.

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For further information, please contact Gavin McGarrigle, National Representative at (778) 668-6455 or email gavinm@caw.ca .

100 Years Later, the Cry for ‘Bread & Roses’ Still Resonates | Labor Notes

2012-01-12T19:35:00.000-08:00

100 Years Later, the Cry for ‘Bread & Roses’ Still Resonates | Labor Notes

CTV Coverage of Canadian Coast Guard Cuts in Pacific Region January 2012

2012-01-12T13:47:00.000-08:00

Check out Electro-Motive Workers Day of Action on Saturday, January 21 | Canadian Auto Workers | CAW

2012-01-10T10:18:00.001-08:00

Check out Electro-Motive Workers Day of Action on Saturday, January 21 | Canadian Auto Workers | CAW

CAW Attends Tea Talk Pension Forum in Victoria

2011-12-22T10:24:00.000-08:00

National Rep Stu Shields and Local 114 Rep Jeannie Blaney

There were numerous labour leaders speaking on the behalf of all Canadian Citizens and urging us all to write to our Provincial MLAs and MPs asking them where they stand on expanding CPP.Gerry from BC Forum gave a heart felt speech and truly moved the entire room.Gerry was the President of the Steele Workers and helped bring CPP in the 1960's.He urged us all to realize how truly important to us all expansion of CPP is and that 25% of all retirees live below the poverty line and that the average retirement benefit for a retiree is around $550 per month.As we all know this is not enough for a person to survive on.

I just want to say if you can spread the word for all Canadian Citizens and of course all Union Members please write your Provincial,Municipal,and for sure your Federal MP's and let us all obtain CPP expansion so we are all able to retire in dignity and have to chose between food or medicine or shelter to survive our golden years.

Happy Holidays

Jeannie

How Canada Works: Peggy Nash: "Whatdaya think?"

2011-12-21T14:10:00.000-08:00

How Canada Works: Peggy Nash: "Whatdaya think?": On December 16, Peggy Nash became NDP leadership candidate number five—after Nathan Cullen , Paul Dewar , Robert Chisholm , and Brian Topp —...

CAW Road Transport Council Blog: Local 114 Members Attend Road Transport Council

2011-12-21T14:04:00.000-08:00

CAW Road Transport Council Blog: Local 114 Members Attend Road Transport Council: By Brothers Rick Toombs and Maurice Mills (Brinks BC) Left to right: Loomis Unit Chair Mario Santos, Local 114 President Gord McGrath, ...

Vancouver Giants YouTube Challenge (Teddy Bear Toss 2011)

2011-12-14T14:07:00.000-08:00

So, PLEASE share this video with everyone you can. If we all can help this clip reach 50,000 views before Christmas Day, the Vancouver Giants & White Spot Restaurants will make a $10,000 Donation to the CKNW Orphans’ Fund & the Province’s Empty Stocking Fund.

Peggy Nash in Nanaimo

2011-12-13T22:45:00.000-08:00

Vancouver Island Member at Large Jim Sadlemyer Stands with Federal NDP Leadership Candidate Peggy Nash

Peggy Nash stopped in Nanaimo today during her bid for the NDP Leadership race. She fielded a number of questions on a variety of subjects such as building the NDP to CETA to immigration and I am happy to report that she supports the return of successorship rights in the RFP process.

CAW Donates to Mustard Seed Food Bank

2011-12-13T22:28:00.000-08:00

On the behalf of CAW National office Locals 4276,333, 114 Ben Williams and myself presented the Mustard Seed Food Bank with a cheque for $2000.

I would like to request if our members are able to contribute in any way to local food banks please do so.Our food banks are in desperate need of $ and volunteers this holiday season.Ben and I saw for ourselves the Mustard Seeds freezer which only has 68 turkeys in it when they need 1000.I am pleased to say the members of 4276 will be giving numerous turkeys this week on their CAW members behalf.

I would like to address as it was explained to us by Brent Palmer the Mustard Seeds Director that food banks membership is ever increasing. These new members are in many cases former Union Members who have lost their jobs due to outsourcing of Canadian Union jobs by numerous corporations . Brent stated there is direct correlation between outsourcing and Union good job loss.

In this picture holding the cheque on the left is Brent Palmer Mustard Seed Food Bank Director on right holding cheque is Ben Williams Local 333 BC Transit President in middle Jeannie Blaney CAW Local 114 Representative,the rest of the group are the Mustard Seed Food Bank team.Missing from picture is James Griffin Chief Shop Steward of Empress Hotel Local 4276.

 Happy Holiday Season

 Jeannie

Attawapiskat must pay Ottawa appointee $1,300 a day to run its finances

2011-12-11T12:44:00.000-08:00

http://thetyee.ca/Blogs/TheHook/Aboriginal-Affairs/2011/12/11/third_party_management/

John Duncan is the MP for Vancouver Island North and is the Aboriginal Affairs Minister

CAW Donates to Victoria Women's Transition House

2011-12-09T22:17:00.000-08:00

From left to right Sister Jeannie CAW Local 114,middle Sister Sarah from Local 4276 and on right Nicki from Woman's Transition House Victoria

I would like to say thank you to all the Sisters and Brothers from CAW Locals 4276 and 114 for contributing to Women's Transition House today.

Sister Sarah White did an amazing job of gathering numerous House Coats and toiletries and the monetary donations was to give on the behalf of Locals 4276 and 114.

Thank you all Sisters and Brothers from the CAW Locals 114 and 4276

Jeannie Blaney

CAW Local 114 Rep

CAW CONTACT Volume 41, No. 44 December 9, 2011

2011-12-09T09:31:00.000-08:00

In this weeks issue:

Don't Pay Down Deficit During Recession, Lewenza Urges
NDP’s Peggy Nash Urges Delegates to Rebalance Politics
Federal Government Must Act in Wake of Attawapiskat Crisis
Tax Fairness a Centre-Piece of Fight Against Income Inequality
Olivia Chow Urges Progress on White Ribbon Campaign
Unions and Occupy Movement Must Foster Community Links
Council Delegates Commit to Push Pay Equity in Bargaining
We Make It Move
CAW Urges Municipal Councils to Steer Clear of CETA
Support for Women’s Shelters and Food Banks
CAW Throws Support Behind Injured Workers Campaign
CAW Commemorates Layton with Dedication at YWCA Centre
Bud Jimmerfield Award Goes to Longtime CAW Local 636 Activist
CAW Donates to Goderich Relief Efforts
Canada Should Lead on Climate Talks or “Get Out of the Way”
Canada Must Change Approach to Job Creation, CAW says
We Did It!
White Ribbon Campaign Returns to Its Roots
Staff Appointment

Click Here to read the CAW Contact

Peggy Nash's Vancouver Island Itinerary

2011-12-06T17:33:00.000-08:00

Monday December 12th

Campbell River 10:00 – 11:15 am Local market and Café, 1121 Cedar Street across from community centre

Courtenay 12:15 – 2:00 pm Zocalo Café, 5^th and Cliffe

Courtenay 7:00 – 8:30 pm Native Sons Hall, Cliffe just north of Sid Williams

Tuesday December 13th

Port Alberni 10:00 – 11:30 am Solda’s restaurant, 4785 beaver creek Road

Nanaimo 12:15 – 2:00 pm MGM restaurant, 240 Nicol St

Parliamentarians mark École Polytechnique massacre - but Tories aren't welcome‏

2011-12-06T11:08:00.000-08:00

CAW Women’s Department Director Julie White took part in this memorial today. It’s good to know that while the Tories aren’t welcome, the CAW is.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/parliamentarians-mark-cole-polytechnique-massacre-but-tories-arent-welcome/article2261291/

Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women

2011-12-06T09:33:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday December 6^th at the CAW New Westminster Hall at 7:00 pm the CAW Women’s committee will be hosting the Annual Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women.

This Candlelight Vigil is open to our brothers and sisters alike.

It’s important that our brothers in the union take an active role in demonstrating that we are not going to tolerate violence against anyone especially our sisters, mothers and daughters.

The White Ribbon Campaign was created and started by Jack Layton and we all need to show support and talk about this issue where every we can.

Please try to attend and encourage your members and unit leadership to attend also.

Bill Gaucher

Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women

December 6th

Candlelight Vigil

7 pm

Everyone is welcome.

CAW Union Hall

326 – 12th Street

New Westminster, BC

Annual CAW Open House

2011-12-05T12:29:00.001-08:00

Candle Light Vigil in Victoria December 6th 2011

2011-11-30T18:38:00.000-08:00

Please join us at the Grounds of BC Legislature for the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This vigil is organized by PSAC and the Locals of CAW on Vancouver Island will be joining them in this vigil.

If you are able to, please bring an item to donate to local women’s organizations. There will be a collection at the event. Some of the suggested items are toiletries, socks, new pajamas, slippers, diary, journals.

Please attend if you are able to on this Day Of Remembrance,December 6^th,2011 at the BC Legislature at 4:45 pm.If you would like a Poster for posting at your work site just let me know and I will get one out to you.Please remember Violence against anyone hurts us all.

In Solidarity,

Jeannie Blaney
CAW Local 114 Representative

Viking Air Workers Vote 94% in Favour of Strike Action

2011-11-24T05:03:00.000-08:00

Click Here to read the release.

Peggy Nash backed by author of NDP Quebec policy

2011-11-22T14:26:00.000-08:00

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/story/2011/11/22/pol-cp-nash-endorsement-ducasse.html?cmp=rss%26cmp=AFC-I78V04166919

Join CAW Connected Now!

2011-11-22T09:59:00.000-08:00

The moment is drawing near where CAW Connected turns two! One question remains though –will we reach the goal of 5,000 members? ….

To date, we have registered 4,109 members. We need less than 900 to tip the scale – so let’s do it!

Please note that people can sign up online at: http://connected.caw.ca/

If you have a facebook page, twitter account, email list or any other communications tool – please try to promote CAW Connected over the next week and a half! Signing up online is easy!

We have also received our new shipment of cards, so if you would like some sent to you, please email Anne Marie Vincent at cawcomm@caw.ca.

As of December 12, 2011, we are over 6000 members!

Election Day B.C. November 19, 2011

2011-11-17T20:35:00.000-08:00

British Columbia Municipal Elections 2011

On November 19th, 2011 British Columbia votes. CAW Local 114 supports and participates in Labour Councils throughout the province. Labour Councils have been busy vetting and endorsing candidates for School Board and City Councils. Candidate endorsements are taken seriously. It is hoped that those who are endorsed share many of the values, we as Labour consider important for ourselves, our families and communities. Please make a point of assisting in a campaign and spread the word with your co-workers, neighbors, family and friends.

The most important thing you can do is vote!
The second most important thing is to encourage others to vote!

The New Westminster & District Labour Council including Burnaby, Delta, Langley Township, Langley City, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, New Westminster, Surrey, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody endorsements can be found here.

Nanaimo, Duncan and District Labour Council Including Parksville, Nanaimo, Duncan and District of North Cowichan can be found here.

Victoria Labour Council including Central Saanich, City of Colwood, City of Langford, District of North Saanich, District of Oak Bay, District of Saanich, School District #62 (Sooke), City of Victoria, School District #61 (Greater Victoria) can be found here.

Lest We Forget

2011-11-11T05:23:00.000-08:00

http://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/

REMEMBRANCE DAY EVENTS IN THE LOWER MAINLAND

http://www.venturevancouver.com/blog/remembrance-day-november-11-2011-vancouver

VANCOUVER
• VICTORY SQUARE REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY | November 11, 2011 | 10:30am | Victory Square: Cambie Street at Hastings Street, Vancouver (map) | Free | Remember those who have served our country. | Website
• REMEMBRANCE DAY IN CHINATOWN | November 11, 2011 | 12:30pm | Chinatown Memorial Square: Keefer Street at Columbia Street, Vancouver (map) | Free | The statue in the Memorial Square recognizes Chinese-that helped change Canadian history. Celebrate Chinese Canadian veterans who came back from the Second World War to help gain Canadian citizenship and to obtain the right to vote. | Website
• SOUTH MEMORIAL CENOTAPH SQUARE REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE | November 11, 2011 | 10:00am | South Memorial Park: 41st Avenue at Windsor Street, Vancouver (map) | Free | Watch the Remembrance Day Parade as it makes its way from John Oliver School to South Memorial Park Cenotaph for the Memorial ceremony. | Website
• UBC REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY | November 11, 2011 | 10:00am | War Memorial Gym: 6081 University Boulevard, Vancouver (map) | Free | Join the University of British Columbia community as they honour and remember all those who served in times of war and military conflict and peace. | Website

NORTH VANCOUVER
• REMEMBRANCE DAY CEREMONY AND PARADE | November 11, 2011 | 10:30am - 11:15am | North Vancouver Cenotaph: 1200 Lonsdale, North Vancouver (map) | Free | Honour those to whom we are forever in debt so that we are able to enjoy the peace and freedom that we have today. Open House to follow at the 6 Engineer Squadron. | Website

RICHMOND
• REMEMBRANCE DAY CELEBRATION | November 5, 2011 | 11:00am | Richmond Public Library: 100-7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond (map) | Free | Learn about Canada's military history, the contributions of the Canadian veterans and celebrate Remembrance Day. Get dressed up in a military uniform to take a picture with a real jeep and chat with veterans to find out what life was like for the soldiers and their families during the war. | Website

Victoria;

http://www.victoriaexplorer.com/events/remembrance-day-events-in-victoria-november-11-2011/

This year, on 11/11/11 at 11:00 a.m., be sure to take a minute to remember the many men and women of the armed forces who have died for our country. Below is a list of the many ceremonies honouring our fallen soldiers in and around the city this Friday.

Victoria: 11 a.m.: Cenotaph on the grounds of the B.C. Legislative Building, 614 Government St. Wreath-laying by dignitaries will be followed by a luncheon open to the public.
Saanich: 11 a.m. – noon, Saanich Municipal Hall, 770 Vernon Ave.
Central Saanich: 10:55 a.m., Municipal hall, 1903 Mount Newton Cross Rd.
Sidney:11 a.m., Cenotaph in front of town hall; Army Navy pipe band playing at noon at the Army, Navy, Air Force Unit, 302, 9834 Fourth St.
Oak Bay: 10:55 a.m., Oak Bay cenotaph; Beach Drive from Dorsett to Rutland is closed 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Esquimalt:10:30 a.m.Remembrance Day parade from the Esquimalt Legion to the Memorial Park cenotaph across from municipal hall, 1229 Esquimalt Rd.; Ceremony at 10:55 a.m.; also 9:30 a.m. at the Veterans’ Cemetery.
Western Communities: 10:50 a.m., parade leaves the Langford Canadian Legion for ceremony at Veterans Park, Veterans Memorial Parkway and Goldstream Avenue.
Sooke: Monday 5 p.m., candlelight ceremony at the Sooke Legion Branch 54, 6726 Eustace Rd; Tuesday 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., breakfast at the Legion, followed at 10:35 by a parade from Evergreen Mall to the cenotaph outside the Legion; After the service and two minutes of silence, there will be refreshments and entertainment including Sooke Pipes and Drums, the Sooke Choir, and Al Pease.

Other Remembrance day events include:

First Unitarian Church, 5575 West Saanich Rd., My Father’s War: A Search for Meaning, 10 a.m.
The Royal B.C. Museum is marking Remembrance Day with free events through Tuesday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at 675 Belleville St. Tel. 1-888-447-7977 or visit www.royalbcmuseum.bc.ca
Sidney Museum and Archives, corner of Beacon and Fourth, Lest We Forget … A Tribute to the Armed Forces military exhibit; daily to Nov. 30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. Tel. 250-655-6355
Christ Church Cathedral, Quadra at Rockland, CapriCCio Vocal Ensemble presents In Remembrance, Dona nobis pacem, 2 p.m.; tickets $25/$22/$10, veterans free. Tel. 250-652-3508.
Royal Theatre, Royal Tea Concert 1. Songs of Remembrance, Giuseppe Pietraroia, conductor, Scott Walker, host, and Marilyn Arsenault, soprano; 2:30 p.m.; tickets: $27.50-$54.50; Tel. 250-386-6121
Rogers’ Chocolates Soda Shoppe and Sam’s Deli, 801 and 805 Government St., free coffee and tea for veterans; see www.rogerschocolates.com

[Times Colonist]

Nanaimo http://www.harbourliving.ca/event/remembrance-week-exhibit-at-the-nanaimo-museum/2011-11-09/

Remembrance Day services will begin on Nov. 11 at 10:50 AM at the Cenotaph on Front Street next to St. Paul's Anglican Church.

There will be anthems, the reading of a Prayer of Remembrance. Then at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month there will be a gun salute followed by the Last Post which is followed by two minutes of silence.

If your time permits make your way downtown and pay your respect to the thousands who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can live free. If you can not attend in person, take the time at eleven o'clock to stop what you are doing and remember in silence the cost paid.

Kamloops : http://www.tourismkamloops.com/events-print.php?fuseaction=events.showEvents

Prince George: http://www.tourismpg.com/events/remembrance-day

Friday, November 11
10:50am - 11:20am

Ceremonies starting at the Civic Centre at 10:00am and then a parade to the Cenotaph at City Hall.

Location

Prince George City Hall (Cenotaph)

1100 Patricia Blvd

Prince George, BC V2L 3V9

Phone:

(250) 561-7600

City of Prince George

Why Buy Canadian Makes Sense

2011-11-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

by Ken Lewenza

The Harper Government's shipbuilding contracts are a welcome reversal of policy and a sound investment.
http://www.themarknews.com/articles/7378-why-buy-canadian-makes-sense

Occupy Nanaimo

2011-11-04T09:06:00.000-07:00

Let’s have more People in the Plaza

Saturday, November 5, 11:00 am Diana Krall Plaza.

It’s been 3 weeks since Occupy Nanaimo began!

This is an Occupation - An Occupation needs people
It might be inconvenient, it might be wet, it might be cold (but actually the weather forecast looks pretty good!)

It is inconvenient, wet and cold for the Occupiers at Diana Krall square - the Occupiers who have been arrested – the thousands of Occupiers around the world who are making huge sacrifices to bring about global change

Prove to the nay sayers that the Occupy movement is not just a bunch of lazy, ill informed malcontents – bring your energy, your friends, your family, your ideas, your drums, your instruments, your signs, your voices and
be loud!

Stick around for the Grand General Assembly from 1 - 3 Be heard

Spread the word

For more info www.occupynanaimo.ca or
Occupy Nanaimo Group on facebook

Four Sisters

2011-11-03T07:37:00.000-07:00

(CAW Local 114 was well represented in Victoria by sisters Sarah Dutsch, Barbie Zipp and Jeannie Blaney when NDP Leadership candidate and CAW sister Peggy Nash, came to our provincial capital.)

CAW's own Sister Peggy Nash visited Victoria after her recent announcement that she is running to be the leader of the federal NDP. The event was open to those interested in meeting Sister Peggy Nash and those of us who know her well and were there to show our CAW support. I was sure proud to be CAW member as Sister Peggy Nash fielded a wide variety of challenging questions. Sister Peggy Nash took on each question and delivered a considerate response. It was refreshing to hear a politician take on a questions and speak directly to the issues and not to give the 'typical' politician response where they end up dancing around the issues. Sister Peggy Nash is proud of her Social Democratic view and will not apologize or shy away from it. As she said her Social Democratic values are what guides her on her way to make significant gains for all Canadians.

Standing there I just knew that Sister Peggy Nash will succeed in her run for the leader of the federal NDP, but why stop there...with our help she can become Canada's first elected female NDP Prime Minister!

For more information on Peggy's campaign, to get involved or donate, please visit: www.peggynash.ca

- Barbie Zipp -

Raitt’s Three Principles for labour relations only run one way

2011-11-02T06:55:00.000-07:00

Stephen Harper’s government has interpreted the rule of law rather flexibly in the arena of labour relations. In just six months in power, the Conservative majority has intervened three times to end or prevent work stoppages. http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/opinion/raitts-three-principles-for-labour-relations-only-run-one-way/article2221394/

CAW Road Transport Council Blog: ITF Action Week October 11-14th, 2011

2011-11-01T12:42:00.000-07:00

CAW Road Transport Council Blog: ITF Action Week October 11-14th, 2011: CAW Locals from across Canada jointly participated in the annual International Transport Workers Federations (ITF) Week of Action. Our CAW ... (click here for the rest of the story)

Canadian Auto Workers Union (CAW) | Media Advisory - CAW President Calls on Air Canada to Reverse Decision to Relocate Scheduling Crew

2011-10-31T10:40:00.000-07:00

Canadian Auto Workers Union (CAW) | Media Advisory - CAW President Calls on Air Canada to Reverse Decision to Relocate Scheduling Crew

Local 114 Wins LUMA Award

2011-10-31T08:12:00.000-07:00

The CAW Local Union Media Association (LUMA) held its Communications Conference in Port Elgin this past weekend. Workshops and keynote speakers focused on union uses of social media. An awards ceremony was held on Saturday night. Awards were given out for excellence in labour journalism.
CAW Local 114 was honoured with an award for the short video :"Hair on Fire", a quirky video encouraging union members and the general public to get out and vote in the Federal Election in May.

TheStar Peggy Nash launches NDP leadership bid

2011-10-28T12:39:00.000-07:00

TheStar Peggy Nash launches NDP leadership bid

The NDP leadership race needs Peggy Nash | rabble.ca

2011-10-25T12:03:00.000-07:00

The NDP leadership race needs Peggy Nash | rabble.ca

CAW Local 114: British Columbia Municipal Elections 2011

2011-10-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

CAW Local 114: British Columbia Municipal Elections 2011: On November 19th, 2011 British Columbia votes. CAW Local 114 supports and participates in Labour Councils throughout the province. Labour ...

Seema’s Story | We Need Legal Aid

2011-10-22T07:52:00.000-07:00

Seema’s Story | We Need Legal Aid

In Her Own Words:

One challenge with legal aid for new immigrants is the language barrier. They may not be able to fully articulate their situation in English. This may also pose a barrier for them to understand Canadian laws. Often web-based materials do not take the literacy factor into account. The current eligibility process also has violence as one of the considerations to qualify to receive legal aid. In many cultures, airing your dirty laundry is perceived as shameful. Acknowledging violence in the relationship can be perceived as embarrassing and often women are scared to disclose. Not all abused women call police and therefore there may be no charges laid, even where there is violence. To add to this complexity, if you add the dynamic of language barrier, this can screen out many eligible immigrants applying for legal aid.

We Need Legal Aid

The legal aid system in British Columbia is in crisis. A decade of cuts to services and underfunding has made it impossible to keep up with the need for legal representation. Our court system is clogged to the point where people accused of serious crimes walk free because their cases can’t be heard in time.

Meanwhile, women, children and seniors in critical situations are unable to access legal representation when they need it, exposing them to more danger. Our most vulnerable citizens are the ones who need legal aid the most – and we can’t adequately provide it.

Something has to be done. http://www.weneedlegalaid.com/

Legal Aid in BC is provided by the LSS. Financial and issue eligibility requirements for legal aid in BC change and are adjusted by the LSS in response to the funds available to them from time to time. For information on current eligibility requirements visit www.lss.bc.ca

Youth arrested after Kamloops bus driver attacked

2011-10-18T16:17:00.000-07:00

BC Transit calls for meeting with local partners after a bus driver attacked at Lansdowne bus exchange.

Union President Gord McGrath and Local rep Harry Moon are in Kamloops following yet another incident of violence towards transit drivers. http://www.cfjctv.com/story.php?id=5034

http://www.kamloopsnews.ca/article/20111018/KAMLOOPS0101/111019804/-1/KAMLOOPS/city-officials-look-for-solution-after-latest-assault-at-lansdowne

http://www.kamloopsnews.ca/article/20111018/KAMLOOPS0101/111019804/-1/kamloops/youth-arrested-after-bus-driver-beaten-at-lansdowne-loop

Say No to CETA Rally

2011-10-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

October 17, 2011 Organizers and activists stand on the steps of the B.C. Legislature along with MLA's who support the "Say No to CETA" rally participants. Approximately 30 members from Locals 111, 333 and 114 participated in the event and were later introduced to the house by MLA Mable Elmore.

Here is a quick video on CETA

Occupy movement: It’s about time - JIM STANFORD

2011-10-16T09:39:00.001-07:00

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/occupy-movement-its-about-time/article2202535/

Occupy Nanaimo protest draws people from all walks of life

2011-10-15T21:27:00.000-07:00

Nearly 500 head downtown to join a global movement protesting the disparity between the rich and the poor.

Read the rest here.

http://www2.canada.com/nanaimodailynews/news/story.html?id=85abb9bc-cde3-455d-82de-e95f6afb79c7&k=56767

Occupy Vancouver also a huge success!

CAW Supports Occupy Efforts in Canada

2011-10-14T18:30:00.000-07:00

http://www.caw.ca/en/10674.htm

Find the nearest "Occupy" event and show up and protest peacefully.

Rally in Victoria to Protest Canadian European Trade Agreement- C.E.T.A.

2011-10-14T18:16:00.000-07:00

Check out these links for more information:
http://cawlocal114.tripod.com/rockrally.pdf
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=153433041418614

B.C. Federation of Labour Supports Occupy Wall Street

2011-10-12T15:11:00.000-07:00

http://act.bcfed.ca/solidaritywithoccupywallstreet/

CAW Activists will be out in support at this rally. Please join them. Look for the Union flags!

Postal workers challenge Ottawa over back-to-work bill | Sympatico.ca News

2011-10-12T14:10:00.000-07:00

Postal workers challenge Ottawa over back-to-work bill | Sympatico.ca News

Kevin O'Leary Chris Hedges Interview on CBC

2011-10-12T11:15:00.000-07:00

CBC's Kevin O'Leary gets schooled on the #occupy Wall Street movement by Pulitzer winning journalist Chris Hedges.

**NEW** October 14, 2011

CBC ombudsman says O'Leary's 'nutbar' remark violated journalistic standards

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/business/breakingnews/cbc-ombudsman-says-olearys-nutbar-remark-violated-journalistic-standards-131876988.html

And

NUPGE / OPSEU file complaint with CBC Ombudsman over offensive anti-union comments by Kevin O'Leary

http://www.newswire.ca/en/story/858961/nupge-opseu-file-complaint-with-cbc-ombudsman-over-offensive-anti-union-comments-by-kevin-o-leary

Save the B.C. Transit Workers: Issues Poll

2011-10-12T05:48:00.000-07:00

Save the B.C. Transit Workers: Issues Poll: The Kamloops Daily news is running a weekly poll. Please support our brothers and sisters in Kamloops by voting Transit as the Top Issue in...

Bus Driver Injured in Altercation

2011-10-11T14:06:00.000-07:00

A CAW Local 114 bus driver was injured in a fight October 7, 2011 in Kamloops B.C. One person was arrested and the member was treated and is off work due to injuries received. The RCMP are investigating.

JimsWorld: Supportive Housing VS Shelters - the difference & ...

2011-10-10T11:17:00.000-07:00

JimsWorld: Supportive Housing VS Shelters - the difference & ...: This video explains some things like the difference between a "shelter" & a "supportive housing" unit. More importantly it shows the people...

World Day for Decent Work - October 7, 2011

2011-10-06T15:23:00.000-07:00

Precarious Work Affects Us All!

http://www.caw.ca/en/7688.htm

Canada's Communities are not for sale

2011-10-04T06:15:00.000-07:00

2011.htmlhttp://www.canadians.org/trade/issues/EU/tour-2011.html

Hudak plays blame game, fires shots at unions

2011-10-03T08:25:00.000-07:00

Tim Hudak has never met a problem that can't be blamed on unions. Worried about the deficit? Blame unions. Concerned about lack of business investment? Blame unions. Don't like our election financing rules? Blame unions. When in doubt, point the finger at unions

Read more:
http://www.windsorstar.com/Hudak%2Bplays%2Bblame%2Bgame%2Bfires%2Bshots%2Bunions/5492425/story.html

CAW PREC: B.C. agency probes possible link between gas 'frac...

2011-10-02T10:50:00.000-07:00

CAW PREC: B.C. agency probes possible link between gas 'frac...: http://www.vancouversun.com/news/agency+probes+possible+link+between+fracking+earthquakes/5479554/story.html

Petition Against the Unfair Server Wage

2011-09-27T23:04:00.000-07:00

This is a critical issue for our hospitality units in CAW and others. These workers are being paid less money than even the minimum wage. Please share on web sites and email lists. Show you care.

http://forms.aweber.com/form/80/1312463280.htm

Employers must be held accountable for deaths

2011-09-26T12:44:00.000-07:00

http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Employers+must+held+accountable+deaths/5438745/story.html

Arbitrator Sides with CAW on Pensions for New Hires at Air Canada

2011-09-18T13:10:00.000-07:00

(Toronto) The CAW has won the right to maintain the defined benefit pension plan for new hires at Air Canada, an arbitration ruling released Friday says.

In the 62 page ruling, federal arbitrator Kevin Burkett rejected Air Canada’s demand to put new hires into a defined contribution pension plan with an inferior, more precarious benefit. Instead Burkett sided with the CAW’s proposal to maintain the defined benefit pension plan for new hires, along with a defined contribution portion to their pension. The result will be a “hybrid” pension for future new hires at the airline, consisting of both defined benefit and defined contribution components. Current CAW members at Air Canada remain in the existing defined benefit plan.

“This is an extremely important ruling and demonstrates that no employer, regardless of how large or small, should believe they have the unmitigated right to destroy a worker’s retirement security,” said CAW President Ken Lewenza, after the ruling.

In the case, the union argued that the defined benefit pension plan was an efficient, effective and economically productive way of providing a pension benefit and that a complete shift to a defined contribution system would have a detrimental impact on future workers, and on the health of the existing defined benefit plan.

The new hybrid DB/ DC plan will see new hires receive part of their benefit from the existing DB pension plan (under a reduced formula) and part from a DC plan, contributed to by both workers and the employer.

The issue of pensions for new hires was sent to a mediation and arbitration process after the union and Air Canada were unable to come to an agreement on the matter in June. But Air Canada refused to engage meaningfully in the mediation phase of that process, and tabled a final offer for a 100 per cent defined contribution plan that was inferior to what it had offered during bargaining. The CAW, following the failure of mediation, proposed the hybrid DB/ DC model which the arbitrator eventually accepted.

“Despite unprecedented government interference in our collective bargaining, the union was able to build a clear case for the need to continue the DB pension plan, for all members, regardless of their age or start date,” said Lewenza. “We ultimately won on the merit of our argument for fairness.”

“Air Canada’s proposal would have been a major step back for the membership. Instead, because of the union’s efforts, the defined benefit plan will be maintained for current and future members,” said Jamie Ross, CAW Local 2002 president.

CAW members went on strike for three days at Air Canada in mid June after negotiations broke down over demands for cuts to existing pensions, the elimination of defined benefit pensions for new hires, and other economic issues. Just hours after the strike began, the federal government prepared legislation to force CAW members back to work. Before the legislation was debated, the CAW and Air Canada reached an agreement on June 16. The government passed similar legislation forcibly ending the lockout at Canada Post shortly thereafter.

CAW Local 2002 represents 3,800 members at Air Canada, who work in customer service and sales in major airports and call centres.

To read the full ruling, please visit: http://www.caw.ca/en/10610.htm

CAW Road Transport Council Blog: How to Make it Move

2011-09-16T08:54:00.000-07:00

CAW Road Transport Council Blog: How to Make it Move: How to Make it Move: Action Plan Items for Discussion Share our Vision: Bring an endorsed statement to CAW and Quebec Councils for ad...

It’s going to take more than free-market ideology to create jobs

2011-09-13T09:02:00.000-07:00

JIM STANFORD

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/opinions/its-going-to-take-more-than-free-market-ideology-to-create-jobs/article2163418/

Labour movement remains important, say workers

2011-09-06T15:01:00.000-07:00

Labour movement remains important, say workers

CAW Road Transport Council Blog: Bus drivers to vote on one-year contract extension...

2011-09-04T14:42:00.000-07:00

CAW Road Transport Council Blog: Bus drivers to vote on one-year contract extension...: The union representing Metro Vancouver bus drivers has reached a tentative contract with Coast Mountain Bus Co. The Canadian Auto Workers U...

A Labour Day message by CAW National President Ken Lewenza: We Must Set Our Sights Higher

2011-08-31T20:39:00.000-07:00

Labour Day has always offered working Canadians a chance to step back and reflect on our collective achievements. Workplace safety rules. Decent wages and benefits. Work-life balance. Equality. Fairness. Even as a child, marching along Labour Day parade routes in Windsor with my mother and father, I've understood this day as a celebration of social progress and collective prosperity, amid the daily struggle for improved worker rights. And the progress we celebrated benefitted all working families - whether in a union or not. Read the rest here: http://www.caw.ca/en/10578.htm

CAW Local 114: Labour Day Weekend Picnic Locations B.C.

2011-08-31T06:51:00.000-07:00

Labour day weekend is this weekend. Please celebrate some of it by going to your area's picnic

CAW Local 114: Labour Day Weekend Picnic Locations B.C.:

HST Vote Results by Riding

2011-08-29T10:01:00.001-07:00

http://electionsbcenr.blob.core.windows.net/electionsbcenr/REF-2011-001.html

CAW CONTACT Volume 41, No. 30 August 26, 2011

2011-08-25T09:43:00.000-07:00

CONTACT is the CAW's national newsletter, one of the longest running and widely circulated union newsletters in the country.

In this weeks issue:

New Agreement at Bombardier Thunder Bay

CAW Women's Conference Inspires and Challenges

Air Traffic Controllers Ratify Agreement

Courtland Nursing Home Workers Win Wage Increases

CAW Will Strike Johnson Controls to Save Jobs, if Necessary

London Unemployment Rate Prompts Emergency Summit

Working Families Revamps Website

CAW Transportation Conference September 23-25

Nursing Home Workers Call for Fair New Contract

An Open Letter to NDP MPs and all Canadians

Please click this link to view http://www.caw.ca/en/10557.htm

Jack Layton

2011-08-22T17:51:00.000-07:00

This picture of Jack was taken in Whistler B.C. during the FCM convention in 2009. Jack accepted one of the CAW's Made in Canada Matters pins and immediately wore it. He sat down beside us at an outdoor patio and had a beer. I met him a couple of other times but this is the best memory for me.

A letter to Canadians from the

Honourable Jack Layton

August 20, 2011
Toronto, Ontario

Dear Friends,

Tens of thousands of Canadians have written to me in recent weeks to wish me well. I want to thank each and every one of you for your thoughtful, inspiring and often beautiful notes, cards and gifts. Your spirit and love have lit up my home, my spirit, and my determination.

Unfortunately my treatment has not worked out as I hoped. So I am giving this letter to my partner Olivia to share with you in the circumstance in which I cannot continue.

I recommend that Hull-Aylmer MP Nycole Turmel continue her work as our interim leader until a permanent successor is elected.

I recommend the party hold a leadership vote as early as possible in the New Year, on approximately the same timelines as in 2003, so that our new leader has ample time to reconsolidate our team, renew our party and our program, and move forward towards the next election.

A few additional thoughts:

To other Canadians who are on journeys to defeat cancer and to live their lives, I say this: please don’t be discouraged that my own journey hasn’t gone as well as I had hoped. You must not lose your own hope. Treatments and therapies have never been better in the face of this disease. You have every reason to be optimistic, determined, and focused on the future. My only other advice is to cherish every moment with those you love at every stage of your journey, as I have done this summer.

To the members of my party: we’ve done remarkable things together in the past eight years. It has been a privilege to lead the New Democratic Party and I am most grateful for your confidence, your support, and the endless hours of volunteer commitment you have devoted to our cause. There will be those who will try to persuade you to give up our cause. But that cause is much bigger than any one leader. Answer them by recommitting with energy and determination to our work. Remember our proud history of social justice, universal health care, public pensions and making sure no one is left behind. Let’s continue to move forward. Let’s demonstrate in everything we do in the four years before us that we are ready to serve our beloved Canada as its next government.

To the members of our parliamentary caucus: I have been privileged to work with each and every one of you. Our caucus meetings were always the highlight of my week. It has been my role to ask a great deal from you. And now I am going to do so again. Canadians will be closely watching you in the months to come. Colleagues, I know you will make the tens of thousands of members of our party proud of you by demonstrating the same seamless teamwork and solidarity that has earned us the confidence of millions of Canadians in the recent election.

To my fellow Quebecers: On May 2nd, you made an historic decision. You decided that the way to replace Canada’s Conservative federal government with something better was by working together in partnership with progressive-minded Canadians across the country. You made the right decision then; it is still the right decision today; and it will be the right decision right through to the next election, when we will succeed, together. You have elected a superb team of New Democrats to Parliament. They are going to be doing remarkable things in the years to come to make this country better for us all.

To young Canadians: All my life I have worked to make things better. Hope and optimism have defined my political career, and I continue to be hopeful and optimistic about Canada. Young people have been a great source of inspiration for me. I have met and talked with so many of you about your dreams, your frustrations, and your ideas for change. More and more, you are engaging in politics because you want to change things for the better. Many of you have placed your trust in our party. As my time in political life draws to a close I want to share with you my belief in your power to change this country and this world. There are great challenges before you, from the overwhelming nature of climate change to the unfairness of an economy that excludes so many from our collective wealth, and the changes necessary to build a more inclusive and generous Canada. I believe in you. Your energy, your vision, your passion for justice are exactly what this country needs today. You need to be at the heart of our economy, our political life, and our plans for the present and the future.

And finally, to all Canadians: Canada is a great country, one of the hopes of the world. We can be a better one – a country of greater equality, justice, and opportunity. We can build a prosperous economy and a society that shares its benefits more fairly. We can look after our seniors. We can offer better futures for our children. We can do our part to save the world’s environment. We can restore our good name in the world. We can do all of these things because we finally have a party system at the national level where there are real choices; where your vote matters; where working for change can actually bring about change. In the months and years to come, New Democrats will put a compelling new alternative to you. My colleagues in our party are an impressive, committed team. Give them a careful hearing; consider the alternatives; and consider that we can be a better, fairer, more equal country by working together. Don’t let them tell you it can’t be done.

My friends, love is better than anger. Hope is better than fear. Optimism is better than despair. So let us be loving, hopeful and optimistic. And we’ll change the world.

All my very best,

Jack Layton

Save the Kamloops Transit Bus Drivers: Take Action

2011-08-20T12:07:00.000-07:00

Save the Kamloops Transit Bus Drivers: Take Action: Please click on the steering wheel to send the message below to Kamloops City Council, B.C. Transit, Adrian Dix, Christy Clarke and Ke...

Bus union worried about bids for B.C. Transit deal

2011-08-17T08:56:00.000-07:00

http://savethekamloopstransitbusdrivers.blogspot.com/

Premier Christy Clark dithers as economy stalls, BC’s job numbers still worst in western Canada | British Columbia Federation of Labour

2011-08-17T08:49:00.000-07:00

Premier Christy Clark dithers as economy stalls, BC’s job numbers still worst in western Canada | British Columbia Federation of Labour

1st Annual CAW Labour Day Party

2011-08-15T12:56:00.000-07:00

Join us at the CAW Union Hall for the 1st Annual CAW Labour Day Party.

For other Labour Day Events throughout the province, click on the link below.

http://cawlocal114.blogspot.com/p/labour-day-picnic-locations-bc.html

Canada Pension Plan protects workers against market meltdown

2011-08-13T13:07:00.000-07:00

Canada Pension Plan protects workers against market meltdown

CAW Local 114: Labour Day Weekend Picnic Locations B.C.

2011-08-09T17:10:00.000-07:00

CAW Local 114: Labour Day Weekend Picnic Locations B.C.: "More picnics and events will be added as I am notified. The BC Fed will have a booth at the PNE September 3-5 They are also hosting a picni..."

What Have Unions Ever Done for Us?

2011-08-05T08:53:00.001-07:00

Navistar Closure Devastating, CAW President says

2011-08-02T13:41:00.000-07:00

(Chatham, Ontario) The announced closure of Navistar International Truck’s Chatham facility today is a devastating blow to the workers, their families and the entire community, said CAW President Ken Lewenza.

“Despite our relentless efforts since 2009 to reopen the idled facility and get our members back to work, Navistar has remained rigid and is now moving ahead with plans to shutter the plant,” Lewenza said, following the company’s formal announcement.

“This remains a world-class facility with a hugely productive and skilled workforce, delivering top-quality products and there’s no good reason for it to be closing,” said Cathy Wiebenga, CAW plant chairperson at Navistar.

The facility has been in the Chatham community for over 60 years and was one of the largest employers in the area.

Over the years, Navistar has benefited from over $60 million in federal and provincial funding, as well as $40 million in contract savings from union members, in exchange for job commitments and the long term viability of the Chatham facility. Lewenza said the decision to up and leave is a slap in the face to the workers as well as to the Canadian tax-paying public and a black mark on government for refusing to take stronger action and hold this corporation accountable.

The CAW Local 127 and 35 bargaining committees, alongside CAW national leadership, will be scheduling meetings with the corporation in an attempt to bargain a fair and decent closure agreement on behalf of the laid-off members.

“As is always the case when bargaining with Navistar, I’m expecting that these talks will be unnecessarily difficult and challenging,” Lewenza said. Negotiations are set to take place over the coming weeks.

Navistar issued lay off notices to 300 office (Local 35) and plant (Local 127) workers in June 2009, in coordination with the expiry of the collective agreement. Over 800 plant and office workers were already on layoff at the time.

“Since 2009 this company has held our members’ jobs for ransom and then, adding insult to injury, forced them to endure two full years of fear, insecurity and uncertainty,” said Aaron Neaves, president of Local 127. “We’re even on the cusp of a market turnaround for big trucks in North America, with sales up by over a third from last year. Ironically, it’s at the same time that our factory is closing. We should be adding jobs now, not taking them away. It simply doesn’t add up.”

The closing of the Chatham truck facility is the latest in a long-list of major manufacturing plant shutdowns in Ontario since 2002. The persistently high Canadian dollar, lax restrictions on capital mobility, corporate-friendly free trade deals – like the NAFTA – and governments unwilling to take strong action to defend good jobs have created the conditions for situations like this to happen, Lewenza said.

Despite modest provincial employment over recent months, Ontario has still not recouped over 325,000 manufacturing jobs lost since 2002.

-30-

To read the full economic and community impact assessment of the Navistar International Truck Plant prepared by the CAW Research Department, visit: http://www.caw.ca/en/9071.htm

For more information, contact: Angelo DiCaro, CAW Communications (416) 606-6311; Cathy Wiebenga, Unit Chairperson (CAW Local 127 - production and skilled trades workers) (519) 360-0637; or Aaron Neaves (CAW Local 127 President) (519) 350-1031.

Victoria Union Office

2011-07-21T10:49:00.000-07:00

Brother Jim Sadlemyer will be covering the Victoria Union Office Mondays and Tuesdays and Sister Jeannie Blaney will be covering Fridays until a new rep is in place. The quickest way to reach them is via email (they have their email addresses forwarded to their Blackberries) They encourage all members of Gord Piper's groups to contact them with any issues. They will be working closely with the Local and National reps to ensure your concerns are heard and acted on.

Jim Sadlemyer
sadlemyer@cawbclocals.com

Jeannie Blaney
jeannieblaney@shaw.ca