Region 4 RVP Report-March 2004

Spring will soon be in the air. Traditionally this change of season signifies a time for hope, renewal and rebirth. Recently, there has been much to cheer the hearts and souls of OPSEU activists in Region 4. Capitalizing on the skill, dedication and expertise of our staff, leadership, bargaining teams and grass roots members we have reached contract settlements on several tenuous fronts. In Brockville, Northern Cables accepted a 4 year agreement. In Ottawa, Rideau Carleton Racetrack Slots Security Officers achieved their first collective agreement. This success was culminated by the tentative agreement negotiated by the CAAT Academic team in their quest to achieve the formula necessary for delivering quality post secondary education in the province of Ontario. I was privileged to have been included in some of the media events and meetings leading up to these accomplishments and let me say that I am very proud of the work done by all.

As many may have heard, on February 25th OPSEU Region 4 members serviced by the Brockville office, “took it to the streets” to protest the Board’s budget decision reducing support hours at the Brockville Regional Office. This is great news on a couple of fronts. First of all, it demonstrates that our members understand intrinsically the power of member mobilization. Secondly, it is a candid display of the democratic nature of our organization. I am comforted by the knowledge that our membership will challenge decisions and rally so quickly and effectively around an issue that is important to their work as stewards of this great Union. The voice of discord is as critical as consent in a democratic labour movement. It provides balance and perspective. The net impact is that the support staff situation in Brockville will be status quo until a plan is developed in consultation with your EBM’s. My guess is that Convention ultimately will have the final say on this pivotal issue facing the entire Union.

Recently, we won a representation vote in Lennox and Addington County to represent county workers. We welcome this group to a growing family that includes similar members in Lanark, Perth, Leeds-Grenville and the Corporation of Hastings County. The latter group (L496) is currently bargaining its first collective agreement. We will provide all the necessary resources for a successful outcome of those negotiations.

The employer at the newly merged Cornwall Community Hospital has initiated a representation vote under Bill 136. This impacts three identified bargaining units with a sum total of close to 1000 members on the health care team. The work of the Organizers in tandem with the Local leadership has been awe inspiring thus far. As we gain momentum, I am certain that OPSEU will remain the “Union of Choice in Health Care” in Cornwall. Stay tuned for details as this very crucial drive unfolds.

Contained within Budget 2004, approved by the Board is a Membership Centre for Ottawa. Consultations will soon commence between the LEC of the Ottawa Hospital (L464), our largest Local and the Ottawa Area Council on a cost sharing arrangement to bring this vision to fruition. As one who fully endorses the concept of membership centres as the focal point of solidarity networking, I am very excited about the prospect of assisting in this joint development.

On the weekend of March 5-7, approximately 150 Region 4 activists gathered at the Glen House Resort in Ganonoque, Ontario for our spring educational. In addition to the high level courses offered, participants used the weekend to relax, socialize, network and build solidarity throughout our great Region. Thanks to all the staff who made the weekend a realty. The exponential growth and popularity of this event bodes well for workplace representation and leadership development. The next educational will be scheduled for the fall in Ottawa.

As we prepare for Convention 2004 there is much on the horizon. We will continue to lobby the government for the resources required to sustain and rebuild our public services and community infrastructure. We will prepare the OPS for its upcoming round of contract negotiations, while maintaining our commitment to bargaining, representing and organizing in the Broader Public Sector. We will continue to support the fine work of the Academic and Support members in our colleges as they enforce the language of their new Collective agreements. We will build on the success of the five Area Councils that are up and running to various degrees across the Region and continue to engage our membership by spreading the good news. While sometimes the task may seem unending and monumental, I am buoyed by the support, friendship and courtesy of the leadership across the Region. On behalf of my colleagues Gavin and Smokey, let me thank each of you for the work that you do and solidarity you provide. As always, take care.

In Solidarity,
Bob Eaton, RVP Reg

Message From Your Regional Vice President

Sisters and Brothers,

October 2, 2003 signaled the end to one of the most difficult and destructive periods in Ontario's history. In stunning and definitive fashion the people of this province rejected the Tories and the politics of divisiveness and blame. Hopefully we have ushered in a new era emphasizing inclusiveness, consultation and respect for all Ontarians. I am proud to say OPSEU, your Union played a major role in this transformation of public opinion. For eight years we have been on the front lines taking on the so-called revolutionaries and their friends. We exposed them for what they were. We took them on in the streets and in the press. Along the way there were casualties and victims, those who fought and those who acquiesced, those who persevered and those who despite their best efforts were consumed by the inhumanity of right wing propaganda. The Tories subscribed to the bully theory consisting of picking off those perceived as weak and vulnerable until finally there was no one left to oppose. What they didn't count on was organizations such as ours who dug in for the long haul determined to slay the proverbial dragon. They didn't fully appreciate the strength and resolve of the thousands of members who worked tirelessly to rid this province of the most undemocratic regime in the history of Ontario politics. They didn't understand that in the end principles always triumph over hyperbole and theatrics. In their arrogance they committed a serious mistake. They underestimated the resolve of their opposition. They underestimated OPSEU.
As your Regional Vice President I am proud of each and every one of our members. You heeded the call. Whether it was working directly on a campaign, writing letters to the press, speaking to and educating your family, friends and neighbors or simply voting, we made a difference. In Region 4, traditional Conservative territory, there are four remaining Tories, all but one squeaking in. Our efforts did not go unnoticed. A former senior cabinet Minister remarked in the press that the Unions and other special interest groups were responsible for Tories' demise. While we will accept that compliment, we all know that in the end arrogance, complacency and total disregard for the democratic process cannot and will not be sustained. Ontarians believe in inclusiveness. Ontarians believe in fairness and it seems that Ontarians believe in us. Given your efforts and commitment, I certainly believe in you.

In solidarity,
Bob Eaton, RVP Region 4

Bob Eaton, RVP, Region 4

I will begin this report by thanking all of the wonderful members of Region 4 for the faith, confidence and trust that they have displayed by electing me to my third term as an EBM and second as Regional Vice President. It is indeed a privilege and an honour to work on your behalf. Convention 2003 was an exhilarating, awesome event and though my presidential candidacy fell numerically short, I was overwhelmed by the work of the many volunteers who supported and cared for me throughout the campaign. I will never forget your loyalty, dedication and efforts. Additionally, I want to again publicly congratulate Sister Casselman, Brother Thomas and their supporters and organizers for their diligent work and respective re-election and acclamation. As the 2nd Vice president of our great Union I am absolutely committed to working with the two senior officers, Board, staff and members to promote our agenda throughout the next two years. Within that context I will continue to advocate for a strong, democratic, accountable and transparent organization.

Provincial Election

As I prepare this text there is much speculation as to when Premier Eves will call the next provincial election. Recently the Tories released their party platform and though it was a rehash of some very old right wing ideas, polls show that the party did get a 5 point bump following its release. The lesson is that we cannot afford to be complacent in this election. The future of Ontario's public services are directly linked to it. Already we are seeing Mr. Eves distance himself from original positioning as the Anti - Harris. The Tory's new platform, authored by Harris' former chief of staff mirrors the beliefs of extreme right wing components of the party. In fact, some pundits claim that the Tories will actually be running defeated leadership candidate Jim Flaherty's campaign rather than the conciliatory tone initially offered by Eves. Titled the Road Ahead, it is not surprising that some of the policy statements will have OPSEU members paying a heavy toll. And for those looking for directions along the road, all one has to do is follow the finger as provided by MPP John O'Toole. So there you have it, Ernie Eves, ever the politician, has made that huge right turn in policy, because that is what the Harrisites have told him to do. He is no longer kinder, gentler, consultative Ernie Eves. Instead of the anti-Harris he is the Dis-Eves.

The Road Ahead is paved with gold for Tory constituents and the right wing fringe. It is short sighted, simplistic, narrow- minded and riddled with overt hostility. Just the sort of thing that got the Tories elected in the first place. It contains a $5 billion tax rebate program for mortgage deduction. There will be further tax cuts, more E- government, service kiosks, scared straight courses for school bullies, one thousand new police officers, tough laws for second time impaired convictions, more services for victims and a screening and location program for immigrants. Oddly, there will also be a Ministry created named Human Development. I suppose "mass destruction" has already been overused. Rudimentary observation reveals flaws with all of these highlights, but we must play an integral role by publicly revealing the pitfalls, and by speaking to our friends, family and neighbors.

The proliferation of e-service and kiosks, combined with sell- offs and privatization are a direct threat to the provision of accountable, efficient public services. Successive Auditor reports have demonstrated that privatization provides inferior service without cost savings

The scared straight program is a hot button left over from the lunatics who lead the Crime Control Commission. Imagine sending a school age student off to a prison to be bullied into not bullying anymore. Perhaps the first attendees should be Cabinet and the advisors who authored this nonsense. I can picture the graduation ceremony (we all know how these folks love to provide and attend a ceremony) and the catchy theme- "Mentored by a Murderer." Sounds like a plan built for success. Bottom line is this government really has no idea what contributes to Public Safety even though they named a Ministry that. Never forget that this is the government that prolonged the OPS strike of 2002 by locking out our professional jail guards and replacing them with managers from the Ministry of Tourism, not that there is anything wrong with tourism or that Ministry. In order to keep a handle on the inmates and peace in the jail, this government essentially cut deals with murders, rapists, thieves and pedophiles while refusing to bargain with the Union that represents their workers. I will never forget the tactic employed by the Ministry of Public Stupidity and it's his lackeys when it tried to publicly humiliate 12 probation officers by having them charged with contempt and processing those charges through a Toronto court during the last OPS strike. What better way to promote public safety than to denigrate those who struggle to uphold it? In light of these occurrences it would be treasonous to publicly endorse any public safety initiative promoted by this government. Each and every one of their forays into this field is opportunistic and focussed on discipline and punishment. While publicly portraying themselves as tough guys, and the guardians and protectors of law and order, we as professionals recognize their demonstrated lack of insight and cowardly response.

As always the answer to all of society's ills is to hire more police officers. Here is a novel idea. What about investing in children, families and our communities and to fund appropriate intervention? Perhaps we could provide mental health services for clients and their families instead of dumping them out of institutions and out onto the street. As a wild card it might be a good idea to fund child welfare services so that workers can actually protect our most vulnerable people and work with families to reconcile difficulties when appropriate. It seems to me that the best way to assist victims of crime is to prevent their victimization in the first place. Relevant research is conclusive on the interventions that impact upon crime and it just so happens that our members provide many of those services. Unfortunately if the Tories are re-elected many of those services will disappear or may become available for a small user fee.

Even the announcement of lifetime license suspensions for second-time impaired drivers is hypocritical. Is this not the same band of merry, red tape protesters who promoted longer hours at local watering holes and actively advocated the merits and convenience of corner store liquor sales? At the same time they have withdrawn from their responsibility to fund public transportation. Those license suspensions may prove bad for business.

What else has 8 years of Tory government revealed? Well its not safe to drink the water; the air will make you ill; our municipalities' infrastructures are crumbling around us; the House is really a rental to be used sparingly and not for special occasions such as a budget presentation; traffic congestion in the GTA has never been greater despite a toll road that costs more than my first car payments; user fees are exceeding taxes; parents
and children don't understand the new curriculum, even though we are all now supposedly smarter than pre Mike Harris; nurses aren't hula hoops as indicated by this government; double cohorts will have no place to go in the fall unless they go back to high school, which by the way is what they were going to do before they were told that they couldn't. In any event it gives them another year to complete their 40 hours of forced volunteer work, because somehow between studying, working and not understanding, many of them forget to volunteer. Our vastly underpaid and unappreciated health professionals are leaving in droves, just at a time when SARS, West Nile and who knows what else hits. And to top it off the Tories dumped the scientists who work on this sort of stuff.

So here is my critical tongue in cheek Review of the top 10 issues and responses contained within the Toll Road Ahead:

1) There is a critical shortage of nurses, doctors and health professionals in the province.
R) Hire 1000 more police officers and if that doesn't work pass legislation allowing the above workers to decertify from their respective Unions and vote to join the OPPA. A full staffing review would follow.
2) Ontario students graduating in the first double cohort year are faced with the fact that cutbacks in post secondary education have resulted in insufficient placement opportunity.
R) Develop an initiative whereby tuition at proposed bully schools becomes tax deductible. You thought this was a free service? Plans are underway to consider denominational bully schools as well. A committee is also looking at extending these tax breaks to John Schools throughout the GTA.
3) The homeless situation has spiraled out of control and food banks are being utilized at an unprecedented rate.
R) Your government will immediately institute a mortgage rebate program and once in the housing market, the homeless can use the rebate to purchase almost 800 cans of 69 cent tuna.
4) Labour relations are at an all time low in the province.
R) Teachers will be granted the legal right to strike during summer vacations. Upon further negotiation and the abandonment of a work to rule strategy, teachers will also be allowed to strike during Christmas holidays, March break and on alternating weekends.
5) The right wing media reports a growing link between immigration and terrorist cells in Ontario.
R) In an effort to stem the growing tide of illegal and dangerous immigrants, the Minister of Public Security, upon expert advise, will install computer terminals at all border crossings and require immigrants and visitors to e-mail all terrorist links and associations to a Georgia call centre. They will also be required to submit to an MRI Examination conducted by a private for profit clinic. They will subsequently be held in pre -entry detention until they have paid for that procedure. That ought to stem the tide.
6) Ontarians are faced with an onslaught of terrifying, potentially fatal diseases such as SARS, West Nile Virus and Mad Cow disease.
R) Since firing the scientists who worked on these issues, the government has implemented a contingency plan consisting of greater reliance on e-government. As more people go online there will be a decreased need for interpersonal contact, thus a rapid decrease in communicable or infectious diseases. Surgical masks will be made tax deductible.
7) Government spending, especially as it relates to MPP's and their staff appears to be out of control with no real checks and balances.
R) The government will introduce a new initiative whereby MPP's from the 905 Area will have to take overnight accommodations in the Legislature, which will be turned into a Bed and Breakfast as part of a "welcome to Toronto plan." Of course this option will not apply when the House is sitting. For those 14 days of the year any approved downtown hotel will suffice as long as it is approved through An Order in Council henceforth referred to as an OINC.
8) Advocates for the disabled are very concerned with inadequate compensation rates for recipients of the ODSP. They are also upset by the lack of substance associated with the Ontarians with Disabilities Act (ODA). R) ODSP recipients will receive a raise in benefits leaving them only 50% below the poverty line. The government will also commit to a full -scale review of all 3 pages of the ODA and conduct public consultations on February 29 of the next leap year.
9) What about the potential for hydro-electricity outages, shortages and consideration for research into other forms of energy.
R) We all must learn to do more with less, however if re-elected the government will consider extending hours at Local bars.
10) In 1995 your government talked about a hand up rather than a hand out. Why is there nothing catchy like that in this platform?
R) Policy writers tried several slogans staying with the hand motif but we couldn't get anything to flow with handcuff.

Seriously, we cannot afford one more day of the incompetence, insincerity, and stupidity of this government and its political advisors. We must act now by mobilizing in anticipation of the pending election. Together we will make a difference. For our families, our communities and our future we must make a difference. Otherwise see you in bully school. As always take care.

In solidarity,
Bob

Heartfelt Thanks

As many of you are aware I have taken some fairly firm positions at the Board which have run contrary to the majority opinion. For that I make no apologies. Upon election I pledged to work as diligently as possible to achieve the best possible results for our membership. Sometimes differences occur in regards to organizational versus membership needs. I am convinced that if we are in fact a member - driven organization; one that believes that an injustice to one is indeed an injustice to all, that it is imperative for the leadership to support the rank and file membership in all decision making. I am not for a second suggesting that I operate on a higher level than any of my peers, but only perhaps from a different perspective. I will never accept the premise that the organization is greater than the parts that comprise its existence. Grassroots, in my opinion means supporting stronger Locals by supporting the individual members who make up those Locals. It is from the member that we build Divisions, Bargaining Units, Components, Regions and eventually a solid Union. If the Union is not relevant to the rank and file, there is no starting point, only a breeding ground for apathy and alienation.
I also endorse the concept that dynamic tension and differences of opinion are essential to the democratic process. If we all thought alike then we could save a lot of money by sending only one member per region to the Board. In that vein, I found the discussion in the President's presentation at the recent Region 4 Educational to be enlightening and invigorating. There was anger and acrimony as members were given the opportunity to vent their frustrations regarding several key issues. There was also insight to be gained. If history is indeed instructional then there is much to be learned by activities over the past year. Regardless, I think that all of us will agree that all of the members in the room throughout the evening care deeply about OPSEU- we may just have varying opinions on how to get to where it is we want to go. I was hopeful that similar debate would have occurred during Leah's visits to Ottawa and Cornwall, however for various reasons, despite regional promotion turnout was extremely poor. I worry when only a handful of activists show up for a presentation on the Network for Better Contracts by our President. Our flagship programme should draw more attention.
I would like to conclude this section by thanking all of you who had the courage to voice your concerns in a public forum. Your comments should be the foundation for change and reform. I would also like to clear up one item before moving on. The controversy regarding our recently approved dues increase and the Board's decision to include lost dues revenue as a strike expense is not, in my opinion, an OPS or BPS or CAAT issue. As I stated in my previous newsletter, the removal of $3 million from general revenues would have had a serious impact across ALL sectors of the Union, not just for those without the right to strike. My position is that we had a duty to inform the membership of our intentions to proceed as we did. Some, in defense of the strike fund may have objected, but in the end I am certain that members would have opted to protect services over cutting costs. I simply believe that the members are entitled to a debate and who knows perhaps some sort of compromise could have been achieved. I am, mindful that it was that same kind of process that resulted in the Hospital Professional Division being granted $50,000 to fund a campaign in their fight for a better contract. Initially when I forwarded that motion there were many that disagreed, but once the logic of numbers and fairness surfaced, the Board did endorse it. That, Brothers and Sisters is the strength of democracy and debate.

Membership Centre Update

I am pleased to announce that effective December 1 2002, OPSEU Region 4 will have its second membership centre up and running. It is located at 610 Dundas St. East in Belleville. We will be co-located with the OPSEU organizing office, with plenty of space for offices, meetings or just hanging out with similar minded individuals. The Cornwall Centre has proven to be very successful and is well utilized by local activists. This concept also allows us to display the face of our Union in our own communities. They are in my opinion an integral component of the NBC initiative as they provide a home for our members. Stay tuned for a grand opening announcement.

Local Restructuring

As many of you are aware the Board has established a Local Restructuring Committee. Your Region 4 board members decided to take a proactive approach to the issue and requested staff members to make recommendations on change. Subsequently we met with the staff to review their suggestions and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their efforts on what will be a very "political issue". It seems to me that there will not be a lot of Corporate will to make changes prior to Convention, but surely the groundwork is laid for future discussion. Personally, I believe that reform of policy surrounding Locals has to be on the front burner, especially if we are to provide top quality service within the realm of fiscal reality. I also believe that the membership must be consulted before any changes are implemented. A unilateral, authoritative approach has the potential of being counter -productive to the goal of promoting strong, active Locals. As RVP you have my pledge that you will be consulted before any change is considered.

Officer's Meeting

The Officers met on November 14, 2002. The main piece of business was Budget 2003. Let me begin by complimenting VP /Treasurer Smokey Thomas and the Administrators for their work and deliberations. Budgets are difficult work, integral to the membership, setting direction and priorities for our Union. On the surface the document presented to the Officers is indeed a "good news budget". Total dues revenue is up almost $12 million this year- a raise in excess of 20 percent. Of that amount $ 8.4 million is aimed directly at the strike fund. At this rate barring any large or costly labour disputes, the dues levy surcharge passed by last year's convention should terminate by the end of 2004, as we reach $ 30 million in the Strike Fund. The budget also contains approximately $2.5 million in extra spending on services as compared to 2002. Additionally, thanks to Brother Anderson's motion there is $1 million targeted for debt reduction. We will, as a result of the Board's decision to include lost dues revenue as a strike expense transfer $1.9 million from the strike fund to the operating fund. Given increased spending the argument that program sustenance hinged on the strike fund transfer falls a little flat. Nonetheless, if this budget is passed by the Board and subsequently by Convention it should be a banner year for servicing our members. I will support it with the caveat to the membership that given all the dynamics that have occurred relative to the dues levy this may be a "fat year" for spending.
One issue, passed by the Officers will not be getting my support. Brother Elliott, RVP Region 1 brought forth a series of motions regarding the upcoming NDP Leadership race. I commend him for his work and dedication to his beliefs. The motion that I take great exception to is the one calling for a QUARTER MILLION DOLLAR donation to the federal NDP party. This money would come from this year's contingency budget. Again I refer you to the " sky will fall" hyperbole relative to service provision and the need to transfer $3 million from the strike fund to the general operating line. What really surprises me is that this is the same Officer who vehemently opposed a motion that I submitted requesting $5,000 for AIDS victims in sub Saharan Africa. As you may recall, in September the Officers attended the Public Service International Conference in Ottawa at which Stephen Lewis begged the donor community for money to help the victims of this ravaging disease. I was particularly moved by the news that a huge majority of African public sector workers and their families were being victimized and dying prematurely without needed drug therapy. My motion was defeated and while the Board did move to address the carnage at Convention 2003, I am shocked by the reasoning that $5,000 to prolong life is inappropriate but $250,000 for a political party is in line with our members thinking.

Hydro and Health Care

Is there a comparison between hydro and health care? I think so. A recent Toronto Star article quoted the Tories as saying that the increase in hydro rates was simply a matter of supply and demand exacerbated by one of the hottest summers on record. The same scenario holds true for health care. We are an aging population- one that is living longer thus demanding more resources for a longer period of time. Additionally, due to stressful working conditions, under-funding, lack of respect and low wages, health care professionals are reportedly leaving their chosen professions. The supply/ demand theory of economics dictates that Privateers are lining up in preparation to gain control of a private health care system where demand cannot possibly be met. Imagine what those bills would look like. In order to avoid something similar to the hydro fiasco, Premier Eves would be wise to engage health care professionals in a plan to attract and retain qualified, trained, professional health care workers. It will require an investment of time, money and a huge injection of government respect into the work performed by our members. A proactive response now will save all Ontarians the inevitability of the reality presented by the privatization or should I say partial privatization of hydro. The problem with the free market as it relates to public services is that neo-conservative philosophy has no conscience or regard for those who are left behind because of affordability. We cannot tolerate a lights out approach when it comes to health care. No postscript financial rebate will substitute for the loss of health or life.

Thinking Out Loud

Special thanks to all members who have filled in as MDT's at the Ottawa office as we have struggled to fill gaps in service. Thanks to our members for your patience, understanding and diligence in demanding appropriate servicing…Welcome back Mike Campbell to Kingston… Kudos to all who took the time out of their busy schedule to attend the President's tour in Ottawa, Cornwall and Kingston…Job well done to the Brockville staff who organized our recent Region 4 Educational. Including the DS leadership development course, well over 100 participants attended…Wasn't Howard Hampton, Leader of the NDP correct when he warned us about the cost of Hydro deregulation? …I was very impressed with the Strike Review Power Point Presentation prepared by staff member Randy Robinson. Region 4's views were very prominent or at least consistent with the rest of the province. Too bad it wasn't presented to the full body at the OPS Divisionals…Given the recent violence in Toronto is it time that the Union consider a Community Development Line in our budget? As a public service Union don't we have a responsibility to participate in finding a solution?… It appears that the Tories will be looking into the fall of next year before going to the polls. The stench of the hydro fiasco will force them to cocoon for several months until the next big issue arises…Aren't we all proud of the work being done by our Hospital folks as they stand up to the OHA.I am pleased that we are allotting all available resources to this group as they mobilize for a decent collective agreement… And finally prayers go out to the family of Brother Terry Connolly, Region 7 Board member, who passed away suddenly at age 60.
And as we prepare for the holiday season and the new year let me take this opportunity to wish you and your family happiness, safety, love and above all peace.

In Solidarity,
Bob

As we approach the lazy, hazy days of summer there is much to contemplate both within and outside our Union. The OPS, after two months back on the job is still reeling from the impact of a bitter and prolonged eight week strike which cost the membership close to $ 50 million. The new Premier of this province has just completed his first one hundred days in office, with strong evidence of incremental disassociation with policy direction and practice of his predecessor. Our brothers and sisters from CUPE are now engaged in an important labour dispute with the City of Toronto, while Corporate America continues to self -destruct under the influence of personal and cumulative greed. I would like to take an opportunity to comment on each of these events.
As I write this piece the Union is conducting an internal review of the 2002 OPSEU strike. Region 4 held a debriefing session on June 1,2002 during which members expressed both satisfaction and dismay. A full review will be posted once complete, but suffice to say there are many questions relative to timing and strategy that need to be addressed by the leadership. Members felt quite strongly that they were much better prepared this time around as compared to 1996. They also felt that communication and education were prominent positive attributes, especially pre- strike. At the Board I have raised questions relative to our policy in regards to bargaining. In a nutshell, it is apparent to me that the Board of Directors has very little influence over decision making during a major labour dispute such as the one presented by the OPS. Power and control is given to the Bargaining Teams and an inner circle referred to as the Strike Strategy Committee that consists of relevant staff, bargaining team members, the President, 1st VP and two Board members chosen by the President. I find troubling the reality that a democratic organization such as OPSEU could spend approximately $50 million of dues revenue during the strike while having held only one meeting of the Board of Directors (conducted during Convention). This, in my opinion runs totally contrary to the premise that Board members are the gatekeepers of our budget.
Speaking of budget, I am very impressed by the fact that OPSEU delegates to Convention voted overwhelmingly to support the rebuilding of our Strike Fund. As many may remember, I seconded this Board motion to convention and spoke at the pro mike in support of acceptance. The concept that strike expenses be included in Strike Fund expenditures made imminent sense to me but I did not foresee that the Board at its June retreat meeting would include lost dues revenue as an expense. As background, the eight- week strike cost approximately $3 million in lost dues. And while I agree that this sort of lost revenue could have a disastrous impact on service provision, I am very much opposed to the notion that somehow lost revenue is an expense. I would have favoured a more direct approach in the question that we posed to delegates and flat out requested permission to replace that lost revenue. Regardless, the vast majority of my colleagues at the Board felt that such a strategy was appropriate and while I am bound by that decision I do have the ability to speak out against it as I did file a minority report. I also believe that the Union should have a financial interest in calling a strike and in resolving it in a timely fashion. The Board's latest decision eliminates any potential corporate hardship by allowing the Union to recover all lost dues from the strike fund. The membership has no similar escape mechanism in regards to lost wages or personal revenue.
I want to take this opportunity to thank my sisters and brothers from the BPS and CAAT who have donated thousands of dollars to the Region 4 Hardship Fund. After consultation with sister Mary Ann White, who was a major force behind this initiative, it was decided that any unspent money would be left in the fund for future incidents of work stoppage throughout the Union in our region. Special thanks to staff member Laurie Brown in Brockville for her work in administering the fund. In fact while I am on the subject of OPSEU employees, this Union is fortunate to have as many dedicated, hard -working staff as we do. The strike again demonstrated your importance and prominence.
Premier Eves recently completed his first one hundred days in office and just as his predecessor rapidly instituted a new regime, the current Premier seems eager to put his personal stamp on the province. At least for the time being there appears to be a shift away from the dogma of the Common Sense Revolution, towards a more conciliatory, consultative approach. We should not get too comfortable or complacent, but rather take advantage of the current shift, because a new mandate based on future electoral success has a way of influencing leadership styles and policy. My own assessment concludes that the Tories realize that in order to defeat the Liberals there will have to be a strengthening of support for the NDP across the province. This will cost the Liberals some support from the left of the political spectrum, thereby setting up a battle for the middle. Eves knows that his support from the far right will remain solid despite grumblings, because those constituents have no where else to turn. So the next year is pivotal if we hope to gain momentum and achieve influence and real power.
As I write, CUPE's outside workers are on strike in the City of Toronto. The inside workers are poised to join them as contract talks reach an impasse. Given timing and seasonal concerns this is a strike of great leverage, however public opinion is a funny thing and those who hold the belief that public sector workers should be aware of what the public values must be concerned that a win today doesn't cost jobs tomorrow. As one would expect, as citizens feel the impact of the strike the City is publicly floating privatization possibilities in order to court public support for future divestment initiatives. Interestingly, seldom are employers blamed for a labour dispute, despite their provocative contract offers, authored in inflammatory language for the sole purpose of causing a strike. Sound familiar? This is a hurdle that all Unions must overcome.
Ever heard that government should be run like a business? That mantra of the neo-conservatives is increasingly under attack as companies such as Enron, Merrill Lynch, Xerox, Nortel, Arthur Andersen and WorldCom Inc. face investigation as a result of fraudulent accounting practices. Who pays for the fraud? The average citizen (aka taxpayer) pays with the loss of savings and the accumulation of worthless investments. Big business' get rich schemes seldom apply to the average citizen. In fact it is the small investor's losses that generally are allotted to the bottom line of those who count on our preoccupation with financial security. This is not a condemnation of Corporations but rather a caveat that the purpose for private corporations, their very raison d'être is profit without regard to who gets hurt.
Those are just a few thoughts for the summer. OPT members watch your mail for a survey on pension plan surplus options. This is your money and I am very pleased with the Pension Liaison Committee who has once again provided an opportunity for your input. Good luck to Brother Mike Campbell on your retirement from the Kingston Regional Office. You will be missed but not forgotten. People are always more important than structures, no matter what acronym is applied and Mike is absolutely one of our VIPs. For all Locals in need of technology we have 9 computers available from the Regional offices cleaned but not guaranteed. Let me know if you are interested on a first come first serve basis. In the meantime take care of yourself and your family. Please enjoy a restful, peaceful summer. Thank you for your work and your dedication to our Union.

In solidarity,
Bob Eaton, Region 4 RVP

It is with mixed emotions that I send this last communication on the OPS Strike of 2002. It was many months ago that together we began this odyssey to win a collective agreement for our members and our families. Beginning with the election of our bargaining teams, followed by the setting of demands, OPSEU members across this Region and indeed across the entire province mobilized in unprecedented fashion. As a collective we fostered solidarity like never before. Members, staff and elected leadership committed to bringing home an "A" contract, even within parameters established by the most anti-Union government in the history of this province. And today, 53 days after withdrawing our labour we celebrate a great victory. Make no mistake I am not suggesting for a second that we accomplished all the goals set out at the beginning of this journey. That would be dishonest. And trust me when I say that I will be pressing for a full review of the strike and our strategy- but that is for another day. During the past eight weeks we have accomplished something intangible and perhaps unmeasurable. We experienced true solidarity accentuated by our commitment to our ideals, professionalism and most importantly to each other.
Brothers and Sisters your actions have left me truly humbled. Your dedication, faith and industrious work ethic are unparalleled in the labour movement. You took on the bully in the face of adversity and insurmountable odds and soldiered on, because you believed in yourself and each other. I have had the opportunity of meeting many heroes since March 13 and believe when I say that your support has had a profound impact on my assessment for the future of this Union and indeed the concept of Unionism in the 21st century. To the OPS rank and file, BPS and CAAT members, staff and my two colleagues and brothers Gavin Anderson and Smokey Thomas I am forever grateful for your support and unwavering commitment to the cause.
And now we must move on. But as we re-enter the workplace let us go in with our heads held high, proud of ourselves and our commitment to quality public service. Each of us will have to cope as best we can in the workplace. It is forever changed. Personally I will never forget nor never forgive the behavior of managers who reveled in our most challenging times. I remain motivated by the utter disdain and disrespect that this employer heaped upon us. I am sickened by the fact that in order to keep peace in the jails this government bargained with rapists, murderers and pedophiles but not with its own staff. Life will go and strangely injustices have a way of being rectified. I take solace in the fact that when I return to the workplace I will be rejoining not only the greatest employees on the face of the earth but also the greatest Union members known to the labour movement. Please take care and rejuvenate. Ours is a victory that is to be savored and nurtured.
In solidarity,

Bob Eaton
RVP Region 4
May 5, 2002

You've done it again. Region 4 members and staff continue to support this union beyond belief. Initially we asked you for an "A" strike mandate and you responded in unprecedented fashion. Next we asked you to provide impenetrable, active and systematic picket lines with corresponding inside and outside strike activity. Again you came through with flying colours. And just last week the leadership requested your presence at Premier Eves' swearing in ceremony and your response was incredible. Buses carrying in excess of 800 members left from destinations all across this great Region converging on University Avenue in Toronto. I am sure that I speak for both Smokey and Gavin when I tell you how extremely proud we are of you. We have asked and you have delivered.
As we close in on consummating a deal it is imperative that we stay strong and united. Our message is resonating with the public and hopefully with the politicians. In my opinion, Premier Eves' cabinet selection is indicative of a leader who realizes that his party must shift away from the politics of confrontation - at least temporarily. It is a softer, gentler version of the Harris regime, advertising a more conciliatory approach. We must exploit the opportunity that this shift presents in order to achieve a reasonable deal for our members. Given the fact that an election would appear to be at least a year away, now is the time to focus on the issues and highlight the professionalism of our membership and the importance of a skilled, accountable and respected public sector.
We have endured our struggle for five weeks. We are thriving as a membership devoted to the cause and to each other. Stay strong, keep the faith and maintain your sense of dignity and pride. You are a shining example of how the power of the collective can transcend and elevate. For the lessons that you have taught and the heroic examples of selflessness that you have provided, I will forever be grateful. Take care.

In solidarity,
Bob Eaton Region 4 RVP

April 17, 2002

P.S. I just heard we're going back to the table tomorrow!

Day 1 is in the books and by all accounts it was an enormously successful day of picketing across the Region and indeed throughout the province. As Smokey, Gavin and I travelled across the region the enthusiasm and support of the membership was incredible. Lines were up and running in all service areas, and it was anything but business as usual for the employer. Everywhere members were taking that extra step to assert themselves and take control of this labour dispute. The Corrections strategy completely disarmed management and has left them guessing as to what the future may hold. Everywhere stories of strategic interruption, delays and inside and outside action permeated the lines. And despite the action that we have been forced to take, the public displayed overwhelming support with gifts of food, coffee mixed in with waves and honks of support. Momentum is definitely on our side.
Over the next several days there will be rumours circulated by a desperate employer- the latest is a twelve-week strike. Make no mistake this is a strategy designed to break our spirit. Maintain contact with your leadership and our communication network. It is there that the truth will be shared. As we move forward together in solidarity, rest assured that ours is a just and noble cause. We are not only fighting for our families and ourselves but also for a richer and safer Ontario. Take care.

In solidarity,
Bob Eaton, RVP Region 4

Overwhelming! That is the only way to describe the support given to our Bargaining Teams by the province's 45,000 OPS members. Record numbers attended the vote (71%) slamming the employer's sham of an offer with 88% of the membership indicating a resounding "No". The Corrections members were more emphatic with nearly unanimous rejection. The message is clear "Enough is Enough". It is time to rebuild the public service and respect the front line professionals who make Ontario a richer and safer place to live.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the members, staff, mobilizers and elected leadership of Region 4. When one contemplates from whence we came ours was indeed a collective and Herculean effort. Seldom in my experience in this great Union have I sensed the solidarity and momentum that we now have. The many mobilizing meetings across the region gave us the opportunity of meeting face to face with thousands of members. It was a grass roots experience that must never be forgotten. It was democracy in its purest and simplest form. And it worked! Given the correct information and a forum to ask questions and express views, Region 4 members responded in dramatic and decisive fashion. Now, solidly together we take the next step toward an "A" contract.

The coming days will be crucial as we close in on an agreement. I urge you to keep up your workplace actions and to remain connected to our mobilizers, staff, local leaders, bargaining team members and EBM's. Ours will be an intense, arduous journey but one that must and will be completed successfully. It is indeed our time. Your support has guaranteed that. Take care.

In solidarity,
Bob Eaton, RVP Region 4

I am so proud of this Region, our leaders and its members. As we close in on next week's strike vote the momentum is obvious. Insulting and degrading. That is the only way to describe the Employer's initial offer to 45,000 OPS members. Ironically this sham of an offer has served as a catalyst for unprecedented solidarity amongst the rank and file. Our Bargaining team members, staff, mobilizers and EBM's are meeting face to face with scores of members in information sessions across the Region. A resounding "No" can be heard at every session. Enough is Enough and on February 26, 27 and 28 Region 4 is going to send a clear message to the employer through our Bargaining Teams- get serious and treat us with respect and dignity. Our work is indeed the front line of defense for Ontarians.

The press has been very interested in our activities; not only the print media but also radio and television has kept me busy doing interviews over the past several weeks. More importantly our membership understands the issues and realizes the importance of a strong strike vote. And while all of us want a peaceful resolve to this contract negotiation, we are prepared to take a final step if necessary. OPSEU does not make idle threats. We are a Union of action and as such are well prepared to do whatever it takes to get an "A" contract. The future of this province depends on it. To all brothers and sisters in the BPS, CAAT and the private sector I appreciate all your calls and pledges of support. Together we will win. Together we are strong.

In Solidarity,
Bob Eaton, Region 4

     All hands on deck! OPS bargaining is in full gear and all of Region 4 is on red alert as Contract Enhancement activities escalate. I am proud to say that our members are well prepared to take on this government and achieve a fair and equitable deal. Since 1995, the Tories have made political fodder out of disrespecting and denigrating the work of public sector workers. The tide has turned. The public is beginning to understand the important contributions of our membership. We are value added. Our work ensures safety, security and accessibility. Tax cuts result in the deterioration of services and the transfer of money from communities to the coffers of multinationals. Recent economic realities indicate that the debate is over-tax cuts lead to service cuts which leads to tragedy. Just ask the citizens of Walkerton.
      It is absolutely imperative that our membership throws its total and full support behind our Bargaining teams. As Brother Gavin Anderson so eloquently stated on January 28th in Kingston," Would you write a cheque for a house or car based on the vendors initial position?" Collective bargaining is no different-there is always a better offer. That is why Region 4 will overwhelmingly reject any offer not endorsed by the Bargaining teams. A rejection vote of 90% plus will result in a "A" contract. 75% rejection will eventually result in a "B" contract and so on. Labour history proves that a strong rejection of the employer's initial offer has the net impact of lessening the likelihood of a labour stoppage. Weak strike votes actually increase the chance of strike or lock -out simply because the employer feels compelled to test the worker's resolve to defend their ground.
      As we head into the home stretch of bargaining, your Board members encourage you to support your team. There will be a contract. The type of contract depends on the membership and our resolve to defend against an employer who has shown nothing but contempt towards us. I am also calling on our brothers and sisters in the BPS and CAAT to join this battle. We are well prepared and trained. Close to 100 activists will have attended our Inside and Out Strike Preparation Training. Member mobilizers Pam Smith, Brian Lowry, Dave Lundy and as of February 4th, Robert Curran are working at a feverish pitch. Your Board members and staff are fired up and our President and Bargaining teams are focussed and intent on delivering an "A" contract. Solidarity will ensure victory. Take care.

Bob Eaton
Region 4 RVP