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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 Boards 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 EBMs. 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
|
Regional
Vice President Report - Volume 2, Report 1
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
|
Regional
Vice President Report #10
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
|
Regional Vice President
Report #9
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
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RVP
Report 8 - OPS Strike, Final Edition
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
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RVP Report 7- OPS Strike
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
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RVP Report 6 -OPS Strike
I
begin this report by thanking each and every one of you
for your support, loyalty and patience as we move towards
settling this contract dispute. Only with the rock solid
resolve of the membership can our organization continue
with this titanic struggle for respect and fairness. Through
any strike there are milestones and signposts and one is
fast approaching our membership. On Monday, April 15th,
Premier-elect Ernie Eves is scheduled to be sworn in as
the next leader of this Province. Accordingly, he is our
new "boss". Appropriately our leadership is scheduling
a welcoming for Mr. Eves in Toronto on that day. As your
Regional Vice President, I am requesting your participation
in this event. It is imperative that a peaceful, respectful
OPSEU presence be organized to receive and meet our new
Premier. All Regions from within our great Union will be
participating and I am confident that every available member
within Region 4 will take advantage of this wonderful opportunity
to celebrate our professionalism and the positive contributions
that we make to life in Ontario. Buses will be made available
from various locations throughout our geographic catchment
area. Local leaders are urged to compile a list of participants
as quickly as possible in order that proper plans are made.
Recognizing the commitment involved, and the early hour
of departure necessary for a 10:45am Toronto arrival, participants
will be credited with hour for hour strike duty for this
event. For those unable to attend for personal reasons,
I am suggesting alternative duties such as meal preparation
and child care for attendees. Brothers and Sisters it is
crucial that we send a clear message to Mr. Eves and his
new cabinet that the politics of confrontation is over and
that a fair settlement is in the best interest of all Ontarians.
I am calling on you once again for your support. I am confident
that we will respond in true Region 4 style. See you in
Toronto. Our future may depend on it.
In solidarity,
Bob Eaton RVP, Region 4
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RVP Report 5-OPS Strike
Unprecedented!
That is the only way to describe the behavior of this government
as it relates to their own workers. Since 1995 the Tories
have made political hay out of denigrating and disrespecting
the work of public sector professionals. We all know the
drill and have experienced first hand the devaluation of
our contributions to our communities and to the province.
We have found strength in our Union but more importantly
we have found solace and support in each other. And now
as we head into the fourth week of this labour dispute it
is that strength that we must draw upon in order to maintain
our resolve and bring this round of negotiations to a successful
conclusion.
As I witness government strategy aimed at humiliating and
degrading our membership, I can't help but think that this
dispute is less about a contract and more acutely focussed
on a desperate political party's attempt to destroy public
confidence in its own services. This would explain the government's
tactic of painting us as lawless hooligans. Despite claims
of threats and intimidation I have yet to see one criminal
charge laid against our membership. Why not? Because their
claims are patently untrue. Ancillary to the damage done
publicly is the government's purposeful attempt to discredit
us before our clients. I have been on lines where probation
and parole clients hurl Tory inspired insults as they depart
into the community. As for our brothers and sisters who
will one day have to return to their work in the jails,
theirs will be a monumental and perhaps insurmountable task.
Regaining control of those facilities after the inmates
have run amuck for weeks will surely test their professional
and human resolve. In all workplaces we will meet that challenge,
because we are professionals.
I can't imagine any other employer engaging in this type
of behavior. The promise of new leadership has been empty
as a lame duck premier ambles along on vacation, delighted
by the damage he has inflicted. If he were truly any type
of leader he would disengage himself from his cowardly advisers
and direct his team to undertake meaningful, professional
negotiations. The Premier -elect, conspicuous by his absence,
has thus far offered only empty rhetoric regarding a more
conciliatory approach. In the meantime we will soldier on
confident that ours is a just and noble struggle. It is
only through our collective actions, courage and loyalty
to one another that we will achieve our goals of respect
and a renewed public sector. Take care of yourself and each
other.
In solidarity,
Bob Eaton, RVP Region 4
P.S. I just heard we're going back to the table tomorrow!
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OPS Strike- Day 1 Regional
VP Report 4
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
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OPS Bargaining Regional
VP Report #3
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
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Regional VP Report #2 -OPS Bargaining
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
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Regional Vice President
Report

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
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