Local 864 October 2024 E-Board Meeting

UFCW Canada Eastern Provinces Council Local 864 Executive Board members gathered at Hotel Halifax on Friday, Oct. 25 to discuss both the gains and issues facing bargaining unit membership around the Local.  

Members Shauna Doyle, Threna Burghardt, Jessica Jeddry, Greg Redquest, Nicole Baglole, Joe Paul, Aaron McKinley, Gerald Richard, Mike Loranger, John Taylor, Jennifer Leach and Robert LeBlanc engaged in open discussions regarding the financial state of the Local, the wants and needs of membership with ongoing and upcoming bargaining, as well as any grievances filed since the spring. 

One of the most exciting pieces of news coming out of the meeting was the announcement of Clearwater Lobster Distribution Center in Arichat officially joining Local 864.  

Of the 84 eligible voters, 67 took to the polls on Oct. 25, winning the Union in a clear majority of 44 ‘yes’ votes to 22 ‘no’ votes and one spoiled ballot.  

Members also spoke on the pros and cons of the Temporary Foreign Worker program, and how its use in Union workplaces can affect membership.  

The program has been vital in keeping some smaller units afloat, however, reports of differing rules between Local members and Temporary Foreign Workers - as well as language barrier issues involving workplace safety have raised some concerns.  

Membership is reminded that language training courses are available on the UFCW web-campus.  

UFCW Eastern Provinces Council will continue to monitor the program to ensure it cannot be exploited by employers to be used in any unfair labour practices.  

The next Local 864 Executive Board meeting will take place electronically in January 2025.