"I was a Shop Steward and was also on the contract negotiation team. The Union took the time and trouble to learn all about our industry and what we do. This means they are better able to fight for us whether it is on the job or at the bargaining table. We have the best contract in our industry. Thanks guys!"
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Canadians Choose Change
October 20, 2015
Canadians made their choice.
They sent a clear message by electing a Liberal majority. Canadians are eager for change and expressed it eloquently. The challenges ahead are great, but this new generation of politicians was brought to power with a strong mandate.
The drawn-out election campaign allowed Justin Trudeau to speak out on several issues that are important not only for the workers we represent, but for all citizens of this country.
Traditionally, Teamsters Canada does not tell its members how to vote and the 2015 federal elections were no exception to this rule. We chose to inform our members on the issues that impact them and their families, but above all, we encouraged them to vote.
Job losses in the manufacturing sector, the Trans-Pacific Partnership, safety in the rail industry, aging infrastructures, the mental health of workers, employment insurance and assistance for refugees are just a few of the issues that caught our attention in the past 78 days.
I would like to take this opportunity to remind the leader of the Liberal Party that he promised to repeal Bills C-377 and C-525, which infringe on workers’ freedom to associate and on the operation of unions. We are counting on him to make good on his word as soon as possible.
Like their fellow Canadians, the men and women we represent paid close attention to what the parties had to say, and they have made their choice.
I would also like to acknowledge the commitment of all of our union leaders and representatives, from Vancouver to St. John’s, Newfoundland and in the Far North. I am very proud of their tireless efforts to remind our 120,000 members of how important their vote is.
I am particularly pleased with the excellent work of the youth of Teamsters Canada on social media to get those aged 35 and under out to vote. They organized a creative and positive campaign.
I thank all candidates from all parties for having the courage to take part in the democratic process. Their commitment is crucial to the health of our society.
Lastly, I would like to congratulate Justin Trudeau, the 23rd Prime Minister of Canada and his team. As always, Teamsters Canada will continue to look out for the best interests of its members and of all Canadians.
François Laporte
President
Teamsters Canada
Testimonial
- Gerald Price - Agrifoods
“They have demonstrated the dedication and leadership that
our Local requires. They have always provided sound counsel, support, and frank
discussion on matters involving the members, contract negotiations and our
Local.“
- Bruce Tillapaugh –Shop Steward. Island Farms, Victoria
For
35 years I have been a Teamster and a Dairyworker, I was a young kid needing a
job in tough economic times. I found a place to work and make a living, I
learned to work together with others having varying and different backgrounds
than my own.
Much has changed for me personally and professionally, I got married to my
beautiful wife of almost 25 years and we have raised two amazing children, both
of whom are presently studying abroad. Both of my children were recipients of
Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Funding.
So much of my success I can credit to having a well paying union job. The
Teamsters have been a great union for me, negotiating strong collective
agreements that held good wage and benefit packages as well as the cornerstone
beliefs of seniority and workers’ rights. The Teamsters gave me a good wage and
a voice.
I have always been an active Teamster, and now I sit on Local 464's Executive
Board.
There can be a great degree of personal feelings when the word union is
mentioned, but so often I look at professional associations and realize the
name may be different, but the thought is the same...strength in numbers.
As I get toward the end of my career, I look forward to the thought of
receiving the Teamsters Canada Pension Plan, and I am so grateful for the
belief others had before me that Teamsters deserved a good and decent
retirement...thank you.
Drew
- Drew Speirs