USW 5890

 

Home

Executive

Committees

Stewards

Retiree's

Contact

5890/IPSCO Relationship

email signup

5890 Clothing

Gallery

 

 

May 1

The arbitration regarding the unfair dismissal of one of our Union brothers (Mike Lang) and subsequent refusal of Marshall Hamilton to fulfill his commitment to an agreed resolution has been awarded in the Locals favour. The whole award decision can be read here

The Company announced profit sharing today in the amount of 1.55/hr. They gave no explanation of how the figure was arrived at. When a more detailed breakdown is provided it will be reported at the general membership meeting on May 26.

 

April 1

Due to the Companies lack of commitment to the W.I.S.E program W.I.S.E is no longer endorsed by USW Local 5890. Everyone should still look out for one another as you always have done but WISE cards are no longer required.

 

March 1

There are two Scholarships programs available; the Secondary School Scholarship, and the Columbia Institute Scholarship. For more information call the local USW office 569-9663 or visit www.usw.ca

 

January 29

Request forms to have Profit Sharing paid into either G.R.S. money market account or paid directly into bank accounts are supposed in circulation in the plant from supervisors. The request form can also be downloaded here. Please hand your form into your supervisors.

 

January 19

Talks between Local 5890 and IPSCO regarding an apprenticeship program are scheduled to begin on January 30

 

January 18

Anyone interested in the "Steelworkers Secondary School Scholarship Program" for 2008 please email for information using this email.

 

January 11 2008

The Wise Program is going to be put back on track.

I was given  the assurance today from Olan Smith that Information reported on a wise card will not in any way be used in any discipline.

I was asked to make sure this message gets to each and every member of Local 5890.

Ipsco has agreed to restart the training and I am asking each any every member to please fill in Wise cards.

This is our safety program and its up to us to make sure it works.

 Bill Edwards
 

Third stage grievance meeting is scheduled for both Tubular and Steel on January 15, 2008
 

 

November 19

To ensure a timely pay out (before Christmas) of third quarter profit sharing a motion was voted on and carried at today's monthly membership meeting to pay out third quarter profit sharing directly into Local 5890 members bank accounts with applicable taxes deducted outlined in the Income Tax Act. The fourth quarter profit sharing and subsequent payouts will be paid out in accordance this Letter of Understanding.

Pay out should be within days.

 

The Local is in need of two new OH&S Committee members due to resignations. Please apply by letter to one of the Executive Members.

 

November 15

Here is the Letter of Understanding concerning profit sharing resulting from the sale of IPSCO to SSAB.

 

November 9

There were Union/Management meetings today for both Steel and Tubular.

 Meeting agenda for Tubular side was:

  • Overtime issues in the 2" mill (Union issue)

  • Lack of WISE cards being filled out (Company issue)

Meeting agenda for Steel division was:

  • Safety issues surrounding start up of #4 furnace (Union Issue) * Melt Shop Management didn’t bother to show up

More information about discussions will be provided at the Membership meeting on November 19.

 

November 6

The Union has received the Companies response to the Letter Of Understanding that was proposed to the Company on October 31. The Executive Committee is currently reviewing the Companies response and will notify here when we respond.

October 31

The Bargaining Committees for both 5890 and 6673 met with the Company on October 30, 31 to work on updating profit sharing language to address changes surrounding the sale of Ipsco to SSAB.  As of today the locals are in negotiations that hopefully results in a Letter of Understanding with the Company to resolve payment issues for the year 2007 and/or until language can be agreed to for the remainder of the current CBA term. We expect the negotiations for the Letter of Understanding to be completed fairly quickly and the third quarter 2007 profit sharing pay-out to follow.

 Locals 5890 Bargaining Committee

 

There is an upcoming provincial election on November 7, 2007. Everyone in 5890 should consider it their duty as a citizen to vote. You are allowed 3 consecutive hours to cast your vote. The following excerpt is from Provincial Legislation.

  • Every voter is entitled to three consecutive hours during which the polls are open in order to vote. Employers whose employees have three consecutive hours of their own time during polling hours need not allow additional time for voting. If, however, an employee is scheduled such that he or she does not have three consecutive hours off from work during polling hours, the employer must grant the employee time off. However, this time off must be requested by the employee and must be at a time convenient to the employer. Once requested by the employee, the employer must grant this time off with no penalty to the employee.

 Regular polling places are open from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. CST on Election Day, November 7,

 

October 29

Chain meeting today with Calgary Local 6673.  Bargaining on Profit Sharing begins on October 30,31.

October 23

The 2" pipe mill production line Arbitration was today. Results will be announced later when the Arbitrator renders a decision.

October 19

The Union won the Ken Mair Arbitration. The arbitrator ruled that IPSCO was wrong in suspending Mr. Mair. Mr Mair will be paid back the money he would have made if IPSCO would not have unreasonably and unjustly suspended him.

Sept 25 26

The Arbitration for Ken Mair was held on the 25th and today. Results will be announced later as the Arbitrator did not give a date today when he would render a decision.

Sept 17 2007

Anyone who has not picked up their commemorative glass for the locals 50th anniversary can do so by coming by the Union office from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM Monday to Friday.

May 31 2007

The local is in need of committee members for all committees. Anyone interested in being on a committee that interests them please contact one of Executive officers. Remember, this is on a lost time and volunteer basis.

May 14, 2007

This local has a Welfare Committee consisting of Lonnie Bloos and Owen Walker. If anyone becomes aware of anyone in our local entering the hospital please contact these two people who will make sure everything that can be done to make them more comfortable.

Feb 27, 2007

Based on discussions with the Human Resources department your Local Executive Committee has taken a course of action in an attempt to compel/ persuade the Company to prove to use that they are serious about changing their direction and inter-communications with all divisions of this local and abide by the terms of the Collective agreement the Company signed with us in November 2005.

It was agreed that if the Company is serous and fixes one currently contentious issue that affects many if not all our members in different ways then your local Executive Committee would "slow walk" other contentious issues and give them time to address each and every one and not have the Company wait for the expiry date of the current collective agreement to do so. The reason for this, again, is the problems didn't grow over night and we cant expect all to be fixed overnight.

The issue agreed on is "temporary transfer" language and problems surrounding the "bidding process". We believe that when the Company has achieved compliance and our Collective Agreement in this area that they will have made a fundamental change in attitudes and/or way of thinking about how to apply our Collective Agreement language.

Feb 2, 2007                  

It has been approximately 9 months since this Executive Committee took office. Since that time we went through a transition period from old to new, summer, which is always a slow time to organize and get Union work done and a transition period where one of the Industrial Relations Supervisors was replaced. We have had numerous meetings with the company on a wide variety of issues all through this period. On some of these issues we had made small advancements in our working relationship.

 On Jan 19 we had third stage grievance meetings for both Pipe and Steel where we presented both old and new grievances. We have received replies from the Company. We are now going to evaluate the answers then decide on which grievances to pursue in Arbitration and which grievances to drop.

 Based on the Company's response to our grievances and responses to all other concerns raised, the Executive Committee will be meeting shortly to discuss which direction this local will be pursuing after evaluating the effect of any and all changes in our relationship with IPSCO. After this is done we will make a more comprehensive report first at the monthly Union meeting then again on this webpage.

Local 5890 Executive Members

If you want a notification of web page update, click here.

 

Dec 17 2006

Secondary School Scholarships - 2007

The Education Fund of the United Steelworkers is offering 20 scholarships of $1000 each to secondary students across Canada. Currently there are 5 scholarships available in District 3. Please contact Denise to obtain an application and the applicable conditions.

 

Nov. 12, 2006

Pipe Meeting

A meeting was held on Nov. 8, 2006 with Pipe Management regarding issues that have come to light over the past several months in the Pipe Division. Your Executive has been watching and taking notes on complaints and concerns since August and certainly since the trial agreement for the "Dead Shift" was put into use.  Some were small and several were concerning. We made it explicit to the company that we expect our concerns to be addressed over the next 10 or so months and to move forward in our relationship between IPSCO and the Steelworkers. Everyone has to realize the situation in Pipe didn't get to this state over night and it wont change overnight. We do expect the Company to move forward on all the concerns we raised.

Issues raised:

Holidays: Booking of part weeks, answers to requests in a timely fashion (granted or not), better postings of holiday schedule, problems with pay (pay not received when expected)

When people are sick: Bullying of people when they come back to work after being sick.

Job Bids: Bids are beginning to go up for jobs so that issue is somewhat resolved, timely moves to bids, problems with uninformed foremen telling people they don't have a bid

Rotation of Jobs: We were assured by the company that jobs are being rotated. Any examples of jobs not being rotated please contact one of Top 5 Officers.

Foreman's Attitude: There is a problem with some foreman who are either uninformed or don't understand the C.B.A and are misinforming members.

Rules and Policies: There was discussion regarding consistent application of work rules and policies such as cell phones (Please do not take your cell phone on the plant floor. If you have a special circumstance then arrange it with your supervisor) We asked for a review of the jewelry policy. We had a long discussion regarding discipline that the "punishment fits the crime"

This meeting lasted over 3 hours. Not all issues addressed can be listed here in detail. If you have ANY questions please contact one of the Table Officers.

 

 Nov. 1, 2006     

Maintenance Shutdown (Steel Division)            Update

Your executive committee met today with the company regarding the upcoming shutdown. As was reported before the shutdown will tentatively begin on Nov. 8 in the Melt-shop and Nov. 11 in the Rolling Mill. We were told that the shut-down schedule would be firmed up by the end of this week (Oct. 30 - Nov. 3). Each department shutdown, as of today, will be ten days long.

The company also stated that the way conditions look today that they do not expect the three day layoff clause will be used during the shutdown.

On remembrance day the company still intends to honour the holiday for most employees. Caster Maintenance employees will be working. Melt-shop Maintenance employees can expect an inquiry by their supervisors if they wish to work that day. There will be 6 contractors in that day continuing work that we were told takes the full 10 days to complete. Management told us they would find work for any Melt-shop Maintenance employees that wish to work on that day. The Rolling Mill be be on a fire- watch crew that day. Slitter and CTLL crews should check their schedules for Nov. 11.

As before, We are expecting an update from the company by the end of this week. We will let you know if there are any changes then.

Heavy Plate Cutback

It was reported at a meeting between management and Heavy Plate employees that if bumping forms are not filled out by Dec. 31 2006 that members will "sit at home" for ten days. This is not true! The individual that stated this has been corrected by his supervisors.

It IS in every ones best interest to start the process of placement or bumping as soon as possible so everyone affected by the Heavy Plate cut back will know what job they will be doing by the time of the cutback.

Oct 24, 2006

Maintenance Shutdown (Steel Division)

On Nov 8 2006 the Melt-shop will shutdown for maintenance for 10 days. On Nov 11, 2006 the Rolling Mill will shutdown for maintenance for 10 days. The only department unaffected is the CTLL which will run the whole shutdown.

We have been informed that members may request Holidays during the shutdown if they so wish. Management asks that people make their intentions known as soon as possible so the planning of the shutdown can go more smoothly.

As well the company has informed your Executive that the 3 day lay-off clause may be invoked in some cases. There may also be precautionary lay-off notices for some members.

On Nov 11, 2006 (Remembrance Day) it is the intention of management to scale back to a "skeleton crew" or a "fire-watch" crew in most of the Steel Division.

As we get more information of developments of the shutdown we will update you here

 


Oct 13,2006

To clear up any confusion about the cutback in the Heavy Plate Department; your Executive Committee was assured by Regina Works senior management that none of the Heavy plate equipment will be removed from the Regina works. Management said they are keeping the equipment here in case, in the future, it is viable to produce Heavy Plate material again.

Sept 12 2006

LOCAL 5890 MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING
 

Monday Sept 18, 2006
REGINA UNION CENTER
2709- 12TH AVE

Agenda

Reports from Schools
Reports from conventions
Reports from officers
Any new business that may come up
Swearing in of new members

This is your Union !!

Whether you are a new member or a longtime member, take some interest, be active in your Union and go to meetings

 

 

 

August 1 2006

Pipe Division Employees

 A special meeting will be held on August 18 2006

 REGINA UNION CENTER

2709- 12TH AVE

7:30 AM

7:30 PM

 Topics of Discussion

 Absenteeism

Job bids

2” mill line of progression

Dead shift language

There will be a vote on a proposal  to resolve the issues surrounding the “dead shift” in the pipe division with  trial language (pipe division only) subject to review every 12 months.

 

July 05, 2006

 On June 22 your Executive committee met with company representatives to attempt to resolve among other things the issues concerning the 2" pipe mill line of progression and job combination changes.

 This was an attempt at rebuilding the working relationship with management in the tubular division. It was clearly stated to the representatives from the Company that day, their decision on this outstanding 2 inch issue would be an indication where the relationship between Pipe Division management and this local is headed.

Dead shift, job bids and overtime were also issues at that meeting.

 After the situation was studied and discussed we made an offer to resolve the issues involving the roll assembly person and roll assembly helper. We proposed that the Roll assembly helper stay rolled into the Assistant Mill Operators job IF the company agreed to leave the Roll Assembly Persons job as a stand alone job.

 On July 5th we met again with the pipe management and have the following to report.

 We are disappointed to inform you that the management in the Pipe Division is NOT interested in any changes in their new current 2 inch mill jobs.

 In our opinion we presented a fair and reasonable alternative to using a Third Party to settle this issue in the 2 inch pipe mill. This issue will not go away but the other issues still need to be addressed by the local and WE WILL DO JUST THAT.

 Dead shifts were discussed again with the company agreeing with us that what both sides need and want is a clear understanding of how the employee’s and company’s scheduling needs are to be met in the pipe division.

The company has put forward, posting a minimum of 1 months notice if they plan to work on the dead shift. In return they have asked that our members who wish NOT TO WORK inform their supervisor 1 week in advance to allow the company time to arrange for replacement manpower.

 The final decision on this will be made by the members in pipe division at a special meeting to be held as soon as possible.

 JOB BIDS

The seniority committee will be meeting with management in the near future to make sure all jobs  in the pipe division that need to be bid are bid in a timely fashion.

 ABENTEEISM

This still is an issue for the entire division to deal with.

 YOUR LOCAL EXECUTIVE

USW 5890

 

 

June 23 2006

 

 TO THE PIPE DIVISION MEMBERS OF LOCAL 5890

 

The Local Executive has met with management of the pipe side in an effort to resolve some outstanding issues and concerns of both the members and the company.

These concerns include restructuring of the 2 inch mill workforce.

The lack of clear language around dead shifts as applied in the division.

Job bids and the rumors on the floor, that some jobs will not be filled by bids.

 Absenteeism

Your Union has been given assurance that all jobs in the division will be filled by the bidding process.

The Dead Shift and 2 inch mill issues where left in the company’s hands to respond back to our ideas and suggestions.

 Absenteeism is an issue both sides agreed needs immediate attention and action .The levels of absenteeism are higher then ever in the division.

 As your President I have and always will encourage members to be at work for your regular shifts. 

Bill Edwards

Dwayne Mitchell

Tory Sand

Monty Clifford

Doug Massier

USW 5890

 

June 22 2006

 

Kevin Hicks has resigned as both a shop-steward and his seat on the Steel Division Joint Seniority Committee due to conflict with his commitment to his family. If anyone is interested in becoming involved on the Steel Division Joint Seniority Committee please respond with this email link

 

June 9 2006

LOCAL 5890 MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING
 

Monday June 19, 2006
REGINA UNION CENTER
2709- 12TH AVE

Agenda

Reports from Schools
Reports from conventions
Reports from officers
Any new business that may come up
Swearing in of new members

This is your Union !!

Whether you are a new member or a longtime member, take some interest, be active in your Union and go to meetings


 

May 21 2006

Jeff Bruch has resigned from all positions in the Union due to an illness in his family. If anyone is interested to be considered for the position of Recording Secretary please contact one of the 4 table officers or email the admin of the webpage here.

As well there is an opening for both Outside Guard and Trustee.

 

April 10 2006

The results of the election are:   Bill Edwards in the position of President

                                              Doug Massier in the position of Treasurer

                                              Brenda Pawlychyn as O&T Bargaining Committee Member

                                              Jeff Fry as P&M Bargaining Committee Member

                                           

 

March 23 2006

ELECTION NOTICE

Elections for President, Treasurer and both O&T and P&M Bargaining Committee members will be held on Monday April 10 2006.

You will be able to cast your at the following places:

               Operations Building change room ( Janitor room )  5:30 AM to 8:00 PM

               Spiral Lunch Room  11:00 AM to 1:00 PM

               Main Office Lunch Room  11:00 to 1:00 PM

An advanced poll will be held on Monday April 3 2006 from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM at the Union Office #26 395 Park Street.

The candidates for President are Bill Edwards and Dave Grant

The Candidates for Treasurer are Tory Sand and Doug Massier

The candidates for O&T Bargaining Committee member are Paul Euteneier and Brenda Pawlychyn

The candidates for P&M Bargaining Committee member are Brent Henningsen and Jeff Fry

As reported below on March 21 the rest of the Executive Committee members were elected by Acclamation

THIS IS YOUR UNION!

YOUR REPRESENTATIVES ARE TO BE DECIDED BY YOU. TAKE SOME RESPONSIBILITY AND EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT AND YOUR OBLIGATION TO YOUR UNION BROTHERS AND SISTERS. VOTE ON MONDAY APRIL 10 2006!

 

March 21 2006

Nominations were closed at the March 20 monthly local union meeting.

The names below are the nominee's and acclaimed members for each position.

Please remember that all nominees that were not put in place or office by acclamation will have their eligibility scrutinized according to the United Steelworkers Constitution and qualified or disqualified accordingly.

 

President: David Grant, Bill Edwards

Vice President: Dwayne Mitchell (Acclaimed)

Recording Secretary: Jeff Bruch (Acclaimed)

Financial Secretary: Monty Clifford (Acclaimed)

Treasurer: Doug Massier, Brenda Pawlychyn, Tory Sand

Trustee: Ralph Bilsky (Acclaimed), Wayne Shearer (Acclaimed), 1 vacancy

Guide: Owen Walker (Acclaimed)

Guard: Floyd Sellsted (Acclaimed)

Chief Shop Steward Steel Division: John Forster (Acclaimed)

Chief Shop Steward Pipe Division: Ryan Padar (Acclaimed)

Chief Shop Steward O&T Division: Paul Euteneier, Brenda Pawlychyn

Bargaining Committee P&M: Jeff Fry, Brent Henningson

Bargaining Committee O&T: Brenda Pawlychyn, Paul Euteneier

 

 

March 2 2006

 NOTICE OF NOMINATIONS

 NOMINATIONS FOR THE FOLLOWING LOCAL UNION EXECUTIVE POSITIONS ARE NOW OPEN:

q       President

   q       Vice President

q       Recording Secretary

q       Financial Secretary

q       Treasurer

q       Trustee

q       Guide

q       Guard

q       Chief Shop Steward (Pipe)

q        Chief Shop Steward (Steel)

q       Chief Shop Steward (O&T)

 

NOMINATION FORMS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM CURRENT EXECUTIVE MEMBERS, FROM DENISE AT THE UNION OFFICE OR FROM THE here.

 NOMINATIONS WILL CLOSE AT THE next MEMBERSHIP MEETING, WHICH WILL BE HELD At 2709- 12TH AVe . PRIOR TO CLOSING,  Nominations WILL ALSO BE ACCEPTED FROM THE FLOOR.

                                                DATE: Monday, March 20, 2

                                                 LOCATION: 2709- 12TH AVE

  ONLY ELIGIBLE USW MEMBERS ARE ENTITLED TO CONTEST FOR A POSITION. IN THE EVENT THAT THERE ARE NO ELIGIBLE MEMBERS WHO ACCEPT NOMINATION, NON-ELIGIBLE MEMBERS ARE ENTITLED TO BE NOMINATED AND RUN FOR THE POSITION.

   IN ORDER TO BE ELIGIBLE, A MEMBER MUST HAVE ATTENDED 1/3 (ROUNDED OFF TO THE NEXT HIGHEST WHOLE NUMBER) OF THE MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS HELD IN THE LAST 24 MONTHS.  THE NUMBER OF MEMBERSHIP MEETINGS IS REDUCED BY ANY EXCUSED ABSENCES DUE TO WORK, ILLNESS THAT CONFINES, ARMED SERVICES, JURY DUTY, BEREAVEMENT LEAVE AND UNION BUSINESS. EXCUSED ABSENCES ARE TO BE IN WRITING FROM THE RECORDING SECRETARY.

 

Jan 12 2006

LOCAL 5890 MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING

MONDAY, JANUARY 16TH

REGINA UNION CENTER

2709- 12TH AVE

7:30 P.M

Agenda Topics

REPORTS FROM FINANCIAL OFFICER’S 

COMMITTEE'S REPORTS

NEW BUSINESS SINCE THE POSTING OF THIS NOTICE

SWEARING IN OF NEW MEMBERS

 

Dec 15 2005

LOCAL 5890 MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING

MONDAY, DECEMBER 19TH

REGINA UNION CENTER

2709- 12TH AVE

7:30 P.M

 

 

Agenda Topics

REPORTS FROM FINANCIAL OFFICER’S 

COMMITTEE'S REPORTS

REPORT FROM STAFF REP

SCHOOLS, CONFERENCES

NEW BUSINESS SINCE THE POSTING OF THIS NOTICE

SWEARING IN OF NEW MEMBERS

IN KEEPING UP WITH THE CHRISTMAS TRADITION, A SOCIAL WILL BE HELD AFTER THE MEETING.

 

 

Dec 8 2005

The Company has said they will deposit the 3000 dollar signing bonus into your bank account by Dec 12. Pay stubs will be available for pick-up on Dec. 9

Employees who requested the signing bonus will have their monies placed into the RSP account held by GRS Securities and will see this transaction into their accounts shortly.

For anyone who chose the RRSP option, there will not be a pay stub. The RRSP contribution will show on your pay stub dated Dec. 16

 

Nov 25 2005

New hats in stock. Click here for pictures

 

Nov 23 2005

Our contract has been ratified. 61% in Regina and 78% in Calgary

 

Nov 22 2005

If, for some reason, you were not able to make the ratification meetings or you needed more time to ponder before you cast your vote you may vote between 7 AM and 8 PM on at the Union offices ( #26 395 Park Street ) on Wednesday November 23. The results will be posted Wednesday night as soon as the tellers have completed their count.

 

Nov 20 2005

These three documents were finished at 5:00 PM Sunday afternoon for your viewing. EVERYTHING will be explained tomorrow at the ratification meeting. 

Document One, Two and Three

 

Nov 15 2005

RATIFICATION MEETING

 

ON NOVEMBER 14TH, THE LOCAL BARGAINING COMMITTEES FOR REGINA LOCAL 5890 AND CALGARY LOCAL 6673  REACHED A TENTATIVE AGREEMENT WITH IPSCO.

 A RATIFICATION MEETING WILL BE HELD ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21ST  TO VOTE ON THE AGREEMENT THE COMPANY HAS PROPOSED TO THE UNION.

 DATE: MONDAY, NOVEMBER 21ST

TIME: 7:30 A.M & 7:30 P.M

 PLACE: ITALIAN CLUB 

2148 CONNAUGHT ST.

 

 THIS IS YOUR CONTRACT AND YOUR FUTURE, PLEASE PLAN TO ATTEND ONE OF THESE MEETINGS!

 

November 7 2005

This shall serve as official notice that the local bargaining committee will return to the bargaining table on 14,15 November 2005.

The committee will meet on 09 November 2005 and discuss the disposition and current status of where we are.  I would ask at this time that we do our best to curb the rumors and await official word from myself or other Executive members for the release of official information and the current status of bargaining.

Best Regards

David S. Grant

 

Oct 26 2005

The company broke off negotiations last night at 11:00, the following is a excerpt from notes taken right before the company walked away from the table.

Ray Rarey - "First Keith (Keith Turcotte is the lead negotiator for the chain), I want to compliment the entire committee, they handled bargaining very professionally and I mean that sincerely. The last proposal looks to me like we're not going to get an agreement. I am offering a few cents on the increments. I tried to to tell you we can't do anything on the base unless you get rid of the "earn back.I spoke with David Sutherland today, told him where we are at, he then stated " We're not going to mortgage the future of Regina for the sake of a few pipe orders".

 

Right now bargaining is in a holding pattern. Your bargaining committee is always willing to work through these difficult periods and await word from the company to return to the table to work through outstanding issues still left on the negotiating table.   David S Grant 

 

A message from Dave Grant here

A message from Bob Dejarlais our temporary staff rep here

A message from Keith Turcotte here

 

 

A CONTRACT FOR OUR FUTURE     

 NOT!!!

CONTRACTING OUT OUR FUTURE

 

Oct 25 2005

Bargaining began Wednesday Oct 19 2005. There have been many unfounded rumors floating around the plant involving all manner of issues. As of now and probably until negotiations end there won't be any information released from the Bargaining Committee. The reason for this, as in the past, and is common practice in other locals during negotiations is our local does not need 750 people "arm chair quarter-backing" every issue discussed. That would become completely unworkable very quickly for all of us.

 If you hear any rumors involving what is going on in negotiations between the company and your committee it is not true unless it comes directly from one of the Bargaining Committee members.

The only news that is valid as far as I am concerned is negotiations are progressing. If things were not progressing then our Bargaining Committee would tell us.

The most important thing we all have to remember is We have to trust and support our Bargaining Committee. These  are the people that we elected to bargain. This is their job, if we don't like what they bring back to us for ratification we can vote against it.

Again. Support your Bargaining Committee!!

In Solidarity

Tory Sand

 

Oct 18 2005

The O&T subcommittee will consist of three members: Brenda Pawlychyn, Carolyn Kryba and Denise Stasuik.

 

Oct 17 2005

Bargaining will begin on Wednesday Oct 19 2005

The situation with Dennis Topp and his eligibility was fully explained at the monthly membership meeting. Since Dennis originally had the most votes, would bring over 32 years of experience from working in maintenance and observing the battlefront of our work being contracting out both in the maintenance department and throughout the whole plant, he was unanimously endorsed by the Bargaining Committee to have an integral part of contracting out negotiations.

It was also announced that the Office and Technical workers would set up a sub committee to help the Bargaining Committee address all their needs and concerns during bargaining.

Please support your Bargaining Committee!

 

Oct 16 2005

Due to the overwhelming outcry regarding Dennis Topp's eligibility to hold a seat for the Bargaining Committee the President has ordered the Vice-President and  Recording Secretary to recount Dennis Topp's attendance at regular monthly meetings. It was found that Dennis did not have the required meetings to be eligible to hold a seat on the Bargaining Committee therefore Dennis has been disqualified.

The next qualified candidate is Jeff Bruch who will sit as a member for P&M.

 

Oct 7 2005

For anyone that will be unavailable on Oct. 14 to cast their vote to elect the Bargaining Committee representative an advanced polling station  will be held at the Union Hall (#26 - 395 Park St.). It will be open both on Wednesday Oct. 12 and Oct. 13  between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm.

 

Oct 5 2005

A polling station will be set up on Oct. 14 both at the Hilton change room and at the Union hall (#26- 395 Park St) from 5:30 AM to 7:30 PM (Hilton) and 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Union hall) .

Further, you can pick up your bargaining survey when you vote to make sure your voice is heard regarding bargaining issues.

Mikey White has resigned as a trustee for our local. On behalf of the executive we thank Mikey for his years of involvement.

 

Oct 3 2005

The nominees for P&M Bargaining Committee are, in alphabetical order:

Jeff Bruch (pipe)

Bill Edwards (steel)

Garth Fondrick (steel)

Brent Henningsen (pipe)

Doug Massier (steel)

Brett Schultz (steel)

Dennis Topp (steel)

One member from P&M will elected.

*Note: Only members from the P&M may vote for the P&M committee member.

For O&T Bargaining Committee,  Paul Euteinier has been elected by acclamation.

On behalf of the local union executive, we would like to congratulate all candidates and look forward to working with you during bargaining.

We encourage all members of P&M to make every effort to cast your vote on Oct. 14

Due to the acclamation of the O&T representative, there will be no voting by the O&T members.

A Bargaining Survey was handed out at the nomination meeting. Those who attended may hand their surveys in to a shop steward. For those of you who did not attend you may pick one up at the union hall or possibly when you vote on OCT. 14.

 

Oct 2 2005

The executive will be flying to Calgary for a chain meeting to discuss bargaining on Thursday Oct. 6.

They were originally going to meet back in June but some of their leaves were denied by their area managers.

 

Sept 27 2005

There will be a special meeting on October 3 to nominate two members for the negotiating committee. One from O&T and one from P&M. If you care about your future show your support and interest by attending this meeting! This is your union.

 

This to quell any rumours about our COLA. Quoted directly from Dave Grant " WE WILL NEVER NEVER NEVER EVER NEVER EVER GIVE UP OUR COLA as long as I am president."

I may have missed a never or an ever in there somewhere.

New clothing in the works. Coats and hats. Pictures here. Please check out the pictures and send your comments.

 

Sept 19 2005

The Executive announced that the Company has approached 5890 to begin early bargaining. As a result of this there will be a members meeting on Monday October 3 to nominate and begin the process of election of elected bargaining committee members according to our local union bylaws.

 

Sept 19 2005  

LOCAL 5890 MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING

TODAY!!!

REGINA UNION CENTER

2709- 12TH AVE

7:30 P.M

BE THERE!!! THIS IS YOUR UNION. TAKE SOME RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR FUTURE!!!

 

Sept 15 2005

"Just Ask Dave" should be up and running again. If you make a post and don't get a response  after 2 days please email the site administrator or 5890@uswaregina.ca

There was a third stage grievance meeting today for steel division. Present were Dave Grant, Jeff Bruch and Doug Massier. The representatives for the company were Roger Juaraz, James Asante,Tom Hakl and Mike Carr. A full report will be given at the general membership meeting on Sept. 19 .

 

Sept 14 2005

A CWS back pay issue was settled today with the company involving 6 employees. The back pay was for a time period where employees in the CTLL were being paid job class 13 instead of 14 for #1 operator.
 

Sept 12 2005

We would like everyone to come down to the union hall and pick up strike signs. We support the City workers and encourage you to walk the line for a few hours with them.

Sept 11 2005

The annual Steelworkers fish camp was put on the week of July 24-30. Twelve kids were shown a good time with many fun activities hosted by the Steelworkers including three from Local 5890.

Pictures of the fun here

Sept 9 2005

 

 

LOCAL 5890 MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP MEETING

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH

REGINA UNION CENTER

2709- 12TH AVE

7:30 P.M

Sept 2 2005

A decision from the Court of Queens bench was handed down in favour of the union regarding the decision of the Saskatchewan labour board on the illegal lock out of members of 5917 at Wheat City Metals. They were locked out illegally because they would not accept a 4 year agreement with Wheat City Metals.

Wheat City Metals is wholly owned by IPSCO.

 

August 30 2005

The members of 5917 Wheat City Metals unit took a ratification vote on a contract proposed by their bargaining committee. It was approved by 73% of their membership.

Some of the things achieved in bargaining:

       1.05 wage increase over 3 years

       3.00 increase in pension from 29 to 32 per year

       modest bumps in life insurance, weekly indemnity and shift differentials

Now that Wheat City Metals contract with their employees is ratified I wonder if the price of scrap in Regina is going to go up. And if the cost of scrap miraculously goes up in Regina will the laid off employees at Wheat City Metals be able to go back to work?

 

Still no decision from the Court of Queens Bench on Wheat City Metals appeal of the Labour Boards order to pay their employees for lost time during the illegal lockout at Wheat City Metals. They have been waiting for over 60 days for a decision. At the end of the appeal court session the judge stated he would have a ruling in 30 days.

I wonder why?

Just a reminder in case anyone doesn't know ...... Wheat City Metals is wholly owned by IPSCO

 

August 21 2005

Our last raise for this contract should be on the next stub including back pay to August 1

 

August 16  2005                  

 

Randy Yakobovich  (Yaky) passed away on Sunday August 14 at the Pasqua hospital from Esophagus cancer.

His family was with him until the end.

Yaky will always be sorely missed by his many friends and co-workers in the Melt Shop and by anyone that has worked with him over the past 20 years.

 

August 11 2005

UNION MEETING AUGUST 15

Date: August 15 

Place: Union Office 26, 395 Park St.

 

August 8 2005

Newsletter is in the mail

 

August 3 2005

Dave Grant was given a written warning for attending a meeting with upper management without requesting permission to leave from his immediate supervisor.

 

June 26 2005

The Executive of Local 5890 would like to welcome all new employee's to the Steelworkers.  We would also like to welcome you to the Union meeting at 7pm at the Union Center on the corner of 13th Avenue and Angus St.

 

June 10 2005

Due to a conflict of schedules of the Executive the Regular Monthly Membership has been rescheduled to Monday June 27 2005.

Sorry for any inconvenience

 

June 3 2005

Wheat City Metals, owned by IPSCO is refusing to comply with Saskatchewan Labour Relations Board decision. Get the full story here

 

May 31 2005

Dave Grant, Dwayne Mitchell, Jeff Bruch, and Doug Massier returned from a contracting out conference in Toronto. It was put on by the International Steelworkers. No news yet on what the strategy is. IPSCO and HR will probably be the first to know.

 

May 24 2005

Our COLA has gone up 21 cents per hour. COLA in now 93 cents per straight time hour worked.

 

May19 2005

ILLEGAL LOCKOUT AT WHEAT CITY METAL!!!

Wheat City Metals received a ruling from the Saskatchewan Labor Board that it is in violation of the Trade Union Act by locking out 38 members of 5917. It is against the law in Saskatchewan to lock out workers demanding a longer collective agreement that 3 years. All of your brother workers at Wheat City Metals will get paid for the time they were locked out illegally.

Wheat City was ordered to cease and desist all lockout action against local 5917.WCM was ordered to bargain "in good faith". WCM was also ordered to end the lockout undertaken for the unlawful purposes of forcing their employees to accept a term of agreement longer than three years. It was also ordered that WCM will pay each of its locked out workers an amount equivalent to what they would have earned had they not been locked out within fourteen days. (The workers will receive seven weeks pay!)

No word yet on whether Wheat City Metals was fined or if they will have to pay restitution to the Steelworkers for funds spent on trailer and rentals during the illegal lockout.

Everyone also needs to remember that IPSCO wholly owns Wheat City Metals through a company called Jamel Metals. Your brother Steelworkers were basically locked out illegally by IPSCO.

 

May 9 2005

Local 5890 member meeting on May 16. at the Union Center on the corner of 12th Avenue and Angus Street. Be there. This is your Union!!!

 

 

April 19 2005

  We had a very productive meeting last night at our monthly membership meeting . Both Darwin McDonald and I reported on our trip to the international convention. We voted to send two grievances to arbitration. Guy Sifert, a unit grievance chair from 5917, reported on the state of affairs regarding their battle and lock out with IPSCO and Wheat City Metals. Some decisions and motions were passed to change the monthly payout to the Area Council.

 

  It was decided that local 5890 would donate 25 dollars to each employee of Wheat City Metals this month and 10 dollars every month until they settle their contract. We have to support these 38 people because we could easily find ourselves in the same position they are when our contract with IPSCO expires in 2006. They are dealing with the same company as we are.

 

  It was also decided to change our monthly contribution of 200 dollars to the area council to a different system where we pay 25 cents per person per month. We also passed a motion to give 25 cents per member per month for the South Sask. Area Council Education fund. This is mostly to facilitate better education for our brother locals 5917 and 6717to make sure they can educate all of their members in all of their units.

 

  The United Steel Workers of America is now known as the Steelworkers. During our international convention for USWA it was announced that PACE ( paper allied chemical and energy workers ) were to join forces with USWA making us the largest private sector union in North America. It was a very interesting, exciting trip full of excellent speakers. At one time we had over 6500 steelworkers in the same room. After the announcement of the merger there was a 15 minute standing ovation.

 

  There were 9 new members of our membership fired last year without representation from the local. We are adamant that once a employee begins work at IPSCO he is represented by local 5890. This is the reason we are sending a group grievance dealing with this issue to arbitration. The other grievance we are going to send to arbitration is dealing with IPSCOs refusal to pay new employees for both days of a 2 day indoctrination. This is not only illegal based on Saskatchewan Labour Law, people expect to be paid for any required attendance at a job, new or not. A new employee is not a second class citizen.   

 

  Wheat City locked out again!!  Click here for more details

 

For those of you Pipe employees who are laid off there is a 2" inspector bid posted. If you are interested get down to the plant and bid. There are supposed to be bid forms at the security. Fill them out then inter-office mail them Cindy Hinger.

                                           

 

 

 

  • Sign up for electronic version of Newsletter click pic
  • What affect will the payment of Profit Sharing have on the current claims for benefit? Click here to view this question answered and more.
  • Raising money for union paraphernalia (new shirts, caps, and jackets) on the way
  • TransCanada pipeline in the works Click here for more information
  • Union committee storms out of contracting out meeting when company refuses to supply letter outlining policies and procedures in regard to contracting out - further, the company threatens to lay pipe guys off and give the work to contractors if the union forces them to "narrow" their ability to use contractors.
  • Federal Budget ignores bankruptcy protection for workers.
  • Ipsco Inc. racking up a profit of $439-million (U.S.) last year