ANNOUNCEMENTS ...

April 29, 2007

5-day Spring Educational, June 10-15, 2007
Memramcook, New Brunswick

With the ratification votes for the Urban Operations tentative collective agreement and possible National Presidents Meeting taking up most of the calendar which is typically used for our spring educational sessions, this year the Atlantic Region's 5-Day Spring Educational will be held in Memramcook, New Brunswick, June 10-15, 2007. The course being offered is "Challenging QWL - Quality of Work Life Programs".

The Challenging QWL course is designed to be relevant for all workers, regardless of your bargaining unit or work location. It allows participants to fully understand the employer's motivations for implementing the variety of Quality of Work Life programs in our places of work. More importantly, the course gives workers the tools they need to develop strategies and alternatives for successfully combating QWL, to strengthen their collective agreement rights and democratize their workplace.

While the threat posed by employers' QWL programs has been around for some time, in more recent years employers' schemes have become much more sophisticated than simply trying to win workers over with coffee and donuts. Challenging QWL is a course all should attend to win back the workplace - from the shop floor to the National Office.

If you are interested in attending this course, please contact a member of your Local executive for a credential. The deadline for submission of credentials is: May 11, 2007.

The Struggle Continues!

In solidarity,
Jeff Callaghan
Education and Organization Officer

April 23, 2007

Ratification / Strike Vote Results
Breton local #117, held 1 April 2007

April 18, 2007

Correction: 3-day Education -- Halifax, June 23-25, 2007

There is a correction to be made regarding the courses being offered at the above-noted educational. The Basic Stewards Course is actually a "Grievance Administration and Preparation" course that is designed for executive members, shop stewards and activist that are currently doing grievance work in your locals. The course was designed in the Atlantic Region and is to help members to properly identify, prepare and administer grievances as well as to provide an overview of the grievance procedure from the floor to arbitration. Grievance officers and shop stewards are encouraged to attend.

Sorry for any inconvenience this miscommunication may have caused.

In solidarity,
Jeff Callaghan

April 9, 2007

Breton local # 117 Ratification and Strike Vote, April 1, 2007

This special meeting saw visitors to the local to present both sides of the argument and to have the membership vote on the collective agreement plus a potential strike vote in adherence with current legislation. Present was CUPW Chief negotiator, Pat Bertrand, and Atlantic National Director, to give their apposing views.

It was refreshing to see the information disseminated in contrary views but held in a respectful manner. This venue did much to inform the membership as well as educate those present that two sides of a debate could be held without the need for name-calling or disrespect. In the end, the members of Breton local # 117 had their say by voting on two different questions that day.

When voting is concluded nationally then, and only then will the results be released to the membership. Similar to a national general election with our three '+' political parties; the results are only released after the final poll is closed. The same will be conducted with our votes. Contrary to popular opinion, the results will not be released nor have they been released in the history of this executive prior to the final vote so that they will not influence future votes nationally.

Say tuned to your local website and bulletin distribution network to hear the results of the vote nationally, regionally and locally.

//signed//
Robert Garnier,
Secretary Treasurer
CUPW, Breton local # 117

April 4, 2007

Postponement of spring union training to 22-24 June 2007

Breton local members # 117:

The 3-day CUPW spring educational previously slated for 25-27 May 2007, Citadel Inn, HFX NS, has been officially postponed until 22-24 June 2007. The location and courses have remained the same only the dates have changed. This change in our educational plan is due to delays caused by the on-going negotiations and national presidents meeting that will occur following the results of the ratification and strike votes held across Canada.

As we are a growing local, I've disputed the number of official seats that we may occupy at this educational. Currently we have three seats but our growth justifies at least another member, four, to be trained. Those members that have already forwarded to me their credentials will be considered for the training but at his crutial time more members are encouraged to apply. My intent is too overstaff any union course with Breton members as an empty seat at an educational only weakens our union.

Remember, just because you complete a credential and it is in the hands of Regional, this does NOT mean that you will automatically attend or get the course that you desire. The REOO, Regional Educational and Organization Officer, Jeff Callaghan must take into consideration, gender parity, other local's needs, member specific courses and a member's previous courses taken. If you do not get what you want the first time then there is always next time…

In Solidarity,

//signed//
Robert Garnier
Secretary Treasurer
CUPW, Breton local #117

March 22, 2007

Liberals Join Conservatives to Kill Labour Bill

Breton members:

This is some very bad news for labour. To have all of our leg work and efforts wasted is very frustrating. Not to be forgotten is the hard work of other locals, the CLC, CB district and the NS Federation of labour, all down the tubes.

All that remains now is to see how our local MPs voted; Mr. Eyking and Mr. Cuzner because if they voted against the bill, make sure come election day, you return the favour.

In Solidarity,

//signed//
Robert Garnier
Secretary Treasurer
CUPW, Breton local # 117

---

Liberals Join Conservatives to Kill Labour Bill

OTTAWA - "With workers' rights at stake, Liberal leader Stephane Dion joined the Conservative government to kill legislation that would level the playing field for workers in federally regulated industries during a strike," said NDP Labour Spokesperson Libby Davies (MP Vancouver East). Bill C-257 had strong Liberal support at second reading, but the bill to ban replacement workers during a strike lost the final vote after a Liberal flip-flop that saw 29 Liberals switch their vote from yeas to nays. "Under Dion’s so-called leadership, support for workers' rights has just dropped by 30%," said Davies. "Almost 80 Liberals and 20 Conservatives voted in favour of the bill at second reading. At last night's final vote, only

one Conservative stood his ground, and close to 30 Liberals, including Dion, followed Harpers lead to kill this bill," she added. The legislation would have brought labour stability and evened the playing field for workers and employers. Similar long-standing provincial legislation in B.C and Quebec has seen the number and length of labour disputes decline while economic investment in those provinces has soared. "Workers' rights have been chipped away at in Canadian legislation over the past 25 years. We saw almost nothing in this week’s budget for Canadian workers and their families. Now, more than ever, we need to ensure that the collective bargaining process is protected under the law," said Davies.

March 22, 2007

Dragon Boat Festival Coming to Cape Breton!

The 1st Annual Cape Breton Dragon Boat Festival will be held in Sydney Harbour from July 13 to 15, 2007.

Sponsored by the Sydney River Kinsmen, Cape Breastoners Dragon Boat Team, and the Special Olympics, the Dragon Boat Festival will feature three days of competition, socials and entertainment.

Dragon boating is a fast growing sport in Canada with many teams located in major Canadian centres. The Cape Breastoners Dragon Boat Team is the only dragon boat team in Cape Breton. On the Nova Scotia mainland there are teams from Halifax, Windsor, Truro, and New Glasgow areas. Each Dragon Boat Team is comprised of 20 paddlers, a drummer and an oarsman.

Dragon Boat Teams and groups such as community organizations, corporations, groups of employees, and any group of interest is invited to participate in the Cape Breton Dragon Boat Festival. Doug Deveaux is the contact person for this event.

We need to know if anyone from Breton Local is interested in joining. Each participant needs to raise $50 as an entry fee, and then there are different levels of pledges to be raised. We hope to spark enough interest to be able to participate, so let the Women's Committee know if you are interested, (not limited to women, guys are welcome!!)

March 15, 2007

Stamp Out Hunger: The Second Harvest
Feeding the hungry right here in our own backyard

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

Letter carriers walk through the same neighborhoods each day observing the lives and routines of its residents. We are the heart and eyes of the community we serve. We learn its stories, make connections between people, and, in many ways, become the common thread that connects neighbors to one another. We are one of the few constants for many citizens in the area; we are always on the job and are always vigilant.

We know that serving our communities means more than just delivering the mail. For us, universal service also means universal caring about the people we encounter each day. And in that spirit, it is time once again for us to come together to meet the basic needs of our communities.

We have all missed a meal at one time or another, but think about the pain and fear of having no food, no money to buy food, and no prospects for a solution to either problem. Think also about the anguish you would endure if you saw your loved ones hungry and had no way to feed them.

To help alleviate this agony, CUPW and Canada Post will be holding a food drive to help those families that cannot provide a nutritious meal for their families. The drive is conducted at this time of the year when the shelves of food banks and feeding sites are nearly empty as donations during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays have become exhausted. However, for our efforts to be successful, we will need volunteers.

A few days before the drive, we will be asking our members to lend a hand by volunteering to distribute a flyer to make our communities aware of the event. We are also looking for people who want to help collect the goodness and compassion donated by our customers on the day of the drive.

The drive will be held on a Saturday, beginning at 9:00am in each office in the local area. (See below for a schedule.) Food collected in each location will be delivered to a neighborhood food bank. There it will be made available to needy families.

This drive is one way people can aid those in their own city or town, who desperately need the help. All we need is your willingness to help stamp out hunger in our communities, by giving your time and support. Carriers who have participated in the past say the satisfaction gained from knowing their volunteer assistance is helping feed those in need in their own community makes it all worthwhile.

If you have any questions about volunteering, or want to support our drive, please contact Faye Hanna by phone at 564-9274 or Grace Arsenault by phone at 564-6492 or by email at gracearsenault@yahoo.ca. Time is growing short, and we need to firm up our list of volunteers.

March 12, 2007

Update on Bill C-257
Lobbying Hon. Mark Eyking, MP Sydney-Victoria

CUPW - BRETON LOCAL #117
PO BOX 520
NORTH SYDNEY NS B2A 3M5

9 March 2007

Subject: UPDATE on Bill C-257, Lobbying Hon. Mark Eyking, MP Sydney-Victoria

Breton local # 117 Members:

9 March 2007 saw a flurry of meetings and information sessions at Hon. Mark Eyking's constituency Office, Sydney, NS. Mr. Eyking had meetings with no less than four union groups to update union activists / lobbyists in industrial Cape Breton on the status of bill C-257, 'Anti scab legislation.' Present was: Breton local # 117 secretary treasurer, Robert Garnier; PSAC, UCTE component, Lynda Garnier; PSAC, UTE component, Joe Parris and CLC Atlantic Representative, Linda Gallant. All members were present to receive a status report from Mr. Eyking regarding the private member's bill.

Mr. Eyking informed those present that the committee, made up of all three political parties, debating the bill in Ottawa, had a problem with the omission of the essential service wording. Because of this omission the bill had been "Off the order paper." This meant that it was removed from the voting process until amendments were made to include provisions pertaining to the essential services sector.

This removal was to make a wording change to the bill so that an amendment would clarify and ensure the necessary duties of certain gov't departments are performed in the case of a legal strike. The bill was then sent back to the committee for more debate. The parties present thought this was a stalling tactic but accepted the fact and were prepared to lobby and inform the members of the committee to the benefits of bill C-257.

Mr. Garnier admitted to Mr. Eyking that there was some trepidation prior to the meeting thinking that he had flipped on the issue. Mr. Eyking had restated his commitment to the bill but again wanted to clarify the essential service clauses. Mr. Eyking was again reminded that provisions already exist in the Public Service Act to protect these essential services and are not necessary to the bill.

Later the same day, it was learned by phone calls from Mr. Eyking's office that the information received previously was erroneous. The bill was in fact NOT removed and the voting was to take place as scheduled in Ottawa, 21 March 2007. Much credit has to be given to Ms. Gallant for her subject matter knowledge and current information that in fact set Mr. Eyking straight as to the true status of the bill.

Following this new information, we as union unionists must only hope that Mr. Eyking is true to his word by being in Ottawa for the vote and voting YES for Bill C-257. It must also be stated that rank and file members of all unions calling in support of the bill ARE BEING HEARD by Mr. Eyking's office. Please continue to use the avenues present to contact your MP offices, as it was clear that during our meeting that your efforts are noted and recognized. Keep up the good work for the good fight!

In Solidarity,

//signed//
Robert Garnier
Secretary Treasurer
CUPW, Breton local # 117

March 6, 2007

Bill C-257

Hon. Mark Eyking has given both PSAC and CUPW his commitment to vote for the Bill. Will his reslove change now that Dion has voiced his opposition against the bill. Stay tuned to the vote and see if Mr. Eyking is a man of his word.

//signed//
Robert Garnier,
Secretary Treasurer

Lobby - Bill C-257 Report

Dated: 9 February 2007

CUPW Relevant information:

Robert Garnier, Secretary Treasurer, CUPW, Breton Local #117, spoke of the necessity for the passing of this bill into law to ensure the safety of all in the event that there is a strike situation with Canada Post. This topic is a very timely for CUPW now that its negotiating committee is trying to avoid a work action with Canada Post. This private members bill will go a long way to reduce strike line violence, reduce a prolonged work action and to further ensure the collective bargaining process is followed.

Currently, this type of legislation exists in the provinces of BC and Quebec with little or no economic effect to the businesses that must follow this act. There are also provisions in the Canadian Labour Code and Public Service Labour Relations Act to protect essential services in Canada that protect the public at large. This bill would not step on these current laws while ensuring all the management teams bargain in good faith and to not take an 'End run' at the collective bargaining process.

Both union lobbyists left the office with a sense of accomplishment having received a genuine commitment from Mr. Eyking. He used strong language such as 'Firm Stand' and 'Stick to my guns' while showing his support for C-257. This information will be disseminated back to the local PSAC and CUPW union members of the riding of Sydney-Victoria through the regular scheduled general membership meetings.

From Libby's Labour E-bulletin
March 7, 2007

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

After a five week session in Parliament, I'm pleased to provide you with a quick update.

NDP Leader Jack Layton and I enjoyed meeting with the CLC Executive in February, to get feedback from labour, and share ideas about our campaigns to end climate change, develop green jobs, and create a national child care strategy. The NDP have been the only effective opposition to Harper's Conservatives in Ottawa, raising questions about E.I fairness, rising student debt, the growing prosperity gap, and cuts to the auto sector. Here's what we're working on:

Anti-Scab Legislation, Bill C-257

The NDP has been fighting for this bill at committee and in the House of Commons. The committee studying C-257 heard great testimony from over 20 labour representatives, including the CLC, FTQ, PSAC, Teamsters, CUPE, CEP, CAW, and the BC Federation of Labour.

C-257 was amended at committee to include language clarifying what we already know, but what industry refuses to acknowledge: that this bill protects the delivery of essential services, and does not prevent managers from doing struck work. NDP Justice Critic, Joe Comartin (Windsor Tecumseh) and NDP MP Peggy Nash (Parkdale- High Park) also fought to bring amendments forward however, these amendments were deemed out of order in the House of Commons, and we lost the support of Liberal Leader Stephan Dion. Mr. Dion will vote against anti-scab legislation.

Labour rights have been chipped away at in Canadian legislation over the past 25 years.
Now, more than ever we need to ensure that the collective bargaining process is protected in law. The NDP are asking you to once again, be a part of the campaign to pass Bill C-257. We fought hard to get this far, and together, we can take it all the way!

Write and call your MPs and let them know why Bill C-257 is fair and just. Tell them that:

Scab labour does not help to solve labour disputes
Anti-Scab legislation brings labour stability and economic growth
Bill C-257 is subject to the Canada Labour Code, and protects the delivery of essential services
Bill C-257 levels the playing field, and will help bring peace to labour/employer relations.

For more information on Bill C-257 visit the CLC website at www.clc-ctc.ca

[ ... snip ... ]

In Solidarity,
Libby Davies, MP Vancouver East
NDP Spokesperson for Labour
CEP 232

March 1, 2007

Anti-scab bill loses Liberal support, Business relieved

By Paul Vieira, pvieira@nationalpost.com

February 28, 2007

2007 SPRING 3-DAY EDUCATIONAL

The education of the membership, whether it is collective rights or benefits, dealing with harassment or violence in the workplace, or international global issues, has and continues to be a top priority for the Atlantic Region. On May 25-27, 2007, the Region will be holding its 3-Day Regional Spring Educational.

This year's Spring educational will be held in Halifax, N.S. at the Citadel Inn. The courses being offered are:

RURAL AND SUBURBAN MAIL CARRIER COLLECTIVE AGREEMENT UPDATE
This course is designed for local executives, shop stewards and RSMC members to gain a greater understanding of the RSMC Collective Agreement. The course will highlight a number of issues including changes to the contract made during the 2006 "Reopener". The RSMC Collective Agreement Update Course will be available in both English and French.

HUMAN RIGHTS FOR EQUITY GROUPS
This newly developed course is designed specifically for members from equity seeking groups and has been recommended by the National Human Rights Committee and mandated by the National Executive Board for the Union's Regions' Spring educational. Locals are encouraged to canvas local equity committee members and rank and file for their participation in this important course.

BASIC SHOP STEWARD
This newly revised course is deigned for both new shop steward/local executive officers and current shop stewards requiring a refresher. It is also a great course for those members thinking about becoming a shop steward or running for a position in their local. The Basic Shop Steward Course deals with Union Orientation and History, the Role of the Shop Steward, Quality of Work Life (QWL) Programs, Stewards' Rights and the Grievance and Arbitration Procedure.

Due to limited space, locals are reminded to ensure participants complete and return their credentials to the Regional Office as soon as possible. As well, with all regional educational programs, participants may be required to share hotel accommodations.

In solidarity,
Jeff Callaghan
Education & Organization Officer

February 15, 2007

Think-Tank Should "Check Their Heads"

OTTAWA, Feb. 15 - "There's a tendency for the C. D. Howe Institute to say that if theory doesn't match reality, then reality is wrong," said Deborah Bourque, National President of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW).

In their widely publicized report (article reproduced to right) this week, the C. D. Howe Institute said Canada Post should be privatized because it's "anachronistic and incapable of responding to worldwide changes like email." "The truth is, with or without email, Canada Post delivers more mail to more people than ever before. Not only are volumes up, so are profits," said Bourque. "It's also odd for the C.D. Howe Institute to mention 'government subsidies' 24 times, leading readers to believe the government subsidizes Canada Post when the opposite is true. Canada Post has actually paid the government almost $1 billion in dividend payments and income taxes over the last 15 years."

The conservative think-tank's report says Canada should "abolish universal postal service" and cites the success of the deregulated Swedish postal service.

"In reality, Swedish postal service has become cheaper for businesses and a lot more expensive for individuals," said Bourque, "Here, on the other hand, we can still get a letter from St. John's to Nanaimo quickly for less than the price of a cup of coffee - no small feat in a country this size." "The C. D. Howe Institute is out of touch if they think Canada Post is broken," said Bourque, "Postal workers provide an efficient, profitable, universal, public service and we've just negotiated a new four year tentative collective agreement with Canada Post. Our current contract expired on January 31st."

"The think-tank should 'check their heads', or at least we should check their heads for them," said Bourque. "Rural communities have to fight to maintain their postal service and have needed a recent government directive to help them. Would these communities survive in a C.D. Howe style postal system of profitable vs. not-profitable areas? I think the answer is in that email the C. D. Howe Institute copied rural Canada on."

February 13, 2007

Restructure Schedule - 18 Months
Revised - Jan 9, 2007 (Atlantic Region)

February 9, 2007

Upcoming Educationals

Due to the current negotiation process with the employer there will be no union educationals / training until May 2007. This is to allow for union leadership, regional educational officers and national directors to focus on the task of ensuring a fair and equitable collective agreement is negotiated for all.

This table is not complete and regional office’s schedule is tentative but any members wanting the above training / educationals are advised to clear their schedules for the above posted dates and contact any member of the locals executive with their intention.

//signed//
Robert Garnier
Secretary Treasurer

February 6, 2007

SYDNEY EDUCATIONAL: Basic Shop Steward

Breton local # 117 has been given the unique opportunity to train its new Shop Stewards in Sydney the weekend of 24 & 25 Feb. 2007. REOO, Jeff Callaghan and RGO, Kevin Buckland will facilitate this two-day course that will be held at the Steelworkers Hall.

This course is designed to give stewards the skills and tools necessary to represent a union member when being counseled by CPC managers. Also covered will be CUPW history, our collective agreement, shop steward rights, union leadership and consultation.

As this educational will mold the next generation of our local union leaders; any and all members wishing to have this very important training are encouraged to contact any member of the executive for a seat. The local will pay expenses for mileage and a hot lunch served on location. RSVP no later than 21 Feb 2007 to allow for preparation.

Steel Worker's Hall
Date: 24 & 25 FEBRUARY 2007
Time: 8:30 AM, Room 'B'- Downstairs

November 28, 2006

Breton Local Memorial Bursary Fund Committee

The members of the Memorial Bursary Fund Committee have been selected, they are:

• Lorraine Albert (Sydney)
• Robert (Bobby) Aucoin (New Waterford)
• Wendy Boutilier (North Sydney)
• John Mason (North Sydney)

The Breton Local Memorial Bursary will be used to provide a small contribution to eligible post-secondary students. The bursary will be awarded annually to students belonging to members and former members of Breton Local. The memorial is currently presented in memory of Blair Walsh and Neil Van Dusen, who were both inducted early this year.

The members of the Bursary Committee will be responsible for selecting suitable candidates and for establishing and reviewing bursary policies and procedures. The body will also make decisions with respect to administration of the bursary for any matters not covered in the policy. The committee will meet at least once per year to participate in the selection of applicants.

September 26, 2006

5-day Letter Carrier Route
Measurement System Course (LCRMS)

This fall the Union is offering a five-day LCRMS course from October 29 - November 3, 2006. The course will be held at the Institute de Memramcook, Memramcook, NB.

This course, which provides a comprehensive overview of the LCRMS, is designed for members who will be acting as observers during restructure exercises being conducted in their locals.

NOTE: Members representing locals which are scheduled for upcoming volume counts/restructures will be given preference.

In solidarity,
Jeff Callaghan
Education & Organization Officer

September 13, 2006

Restructure Schedule 2007 (DRAFT)

* VC = Volume Count

September 9, 2006

3-Day Fall Education Program

The Union is conducting 3-Day Educational Program this fall. The 3 courses being offered, Direct Action-Local Strike Preparation, Local Secretary-Treasurer Administration and Grievance Preparation, will be held October 20-22, 2006 at the Institute de Memramcook in Memramcook, New Brunswick.

Direct Action- Local Strike Preparation
This course is designed to give participants a history of the Union's struggles with the employer and the fundamentals for locals to effectively prepare for and participate in strike action.

NOTE: Locals should ensure participation of members whose duties and or constituted mandates deal with strike preparation and strike activities.

Local Secretary-Treasurer Administration
This is a new course hot off the press and is designed to give local secretary-treasurers the knowledge and skills to effectively administer duties associated with that position.

Grievance Preparation
This course is also newly revised and is designed to allow participants the opportunity to gain valuable information about the grievance procedure. The course includes the fundamentals necessary for the Union to successfully arbitrate grievances in front of a third party the essentials for preparation of grievances to allow for the Union to successfully arbitrate these cases. The course has been redesigned for members who routinely deal with grievances: from shop stewards to local grievance officers.

August 18, 2006

CUS Drivers - Fredericton

Sisters and Brothers,

With great pride I want to let you know that today, in Fredericton, at a CIRB mediation, we certified 14 CUS drivers, signed a collective agreement effective immediately, had over $10,000 in settlements, and ensured a certain CUS contracter was unable to bid on Atlantic Canada CUS cotnracts with Canada Post for the next 5 years.

A huge victory for workers and CUPW.

Proof that victories for workers are possible. The history of this case is ugly, but in the end justice was won for the workers of Super Express, a workforce of 14 here in Fredericton.

Thank you Joel Michaud for your help, thank you Fred Furlong for your support, and thank you to the workers for their faith.

In Peace and Solidarity,
Cindy Poirier
Chief Shop Steward
Fredericton/Oromocto Local

July 19, 2006

OUR SAFETY: Mail Theft

Federal/Provincial Governments, Mayor and Members of Council, Leaders of the Assembly of First Nations, Business Community, International Community and To Whom It May Concern:

Organized crime and gangs on the streets of our major cities has got to the point where not even our postal workers are safe.

CUPW Toronto local leaders Jane Marsh and Joanne Leader are worried about a recent rise in mail theft and want more protection for carriers. Organized crime may be linked to the increasing number of attacks on Canada Post letter carriers, their union says.

What is next? Will our postal workers have to wear bullet proof vests? Will police officers have to escort them as they deliver the mail? At any given time, postal workers can be carrying tens of thousands of dollars in cheques, especially around tax return time.

The most recent arrest of Steven Lucas, charges pending, seizures of 100 firearms and drug charges - and who police allege was a key player in a gun-smuggling pipeline that supplied firepower to a violent west-end street gang lived on the SIX NATIONS RESERVE IN OHSWEKEN, NEAR BRANTFORD is, without question, a serious problem based on the fact that police estimate they are only seizing a fraction of $1 billion in contraband, including guns, that flow each year between the two countries through the Mohawk reserves.

The Federal government must pass legislation on an immediate basis to deal with international smuggling mentioned above. It is essential to shut down the pipeline of the gun-smuggling, etc. including the threat of international terrorism coming through the Mohawk Six Nations reserves.

It is absolutely essential that everything that can be done must be done to prevent another "year of the gun" and the doubling of the homicide rate in the GTA.

It is estimated that organized crime families on Mohawk native reserves in the Brantford area reaped a profit of more than $1 billion in contraband, including guns, that flow each year between the two countries.

There are a number of other native reserves, including the Niagara region, that are also very serious smuggling points of entry into Canada. The dilemma the Canadian government faces is to enforce Canadian laws on native reserves where, in fact, there is no jurisdiction based on the First Nations independence from Canadian law and taxation, etc.

The Federal government must take aggressive action on an immediate basis to stop organized crime families and the potential of international terrorist links on native reserves, especially in the Brantford area and the Niagara region.

The majority of natives on Six Nations reserves are under attack. They are very good people and do not deserve the intimidation and threats so well-documented by Indian and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) and other police agencies that have undercover officers working on the reserves.

The tremendous costs to the Canadian public in loss of life, billions of dollars in additional policing, court costs and incarceration, etc. caused by international smuggling of guns and narcotics, etc. is staggering, to say the least.

Shutting down these smuggling operations in regards to the above-mentioned, will have a profound affect on the safety of our streets. We now have more than 80 gangs carrying thousands of weapons acquired through smuggling, especially through Six Nations reserves threatening the GTA to the point where the murder rate is above last year's record setting pace.

There were 7 homicides in 7 days in the GTA from July 11th to the 17th. Never before in the history of the GTA has there been 7 homicides in one week and you can be 100% assured that the guns used in the above-mentioned homicides were smuggled across the border through Six Nations reserves. If this is not enough justification to implement the required action plan by the Federal and Provincial governments, then what is?

Prime Minister Stephen Harper is a highly dedicated individual and his public statement: "if you do a serious crime, you'll pay price," must be reinforced with a serious action plan that will reflect an effective deterrent to stop the smuggling in regards to the above-mentioned.

The thousands of guns and narcotics with an estimated value in profit of more than $1 billion coming through Mohawk Six Nations reserves is, beyond question, a massive public protection problem. Tens of thousands of guns and hundreds of millions of dollars in narcotics represents a huge public protection dilemma plaguing the streets of our major cities, especially the GTA, where there are more than 80 gangs terrorizing our streets.

The Toronto Police Service requires a minimum 2,500 front-line police officers as soon as possible.

Toronto Police Association president Dave Wilson declared there was a shortfall of police officers on city streets. "The police administration, police services board and politicians have had nearly a year to come up with a plan to address the violence and deal effectively with staffing levels to prevent a repeat of the critical shortfalls of summer 2005," he said in a news release, "but they have failed to use that time wisely to implement a solution, and now that situation has only grown worse."

In the first six months of this year our Emergency Task Force (ETF) responded to 486 callouts compared to 242 by June 29, 2005 and is mostly in response to gun-related gun and drug crimes.

A public protection action plan by all three levels of government reinforcing Prime Minister Stephen Harper's statement: "if you do a serious crime, you'll pay price," must become a number one priority on an immediate basis with all the manpower, resources and technical support to stop the cross-border smuggling, especially through native reserves and to put an effective deterrent on the streets of our major cities, especially the GTA which requires a minimum of 2,500 additional front-line police officer, 833 for each of three shifts to protect more than 4 million residents under attack by the criminal element.

Please do all you can as an elected representative or to whom it may concern to support Toronto Police Association President Dave Wilson with additional front-line police officers on the streets of the GTA in order to put in place an effective deterrent that will show the gangs plaguing our streets, that Toronto won't tolerate their acts of violence and the victimization and killing of the innocent.

Yours truly,
Ian Hood, Chairman

Public Protection Action Committee
15 Caledonia Rd.
Toronto, ON M6E 4S3
Phone: 416-652-7771
Email: phe1317@sympatico.ca

May 25, 2006

Send a Kid to Camp and Change Their Life
Sponsor a camper this summer!

Summertime is drawing near and soon our communities will be filled with the sights and sounds of children playing their summer games. Although it is always nice to see and hear the joys and laughter of carefree youth, there is something absent from these young lives. What is missing is the supervised and structured activities that develop and enhance self-esteem, sportsmanship, interpersonal skills and cultural awareness.

It has been said that to raise a happy, healthy child, eager to learn and willing to help make a future for themselves, takes a community. For that reason, as a community, we have the responsibility to work with families to help nurture these young people. We must ensure that our children are provided with the opportunities, skills, programs and support needed to give them a great start in life.

With that goal in mind, the local chapter of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers has teamed up with several children's camps and embarked on a journey of community revitalization by bringing the camp experience to economically disadvantaged kids ages 9-12. We are convinced that one week at camp can be one of the greatest, life-changing experiences in a young life and we want to provide these benefits to children whose families could not afford a week at camp without our support.

A summer camp introduces values and views to children who might otherwise never have been exposed to them. It fosters spiritual growth and moral development and motivates young people from our area to become actively involved in our communities. Summer camps offer a chance for children to spread their wings and expand their creative abilities, while providing a safe place for them to play outdoors. It is a place where people will help them grow and inspire them to do more and be more and to set higher aspirations for their future. A week in summer camp will provide the less fortunate children of our area with all these opportunities, while letting them enjoy experiences that will be treasured for a lifetime.

Therefore, with the enthusiasm and direction of our Women's Committee, we will reach out to our communities and find children who will benefit from the summer camp experience. An experience that will positively affect more than just our youth since these young people are the future leaders of our families, our communities and our country.

We are asking individuals, clubs and companies to support our vision and help make a child's summer vacation a memorable one. Your contribution gives a child the chance to expand their horizons by attending camp; an opportunity they would not be able to afford without your assistance. For a very small investment, you will get a huge return; it benefits the child, it benefits the family and it benefits our communities. Of course, the more donations we receive, the more children can enjoy one of the best summers of their lives. In turn, these future leaders will then make a more positive impact on his or her community.

Without summer camp, many of the children living in need will be unsupervised during the summer months. They will not be able to learn vital social skills and therefore will not have the same opportunities as other kids. So please try to make it a paradise, for at least one week. Doesn't every child in our community deserve a camping experience?

You may sent your donations by June 23, 2006, payable to Breton Local Women's Committee,
c/o Faye Hanna, 2007 Highway #28, South Bar, Nova Scotia, B1N 3H6, or contact Faye by phone at 564-9274 or by cell at 565-9836 for more information.

Thanks to all,
The Women's Committee,
Breton Local 117, CUPW.

April 14, 2006

5-Day Leadership Skills Course (French Only)
May 28 to June 2, 2006, Memramcook Institute, NB

The CUPW will be offering the above noted course, which will take place at the Memramcook Institute, May 28 - June 2, 2006. This course is being offered to Francophone members only! The Memramcook Institute is in a French community called St. Joseph just outside of Moncton and we hope that this will help to bring our Francophone members out for union education.

The Leadership Skills course is a brand new, revamped course. The course is excellent for bringing people into the union. Some of the skills you will learn are such things as, understanding the media, assertiveness, and public speaking and listening skills. It is about being active in the union and on the work floor. This course will provide you with the tools you need in order to do so effectively.

I encourage you to try to have as much participation from members as possible. We are working hard to bring the Francophone members of the Atlantic Region into an active union life!

Credential applications may be obtained from your local executive.

Deadlines for this course will be May 12th 2006.

In Peace & Solidarity
(VR for) Cindy Poirier
Alternate Union Representative

March 30, 2006

3-Day Educational
May 5 to 7, 2006, Halifax, NS

The Union believes education is a vital part of union life. On the weekend of May 5 to 7, we will be offering three educationals:

Non Violent Direct Action - This course will talk about what non violent action is, differing methods of non violent action, as well as developing strategies, learning what an affinity group is and consensus decision making tools.

CUPW Post Office and Society - This course talks about Globalization and its effects, as well as the consequences of deregulation and privatization and identifying the players.

Harassment Awareness - This course will help identify workplace harassment and violence, the responsibilities of the employer and the union. How we can work to prevent and stop harassment/violence and avenues for redress.

We feel these courses are timely with the recent launch of Operation Transparency and the upcoming negotiations of the Urban Operation collective agreement.

Instead of offering a French course at this time, the Union has chosen to offer a 5-day French course only, at the upcoming educational to be held in Memramcook the week of May 28. Information will be forthcoming.

We strongly encourage the participation of union activists for the Non Violent Direct Action course and, similarly, we encourage you to send members that you feel will benefit from CUPW Post and Society and the Harassment Course.

We encourage participation of all equity-seeking members and strive for gender parity if possible. RSMCs, temporary workers and private sector bargaining members are encouraged to take part.

Due to the limited amount of space, please ensure credentials are returned no later than April 14. Late credentials will not be accepted unless there has been a cancellation.

Please note that the National Union pays for per diems, childcare, transportation costs and rooms. Lost wages are to be paid for by your local.

In Peace & Solidarity,
Cindy Poirier
Alternate union Representative

March 24, 2006

Union Education Child Care Now!
May 28-June 2, 2006

The CAW Family Education Centre

Child Care Now!
The CUPW educational about child care--why it's an important issue for unions, how CUPW's Child Care Fund provides quality child care to meet postal workers' needs, and how to organize around child care issues in our locals and our communities.

The Program
Participants will explore child care issues within a work, family and societal context. The course will also focus on developing strategies and skills building for organizing around child care, including CUPW Child Care Fund projects, local union child care committees and coalitions. The program will consist of plenary sessions and workshops. Workshops will emphasize participants' experience, analysis of issues, and taking action.

Areas to be covered include:

• An overview of child care in Canada and Quebec
• What a good child care system looks like
• Why most families don't have access to quality child care
• What child care Can do for children, parents and society
• Is child care a government or a private responsibility? What role can parents, unions and other groups play in putting child care on the public agenda?
• Child care issues for families with children with special needs
• Why child care is art important issue for CUPW: the union's approach to child care policy and the Child Care Fund
• Organizing around child care issues in your local

The Setting
The CAW Family Education Centre, about 250 km northwest of Toronto. It is a well-known, excellent education centre in a beautiful setting.

Who Can Attend
All members covered by the urban and rural collective agreements with Canada Post and in good standing are eligible to attend. Members who have children with special needs are encouraged to apply to attend.

The program can accommodate up to 36 members.

The union is committed to the participation of members of colour, and gay and lesbian members.

Participant's Expenses
The Child Care Fund pays the following costs for participants:

• transportation
• lost wages
• meals and accommodation at the education centre
• child care expenses

To Apply
Interested members should write one or two paragraphs indicating why they are interested in this course.

Please include:

• Name (as it appears on a photo ID)
• Address
• Telephone numbers (residential, work and cellular) and email address
• Local name
• Employee or membership number.

-- DEADLINE: APRIL 8, 2006 --

Applications must be sent no later than April 8 to:

Denis Lemelin
2nd National Vice President
Canadian Union of Postal Workers
377 Bank StreetOttawa,
Ontario K2P 1Y3

You can also send your application by email to Jamie Kass at jkass@cupw-sttp.org or by fax at (613) 563-7861. An application form is available at your local and on the CUPW website http://www.cupw-sttp.org.

Don't miss this great opportunity to learn about and take action on this vital work and family issue!

Solidarity,
Denis Lemelin

March 20, 2006

Nova Scotia Federation of Labour, CLC

To: Nominees for NSFL Committees

Greetings:

We are writing again to seek your assistance is getting our committees up and running.

In our first committee call letter and subsequent letters, we asked that locals ensure that all nominees list three committee preferences as many committees fill up very quickly and we would like to know what other committees people want to be a part of.

You can email/fax or write to us about your committee nominees' 2nd and 3rd choices and if you could do this by April 6, we will have enough information to appoint our committees at our Executive meeting on April 10 & 11.

We have listed all nominees received to date and this letter is going to all locals who submitted names plus those who submitted names on their own. Please remember that lost wages are the responsibility of the local union/labour council. This letter is also going to all existing committee members-if your local has not submitted your name, there is still time to have them send it in.

Please get back to us as soon as possible and if your local has additional nominees who are interested in being on a committee, please them in as soon as possible.

These are the nominations received to date:

Anti-Racism/Human Rights Committee

• Peter MacDonald, CAW Local 2107 (Second choice: Education Committee)
• Cedric Thibault, SEIU Local 902
• Dr. Fernando Nunes, MSVU Faculty Association
• Elizabeth Paris, CUPE Local 2330
• Patricia Jessome, CAW Local 596
• Angela Pleasant, CUPW Nova Local (2nd choice: Women's Committee)
• Ron Earle, CAW Local 2215
• Joe Parris, PSAC UTE Local 80004
• Earl Lawrence, South Shore Labour Council (2"" choice: Political Action Committee)
• Jason MacLean, NSGEU
• Russell Martin, CAW Local 4606

Women's Committee

• Suzanne Stewart, SEIU Local 902
• Bev Aker, CAW Local 4603
• Diane Mulvihill, CAW Local 596
• Cheri Meehan, CAW Local 2215
• Terri MacPherson, CAW Local 2215
• Jackie Swain, SEIU Local 902
• Joy Clayton, PSAC UNDE Local 80406
• Judy Castle, CEP Local 972
• Gael MacNamera, CAW Local 4606
• Daryl Adams, CAW Local 4606

Education Committee

• Dr. Robert Lanning, MSVU Faculty
• Wendy Walsh, CAW Local 596
• Dwana Mbamalu, PSAC CEIU Local 80219

Political Action Committee

• Jim Laverie, CUPE Local 835
• Lynn LeBlanc, CAW Local 596
• Ron MacKinnon, PSAC CEUDA Local 80002

Youth Committee

• Cam Flemming, UFCW Local 864
• Joe Jardany, CAW Local 2215

Occupational Health and Safety/Workers' Compensation Committee

• Brian Oldford, PSAC UTE Local 80003
• Bud Johnson, South Shore Labour Council (2nd choice: Education Committee)
• Richard Ratchford, CAW Local 596
• John Kennedy, CEP Local 972
• Larry Stewart, NSGEU Local 4
• Mike Theriault, CAW Local 4606
• Neil Allard, CAW Local 4606

Health Care Committee

• Ron Beaton, CEP Local 972
• Paulette Sadoway, CLC Representative

Pensions Committee

• Paulette Sadoway, CLC Representative
• Maria Thomas, NSGEU Local 38

If you have any questions, please call Joan Wark at the Federation office.

In solidarity,
Rick Clarke, President

March 1, 2006

Stamp Out Hunger

Dear Brother/Sister,

Letter carriers are the heart and eyes of our communities. We walk and drive through every neighborhood and up and down every street. We see firsthand the need and recognize the hardship and despair that sometimes denies families even the basic necessities of life.

To help alleviate the suffering, CUPW and Canada Post will be holding a food drive to help those families that can't provide a nutritious meal for their loved ones. However, for our efforts to be a success, we will need volunteers.

A few days before the drive, we will be asking our members to lend a hand by volunteering to distribute a flyer to make our communities aware of the event. We are also looking for people who want to help collect the goodness and compassion donated by our customers on the day of the drive.

The drive will be held on a Saturday, beginning at 9:00am in each office in the local area. (See below for a schedule.) Food collected in each location will be delivered to a neighborhood food bank. There it will be made available to needy families.

This drive is one way people can aid those in their own city or town, who desperately need the help. All we need is your willingness to help stamp out hunger in our communities, by giving your time and support.

If you have any questions about volunteering, or want to support our drive, please contact Faye Hanna by phone at 564-9274 or Grace Arsenault by phone at 564-6492 or by email at gracearsenault@yahoo.ca. Time is growing short, and we need to firm up our list of volunteers.

Home | Announcements | Articles | Contacts | Copyright and Disclaimer | Events | Feedback | Forum | Honour Roll
Information | Links | Mail Room | Members | News | News Feeds | Newsletter | Our Voice | Subscribe | Your Privacy