Bargaining Update Dec 8th, 2016
To the Membership, It’s been a hectic week, as we are preparing for two very large policy arbitrations. One, where the Company unilaterally removed an entire line of progression from over half the mine site and ignored seniority and training rules, the 10.15 Mill Equipment Operator Grievance, and the P&H Shovel Build facilitation, where the Company failed to notify the Union of work as early as possible, to allow the committees to try and recapture work as per our language in 3.07. Both issues drive to the heart of the problems at HVC, an ignorance of historical reference and choosing to not follow language because they don’t like it. We all live in Canada, and have to abide by the rules that we have signed up for. We cannot steal, not pay bills, or cheat the system, and that concept does not change because you start working at a new job. Last weekend, both the Elkview and Fording River Locals agreed to use Vince Ready to assist with mediation. They were successful in signing memorandums of agreement early Sunday morning Dec 4th. Elkview has ratified their memorandum of agreement by a 78.9% vote in favor. Fording River’s voting results should be in by the end of the week. It was also agreed between the parties that when we get to a point of mediation, Vince would be used instead of a Labor Board mediator. Vince has extensive knowledge and expertise, both with Teck and HVC in the past. Further clarification will be provided at the membership meeting on Tuesday. We have sent the Company dates for Jan 4th and 5th to reconvene bargaining, to deal with the remaining non-monetary proposals. We have also had great feedback on the group harassment complaint, as more than three quarters of the employees have signed their name stating that they do not want the Company sending unsolicited propaganda to their homes, nor forcing them to hear it in the workplace under the threat of discipline. Work should not have to be taken home with you, as you have elected a bargaining committee to deal with these issues. The Company has had little response, other than tearing down the signup sheets to prevent you from exercising your right to file a complaint. Please see a steward or a bargaining committee member if you wish to have your voice heard. The next Union Membership meeting will be held Tuesday, Dec 13th in Kamloops at 770 Victoria Street at 9:30am, 6:30pm, 9:15pm. For now, enjoy the holidays. It’s a time to celebrate good times with your family, friends, and co-workers. Don’t play to hard, don’t drink and drive, and we will see everyone in the New Year. Merry Christmas from your Executive and Bargaining Committee! Kyle Wolff USW 7619 President Comments are closed.
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