District 6
Providing training is better than idle equipment
Members at Line Creek turn the attention to kids' party
(December 2007)

Providing training is better than idle equipment
By Brian Lefevre, Member Representative
As the construction season slows down, it’s a good time to reflect on everything that’s happened in the district.

People were busy. At times, our out-of-work list was depleted. Many women and men of our organization had relatively full seasons of employment. It seems 2008 will be just as busy, if not busier, in all areas of the district.

In 2007, we experienced a shortage of qualified operators like we have never seen before. At times, machines were sitting idle because there was nobody to operate them. “Training” is no longer a swear word in the contractor’s vocabulary. It is cheaper to train than to have a machine sit unused.

In 2007, we also saw the residential sector lead the way in terms of hours of employment.

Instead of hearing from members frustrated at not finding work, we have been hearing complaints from members who need time off to recharge themselves from all the hours they have been working.

Fatigue is becoming a factor. We have to stay mentally sharp so that we work safely. Many of our everyday tasks are done without much thought because we have done them countless times without incident. Far too often we think, “I’m only loading one truck, I don’t need to fasten my seat belt.” Some of us with this mindset will make it through our working careers without incident, but it only takes that one moment to change your life and the lives of your family, friends and co-workers. Take the time to work safely.

With the festive season fast approaching, my family and I wish you a safe and happy holiday season. This year, why not take some time to help out those in our communities who are less fortunate.

Members at Line Creek turn the attention to kids' party
By Gordon Chaisson, Member Representative
Hello from the Sparwood Office. Winter is upon us.
Members in the Elk Valley are working steadily. Our shops are being kept busy and the Line Creek mine is filling its contracts.

Grievances are down overall this year, but the number of cases proceeding to arbitration are up. Either the issues we are dealing with are very serious or the parties cannot reach agreement.

The Line Creek kids’ Christmas party was held on Nov. 30. Thanks to all Santa’s helpers for their hard work.

Three positions have opened up on the Union Council at the Line Creek Mine. Two will be filled by acclamation, one will require an election.

• Chief Shop Steward—Ron Podrasky, unopposed
• Health and Welfare Chairman—Todd Dvorak, unopposed
• Treasurer—two people running for this position: Nicole Adams and Ray Pisoni

I will report the results in the next edition of OE News.

In the meantime, best wishes to the membership during the upcoming holiday season and a prosperous New Year to all.