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CAW's Hargrove Urges Further Interest Rate Cuts
TORONTO - Canadian Auto Workers union President Buzz Hargrove welcomed today's 25-basis-point reduction in interest rates by the Bank of Canada, but warned that the Bank must quickly cut rates further to avoid an even more serious downturn in Canada's export-oriented manufacturing industries.
"The Bank of Canada made a serious error in raising interest rates this
summer, as our loonie was soaring to such destructive heights," Hargrove said.
"Now it is starting to unwind those actions, but it must go further."
Hargrove called on the Bank to fully match recent and upcoming U.S.
interest reductions. U.S. interest rates have declined by 75 basis points
since mid-September, and further cuts are expected.
"Today's interest rate reduction is a small step in the right direction,
but more action by the Bank is needed, and soon," Hargrove said.
Hargrove called on the Bank to take a more flexible approach to managing
the Canadian economy through interest rate adjustments and its monetary
policy. He said the bank has a responsibility to take a much broader approach
than just controlling inflation, it also must make economic adjustments that
help create jobs for Canadians and that help boost Canadian economic output.
"Other countries successfully manage their exchange rates in the
interests of domestic production, investment, and exports," Hargrove said,
"and Canada should too."
Hargrove pointed to the Japanese experience, where deliberate efforts to
suppress the currency have largely protected Japanese exporters against the
impacts of U.S. dollar weakness. Hargrove estimated that those efforts to
suppress the yen have reduced the price of Japanese auto exports to North
America by at least 30 percent to the detriment of Canadian auto workers jobs.
Slowing auto sales are the latest reflection of the Harper government's
inaction on the unfair trade and a soaring dollar. The government's lack of
auto policy and vision are destroying this Canadian industry and putting
thousands out of work, according to Hargrove.
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CAW Economist Appointed Vice-Chair of Ontario Manufacturing Council
TORONTO - CAW Economist Jim Stanford was appointed December 4, 2007 as one of two vice-chairs of the new Ontario Manufacturing Council. The announcement was made in the provincial legislature by Sandra Pupatello, Ontario's Minister of Economic Development and Trade. The other vice-chair is Jayson Myers, President of the Canadian Manufactures & Exporters.
The Council's mandate is to report to the provincial government with
recommendations on investment, innovation, trade, market development, energy
and environment, and human resources and regulatory issues that affect the
global competitiveness of Ontario's manufacturing sector. The vice-chair
positions are voluntary.
"As both an economist and a trade unionist, I believe passionately that
manufacturing matters to our future economic and social well-being," said
Stanford. "Manufacturing generates unique benefits for our productivity, our
incomes, and our trade performance. And our policies must reflect that
importance."
Manufacturing in Ontario, and across Canada, has been hard-hit in recent
years by a combination of the rising Canadian dollar, growing trade
imbalances, and restructuring in the auto industry and other key sectors. Over
the past year, the CAW's "Manufacturing Matters" campaign has helped to focus
the attention of local communities and political leaders on the challenges
facing manufacturing, and the necessity for both federal and provincial
governments to play an active role in retaining and strengthening
manufacturing jobs.
Stanford acknowledged that most of the difficulties facing manufacturing
(such as the dollar and trade deficits) have arisen at the national and global
levels, but stressed that the provincial government has the power to make a
positive difference. "I look forward to working with Jayson Myers, the
Minister, and other manufacturing stakeholders to develop pragmatic policy
ideas that could make a real difference to Ontario's most important industry.
We will build on the success of past initiatives like Ontario's auto
investment strategy."
"Our union has played a crucial role in focusing attention on the
continuing need for a strong manufacturing industry," said Buzz Hargrove,
President of the CAW. "The work of the Ontario Manufacturing Council will be
very important to all industry stakeholders as we grapple with the daunting
challenges before us."
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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CALLS FOR PROTECTION OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Waterloo Region – In a report issued today, The Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce call on the provincial government to get involved in what has traditionally been considered a federal issue. “Protection of Intellectual Property: A Case for Ontario”, suggests that piracy and counterfeiting transcend jurisdiction, and must be addressed through the collaboration of all stakeholders: government, industry and consumers.
In fact, the report contends that the Ontario government has a responsibility to play a key role in the issue.
According to the report, piracy and counterfeiting can be estimated to cost the Canadian economy $22.5 billion, which would translate into a $9 billion problem for Ontario.
“Based on conservative estimates, a $9 billion loss to Ontario’s economy is robbing the province of $1.6 billion in lost tax revenue, and about 50,000 jobs,” says Len Crispino, President & CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “Add the negative impacts on Ontario’s attractiveness to investors, ability to foster innovation and the potential damage to trading relations with our largest trading partner, the United States, and the province is compelled to act.”
Support for the report has come from a cross-section of the economy including: the automotive industry, video-gaming industry, recording industry, pharmaceutical and electrical industries.
"From our perspective, IP protection in Canada is very important to the growth of our regional economy", says Ross Wells, Chair of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce and Partner at Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP, “We encourage both business and governments to move quickly on the report's recommendations."
Using a number of specific industry examples, the report outlines a comprehensive series of recommendations including:
The Federal and Provincial governments establish an IP Crime Task Force and an IP Inter-ministerial Coordination Council;
The Federal government strengthen the IP protection legislative framework by, among other things, criminalizing trademark counterfeiting and the intentional manufacture, reproduction, distribution, importation or sale of counterfeit products
The Federal and provincial governments provide additional funding and training to the Canada Border Services Agency, police, Crown Attorneys and judges to enhance IPR Protection;
Businesses adopt the Coalition Against Counterfeiting and Piracy Supply Chain Toolkit; and,
All stakeholders work together to generate greater public awareness concerning the impact of counterfeiting and piracy on public health and safety, and the economy.
“Protection of Intellectual Property: A Case for Ontario” can be found at www.occ.on.ca
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Steelworkers Provide Home Testing for Toxic Toys: Union Urges Politicians to end 'Toxic Trade'
VANCOUVER - Appearing in a Vancouver home with children and concerned parents this morning, representatives of the United Steelworkers (USW) conducted lead testing of the children's toys with kits that the union provides to the public.
In response to the recall of over two million unsafe toys the union is
calling on both the federal and provincial governments to take actions to
ensure Canadian kids are protected from lead and other toxic materials.
USW Staff Representative Lee Edwards said parents are becoming
increasingly concerned about purchasing unsafe products for their children in
the unregulated environment of globalized trade.
"We've seen over 2 million toys recently recalled with inadequate actions
taken by our governments to force producers and importers to test and make
sure products they sell for our children are safe," said Edwards. "That's why
we encourage parents to be proactive and test for lead in toys themselves."
Despite a recent throne speech by the Stephen Harper Government, only a
website on toxic substances has been posted by federal authorities.
Earlier this month the federal New Democratic Party and the USW called
for a new Toxic Import Protection Act to make imports safer and protect
manufacturing jobs at home.
USW Western Canada Director Steve Hunt says that the hidden cost of
deregulated globalized trade means that compounds containing lead have
resurfaced as toxic ingredients in children's toys and items, as well as
antifreeze chemicals in toothpaste and pesticide ingredients in baby soothers.
"Parents want to provide a safe home with safe products for their kids,"
says Hunt. "This is a value that we all share. Now our elected officials have
to act."
In BC, the USW also supports the provincial New Democrats' proposed
"right to know" legislation which will ensure that manufacturers label
ingredients in toys and household consumer products.
Also present during lead testing today were representatives of the Labour
and Environmental Alliance Society (LEAS). The LEAS has recently published the
CancerSmart 3.0 Guide that includes information on toxic toys and consumer
products.
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New Chair for Canada’s Technology Triangle Inc Regional Economic Development Partnership to be Led by John Doherty
Waterloo Region - John S. Doherty is the new Chair of Canada’s Technology Triangle Inc, the public-private regional economic development partnership marketing Waterloo Region and the cities of Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo to the world.
Mr. Doherty, a resident of Cambridge, is the Managing Partner of Gowlings’ Waterloo Region Office and serves on Gowlings’ executive committee. Gowlings is one of Canada’s largest law firms and the Waterloo practice that Mr. Doherty heads has local roots going back to the 1800’s.
“Heightened interest has been generated internationally in what is behind the success of the dynamic Waterloo Region economy,” according to Mr. Doherty. “As a result, Canada’s Technology Triangle Inc has the opportunity to develop the business case for a Waterloo Region presence to high quality prospects from elsewhere in Canada, the US and internationally.” Mr. Doherty points out, “The attractiveness of the Region is built upon skilled and well educated talent, outstanding post-secondary educational institutions, strategic location, and rich traditions and cultural amenities.”
Mr. Doherty’s community affiliations include the Cambridge Volunteer Bureau (past President); the board of directors for the United Way of Cambridge and North Dumfries (Executive Committee); the Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce (past Chair); past member of the board of directors for Cambridge and North Dumfries Hydro Inc.; member and Chair of Citizen's Advisory Committee on Regional Council Compensation and co-chair of 2003 and 2005 Prosperity Forums.
Mr. Doherty succeeds Jamie Martin, Partner at Miller Thomson, who has been Chair since 2004. Mr. Doherty paid tribute to his predecessor, saying, “Under Jamie’s leadership, Canada’s Technology Triangle Inc has been become one of the most highly regarded regional economic development agencies in Canada. The Board is exceptionally grateful for Jamie’ splendid contribution.”
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Celebrating the Leaders of our Community - 11th Annual Business Excellence Awards Gala
Last week to enjoy Early Bird pricing!
February 21, 2008
6:00 - 10:00 pm
Bingemans, Marshall Hall, Kitchener
Reception, Dinner & Awards Ceremony featuring Celebrity Co-host Marci Ien
The Chamber recognizes outstanding leaders in our business community at our 11th Annual Business Excellence Awards Gala.
The Gala is a fantastic opportunity to meet and celebrate with hundreds of successful business colleagues.
This Black Tie Affair is your opportunity to recognize nominees in 9 categories of excellence, at a night that is held in their honour.
This year we welcome Marci Ien as our Celebrity Co-host. Marci is best known as the News Anchor for Canada AM. She also occasionally anchors for CTV National News with Lloyd Robertson and formally anchored CTV Newsnet since its inception in 1997.
Mark your calendar for this awe inspiring event and book your tickets or table today.
To purchase tickets or a corporate table today,
Contact Alexis Conrad <mailto:aconrad@greaterkwchamber.com> at 519-749-6045
or register online
Early Bird Member Ticket: $125
Early Bird Future Member Ticket: $175
Early Bird Member Table: $960
Early Bird Future Member Table: $1,250
*Early Bird pricing in effect until November 30, 2007*
Member Ticket: $150
Future Member Ticket: $200
Member Corporate Table: $1,050
Future Member Corporate Table: $1,500
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STEELWORKERS TO SET UP PICKETS AT MIDNIGHT, IMT PARTNERSHIP
PORT COLBORNE - United Steelworkers (USW) Ontario/Atlantic Director Wayne Fraser said Sunday that members of USW Local 8190 will be on strike tonight at midnight after union members rejected an IMT Partnership-PCForge offer that demands deep concessions from the workers.
The strike by the 92 IMT Partnership employees is the first in 37 years
at the heavy-steel forging plant located at 820 Rueter Road in Port Colborne.
Fraser said the company is demanding concessions in wages, benefits,
holidays, cost-of-living allowances, seniority and job security.
"This is an unnecessary attack on a group of dedicated employees," said
Fraser. "Union members were left with only one choice - to fight to protect
their rights."
USW Staff Representative Carrie Robinson said the union has done all it
can up to now to get the company to negotiate a reasonable settlement.
"We are extremely disappointed that we have had to take this action," she
said. "This company should be focused on treating its workers well, instead of
taking away what they have clearly earned."
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43rd annual meeting of the United Steelworkers (FTQ) - Our commitment makes the difference
DRUMMONDVILLE, QC - Michel Arsenault, Director of the Quebec District of the United Steelworkers (FTQ), is currently addressing the 500 delegates and guests attending the 43rd annual meeting. In his report, the Director briefly analyzes the political situation in Quebec. "We have a disquieting number of politicians who are veering to the right. If we read the programs of certain political parties, both in Ottawa and in Quebec, we note that neoliberal ideology is gradually infiltrating people's minds and taking hold. We need to inform and educate the public because if voters heed the call of these right-wing parties, they are likely to pay a price some day," declares Michel Arsenault.
After a brief historical overview, he explains that the union movement
has been obliged to get involved in social debates in order to defend the
interests of its members and their families. "We have to act," he says, "as
there is a risk that the social legislation that Quebec has adopted will
become weakened, especially the laws governing the right to unionize. The
Steelworkers' strike in Murdochville in 1957 was all about the right to have a
union and to bargain. Our involvement in political action is inescapable."
According to him, a worrisome example of this advance of the right is the
ground that the private sector is gradually gaining in our public health care
system. "The studies are clear," he explains, "and the worst idea for solving
the problems of the health care network is to let the private sector in. Many
of us have known a family member or a neighbour who was financially ruined by
illness prior to the introduction of the Health Insurance Act. As a society,
we have developed tools to prevent such dramas from happening again; let's not
let individuals, insurance companies and private clinics, hungry for profits,
tear to shreds this legacy for our children!"
The loss of good jobs and the weakening of our industrial structure
The union leader also discusses the job situation and the deterioration
of working conditions. Unionized workers are under enormous pressure to
standardize their collective agreements downwards. Yet, over the past three
decades, productivity has risen by 51% and Canada's economic performance has
increased by 72%. Taking inflation into account, average wages have remained
practically unchanged, while corporate profits have reached unprecedented
records. "If wages had grown in proportion to the economy and productivity,
workers would be earning an average of $10,000 more per year. The companies
have made off with both the cake and the icing, leaving nothing but crumbs!"
he asserts.
Job losses are also a source of concern. Since November 2002,
133,000 manufacturing jobs have disappeared in Quebec, compared to 250,000
across Canada. The situation is not improving, given that Quebec has lost 2/3
of the manufacturing jobs in Canada since February 2006. Meanwhile, there has
been a steady stream of mergers and acquisitions. In the past year, there were
520 announcements of mergers and acquisitions in Canada just between April and
June 2007. In the majority of cases, the head offices are located outside of
Quebec or of Canada. "We no longer own the companies that exploit our natural
resources; our copper, zinc and nickel are now under Swiss control; our
aluminum and iron mines are under American, Australian and British control,
and our steel is controlled by the Amsterdam stock exchange and the Mittal
family," Michel Arsenault points out.
"The leaders of those companies reap the profits. Following the recent
merger of Alcan with Rio Tinto, Alcan's President and CEO, Richard Evans, will
get over 51 million dollars just for himself. All together, the officers of
this so-called Canadian company will share 138 million dollars if they lose
their jobs. Yet Alcan refuses to support a drug insurance plan for
pensioners," rails the Quebec leader.
Urgent measures must be taken
According to Michel Arsenault, governments are failing to demonstrate any
political will. "The Harper government is doing nothing to protect the
manufacturing industry," he says. "Ottawa has refused to adopt the job-saving
measures used in other countries despite the recommendations of the Canadian
International Trade Tribunal. Yet the Americans did not hesitate to protect
their industries that were under threat." He is calling for trade laws to be
modernized to make it easier to provide evidence of business practices and to
better protect Canadian and Quebec industry. The federal government must
negotiate trade agreements that are founded on respect for the workers. These
agreements must contain provisions prohibiting child labour and forced labour
and enshrining the right to safe working conditions, unfettered unionization
and environmental protection.
A global union
The Quebec union leader concludes by pointing out that the Steelworkers
have taken another key step in the fight against multinational corporations
that use the planet as their base of operations. "Solidarity requires greater
organizational effectiveness," he says. "Accordingly, we are the first union
to achieve a real merger with another union overseas. Based on the success of
the strategic alliances forged between the Steelworkers and Amicus, a British
union, we signed a new agreement in Ottawa on April 18, 2007 which is the
first step towards the creation of a truly global union."
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Steelworkers ratify new deal with Country Village Health Care Centre
WOODSLEE - Members of the United Steelworkers (USW) Local 9329 have voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new three-year collective agreement with Country Village Health Care Centre in Woodslee, ON, about 30 kilometres east of Windsor.
The agreement for the 130 service workers provides an immediate general
wage increase of three per cent, retroactive to June 1, 2007 and a total of
8.1 per cent in wage increases over the term of the agreement. In addition to
the general wage increases, Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) will receive an
additional 45 cents per hour.
The union also negotiated improvements in vacation time, shift premiums,
and uniform allowance.
"Our union is moving forward to set decent standards in the health care
sector," said USW Ontario/Atlantic Director Wayne Fraser. "Our members do
important work caring for those who can no longer care for themselves."
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Harper Government's Failure To Act Means More Devastating Windsor News, Hargrove Says
WINDSOR - The devastating news today that auto parts maker Lear Corporation is closing its Windsor plant with the loss of more than 160 jobs is another tough blow for workers and a community already reeling from high unemployment, CAW President Buzz Hargrove says.
Hargrove blasted the federal Conservative government for standing idly by
while unfair trade deals and the high Canadian dollar wreak havoc on the
Canadian auto sector and Canadian manufacturing overall.
"Lear's announcement today is another example of the devastating closures
that continue to rip through the auto parts, auto assembly and manufacturing
sectors," Hargrove said. "The Harper government's refusal to take action on
unfair trade agreements and the high value of the Canadian dollar is causing
severe hardship for thousands of Canadian workers, their families, many
communities and especially Windsor, which has the highest unemployment rate of
any major Canadian city."
Auto imports from Korea, Japan and the European community continue to
take market share away from North American auto makers at a time when North
American manufacturers are refused the same access into those markets.
"It's clear that this do nothing approach by the Harper government at a
time of severe hardship for manufacturing workers must end," Hargrove said.
"We need leadership from our elected representatives on these crucial issues.
Why are we only getting excuses and denials?" Hargrove asked.
Hargrove is once again calling on the Prime Minister to take four
immediate steps to deal with the crisis. These include withdrawing immediately
from negotiations with the government of South Korea for a free trade
agreement that will significantly worsen the lopsided automotive trade deficit
Canada has with Korea.
Hargrove is also demanding the Harper government give notice to the
Governments of Japan, South Korea, China, and the European Union that we will
not tolerate the one-way inflow of automotive imports that is the root cause
of the market share losses and the resulting downsizing of production and
employment by North American automakers.
Their future exports to the Canadian market must depend on quantitative
commitments to purchase equivalent values of automotive products back from us.
In addition the Conservative government must work with the Bank of Canada
to reduce interest rates, and signal to currency markets that the dollar's
current levels are undesired and unsustainable. They must also take other
measures to reduce the dollar's value, as well, such as tightening
restrictions on foreign takeovers of Canadian firms, he said.
Hargrove is also asking the government to act immediately with other auto
stakeholders to finally develop and implement a long-awaited auto strategy for
Canada that would include supports for new investment, infrastructure, skills,
and other essential features.
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Steelworkers reach tentative agreement with Canadian National Railway Company
MONTREAL - United Steelworkers' (USW) National Director Ken Neumann announced late Tuesday that a ground-breaking tentative agreement has been reached between USW Local 2004 and Canadian National Railway Company (CN).
"We will be pleased to present this agreement to our members nationwide
over the next few weeks," said Neumann, adding that details of the settlement
will not be made public until the 3,200 track maintenance workers have a
chance to review them.
A highlights package and mail-back ballot will be sent out in the coming
days.
Issues at the bargaining table have included wages, meal allowances,
pensions, travel and work-life balance.
"This is a historic agreement with the railway," said Local 2004
President John Dinnery. "Our bargaining committee is unanimous in its
recommendation that it be accepted."
The current contract with CN expires Dec. 31.
The USW is Canada's most diverse union, representing more than 280,000
men and women working in every sector of Canada's economy.
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Chapel Hill, N.C., chemist re-elected to board of world’s largest scientific society
Chapel Hill, N.C. - Eric C. Bigham, Ph.D., a chemist and manager of discovery research and development at GlaxoSmithKline, Chapel Hill, N.C., has been re-elected to the board of directors for the American Chemical Society (ACS), the world’s largest scientific society.
He will begin a second three-year term Jan. 1, 2008, as a director for District IV, which covers 42 ACS Local Sections, generally in the South, Southeast and Texas.
Bigham received his B.S. degree from North Carolina State University in 1969 and his M.A. in 1971 and Ph.D. in 1975 from Princeton University. He and his wife, Rita , reside in Chapel Hill.
An ACS member since 1970, Bigham has served on a wide range of Society national committees and task forces, chairing or co-chairing several. He also has been active at the local level, where he has been North Carolina Section Chair, councilor and treasurer and has served on numerous section committees.
His awards include Marcus Hobbs Service Award, ACS North Carolina Section, and Distinguished Alumnus of the Year, College of Physical & Mathematical Sciences, North Carolina State University.
“The future of chemistry has never been brighter,” according to Bigham. “Chemists are creating new materials, new medicines and new energy sources that will transform our lives and improve our world. We need talented young people from all backgrounds to pursue careers in science and join in the discovery. We also need strong support from Congress for the chemical research that will keep our country competitive in a global market.”
The American Chemical Society — the world’s largest scientific society — is a nonprofit organization chartered by the U.S. Congress and a global leader in providing access to chemistry-related research through its multiple databases, peer-reviewed journals and scientific conferences. Its main offices are in Washington, D.C., and Columbus, Ohio.
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CAW Auto Parts Leadership Vote in Support of the Negotiated CAW/Magna Framework of Fairness Agreement
ST. THOMAS - CAW shop floor leadership from independent automotive parts plants across Ontario voted overwhelmingly November 19, 2007 in support of the Framework of Fairness Agreement between the union and parts maker Magna.
After a detailed presentation this morning at CAW Local 1520 hall
followed by a lively debate with speaker after speaker coming to the
microphones, more than 300 of approximately 325 elected in-plant shop floor
leadership at the meeting voted in support of welcoming all Magna workers into
CAW under the FFA.
CAW President Buzz Hargrove said the Framework of Fairness agreement with
Magna provides the opportunity for Magna workers at all locations to join the
CAW at a critical time for auto assembly, auto parts and other manufacturing
sector workers.
"This is about the future of thousands of unorganized parts workers at
Magna having an opportunity to vote for a union without interference from
management," Hargrove said.
With the federal government refusing to deal with unfair trade as well as
the unprecedented high value Canadian dollar, the auto parts, auto assembly
and the entire manufacturing sector in Canada continues to lose thousands of
jobs. Auto imports from Japan, Korea and the European community continue to
grab market share away from North American auto makers at a time when North
American manufacturers are barred from selling into those markets.
Earlier this month more than 250 workers at Windsor Modules, a division
of Magna, voted by 87 percent to join the CAW under the Framework of Fairness
Agreement, as well as approving their first CAW negotiated collective
agreement. The Windsor Module plant is the first of more than 40 plants in the
Magna system to vote to join the union under the Framework of Fairness
Agreement.
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USW members at Timmins and District Hospital vote to accept new contract
SUDBURY - Members of Local 9350 of the United Steelworkers (USW), employees at Timmins and District Hospital, have voted 84 per cent in favour of the contract recommended by their bargaining committee.
USW Staff Representative Jim Kmit said that, in addition to wage
increases of three per cent in each year of the contract, the union has
negotiated 70 cents per hour for the registered practical nurses (RPNs) at the
Hospital.
"Over the last several years, hospitals have continued to add duties to
the RPNs, duties that were traditionally registered nurses' work, such as
giving medications to patients," said Kmit. "We believe it's time the
hospitals recognize these added duties and upgrade the RPNs accordingly."
The union has also negotiated that within six months of ratification, the
hospital and union will jointly do an evaluation of the RPN classification so
as to further enhance the RPNs' wages.
"We believe this is a breakthrough for RPNs and would hope that the rest
of the hospitals in Ontario move in the same direction."
The USW represents more than 300 employees at Timmins and District
Hospital.
The USW is Canada's most diverse union, representing more than 280,000
men and women working in every sector of the economy,
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Steelworker campaign at Arcelor-Mittal kicks into high gear
HAMILTON - The United Steelworkers (USW) announced Thursday that its ongoing campaign among employees of Arcelor-Mittal (formerly Dofasco) in Hamilton has recently moved into a more intense phase.
"Workers are coming to us in greater numbers than at any time in the last
year," said USW Ontario/Atlantic Director Wayne Fraser. "Our long-time
committee members inside the plants report a surge of interest in building a
true, independent voice for employees with our union."
Employees are telling USW organizers that recent Arcelor-Mittal actions
are angering many. They say layoffs, terminations and cost-cutting are being
initiated unfairly and without true, independent input from employees. Many
workers report concerns about their future.
"Arcelor-Mittal is one of the world's most profitable steel companies,
but the true test of any great company is in the way it treats its workers,"
said Fraser.
The USW has been working with employees of the former Dofasco for years,
assisting many with difficult workplace issues, building support for
unionization and providing education about labour rights.
A recent posting on an internet chat forum run by Arcelor-Mittal workers
said, ". . .get the boys to the gates with the cards".
USW Hamilton Area Coordinator Tony Depaulo said, "I've been active in our
union in Hamilton for decades and I've never seen it like this over at the old
Dofasco. What workers want is a guarantee that their voices will be heard in
the decisions that affect them. And, make no mistake, it's likely there are
still plenty of changes to come."
The USW campaign for Dofasco employees continues, including employee
organizing committee meetings, mailings to employees and continued union card
signing in all plants.
Ironically, employees at all Mittal operations in North America, except
the former Dofasco, are members of the USW. USW President Leo Gerard describes
successful bargaining relationships with Mittal.
"We've had a few differences over issues from time to time, but we have
worked them out in a constructive and positive manner," said Gerard.
On April 13, officers of the United Steelworkers (USW) and the
Independent Steelworkers Union (ISU), representing 1,300 workers at Mittal
Steel Co.'s Weirton, West Virginia mill, signed a merger agreement. Members of
the ISU then voted 913 to 89 to merge with the USW.
In September, the International Metalworkers' Federation (IMF) sponsored
the first world conference of Arcelor Mittal and its trade unions from more
than 20 countries. The company and unions committed to a joint program of
education and training to raise health and safety standards throughout the
company.
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USW members at CIBC Sudbury vote to call for strike action
SUDBURY - Members of Local 2020 of the United Steelworkers (USW), employees of CIBC, have voted over 90 per cent to allow their bargaining committee to call for strike action if necessary.
USW Staff Representative Jim Kmit, said the workers are sending a clear
message that if the bank does not negotiate a fair and reasonable agreement,
they will take strike action.
"Earlier this year, the workers at TD Canada Trust had to strike to reach
an agreement," said Kmit.
From the result of this strike vote, Kmit said it's clear that if CIBC
doesn't make a decent offer to the workers, they will take to the picket lines
in early December.
CIBC employs about 85 workers at five branches in the Greater City of
Sudbury.
The USW is Canada's most diverse union, representing more than 280,000
men and women working in every sector of the economy, including more than
1,000 in financial services.
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United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy,
Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union
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Rally & Town Hall to Celebrate & Save the Archives
TORONTO - A noon-hour rally to support saving the 108-year-old United Church of Canada/Victoria University Archives will begin at the south-east corner of Charles Street West and Queen's Park tomorrow, Tuesday Nov. 13.
Organized by a coalition of concerned writers, researchers, historians
and archivists, the rally and town hall event were planned to bring the fate
of the Archives out from behind the University's closed doors, where the
decision to close the facility next month was made.
Speakers include: Heidi Bohaker, Department of History, U of T
(aboriginal history); Barb Edwards, University of Toronto alumna
(African-Canadian history); Chris Moore, writer (popular history); Pamela
Klassen, Department of Religion, University of Toronto; Craig Heron,
Department of History, York University (workers' history).
Federated with the University of Toronto, Victoria University has been
home for over a century to the archives of what became the United Church of
Canada. The research centre is currently known as the United Church of
Canada/Victoria University Archives and includes the records of Victoria
University.
After years of discussions with the University over the continuation of a
partnership agreement, the Church has announced that it will move its valuable
records from the University to its rented headquarters in Etobicoke. The
records of Victoria University are to remain where they are.
While many believe the issue has been settled, the Save the Archives
Coalition sees the proposed move as a giant step backwards for the University
and research communities. More than 2,300 concerned individuals have signed an
on-line petition to preserve the records in their current location at 95
Charles Street West.
The archives serves more than 3,000 researchers each year. Its primary
role is that of a research centre serving the public. Resources cover a wide
range of topics including the residential schools issue, environmental history
and social justice.
In addition to the role of the archives in the Arts and Science Program
of Victoria University, it is a vital resource for the educational and
research programs of the University's theological institution, Emmanuel
College.
"This valuable archival collection, which touches on many aspects of the
religious, social, intellectual and political history of Canada, should not be
allowed to be removed from its downtown location and from the community that
it serves," says Coalition member Craig Heron, president of the Canadian
Historical Association and a history professor at York University.
Prominent members of the Save the Archives Coalition include:
<<
Michael Bliss (Professor Emeritus, University of Toronto);
Robert Bothwell (Mary Gluskin Chair of Canadian History, U of T);
Craig Brown (Professor Emeritus of History, U of T);
William Callahan (Professor Emeritus of History, U of T, former
Principal of Victoria College);
Ramsay Cook (Professor Emeritus of History, York University);
Fraser Dunford (Executive Director, Ontario Genealogical Society);
John English (Co-General Editor, Dictionary of Canadian Biography);
Karolyn Smardz Frost (Executive Director, Ontario Historical
Society);
Scott Goodine (President, Association of Canadian Archivists);
Craig Heron (President, Canadian Historical Association, professor of
History, York University);
Roger Hutchinson (Professor Emeritus of Church and Society, former
Principal, Emmanuel College, Victoria University).
>>
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Moving Business Forward Conference to Feature Senior Vice President for Home Depot Canada Inc. Harry Taylor
Guelph – Harry Taylor will be one of the speakers at the Moving Business Forward event at Guelph’s River Run Centre on November 13, 2007. He will be speaking about his role as the overseer of all aspects of operations as Vice President for Home Depot Canada Inc.
As the Vice President Harry manages all aspects of operations, including Real Estate, Installation Services, Logistics and Supply Chain, Asset Protection, Construction and Maintenance and Store Operations. Harry previously served as Senior Vice President of Finance for The Home Depot stores, as well as several senior finance positions at the company’s Store Support Centre in Atlanta.
“I am pleased to be a part of this year’s Moving Business Forward conference,” said Harry. “It will be a memorable and highly valuable occasion to share my experiences as a leader from the operations side of the business sector.”
Other speakers presenting at Moving Business Forward 2007 include:
Linda Lundström, Linda Lundström Inc. Fashion Design and passionate activist;
Roger Skubowius, Lead for Google Canada and designer of gmail;
Nicholas Boothman, author of How to Make People Like You in 90 Seconds or
Less, How to Connect in Business in 90 Seconds or Less and How to Make Someone Love You Forever in 90 Minutes or Less; and
Lt-Gen. The Hon. Roméo Dallaire (Ret.), former head of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Rwanda.
Moving Business Forward 2007 relies on the generosity of many corporate sponsors, including co-Presenting Sponsors The Co-operators and CTV. It will be a must-attend event for business owners and managers, business students, not-for-profit agencies and board members, human resource professionals and members of business groups and associations.
Donations will be made to charitable organizations in the names of the event’s volunteer speakers, and additional proceeds will be donated to the Guelph Chamber of Commerce’s Millennium Scholarship Fund, supporting skilled trades development.
Those interested in attending the event can purchase tickets by contacting the River Run Centre at 519-763-3000 or visiting www.movingbusinessforward.ca.
Tickets are $189 and includes a catered lunch by Appetizingly Yours Catering.
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| On strike five months against Guardian Fiberglass: Steelworkers to attend tonight's Symphony performance sponsored by Struck Company
TORONTO - Members of the United Steelworkers (USW), on strike against Guardian Fiberglass in Erin ON since June 4, are planning to be present at a performance by the Detroit Symphony this evening (Nov. 8) at Toronto's Roy Thomson Hall.
The performance is sponsored by Guardian Industries.
"While this successful company can afford to sponsor cultural events like
the symphony, it can't seem to find enough resources to settle a strike that
was forced by Guardian's demands to freeze its employees wages, get rid of all
wage premiums, cut benefits for workers on long term disability and make many
other cutbacks," said Wayne Fraser, the USW's Ontario/Atlantic Director.
"This is the first labour dispute at this workplace in 22 years. We want
our fellow citizens to understand how these families and their community are
being affected by this company's hard line against its workforce. They didn't
deserve the treatment they got at the bargaining table, and they don't deserve
to have Guardian flaunt its ability to fund the symphony while ignoring the
right of workers to a fair deal."
Union members and supporters will be at Roy Thomson Hall on King Street
to communicate with concert goers.
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Highlights from the new Magna Windsor Modules/CAW agreement
TORONTO - Two hundred and fifty Magna workers at Windsor Modules voted overwhelmingly in favour of their first collective agreement negotiated by the CAW, voting in favour of joining the union under the Framework of Fairness on November 7, 2007. According to CAW President Buzz Hargrove, this group will be the first of many to join the union. Below are some of the highlights of the new agreement, released today.
Wage Increases
- Immediate $3 an hour raise for all production members plus a wage increase of 50 cents at six months of service and an additional 50 cents at 1 year of service.
- Skilled Trades will receive a wage increase of 50 cents at six months of service and an additional 50 cents at 1 year of service
Wage Adjustments
- An annual wage adjustment equal to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) year to year in Ontario every August.
Layoff Security Plan
- Seniority Employees who are laid off will receive 60% of their normal weekly income, up to EI max to cover the 2 week waiting period.
Seniority
- Recall, and plant-wide rights to bump in the event of a layoff
- Job posting,
- Shift transfers
Representation
- Membership will elect CAW Fairness Committee (CAW FC) in each department or zone and shift.
- CAW FC will review and recommend the Employee Advocate (EA) selection.
- EA will become a Member of the CAW Magna Local Executive
- EA to have office in plant to deal with membership. |
Steelworkers say "Time for MPs to make toys safer; make them in Canada"
Ottawa Hosts Steelworkers' First Home-Testing for Toxic Toys
OTTAWA - As more toxic toys are recalled and the manufacturing job crisis grows, the United Steelworkers union (USW) is calling on MPs to make products safer. It was a key promise in October's Throne Speech, but so far only a new website has followed from it.
Steelworkers from the Ottawa area will be testing toys for lead at a
family's home, followed by a news conference at 1 p.m. on Parliament Hill,
calling for new legislation to make imports safer and to make more products in
Canada.
It is all part of a continent-wide push to 'get the lead out'.
Unregulated trade has meant lead is allowed back into products decades after
it was removed from most North American manufacturing.
The home-testing event takes place Thursday morning at a home with
four-year-old and 10-week-old children.
At the news conference will be USW Canadian National Director Ken Neumann and Toronto MP Peggy Nash (NDP Parkdale-High Park). Nash is the NDP's industry critic. It will take place:
At Charles Lynch Press Theatre (Room 130-S, Centre Block) Parliament Hill on 1 p.m., Thursday, November 8
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CAW members at Freightliner Sterling vow support for Magna agreement
ST. THOMAS - CAW Local 1001 members at Freightliner Sterling Truck in St. Thomas have thrown their support behind the CAW-Magna Framework of Fairness agreement, launched on October 15, 2007.
In St. Thomas alone, there are nearly 2,000 Magna employees who would
benefit from being members of the CAW, said CAW Local 1001 President Diane
Agar.
In a letter to CAW President Buzz Hargrove, Local 1001 pledged its full
support of the national union in its efforts to organize the nearly 20,000
Magna workers.
"We unanimously support the Magna workers right to join our union, and we
support that decision under the terms of the Framework of Fairness," said the
letter, signed by Agar and Local 1001 Freightliner Plant Chair Richard
Laverty.
"Further, the leadership of our local is entirely committed to assisting
the organizing efforts of the Magna workers through whatever resources we have
available, both prior to and following the democratic process that will lead
them into the CAW."
Freightliner workers voted overwhelmingly in favour of joining the CAW in
2002 once the company was bought by DaimlerChrysler who for the first time
allowed workers to join a union. Prior to joining the CAW, many workers had
led a 10-year campaign with the CAW to rally support for the union in the face
of strong employer opposition.
"The members of our local know all too well the challenges of organizing
workplaces, said Laverty. "We struggled for over a decade to organize our
workplace against an employer who was successful in keeping the union out by
convincing workers that high wages and competitive benefits packages were all
they needed."
Laverty indicated that without the neutrality agreement that allowed
Freightliner workers to join the CAW, workers would still be without valuable
union representation.
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First group of Magna workers join CAW under the Framework of Fairness
WINDSOR - The more than 250 workers at Windsor Modules, a division of Magna, have voted overwhelmingly in favour of a first collective agreement negotiated by the Canadian Auto Workers union and to join the union under the Framework of Fairness agreement (FFA).
CAW President Buzz Hargrove congratulated the workers on their first
union agreement. "I'd like to welcome this group of workers to the CAW, the
first of many Magna workers whom I believe will vote to join our union."
The three year agreement, ratified by over 87 per cent, includes an
immediate $3/an hour wage increase for production workers with annual
improvements, a skilled trades program, layoff and job security protections, a
women's advocate, paid education leave and inter-plant transfer language, all
of which are new benefits to Magna workers under the CAW/Magna agreement.
Hemi Mitic, Assistant to CAW National President, Buzz Hargrove, said he
was pleased by the outcome of the negotiations which began more than two years
ago.
The Windsor Module plant is the first of over 40 plants in the Magna
system that has voted to adopt the Framework of Fairness and the new
collective agreement which will be the template to be taken to the other Magna
divisions.
The union will move to establish a country-wide Magna local union to
welcome these and other Magna workers as they join the CAW.
Workers at the Windsor Modules plant produce door components for the
Chrysler mini-van plant in Windsor as well as a Chrysler assembly plant in
St. Louis, Missouri.
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CAW President presses for immediate action to stop erosion of auto industry
OTTAWA - CAW President Buzz Hargrove met with federal Minister of Industry Jim Prentice the morning of November 2, 2007 where he pressed the Conservative government to take immediate action on the growing loss of automotive jobs in Canada.
The need for quick action was highlighted again yesterday with the
announcement of 1,100 new job losses at Chrysler in Brampton and Windsor,
Ontario, adding to the 4,200 jobs to be lost as manufacturing operations at
General Motors in Oshawa converge and downsize beginning this month. It is
expected that thousands more jobs in auto parts production will also be lost
as they scale back operations to compensate for the lost work.
While Hargrove urged the government to lower interest rates and stabilize
the dollar, he stressed the need to deal with the unfair trade with Korea and
Japan that is currently destroying the automotive industry.
"If you don't deal with the trade issue, you are going to see a lot more
plants closing down and a lot more people being put out of work," said
Hargrove.
While Minister Prentice fell far short of making any commitments,
Hargrove advocated immediate government action and that the Canadian
government pull out of free trade talks with Korea.
On behalf of the CAW, Hargrove has pledged to continue pressing the
government for action on unfair trade and its dire consequences for Canadian
workers and industry.
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Waterloo Region Celebrates Excellence with the 23rd Annual Waterloo Region Business Achievement Awards.
Awards Honour local businesses which have excelled or made and outstanding community contribution.
2007 winners.
2007 TD Canda Trust Retailer of the Year Award - David's Gourmet
2007 Gowlings New Business Award - LiveHive Systems
2007 Record Small Business Award - Princess Cinemas
2007 KPMG Excellence in Technology Award - Navtech Systems Support Inc.
2007 Union Gas Corporate Citizenship Award - Cowan
2007 CIBC Business of theYear Award - Research in Motion
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Guelph Chamber of Commerce is pleased with the attached analysis of the Economic Statement presented by Finance Minister Jim Flaherty
Guelph - Canadian Chamber of Commerce Applauds Economic Statement that Proposes Tax Relief for Individuals and Businesses
Finance Minister James Flaherty presented the government's Economic Statement to the House of Commons this afternoon. Key measures announced include:
The general federal corporate income tax rate to be reduced to 15% by 2012 from its current rate of 22.1% (see Table A).
The small business tax rate to be reduced to 11% as of January 1, 2008 instead of 2009 (see Table B).
The GST to be reduced by a further 1 percentage point, to 5%, as of January 1, 2008.
The GST credit for low- and modest-income Canadians to be maintained at its current level even though the GST rate is being reduced.
The lowest personal income tax rate to be reduced to 15% from 15.5% retroactive to January 1, 2007.
The amount that all Canadians can earn without paying federal income tax (i.e. the Basic Personal Amount) to be increased to $9,600 for 2007 and 2008, and to $10,100 for 2009 (see Table C).
The government is willing to work with the five provinces that still have Retail Sales Taxes (RSTs) to help facilitate the transition to provincial value-added taxes (VAT) harmonized with the GST.
Air Travellers Security Charge (ATSC) Rates to be reduced slightly as a result of the proposed reduction in the GST or the federal portion of the harmonized sales tax - GST/HST (see Table D).
The government plans to reduce the federal debt by $10 billion this year. The government will continue to plan on debt reduction of $3 billion in 2008-09 and each year thereafter. The target for reducing the debt-to-GDP ratio to below 25% is expected to be achieved by 2011-12.
The government's Tax Back Guarantee (which ensures that interest savings resulting from debt reduction are being returned to Canadians in the form of lower personal income taxes) is expected to reach $2.5 billion by 2012-13.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce was pleased to see that a number of our key recommendations were adopted by the federal government. The reduction in the general corporate income tax rate to the level recommended by the Canadian Chamber will strengthen Canada's ability to attract business and compete effectively. Similarly the reduction in the lowest marginal personal income tax rate to 15% will help stimulate work effort, saving and investment - all of which have a direct bearing on our nation's productivity, competitiveness and prosperity. Raising the Basic Personal Amount will reduce average tax rates for taxpayers at all income levels, but more so - in relative terms - for lower income Canadians. It would also encourage more people to enter the workforce.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has long recognized that Canadians are overtaxed and today's announcements take concrete measures to address the situation in an immediate and bold fashion. These measures are particularly welcome as global competitive pressures intensify and underscore the need for international tax competitiveness.
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Steelworkers' Fraser praises breakthrough decision for victims of industrial disease
TORONTO/ST. JOHN'S - United Steelworkers' (USW) Ontario/Atlantic Director Wayne Fraser said Tuesday that a Newfoundland-Labrador Supreme Court decision is a breakthrough for workers suffering from work-related disease.
The decision came after the Iron Ore Company of Canada argued that
Steelworker Frank Hammond's cancer was not related to his 45 years as a fuel
truck driver at IOC's Labrador West mine. The chief justice of the
Newfoundland Supreme Court's trials division ruled that IOC's arguments did
not hold up.
"The USW will use this decision as a benchmark to reach out to other
workers across Canada," said Fraser. "We urge IOC and its parent company Rio
Tinto to acknowledge that this worker's industrial disease is work-related."
Hammond spent much of his life's savings on travel for cancer treatments.
The cancer is now in remission but, should it return, Monday's decision means
he won't have to pay for future travel related to his treatment.
"Victims of industrial disease should only be concerned about getting
treatment and focusing on their health instead of having to fight through the
courts against the company that was responsible for their health and safety in
the first place," said George Kean, president of USW Local 5795.
"Our union is in the business of protecting our members against the
actions of companies like IOC that are unconcerned about the suffering of
long-term loyal employees. Justice delayed is definitely justice denied."
IOC has 30 days to appeal this decision.
"The United Steelworkers has been fighting this fight for over 60 years,"
said Fraser. "You have to wonder about people who say unions aren't necessary
in the 21st century. If we don't fight for workers' rights, who will?"
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Richard Florida to Write for The Globe and Mail
Developed Theory of the Creative Class and Its Impact on Cities
TORONTO - Renowned economist and researcher Richard Florida will be a regular contributor to The Globe and Mail with his first column appearing this Saturday, October 27.
Florida will have a monthly column in the newspaper, participate in a
special series called "Richard Florida visits" in which he'll explore iconic
neighbourhoods and events in Toronto, and his blog "Creative Class" will
appear exclusively in Canada on www.globeandmail.com/blogs/creativeclass
Florida is particularly known for his theory of the "creative class" and
its impact on urban development. He recently moved to Canada from the United
States to become a professor at the University of Toronto's Rotman School of
Management and Academic Director of the Martin Prosperity Institute at the
Rotman School.
"I have been interested in Richard Florida's ideas for years. They have
transformed our understanding of economic and social relations within urban
settings. His regular contributions to The Globe and Mail and globeandmail.com
will help spread his creative thinking to a broader audience," said
Edward Greenspon, Editor-in-Chief, The Globe and Mail.
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The Society of Management Accountants of Ontario names new Fellows (FCMA)
FCMAs: leading successful enterprises, enriching Ontario communities
TORONTO - On October 29, 2007 CMA Ontario, and its 20,000 members, is proud to announce twenty new Fellows of The Society of Management Accountants of Ontario (FCMA).
The FCMA designation is a prestigious honour awarded to Certified
Management Accountants (CMA) who, through their outstanding achievements,
bring distinction to the management accounting profession and serve as a role
model for others.
Experienced in the "Three Pillars" of the profession -- accounting,
management and strategic skills -- CMAs are strategic and financial management
professionals who contribute to the bottom line success of organizations by
understanding all areas of business.
CMA Ontario's new FCMAs represent the career diversity and opportunity open to management accountants:
Lina Bowden, FCMA, London Senior Vice President Highstreet Asset Management
David Clark, FCMA, Ajax Executive Vice President and CFO Veridian Corporation
Michael D. Cullen, FCMA, Ottawa Vice-President & CFO, Director, General Dynamics Canada General Dynamics Canada
Michael P. Eastman, FCMA, Vanier Executive Director Canadian Comprehensive Auditing Foundation (CCAF)
Lloyd W. Fleming, FCMA, Kingston District Vice President BMO Bank of Montreal
Ivan Fraser, FCMA, Wasaga Beach (Retired)
Andrew Gall, FCMA, Kitchener Vice President Corporate Services The Society of Management Accountants of Ontario
Laurie S. Hicks, FCMA, Toronto Vice President, Client Services Smart Systems for Health Agency
John Hsu, FCMA, Toronto Managing Director, Risk Management & Operations University of Toronto Asset Management Corporation
Christopher R. Huether, FCMA, Guelph Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary Hammond Power Solutions, Inc.
Leonard Leeks, FCMA, Ottawa CFO/Director Finance Shepherds of Good Hope
Ruth Liebersbach, FCMA, Etobicoke CFO Andlauer Management Group
Amin Mawani, FCMA, Toronto Associate Professor Schulich School of Business, York University
Janet Pierce, FCMA, Mississauga Director of Decision Support Purolator Courier Ltd.
T.R. (Terry) Pringle, FCMA, Barrie President Champion Resources
Gary Spraakman, FCMA, Toronto Associate Professor, Management Accounting York University
Bruce Sutton, FCMA, Thunder Bay Chief Information Officer Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre & St. Joseph's Care Group
John Allan Thom, FCMA, Athens, ON (Retired)
Lawrence Tomlin, FCMA, Toronto Principal Tomlin Associates Inc.
Stephen M. Wood, FCMA, Brantford Partner LJS and Associates Consulting Inc.
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Grocery Innovations Canada delivers fresh ideas to $73.3 billion grocery industry Oct. 29 & 30 in Toronto Convenience rules grocery shelves
TORONTO - There's plenty of food for thought at the 8th annual Grocery Innovations Canada open Monday, October 29th and Tuesday, October 30th presented by the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers. The country's premier grocery trade show and conference offers insights into the changing consumer and the groceries they'll be buying, as well the $73.3 billion retail sales industry that feeds them.
More than 6,000 independent grocery retailers, national distributors and
industry executives are congregating on the Toronto Congress Centre to see and
sample thousands of new products, track trends and determine what deserves
shelf space.
Convenience products rule the aisles with more choices, more flavours,
and healthy, ingredients. Ready to serve, frozen and grab and go formats are
being seen in more foods and beverages that deliver healthful benefits as food
processors respond to a health conscious and aging population.
CFIG is launching Destination Canada and Access Ontario - a new grocery
retail strategy that's sure to pay dividends for independent grocers and small
local food processors. In support of the Buy Local/ Eat Local trend, delegates
can connect with quality, local area food producers and processors from across
the country. As well, the Government of Ontario's Pick Ontario Freshness
display hosts a variety of fresh, Ontario grown produce and local food
suppliers.
At the 3rd annual Best Canadian Bagger Contest store employees from
coast-to-coast compete to see who is the best bagger in the land, and go on to
represent Canada at the International Best Bagger Finals in Las Vegas.
GIC's Conference program hosts some of the best minds in the grocery
business. Monday's Breakfast includes remarks from Tim Penner, President,
Procter & Gamble and Bill McEwen, President, Sobeys. Later, the country's most
successful independent grocers, Frank Coleman of Coleman's Food Centre in
Newfoundland, Anthony Longo of Longo Bros. Fruit Markets in Toronto; and
Milford Sorenson of Thrify Foods, British Columbia offer insights into the
strategies that have enabled them to grow their grocery business into
multi-store empires. There will also be a luncheon in honour of significant
industry achievers, including entrepreneur Jim Pattison, who is being
presented with the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers' Spirit of the
Independent Award.
On Tuesday, John F.T. Scott, President, Canadian Federation of
Independent Grocers hosts a panel discussion with top independent retailers:
Charlie Coppa of Highland Farms, Eric Bouchard from Sherbrook IGA, John
Radostits from Radco Group and Will Willemsen from Sunrype Farms.
GIC 2007 concludes with the announcement of the prestigious Canadian
Independent Grocer of the Year Awards during the 45th Annual Grocery
Distributors Dinner. The Hon. Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and
Agri-Food will be making a statement and presenting major awards.
Grocery Innovations Canada 2007 is presented by the Canadian Federation
of Independent Grocers, a not-for-profit association representing 3,800
independent and franchised grocers across Canada.
Grocery Innovations Canada 2007 is open Monday, Oct. 29th and Tuesday,
Oct. 30th at the Toronto Congress Centre, 650 Dixon Road, Toronto. Trade show
hours: 11:00 am to 5:00 pm daily. Trade show registration is $45 on site.
Trade Only. For details visit:www.groceryinnovations.com
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Lack of clarity in governance is Canada's greatest security threat
OTTAWA - Canadian security experts believe that the greatest threat to national security and public safety is the lack of clear governance when responding to a threat, according to a Conference Board report.
"The greatest security threat is not natural disasters, terrorism,
cyber-attacks or pandemics. It is establishing direction and control when the
response to a disaster requires a wide range of public and private-sector
organizations," said Trefor Munn-Venn, Associate Director, National Security
and Public Safety. "If the relationships between these organizations fail, the
human suffering and property damage due to an emergency could be prolonged and
even exacerbated."
The report, A Resilient Canada: Governance for National Security and
Public Safety, is funded by the Conference Board's Centre for National
Security, which brings together senior executives from public and
private-sector organizations. As the owners of the vast majority of critical
infrastructure, the private sector has an increasingly important role to play
in preventing and responding to security threats.
The report's conclusions are based on research and interviews with
individuals who played key roles in the responses to eight disasters over the
past decade: the 1997 Red River flood, the 1998 ice storm in Eastern Canada,
the 9/11 terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon, the
outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome in Toronto in 2003, the 2003
blackout in Ontario and the north-eastern United States, the effects of
Hurricane Juan on Atlantic Canada in 2003, the 2005 London transit bombings,
and Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Establishing an effective governance structure requires focus on six key
principles:
- Leadership and accountability
- Cooperation and coordination
- Mandate and resources
- Communications and transparency
- Fairness
- Continuous learning
Some threats-like the Red River flooding and hurricanes in New Orleans-
can be predicted. Other threats, such as the 9/11 attacks, are much more
difficult to anticipate. In all of these circumstances, the governance
principles provide the foundation for an effective response.
In the case of a predictable threat, the governance principles should be
used to formulate a response plan well in advance. Where incidents cannot be
easily anticipated, these principles enable organizations to rapidly establish
an effective response.
The opportunities for action include: recognizing governance problems in
Canada; taking a principle-based approach to prepare us for the unexpected;
establishing clear governance structures for high probability threats; and
practicing regularly, with both public and private-sector participants
involved in these training exercises.
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Exchange Business CommunicationsCopyright 2007- 08
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