There has been no shortage of movement across District 6 – on the shop floor, at the bargaining table and in the streets. Our members continue to demonstrate what solidarity looks like in action.
I want to begin by celebrating Brother Lawrence McKay, a retired Area Co-ordinator for the Atlantic provinces. Lawrence has dedicated his life to the labour movement, and it’s only fitting that he was inducted into the New Brunswick Federation of Labour Honour Roll, which occurred in May at the Delta Hotel in Saint John. The location couldn’t be more symbolic – Lawrence led the negotiations for the hotel’s first contract following a harsh and bitter strike. This recognition is a testament to his unwavering commitment to our members and the labour movement. Thank you to everyone who supported his nomination – it was a team effort and one he truly deserves.
We’ve also had essential wins on the organizing and bargaining front. At Welded Tube of Canada, the 340 members who manufacture steel pipe and tube for buildings, industry and infrastructure secured a strong new agreement after a six-week lockout. The three-year deal includes a 10% wage increase, a $2,000 signing bonus, and major improvements to health benefits, short- and long-term disability coverage and the defined benefit pension plan. It also strengthens the provision for full-time union leave and secures all seven paid statutory holidays and floaters.
Momentum continues to build at Starbucks, where five more Ontario locations recently ratified their first contracts. These workers, many of them young, are leading the charge in demanding respect, fair pay and safe workplaces.
At the USW International Convention, District 6 showed up in full force with nearly 300 delegates. It was inspiring to see so many of our members step up to the microphones and speak passionately on the issues that matter most to them. Their voices and leadership reflect the power and diversity of our district.
Internationally, I was honoured to represent us at the Los Mineros convention in Mexico, where we reaffirmed our commitment to global worker solidarity.
Finally, a huge thank you to everyone who participated in Spring School and training at Living Water Resort in Collingwood, Ont., where the workers are represented by USW Local 252-01. Education builds power and your dedication helps move our movement forward.
In solidarity,
Kevon Stewart
USW District 6 Director
Statement from Scott Lunny, USW Western Canada Director: This sudden election wasn’t on anyone’s radar. At dinner tables across the province, families are asking themselves why we’re voting again. It’s a fair question. But the question at the ballot box won’t be about David Eby’s approval ratings or whether the Conservatives are too chaotic. It […]
BURNABY, B.C. – The United Steelworkers union (USW) welcomes David Eby and the BC NDP’s plan to double B.C.’s critical mineral exports by expanding the port of Prince Rupert and creating more family supporting jobs by processing minerals here at home. “The world needs the minerals B.C. produces and Steelworkers know what it takes to […]
The USW encourages all Steelworkers to attend events held nationwide, learn more about past injustices and commit to combatting injustices that last into the present.