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Good economic times—
Opportunities come up that mustn’t be missed By Gary Kroeker, Business Manager Your Local Union is taking time, in our diamond anniversary year, to study the past, present and future. We’re assessing our accomplishments, developing strategies to capitalize on the current boom in construction and making plans to build our union over the next decade. The current economic environment is providing us with countless opportunities that we may not see again for many years to come. Construction projects, such as the extensions to the rapid transit system (the Canada and Evergreen lines), the Gateway transportation corridors and the Sliding and Nordic centres at Whistler give the Local Union opportunities to pass along our message and promote our agenda to unorganized construction workers and employers. We are letting employers know about the importance of investing in training so they can answer the call in the future. The mining sector is in full swing as metal and mineral prices skyrocket and gold and copper prices approach record levels. Increased exploration and redevelopment bodes well for our members employed in our equipment dealer shops and provides new opportunities for apprentices. There are plans for new hydro electric initiatives, such as wind turbines and run of the river power, as well as projects that were put on hold, like the good old Site C dam. Periods of growth provide more than just the better wages and benefits that we win at the bargaining table. The growing demand for operators opens the door for others to enjoy careers in our trades and the benefits that come with collective strength. It also provides us with a wonderful opportunity to increase our market share. These projects will allow us to win back jobs that have gone to the unorganized sector and to CLAC. The demand for skilled operators is so great that organizers can now offer workers, who have been trapped without proper representation and protection from unfair treatment, great incentives to join Local 115. These good times also allow us to enter new partnerships with the provincial and federal governments. We have over 400 registered apprentices in our system. Your Training Plan was successful in securing a grant to purchase additional equipment and training aids. This will ensure our journey persons and apprentices are trained on the latest equipment and are familiar with the most current practices. We are exploring additional options to partner with government and public agencies to further expand training opportunities for other potential members. Our 75th anniversary comes at a time when we are challenged by unfriendly governments and sectors of society that value individual success over co-operative solutions. However, our history shows that there’s no power greater than workers who are united, aware of their self worth and willing to speak up. We’ve shown that we’re flexible and able to respond to change. When we work together, we can overcome any obstacles. It’s all a matter of taking advantage of opportunities when they arise. This year, we will build on our spirit of solidarity and pride in this great organization so that we have an even stronger union to pass onto the younger generation. We are simply the best. |
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