Everyone deserves retirement security / Nous méritons

Spring 2011
Volume 2
Issue 1
Everyone deserves retirement
security / Nous méritons tous
une sécurité de la retraite
I
n recent months, there’s been a lot of talk
about the province’s financial problems.
This has called a number of government
programs and services into question,
including the public sector’s defined benefit
pension plan. Opponents are suggesting
that these pensions have become a burden
on New Brunswick taxpayers – leaving the
impression that taxpayers would be better
off if pension plans were replaced with an
RRSP contribution plan.
D
urant les derniers mois, il y a eu
beaucoup de discussion à propos
des problèmes financiers de la
province. Cela a eu comme effet de mettre
en doute certains programmes et services
gouvernementaux, y compris le régime de
pension à prestations déterminées du secteur
public. Les opposants suggèrent que ces
pensions sont devenues un fardeau pour les
contribuables du Nouveau-Brunswick —
laissant l’impression que les contribuables
seraient avantagés si les régimes de retraite
Studies show that it’s not cheaper, nor étaient remplacés par un REER.
without risk, for governments to switch
away from normal pension plans - quite the Les études démontrent que ce n’est ni moins
contrary. The switch will increase demands cher, ni sans risque de se détourner des
on governments and social services, in turn régimes de pension — bien au contraire, le
costing taxpayers. For instance, many changement va engendrer une hausse de
Canadians are not saving enough (if anything) la demande des services gouvernementaux
for retirement. Would taxpayers really be et des services sociaux, ce qui coûtera
See Retirement on page 13
Inside
The Ross Report
Hazer’s Corner
L37 Training
Energy Commission
Harley Draw
Flood Donation
Women in Nuclear (WiN)
International Convention
In Memoriam
Rogers TV
IBEW Scholarship Winner
Photo Connection
Retirements
Unit Meetings
Lineman Rodeo Update
voyez Sécurité à la page 13
Robinson receives IBEW life-saving award
B
rother Ben Robinson, a
Power Plant Operator at
Point Lepreau Generating
Station (PLGS) was recently
presented with the IBEW Life
Saving Award. With this award,
Ben has been internationally
recognized for the action he took
to save the life of a member of
the Labourers’ Union (Local
900) who suffered cardiac arrest
while working at Point Lepreau.
Even though Ben was not
See Award on page 7
officially assigned to the Station’s
Emergency Response Team that
shift, he immediately offered to
help in any way he could. The
victim had to be rushed to the
hospital, and without hesitation,
Ben agreed to ride along in the
ambulance to assist the EMTs.
As one of the two responding
EMTs had to race the ambulance
to the hospital, Ben performed
vital chest compressions which
allowed the remaining single
Local 37 member and PLGS employee, Ben Robinson
(centre), was presented with the IBEW Life Saving
Award by Business Manager, Ross Galbraith (left), and
PLGS Chief Steward, Doug Wallace (right).
2
4
5
6
8
8
9
10
10
11
12
14
15
16
16
The Ross Report / le rapport de Ross
I
Ross Galbraith, Business Manager /
Gérant des affaires
don’t think many
people will dispute
that there’s a
lot of change going
on in today’s world.
Changing technology,
changing workplaces,
environmental change,
changing governments,
changing financial
markets, the impacts
of globalization and
competition, and so on.
Although a lot of the things we see happening are outside
our borders, we’re not immune to the impact of these
changes here in New Brunswick and it’s more important
than ever that we all work together so that we’re able to
take advantage of every opportunity, and fight against
any negatives.
Fortunately, Local 37 members have an advantage over
many. As part of a large progressive union, we all have
a distinct advantage over people who have to “go it
alone”. Simply put, there is strength in being part of a
team, whether it is by pooling resources, access to and
sharing of information, organizing around a common
goal, access to training, or simply by supporting each
other in times of need.
Also, as part of the larger IBEW network across North
America, we have a huge advantage in understanding
and dealing with the changes and trends that are shaping
workplaces, and we can draw upon the resources,
information and best practices that exist within the
IBEW right across Canada and the United States.
These advantages can’t be underestimated, and I think
they will play a critical role in the future of all Local 37
members.
For example, we are currently working to counteract
the effort of some New Brunswick media outlets that
are trying to convince government to weaken the
employment rights, pensions and retirement security
of working people. This is a disturbing trend, one that
is creating a “race to the bottom”. We’re committed to
the principle that everyone should have access to decent
employment opportunities and retirement security, and
we’ll work to get that message out. This is an area that
we’ll need all members to pitch in and help with in the
coming months.
See The Ross Report on page 3
2 Spring 2011
J
e ne pense pas que beaucoup de gens contestent qu’il y
a énormément de changement en cours dans le monde
d’aujourd’hui. Les changements technologiques,
l’évolution des milieux de travail, les changements
environnementaux, les changements de gouvernement,
l’évolution des marchés financiers, les impacts de la
mondialisation et de la concurrence, et ainsi de suite.
Bien que beaucoup de ces choses se déroulent en dehors de
nos frontières, nous ne sommes pas à l’abri de l’impact de
ces changements ici au Nouveau-Brunswick et il est plus
important que jamais que nous travaillions tous ensemble
afin d’être en mesure de tirer parti de toutes les occasions,
et de lutter contre les aspects négatifs.
Heureusement, les membres du local 37 ont un avantage
sur plusieurs. Dans le cadre d’un syndicat progressif,
nous avons tous un net avantage sur les gens qui eux
doivent faire leur chemin seul. Autrement dit, il y a
une force de faire partie d’une équipe, que ce soit par
la mise en commun des ressources, l’accès et le partage
de l’information, l’organisation autour d’un objectif
commun, l’accès à la formation, ou tout simplement,
en se soutenant mutuellement en cas de besoin.
En outre, dans le cadre du plus grand réseau FIOE en
Amérique du Nord, nous avons un énorme avantage quant
à la compréhension et la gestion des changements et des
tendances qui façonnent les milieux de travail, et nous
pouvons puiser dans les ressources, les informations et les
meilleures pratiques qui existent dans la FIOE au Canada
et aux États-Unis.
Ces avantages ne peuvent pas être sousestimés, et je pense qu’ils joueront un rôle
crucial dans l’avenir des membres du local 37.
Par exemple, nous travaillons actuellement pour contrer
les efforts de certains médias du Nouveau-Brunswick qui
cherchent à convaincre le gouvernement d’amenuiser
les droits en matière d’emploi, la sécurité du système
de pension et de retraite des travailleurs. Il s’agit d’une
tendance inquiétante, la création d’une « course vers la fin
». Nous nous sommes engagés dans le but de s’assurer que
chacun a accès à des possibilités d’emploi convenable ainsi
que la sécurité de la retraite, et nous allons promouvoir ce
message. C’est un domaine où l’appui de tous les membres
est nécessaire dans les prochains mois.
En plus de lutter contre des menaces spécifiques, nous
allons aussi d’être proactif afin de doter nos membres
avec les outils nécessaires pour réussir à l’avenir. C’est
Voyez le rapport de Ross à la page 3
The Ross Report continued from page 2
le rapport de Ross suite de la page 2
In addition to counteracting specific threats, we’re
pourquoi nous avons travaillé à fournir un meilleur accès
also going to be proactive in equipping our members
à la formation en ligne qui est accessible à tout moment, et
with the tools to be successful in the future. That’s
ce, n’importe où. Notre fond en fiducie pour la formation
why we’ve worked to provide enhanced
va nous permettre d’organiser une conférence et
access to online training that is accessible
de commanditer d’autres activités d’apprentissage
“Teamwork is the
anytime, anywhere. Our Training ability to work together qui aideront chacun d’entre nous pour réussir
Trust Fund is also going to be hosting a
et prospérer en période de changement.
toward a common
conference and sponsoring other learning vision. It is the fuel that
activities that will help all of us to succeed allows common people Ce ne sont que quelques exemples des nombreuses
and thrive in changing times.
to attain uncommon choses que nous allons faire. Nous allons
également améliorer notre site Web pour parfaire
results.”
Those are just a couple of examples of
- Andrew Carnegie - la communication entre les membres, et nous
the many things we’ll be doing. We’ll also
allons prendre l’initiative de renforcer l’efficacité
be enhancing our website to improve
des réunions et les autres moyens utilisés pour
communication among members, and «Le travail d’équipe est communiquer entre nous.
we’ll be looking at ways to enhance the la capacité à travailler
ensemble vers une
effectiveness of meetings and the other
Donc, même si les changements peuvent
vision commune. Il
ways we communicate with each other.
parfois nous sembler écrasants, une chose qui
est le carburant qui ne changera pas, c’est la capacité que nous
permet aux gens
So, although change can sometimes
avons tous pour atteindre le succès, lorsque
ordinaires
d’obtenir nous travaillons tous ensemble. Dans les mots
feel overwhelming, one thing that won’t
change is the ability that we have to achieve des résultats hors du d’Andrew Carnegie, « le travail d’équipe est la
commun. »
success when we all work together. In the
capacité à travailler ensemble vers une vision
- Andrew Carnegie - commune. La capacité de diriger les réalisations
words of Andrew Carnegie*, “Teamwork
is the ability to work together toward
individuelles vers des objectifs organisationnels.
a common vision. The ability to direct
Il est le carburant qui permet aux gens
individual accomplishments toward organizational
ordinaires d’obtenir des résultats hors du commun. »
objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people
J’apprécie le travail que chacun de vous faites tous les
to attain uncommon results.”
jours, et nous sommes impatients de travailler avec vous
sur notre objectif d’améliorer la vie des membres du local
I appreciate the work that each of you do every day,
37 et de leurs familles.
and I look forward to working with you on our goal
of improving the lives of Local 37 members and their
families.
*Andrew Carnegie était un industriel américain, d’origine
* Andrew Carnegie was a Scottish-born American
industrialist who led the expansion of the American
steel industry in the late 19th century - making him one
of the richest men in the world. Carnegie was known for
treating and respecting his workers well. After his retirement, Carnegie became one of the 20th century’s most
important philanthropists - donating more than $350 million to further public education, build libraries, and lobby
for international peace.
In Solidarity, / En solidarité,
Ross Galbraith, Business Manager /
Gérant des affaires
écossaise, qui a mené l’expansion de l’industrie
américaine du fer à la fin du 19e siècle — le faisant un
des hommes les plus riches au monde. Carnegie a été
connu pour bien traiter et respecter ses ouvriers. Après
sa retraite, Carnegie est devenu un des philanthropes
le plus importants du 20e siècle — en donnant au-delà
de 350 $ millions afin d’avancer l’enseignement public,
construire des bibliothèques, et du lobbysme pour la paix
internationale.
Connect with 37!
ibew37.com
[email protected]
1-877-437-0037
Spring 2011 3
IBEW Local 37
Executive Board
Ross Galbraith
Business Manager
Stephen Hayes
President
Romeo Bourque
Vice President
Gaëtan Chiasson
Treasurer
Peggy Galbraith
Recording Secretary
David Brown
Generation
Greg Wright
Generation
Glen Hubbard
Generation
Phil Hepditch
Transmission
Don St.Pierre
Customer Service
Wanda Hierlihy
Customer Service
Ted Robertson
Customer Service
Scot Hale
Distribution
Gerard Kenna
Transmission
Susan Dunham
Nuclear
Mike Gould
Nuclear
Don Dickson
Nuclear
Office Staff
Claude Richard
Asst. Business Manager
Gary Munn
Asst. Business Manager
Mary Williamson
Organizational Development
Annette Perry
Training Trust Fund/Admin.
Leslie MacNeill
Accounting / Payroll
4 Spring 2011
Hazer’s Corner
I
n this edition of Hazer’s Corner,
I won’t be asking as many
questions. However, I will try to
pass along some experiences from
the past and hope for the future. The
other day I was talking to a younger
brother who was asking all sorts of
questions in regards to union rules,
etc. He had no knowledge of what
the IBEW Constitution was, or why
one even existed. I passed along to
him all the information I could on
the why and how it came to be. So,
that gave me an idea for this edition
of Hazer’s Corner.
In 1891, Henry Miller founded the
largest union of electrical workers.
Brother Miller passed away five
years later. The dedication on his
tombstone reads “A life devoted to
the interests of his fellow workers”.
This statement alone speaks volumes
about why the IBEW was founded by
such a humble man. I believe when
Miller founded the organization it was out of interest for his fellow workers,
not himself. At the time, one out of
every two electrical workers hired
was killed in an electrical related
incident. Thus, the Constitution of the
NBEW ( later to become the IBEW)
was drafted in St. Louis, Missouri. For
those of you who wish to learn more
about Henry Miller, go to ibew.org
and click on The Henry Miller Story. The Constitution of the IBEW is
the most important document in
our organization. To quote the
constitution, “This Constitution,
and all acts and proceedings which
in the future and in due course may
be enacted, shall be binding on all
Local Union Officers and Members.”
If you don’t have a copy call the Union
Office and one of the staff will be
more than happy to supply you with
one. I encourage you to read and ask
questions on the articles you don’t
understand.
In order for our organization to
go forward, we must respect the
past. The principles set out in the
Steve Hayes, President
constitution are for the fair and equal
treatment of all members regardless
of rank in the organization.
In today’s world, there are many
factions trying to erode the working
conditions that we have today- the
conditions that we and others in our
great union have fought to establish
over the years. To many, pensions,
salaries, hours of work, etc., seem to
be luxuries that were given to unions
in the past just to keep them quiet.
Many feel these conditions should be
changed because of the tough times
we are in today. Let me assure you
these were not given freely in the past.
These were negotiated, through some
tough bargaining.
Recently, there has been much talk
about public sector unions and
their pensions. Don’t be fooled by
all the rhetoric - listen to the facts.
Remember, we and other unions
have negotiated these. Long ago
this was done to improve the future
social conditions of our members
and families. This, my Brothers and
Sisters, began in 1891 with Henry
Miller and should not die in 2011
with us. Be strong, there will be a
lot of negative talk. Rest assured
the Executive of Local 37 will stand
strong for its members as it always
has in the past.
God Bless,
Steve Hayes
President
Big changes to L37 training / De
grands changements au niveau de la
formation au L37
W
ell, it’s been pretty exciting here at the
IBEW 37 Training Trust Fund recently. In
November we began working with external
consultants to figure out how we could do more for you.
We’re increasing the number of services available to
you, simplifying access to these services, and gathering
feedback from members about how we can provide
more of what you want. To meet these ends we’ve got
several projects in the works.
First off, the Training Trust Fund has a new website
under development that will be coming online in early
May. On the new website you’ll be able to register for
events, see a calendar of upcoming events, link to
social media, access new services like the Training
Trust Fund book club service, and find a ton of useful
content, from video and podcasts to webinars and
online training. The website also represents a whole
new way for you to communicate with us. Through our
new message boards you’ll be able to tell us what you
think of the services we are providing and read and
discuss the opinions of Training Trust Fund members
all over the province. You’ll also be able to find all of the
information about something that we’re really excited
about, that is, our spring conference.
May 13 & 14 the Training Trust Fund will be hosting
a conference for members in Fredericton. Starting
Friday evening and ending Saturday afternoon, we’ve
got exciting entertainment, keynote speakers and a
variety of interesting workshops. There will be no costs
for folks who want to attend, and attendees will be
encouraged to bring their families. A special children’s
program will be available. In addition to this, we’re
going to have a slate of new seminars offered around
the province in the coming months.
In order to help facilitate all these changes we’ve
developed a comprehensive new database that will
help us to keep in touch with you.
This is an exciting time for the Training Trust Fund
and we’re looking forward to being in touch with you
in the coming weeks and showing you how all these
changes can make a difference for you!
N
ous avons récemment vécu des moments assez
excitants ici, au Fonds en fiducie pour la formation
IBEW 37. En novembre, nous avons commencé à
travailler avec des consultants externes pour découvrir
comment nous pouvons en faire davantage pour vous.
Nous allons augmenter le nombre de services que nous
vous offrons, nous allons simplifier l’accès à ces services
et nous allons recueillir des commentaires des membres
pour savoir comment nous pouvons offrir davantage
ce que vous voulez. Pour ce faire, nous avons plusieurs
projets en cours.
En premier lieu, le Fonds en fiducie pour la formation a
un nouveau site Web en voie de développement qui sera
mis en service au début du mois de mai. Sur le nouveau
site Web, vous pourrez vous inscrire à des événements,
voir un calendrier des événements à venir, obtenir le
lien aux médias sociaux, accéder aux nouveaux services
comme le service du club de lecture du Fonds en fiducie
pour la formation, ainsi que trouver un tas d’information
pertinente, des vidéos et balados aux séminaires en ligne et
à la formation en ligne. Le site Web représente également
une toute nouvelle façon pour vous de communiquer
avec nous. Grâce à notre babillard électronique, vous
pourrez nous dire ce que vous pensez des services que
nous offrons, ainsi que lire et discuter des opinions des
membres de partout dans la province à l’égard du Fonds
en fiducie pour la formation. Vous pourrez également
trouver toute l’information au sujet d’un événement qui
nous réjouit beaucoup, soit la conférence du printemps.
Le 13 et 14 mai, le Fonds en fiducie pour la formation
organisera une conférence pour ses membres à Fredericton.
Du vendredi soir au samedi après-midi, nous présentons
un divertissement palpitant, des conférenciers d’honneur
et une panoplie d’ateliers intéressants. Il n’y a pas de frais
associés à cette conférence, et on invite les participants
de venir avec leurs familles. Une programmation
spéciale pour les enfants sera disponible. En plus, dans
les prochains mois, nous aurons une liste de nouveaux
séminaires offerts dans la province.
Afin de faciliter tous ces changements, nous avons mis
sur pied une nouvelle base de données complète qui nous
aidera à garder le contact avec vous.
C’est une période palpitante pour le Fonds en fiducie pour
la formation et nous avons hâte de communiquer avec vous
dans les prochaines semaines pour vous montrer comment
tous ces changements peuvent faire une différence pour
vous!
Spring 2011 5
Energy Commission seeks Union’s
input / Commission de l’énergie
sollicite les commentaires du syndicat
T
C
In the month of February, the Commission held a series of
public information sessions and open houses throughout
the province. They also invited the submission of online
briefs and hosted a number of online surveys. A draft
Le local 37 a également fait part de son soutien envers la
poursuite du développement d’un Smart Grid au Canada
atlantique et la recherche de nouvelles occasions telles
que les fermes de données et les projets d’expansion de
his past fall, Premier David Alward appointed
Jeannot Volpe and Bill Thompson as the Co-Chairs
of the New Brunswick Energy Commission. The
Commission has been given the mandate to develop
a 10-year energy plan for the
Province. Development of the
plan recommendations required
consultation with the public and
stakeholders.
ommission de l’énergie sollicite les commentaires
du syndicat
L’automne dernier, le premier
ministre David Alward a nommé Jeannot
Volpé et Bill Thompson en tant que coprésident de
la Commission de l’énergie
du Nouveau-Brunswick. La
Commission a reçu le mandat
d’élaborer un plan énergétique
d’une période de 10 ans pour
la province. L’élaboration
In January, the Commission
des recommandations pour
Co-Chairs met with the Local 37
le plan a nécessité une
Executive Board to discuss the
consultation avec le public
Union’s views on the future of the
et les intervenants.
En
janvier, les coprésidents de
province’s energy production and
the skilled workforce behind it. Top
la Commission se sont réunis
on the E-Board’s list of priorities
avec le bureau de direction
was emphasizing that NB Power
du local 37 pour discuter le
must be maintained in public NB Energy Commission Co-chairs, Bill Thompson(left)
point de vue du syndicat ainsi
hands, that it should be returned and Jeannot Volpé (right) / Coprésident de la
que l’avenir de la production
to a single integrated utility, and Commission de l’énergie du N.-B., Bill Thompson (à
énergétique de la province et
maintain a capacity to self-generate gauche) et Jeannot Volpé (à droite).
de la main-d’œuvre qualifiée.
from a variety of sources to protect
Certaines priorités ont été
from rising costs in a single form of generation.
identifiés; Énergie N.-B. doit être maintenu comme
entité publique, elle doit être retourné à un service
The Executive Board explained the critical importance unique et intégré, et elle doit maintenir une capacité
of exploring all options to keep Dalhousie Generating dans la province pour d’autogénération à partir d’une
Station operating and underlined the fact that it is a variété de sources à l’abri de la hausse des coûts d’une
very important part of the power system in that it helps seule forme de génération.
maintain grid stability and reliability.
De plus, les membres du bureau de direction ont
In terms of our labour force, the Union also asserted that expliqué l’importance d’explorer toutes les options
provisions must be made for employees impacted by any pour maintenir la Centrale de Dalhousie en fonction.
changes due to the evolving electricity sector. Continued Ils ont aussi souligné que cette centrale est une partie
investment in recruitment and training of workers to très importante du système qui maintient la stabilité
ensure system reliability and safety was also identified et la fiabilité du réseau.
as a priority for Local 37.
Concernant de notre main-d’œuvre, le syndicat
The Local 37 Board also shared its support for continuing a revendiqué pour que des options soient offert à
to explore Smart Grid development within Atlantic Canada tous les employés touchés par les changements dus
and to look for new business development opportunities à l’évolution du secteur de l’électricité. La poursuite
such as data farms and low-cost capacity and transmission d’investissements dans le recrutement et la formation
expansion projects within the province. The complete des travailleurs afin de garantir la fiabilité et la sécurité
Local 37 submission may be found online at gnb.ca/ du système a été identifiée comme une priorité pour
commission.
le local 37.
See Energy on page 12
6 Spring 2011
Voyez l’énergie à la page 12
International President
receives prestigious
labour award
E
ach year the Instituto
Laboral de la Raza (a U.S.
based non-profit workers’
rights organization) honours an
International Union President as
the Labour Leader of the Year.
IBEW President, Ed Hill, was
the 2011 recipient and Guest of
Honor at their National LabourCommunity Awards “Summit of
Solidarity” held this past February
in San Francisco, California.
The award recognized President
Hill’s dedication to the well-being
of all working men and women as
well as his extensive involvement
in numerous community based
activities. This Awards Dinner
is the largest of its kind in the
United States, bringing together
Spring 2011 7
Award
continued from page 6
EMT to properly ventilate the
patient, monitor his vitals, or apply
the defibrillator when required.
There is no doubt that Ben Robinson
was pivotal in saving the contractor’s
life.
Ben’s co-worker and fellow Local
37 member, Simon Chiswell recalls,
“At the end of all of this, Ben came
back to work and finished his shift.
Ben went above and beyond. He
stopped and offered to help because
he could.”
Labour Leader of the Year: IBEW
International President, Ed Hill.
Local 37 is very proud of the entire
team of people that worked so very
hard to successfully save a man’s
life. The quote that is engraved on
the Life Saving Award sums up
the significance of this experience
perfectly:
the highest ranking leaders of
labour, business, government, and
community organizations.
“The greatest service that one
can make to mankind is the
saving of a human life.”
It’s that time again!
2011 HARLEY DRAW
The
IBEW’s
1st
District
Representatives and Officers are
having their Harley Davidson
Draw with this year’s proceeds
going toward hosting the Canadian
International Representatives’
and Officers’ Reception at the
2011 International Convention in
Vancouver, BC.
This year’s motorcycle draw is for
a Light and Dark Candy Root Beer
2011 Harley-Davidson FLHRC-103
Road King Classic.
There are only 500 tickets to be
sold at $100 each with a chance to
win the Road King Classic and/or
two cash prizes of $5,000 each. An
“Early Bird” draw will be held at the
23rd Annual MS Golf Tournament
on May 19th, 2011 at Braeben Golf
Course in Mississauga, ON for one
cash prize of $5,000.
The winning ticket of the “Early
Bird” draw will go back in and
remain eligible for the next draw
prize. The draw for the Harley will
take place as soon as all tickets are
sold, or at the IBEW All Canada
Progress Meeting in Quebec City,
QC on July 13th, 2011 with another
draw for a cash prize of $5,000.
Tickets may be obtained either
from your 1st District International
Representative or by calling the L37
office: 1-877-437-0037.
YOU MUST BE AN IBEW
MEMBER TO PURCHASE AND
WIN IN THIS DRAW!
Members make donation to
flood relief
Entries must be submitted by
April 29th. Local 37 members
interested in receiving more
information can visit www.
ibew.org or send an email
request to [email protected].
8 Spring 2011
S
till fresh in the minds of New Brunswickers is the rash
of flooding that damaged, and in some cases destroyed,
homes, businesses, properties, roads, and bridges
throughout southern and central parts of the province. Families
and communities were left devastated. Some of our own
Brothers and Sisters, as well as friends and family, were directly
affected by the flood damage. From the start, many members
of Local 37 could be found on the front lines helping those in
need. On behalf of all members of Local 37, the Executive
Board approved a $2100 donation that was made to the Eastern
Charlotte Flood Relief Fund to assist with relief efforts.
Non-traditional careers given
the spotlight
F
or the second year in a row,
Local 37 demonstrated its
strong support for promoting
the many career possibilities in
the trades and technologies by
sponsoring and participating in
the 2010 New Brunswick Skills
Networking Dinners for Young
Women.
These dinners, hosted by the NB
Chapter of Women in Nuclear (WiN)
are designed to bring female high
school students together to listen
to, and learn from, professional
female mentors (many of whom are
IBEW Local 37 members) working
in non-traditional fields such as
electrical technology, chemical
technology, instrumentation, power
engineering, welding, pipefitting,
nuclear response, etc.
Local 37 member, Bernice Lanigan
is a member of WiN, as well as a
chemical technologist working as
a Senior Assessment Specialist at
Point Lepreau. She has been directly
involved with the Skills Networking
Dinners from the start and believes
in their value and importance.
“These sessions really have a strong
message for these young students. We
don’t want them to limit themselves
in any way, and want them to know
that by keeping up their math and
sciences, they will open up all kinds
of wonderful and exciting career
opportunities,” says Lanigan.
Over 100 students, 35 mentors, a
variety of exhibitors, government
and employer representatives,
several parents, and teachers all
took part to make these dinners a
resounding success! The students’
feedback was very positive and
clearly indicated that they left feeling
empowered, and inspired about the
many exciting career opportunities
that are available to them.
Local 37 looks forward to supporting
this event again in 2011!
Members of Local 37 played a big part in showing young females the range of opportunities available in non - traditional fields.
Pictured at left: Nora Walsh (Nuclear Security Officer - left), Cricky Smith (Nuclear Security Officer - centre) and Stacey Kane (Nuclear
Response Force Team - right) give an overview of their training and job responsibilities at Point Lepreau; Pictured at Right: Local 37
Staff member, Annette Perry (right), speaks with students about the IBEW.
WiN-NB promoting awareness
W
iN (Women in Nuclear)
is an association that
unites women working
professionally in the various
nuclear energy fields. It provides a
number of benefits to its members
including opportunities for
networking, mentoring, and personal
development.
WiN members also work together
to educate the public about the
positive impacts nuclear power has
Spring 2011 9
on communities. A number of Local
37 members at the Point Lepreau
Generating Station are proud
members of WiN New Brunswick.
They have been involved in a number
initiatives to increase awareness
about nuclear energy like Earth
Day, Adopt-a-Book programs, as
well as having an active interest
in promoting career opportunities
to our youth by organizing and
participating in events like the Skills
Networking Dinners.
L37 member, PLGS employee, and WiN
member, Bernice Lanigan (centre), working
with students on an Earth Day project.
Countdown to Vancouver!
Nominations and Election
of delegates to IBEW
International Convention
F
or the first time in 25 years,
The IBEW International
Convention will be held
in Canada. Vancouver, British
Columbia has been chosen as the
setting for the 38th Convention
being held September 19-23, 2011
at the Vancouver Convention and
Exhibition Centre.
Held every five years, the IBEW
convention is a massive undertaking,
bringing some 3,000 local union
delegates, officers, staff, and guests
to the host city. The convention is
where the IBEW conducts the heart
of its business, setting broad policy
goals to guide the union over the next
five years in an open, democratic
forum. Nominations for delegates will
be held throughout the month of
April followed by the election of six
delegates and two alternates (via
mail-in ballot) in June.
Attending the International
Convention as a delegate is a valuable
experience for any IBEW member,
and particularly for those who are
in union leadership positions, or
who aspire to a leadership role. By
virtue of their office, the President
and Business Manager are automatic
delegates to the Convention.
As per the IBEW Constitution, in
order to be eligible for nomination
members must have been in
continuous good standing for at
least 24 months immediately prior
to the nomination. Please note that
your membership may not be upto-date if you have been on LTD,
maternity leave or laid off in the past
24 months. Please call or e-mail the
union office for further information.
Nominations will be held during the
April Unit Meetings. The Election
Judge will be appointed after the last
nomination meeting on April 27 and
cannot be a candidate. Ballots and
voting instructions will be mailed
during the third week of May and
will be counted by the Election
Judge and Tellers on June 15, 2011.
To avoid delays in receiving your
ballot, please ensure the Local 37
office has your current address.
In Memoriam (November 2010 - March 2011)
Nov. 5
Larry Dean Fox
Retired 2005
Nov. 23
Bliss Brewer
Mat. Movement & Equip. Coordinator - Retired 1990
Nov. 28
Gerald Aubrey Randall
Grand Lake Plant - Retired 1987
Dec. 27
Arthur (Art) Saucier
Staker/Detailer II - Retired 1983
Jan. 29
Arnold Clark
Truck Driver - Retired 2000
Feb. 2
Alan Percy Seeley
Lineman - Retired 2005
Feb. 19
Ron Boyd
Retired 1986
Feb. 24
Henry Bielecki
Retired 1995
Mar.14
Harold Nightengale
Mechanical Maintainer - Retired 1994
Mar.15
Betty Dewer
Service Maintenance, PLGS
Mar.23
Ralph Ronald Ryan
Retired 1990
10 Spring 2011
Rogers TV: new contract
signed
O
n behalf of Local 37, I’m very
pleased to announce that a
new contract for our members
at Rogers TV has been signed. This
is the fourth contract that has been
negotiated with Rogers TV New
Brunswick. Over the years, progress
has been achieved with every contract
– and this one is no exception as
negotiations proved to be highly
efficient and extremely productive.
For example, both parties have agreed
to break new ground and enhance
relations by having the employer
agree to maintain scheduled increases
for the next three years, allow the
formation and facilitation of up to
two meetings per year of a Labour
Management Committee, and start
to cover part of lost wages of union
members on the negotiation team.
I’d like to extend a thanks for a job
well done to members of the Rogers
TV negotiating team: Mike Diotte,
André Arseneault
and Joel Landry,
all of whom were
very professional
and represented
all classifications
in the bargaining
unit very well
during negotiations.
Their commitment
and willingness to
volunteer and work
hard on behalf of
others is the essence
of a union.
Local 37 recently negotiated a new contract for members at
Rogers TV. Pictured above signing the contract are (left-right):
Scott Jackson (Regional Station Manager), Joseph Brooks
(Manager, Human Resources), Claude Richard (IBEW L37
Assistant Business Manager), and André Arseneault (Producer).
Missing from photo: Craig Grimes (Director Operations),
Tom Dalby (Director, Human Resources), and Joel Landry
(Producer).
Successful negotiations are achieved
by effectively working together
before actually meeting with the
company. These individuals did just
that by working with the information
received from member proposals,
survey responses, industry data, etc.
including members that took the
time to send in proposals, respond
to surveys, and to vote. I would also
like to thank the members of the
company’s negotiating committee:
Tom Dalby, Joseph Brooks, Scott
Jackson, and Greg Grimes.
Thanks are also due to everyone
else who participated in this process
Claude Richard
Assist. Business Manager
Did you Know?
Local 37 members working at Rogers TV produce the live broadcasts of the Saint John Mill Rats basketball
games? Members Jenny Murphy and Tara King Stewart are the producers for this exclusive live coverage and
André Arseneault produces various segments that run in the broadcasts. In addition to the producers, there
are a number of other members working behind the scenes making sure the games reach screens across the
province. The Mill Rats have teamed up with Rogers Wireless in a three year sponsorship deal - bringing exciting, professional level basketball to New Brunswick. The team is part of the Premier Basketball League (PBL) an
independent professional basketball league based in Chicago, IL. Visit rogerstv.com for more information.
Spring 2011 11
L37 represented among
scholarship winners!
T
he IBEW 1st District Office,
recently held a random draw
for the 2011 IBEW, Union
Savings, TD Insurance Meloche
Monnex and MWG Apparel
Scholarships Awards. Among the five
winners was MacKenzie McHatten
from Woodstock, daughter of Local
37 member and NB Power Lead
Lineman, Jim McHatten. Mackenzie
is currently a grade twelve student at
Woodstock High School and will be
attending Mount Allison University
in the Fall to study sciences in
pursuit of a career in either
physiotherapy or kinesiology.
The applicants (from all over
the country) were required
to write an essay about the
benefits of belonging to the
IBEW. Featured below is
Mackenzie’s submission.
Local 37 would like to
congratulate Mackenzie and
wish her well in her future
IBEW Scholarship Winner, Mackenzie McHatten
studies!
with her dad Jim McHatten. Jim is a member of
Local 37 and a Lead Lineman in Woodstock.
Benefits of Belonging to the IBEW
My name is Mackenzie McHatten, I am a grade twelve student of Woodstock High School, New Brunswick. My
father, Jim McHatten, a member of the IBEW Local 37, currently works at NB Power. My father has been employed
for thirty-five years and joined the union as a way of benefitting his job as well as his life and the family he supports.
The IBEW is a union developed to support employees and benefit their lives not only financially but in other ways as
well. Many benefit by this union as contracts for wage increases are negotiated. Health and pension benefits are also
negotiated. The union is a strong supporter for worksite safety policies and procedures. Our safety culture “brings
us home to our families each night” is supported strongly by our Local 37.
Our union helps protect our jobs by minimizing layoffs and out-sourcing of work. The union is a strong supporter to
help solve issues between the management and union in a professional manner.
Belonging to the IBEW has many benefits that allow employees to continue to succeed in their job and be satisfied
with their workplace, but the IBEW’s most significant benefit is protecting employees and providing a safe work
environment.
Mackenzie McHatten
Woodstock High School
Energy continued from page 6
l’énergie suite de la page 6
of the recommendations is expected to be released in April, la capacité à faible coût et de transmission dans la
followed by the presentation of a final Energy Plan to the Premier province. La présentation complète du local 37 peut
in May. For more information please visit their website at être consultée en ligne à www.gnb.ca/Commission.
www.gnb.ca/commission.
Au mois de février, la Commission a tenu une série
Save the Date!
de séances d’information publiques et des journées
Charged up for Change Conference!
portes ouvertes à travers la province. Ils ont également
What: IBEW Training Trust Fund Conference
invité la soumission de rapports en ligne et ont
(includes special program for school-aged kids)
hébergé des enquêtes en ligne. Les recommandations
devrait être publiée en avril, suivie de la présentation
When: May 13 & 14, 2011
d’un plan énergétique final au premier ministre en
Where: Fredericton Convention Centre
mai. Pour plus d’informations, visitez le site Web à
Space is limited - register soon!
l’adresse www.gnb.ca/Commission.
For more information visit www.ibew37.com or
call the office at 1- 877- 437- 0037.
12 Spring 2011
Tinker Dam
signs new
contract
Village of
Perth-Andover
organized!
ocal 37 members working at Tinker Generating
Station near Perth-Andover recently signed
a new four-year collective agreement with
employer Algonquin Power. Negotiating on behalf
of the members were Assistant Business Manager,
Gary Munn, and Matthew Broad, Shop Steward and
Operator/Electrician at Tinker Generating Station.
Representing Algonquin Power were Andy Ling (VP
Operations), Michel Boudreault (Manager - HR), and
Mike McGann (Plant Manager). Thanks to everyone
involved for all of their hard work!
BEW Local 37 is pleased
to welcome its ten newest
members working for the
Village of Perth-Andover. After
close to two years of hard work,
a four-year tentative agreement has been accepted.
Special thanks to the negotiating team: Assistant Business
Manager, Gary Munn; and new members Jeff WattersGray, Robbie Innis, and Chris Sullivan. Congratulations
and welcome to the IBEW! Representing the village was
CAO, Dan Dionne, and labour lawyer, George Richmond.
L
Retirement continued from page 1
better off if the thousands of New Brunswickers
with pension plans no longer had them? Consider
the impact on the economy, or the potential cost of
someone in their retirement years who is dependent
on taxpayer-funded social services just to survive.
I
Sécurité suite de la page 1
aux contribuables. Par exemple, beaucoup de Canadiens
n’épargnent pas suffisamment (s’ils le font en tout) pour leur
retraite. Les contribuables seraient-ils vraiment mieux si les
milliers de Néo-Brunswickois avec des régimes de retraite
n’y avaient plus droit ? Pensez à l’impact sur l’économie, ou
le coût potentiel d’une personne dans ses années de retraite
The truth is that pension plans work by providing a qui dépend financièrement des services sociaux payés par les
secure, stable, and predictable retirement income - contribuables, et ce, simplement pour survivre.
unlike RRSP plans where the amount of retirement
income a retiree receives depends on factors like the La vérité est que les régimes de pension fournissent un revenu
amount contributed, investment returns, and the de retraite sûr, stable et prévisible – or, avec les régimes
interest rates at retirement.
REER, le montant de revenu qu’un retraité reçoit dépend de
facteurs comme le montant des cotisations, le rendement des
The message here is plain and simple - pension plans placements, et les taux d’intérêt lors de la retraite.
are important to everyone. The fact is that we all need
retirement security, and as a province we should be Le message est clair et simple - les régimes de retraite sont
looking for ways so that more New Brunswickers can importants pour tout le monde. Nous avons tous besoin de
sécurité de la retraite, et en tant que province, nous devrions
have pensions and secure retirement income.
chercher des moyens afin que davantage de Néo-Brunswickois
At its very core, Local 37’s mission is to protect the puissent avoir une pension et un revenu de retraite sécuritaire.
interests of our members and their families. This is
why we’re working to protect the pensions that working Au cœur de la mission du local 37, nous protégeons les intérêts
families deserve for their many years of contribution de nos membres et de leurs familles. C’est pourquoi nous
and dedicated service. But our concern doesn’t stop nous efforçons de protéger les pensions que les familles
there. Our concern extends to the many men and méritent pour leurs nombreuses années de contribution et
women without pension plans - who have futures de service dévoué. Mais notre préoccupation ne s’arrête pas
that may look grim – they too deserve the promise là. Elle s’étend à tous les hommes et les femmes qui travaillent
of retirement security. That’s why we support the sans régimes de retraite, dont le futur semble sombre — ils
Canadian Labour Congress plan to improve the Canada méritent aussi la promesse de sécurité de la retraite. C’est
Pension Plan for all Canadians. pourquoi nous appuyons le plan du Congrès du travail du
Canada qui vise à améliorer le régime de pensions pour tous
Members can be certain that Local 37 is working hard les Canadiens.
on this issue to not only protect our pension plans,
but to help improve retirement security for everyone. Les membres peuvent être certains que le local 37 travaille
d’acharnement sur cette question, non seulement pour
protéger nos régimes de retraite, mais pour aider à améliorer
la sécurité de la retraite pour tout le monde.
Spring 2011 13
37 photo connection
Local 37 members from NB Power’s Rothesay office entered and decorated a Line Truck for the 12th Annual Kennebecasis Valley
Santa Claus Parade held in Quispamsis, New Brunswick.
The dedication of outgoing Local 37 Executive Board Members was formally recognized last December in Fredericton. President
Steve Hays (pictured at left in each picture above) and Business Manager, Ross Galbraith (pictured at far right), presented each
member with a gift of appreciation. These oustanding members are pictured above at centre in each picture, from left to right: Derek
Gallen, Cathy Shea , and past Vice-President, Allie Porter. Missing: Doug Wallace.
PIctured above at an Executive Board Meeting held in
Fredericton: Treasurer, Gaetan Chiasson (left), and Northern
Generation Representative, David Brown.
14 Spring 2011
Local 37 Assistant Business Manager, Gary Munn (left),
receives his 30-year IBEW pin from Lepreau Unit Chair, Ryan
MacKenney.
37 photo connection
Tammy Breau from Point Lepreau Generating Station was
recently sworn in as a member of Local 37. Congratulating
her are Business Manager, Ross Galbraith, and Lepreau Unit
Chair, Ryan MacKenney.
At the Atlantic Utility Council Conference
in Halifax(left-right): International VicePresident, Phil Flemming; International
Executive Council Member, John Briegel;
and L37 Business Manager, Ross Galbraith.
Grand Falls Unit Chair, Danny Woods (far right), swears in new
members of Local 37 this past January (left to right) : Francois
Michaud, Trevor Roy, Denise Laforge, and Jean Lavoie.
IBEW members from across the country
gathered together to celebrate the
retirement of L1928 Business Manager,
Mike MacDonald. Pictured above (left-right):
L213 BM, Mike Flynn; Mike MacDonald;
L37 President, Steve Hayes; past L37 VicePresident, Gordie Simpson; and L258 BM,
Doug McKay.
Local 37 Business Manager, Ross
Galbraith (left), and retired Local 1928
(Halifax) Business Manager, Mike
MacDonald. Mike was Business Manager
of 1928 from 2002 to 2010.
Retired Members of IBEW L37
Nov 2010 - Mar 2011
Stephen Hiltz
James Steele
Earle Hanscom
Calvin Seward
Kristopher McIntyre
Stephen Thurrott
Ian MacPherson
Renee Savoie
Maurice Eldridge
Jim Mudge
Cathy Shea
Faye Theriault
Spring 2011 Mona Hachey-Arseneau
James Bernard
Frank Nice
Terry Matthews
Ian Campbell
Samuel Gilmour
Thomas Manderville
Frank Carrier
Robert Harris
Melvin MacLean
Ernest Harquail
15
In March 2011, St. Joseph’s Hospital in Saint John officially opened
the $250,000 expansion to their day surgery department. All of the
funds for this project were raised during the 2008 Saint John Dragon
Boat Festival where the team from Lepreau (IBEW Local 37 Positive
Energy) was one of the top fundraisers - bringing in close to $20,000!
Pictured above cutting the ribbon are Bob Boyce (right), Chairman
of the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation and Rob Warner (left),
representing the Festival’s Title Sponsor - the Telegraph Journal .
Your union - Your meetings
Local 37 has nine Regional Units that regularly meet either monthly or bimonthly. All members are encouraged
and welcome to attend any meeting! They are for members and provide an opportunity to meet with union officials,
find out what’s happening within the local, and to try and resolve any issues in an effort to make things better.
Below is a listing of the Unit Chairs and a schedule of upcoming meetings. For specific dates, please call the office
or check online at www.ibew37.com. Think about attending - your voice matters!
Unit
Location
Chair
Meeting Schedule & Location
37.1
Fredericton
Delbert Cogswell
Monthly: 4th Wednesday, 5:15 - Local 37 Union Hall
372
Saint John
Jim Melvin
Bimonthly: 3rd Wednesday, 7:30 - Fort Howe Hotel
37.3
PLGS
Ryan MacKenney
Monthly: 4th Tuesday, 7:30/4:15 – Fort Howe/Seniors Hall
37.4
Dalhousie
John Lidstone
Bimonthly:3rd Monday, 7:30 - IP Club
37.5
Bathurst/Miramichi/Tracadie
Wanda Hierlihy
Monthly 2nd Tuesday, 7:30 – Bathurst/Miramichi/Tracadie
37.6
St. Stephen
VACANT
Bimonthly: 1st Wednesday, 7:00 – Carmen’s Diner
37.7
Moncton
David Hanson
Monthly: 1st Tuesday, 7:30 – Lion’s Senior Centre
37.8
Belledune
Kirk Ross
Bimonthly: 3rd Monday4:15 – Construction Bldg 2
37.10
Grand Falls
Danny Woods
Bimonthly: 3rd Wednesday, 7:30 – Pres du Lac Hotel
us a
2011 Lineman’s Rodeo Tell
story...
The 2011 NB Power / IBEW Lineman Rodeo will be held
on June 3rd in Marysville. The Steering and Competition
Committees have been meeting regulary and so far, here
are the details that have been finalized:
ˇˇ
ˇˇ
ˇˇ
ˇˇ
ˇˇ
ˇˇ
Registration Deadline is May 18.
The top Journeyman Team and top two Apprentices will head
to the International Rodeo in Kansas City in October 2011
One Judge will be randomly selected to attend the International
Rodeo
Hurt Man Rescue, Pole Climb, Written Test, and CPR Test are
the some of the same events that winners will have to compete
in at the International Rodeo.
Out of town participants will be accomodated at the Ramada.
Entertainment to follow Evening Presentation Banquet.
For more information please contact Jerry McCann:
[email protected] / 458-6562
We know that members of
Local 37 are star performers
in both the workplace and in
their communities. Connect
37 would like to include
stories and photos that
feature members and the
kinds of things they do to
help improve their workplace
or community. If you have a
story, an idea to explore, or
a picture to share, please tell
us about it and it may appear
in the next issue of Connect
37! Please contact Mary:
[email protected]
1-877-447-0037
Go Green!
If you’d prefer to receive
Connect 37 electronically,
please call or email us!
1-877-437-0037 / [email protected]
16 Spring 2011
Place Mailing Label Here
Agreement No
41973016