Whether you’ve just joined the IUPAT because you’re new to union jobs, or you’ve been a member of our union in Toronto and Ontario for numerous years, you know that we are devoted to progress in all its forms. As of January 13, 2016, Greg Smith has been appointed interim Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 46.
You may actually know Greg, as he has been with the IUPAT since 1987 when he joined as a drywall finisher. Over the years, he’s risen in our union, becoming a Business Representative and organizer for District Council 46, Local 1891 in 1996, and fundraising for the IUPAT’s “Back Pack” program which supplies school bags to underprivileged children in the Jane Finch community. Now he will be able to serve even more broadly by negotiating on all of our behalves in this provisional period. His mission is to ensure that members’ voices are heard and addressed.
As for other changes that are occurring, take a look at some of these exciting opportunities for members of union jobs:
- We are continuously adding to our new Wellness Centre that opened in August 2015. It is located on 130 Toro Road, next to IUPAT’s main offices in Toronto. If you haven’t visited yet, you need to stop by. You will be amazed by how convenient it is to get all your – and your family’s – healthcare in one place.
- Our membership remains our primary focus, especially during the notorious “Raiding Period”. Not familiar with the “Raiding Period”? It is a period of time during which other unions can “raid” the IUPAT membership. You may be approached while working on a job, or outside of a workers’ meeting. Please let your local business representative know immediately. We are very much against the “Raiding Period”, as we feel it demeans the meaning of union members working together.
- We continue to negotiate, and will give you updates as negotiations bear fruit. Stay up to date by attending your local meetings, where you will hear the latest news. Greg has been actively participating in the negotiations and bargaining for a number of years.
There is little doubt that 2016 will be another chance for us to make a positive impact on our communities and union jobs membership. Please attend your local meetings throughout the year. The more your voice is heard, the better we can meet our mission goals.
