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Some 120 local Unifor leaders and activists met in Halifax recently to learn about the latest on effective anti-harassment workplace practices, drug and alcohol policies and to get updates on current local and national union campaigns.
The forums - one was held in New Brunswick last fall and another is being scheduled for Newfoundland and Labrador this spring, among others across the country - were sparked by recommendations from the Local Union Task Force (LUTF) where the national union discussed with local leaders across the country how to build stronger local unions.
“Making sure union locals have the tools and information to better represent their members and demand healthy workplaces is one of the ways we do that,” said Lana Payne, Unifor Atlantic Regional Director.
Payne welcomed the delegates gathered at the new World Trade and Convention Centre and started the day with important updates on campaigns to support workers at Local 440 (Northern Pulp), and #SaveOshawaGM, among others.
“We had an incredible turnout of workers from many different sectors and regions. Building our union requires everyday activism. The work is never done. What’s inspiring is the day-in and day-out commitment of our local elected leaders in doing that work.”
Next steps in LUTF Phase II include building stronger ties among Unifor locals through the creation of area councils like has been done in Saint John, New Brunswick.
Unifor Legal Counsel Niki Lundquist presented a workshop on Anti-Harassment at Work, and Drug and Alcohol Policies in the Workplace. Members were provided with information and guidance based on case studies and Lundquist’s expertise in these matters and had plenty of opportunities to ask questions based on issues in their own workplaces.
Erin Harrison from the Membership and Mobilization Department engaged members in a discussion about building union pride, participation in community events, and upcoming and current union campaigns.
“The sessions were outstanding and the feedback from our local leaders was extremely positive,” said Payne.
View the photo album on Facebook here.
