Organizing Hat Trick in Canada Highlights Diversity
May 5, 2016
Quick links+
Three recent organizing wins in Canada illustrate the diversity of industries and workers looking to the IAM for justice on the job. Healthcare and hospitality workers in Ontario and government employee union representatives make up 120 of the newest IAM members in Canada.
Ontario Retirement Home Workers Choose IAM
Employees at the Thorncliffe Retirement Home in Nepean, ON are the newest members of IAM Local 1295.
“These workers were looking for union representation,” said IAM Grand Lodge Representative and Organizer Scott Jackson. “We represent workers at three retirement homes in the Ottawa area and the Thorncliffe workers could see firsthand the benefits provided by belonging to a union.
“District 78 Organizers Roy Bhansingh and Aurélie Sarrabezolles guided these workers through the process and ensured that they stuck together,” said Jackson.
The 45 new members consist of nursing, dietary, housekeeping, reception and maintenance workers. The IAM represents workers at retirement homes in Orleans, Bowmanville, Toronto and North Bay.
Hotel Workers in Ontario Go IAM
IAM Local 1295 welcome 25 new members employed by the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel in Mississauga.
“These workers wanted better wages and benefits and most importantly union representation,” said IAM Grand Lodge Representative and Organizer Scott Jackson.
“District 78 Organizer Roy Bhansingh had been working with these workers and building their confidence for over three months before they were finally ready to stand up to their employer,” said Jackson.
The new members consist of housekeeping and restaurant workers.
The IAM currently represents workers at 10 Ontario hotels in Brampton, London, Hamilton, Ottawa, Mississauga, Oakville and Toronto.
Nova Scotia Government Employee Union Reps Join IAM
Staff Representatives and support staff of the Nova Scotia Government Employees Union are the newest members of IAM Local 2797.
“These people are very aware of the value of associating with a progressive union where your voice counts for something,” said IAM Grand Lodge Representative and Organizer Scott Jackson. “Their job is to speak on behalf of government employees around the province of Nova Scotia. They felt the need to have someone speak for them and they chose the IAM and we’re proud to have them become part of our union.”
“This was a team effort and I wish to thank IAM National Communications Representative Frank Saptel, IAM District 78 Business Representative Kim Valliere and IAM Transportation District 140 General Chairperson Ken Russell for their efforts in this organizing success,” said Jackson.
The 50 new members consist of union staff representatives and their support staff.
