What is the “Raiding Period”?
Once every three years, the labour law in Ontario allows for a three month “Raiding Period.” Basically, during this three month Raiding Period, representatives of some unions attempt to increase their membership by “raiding” the members of other unions.
When is this “Raiding Period”?
The 2013 Raiding Period is in effect from February 1 to April 30, 2013. However, some unions begin their raiding activities even before February.
Why would some unions raid the members of other unions?
Although most unions, including the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades, consider raiding another Union’s members to be wrong and disadvantageous to members, some unions would rather try to increase their membership numbers by going after individuals that are already members of another union rather than doing the tougher job of unionizing the non-union workers in their own trades.
In other words, it’s easier to try to increase your membership numbers by organizing individuals that are already union members rather than those that are not.
How do they raid another union’s members?
Be prepared because during the next few months, representatives of some other unions will approach you on the job site and try to convince you to leave your union and to join their union by signing one of their union cards. They will likely make all kinds of promises and try to convince you that things will be much better for you in their union. Don’t be mislead!
What should I do when they approach me?
First of all, Don’t Sign Anything! Make sure you understand that they are only interested in increasing their union’s membership numbers.
Second, call your Painter’s Union representative immediately and inform them that you have been approached. A list of all Painter’s representatives is available.
Third, don’t be fooled by their promises! Anyone can tell you whatever they think you want to hear in order to get you to sign one of their union cards. Make sure you get the facts, not empty promises.
Ask them some very important questions like the following, and make sure you get full and accurate answers in writing:
1. Can you guarantee me, in writing, that my current pension plan will not be affected if I sign with your union?
2. Can you guarantee me, in writing, that I can transfer my current pension money without any loss or complications?
3. Doesn’t Ontario law prevent me from transferring my present pension if I am 55 years of age or older?
4. How many years does it take to become fully vested in your pension plan?
5. Is your pension plan fully funded? Ask them to show you the most recent certified actuarial report.
6. Can you guarantee me, in writing, that my family and I will not lose continuous medical, dental and other health and welfare benefits if I join your union?
7. What monthly earnings do I need to maintain health and welfare coverage in your plan?
8. Can you guarantee, in writing, that my union dues will not increase if I join your union?
9. Can you guarantee, in writing, that I can work in my trade in both the residential and ICI sectors if I join your union?
10. Most construction unions are now involved in negotiations for new Collective Agreements. Can you explain how this raid helps us with these negotiations?
11. Why does your union want to represent trades that are traditionally represented by the Painter’s Union rather than organizing your own trades?
Keep in mind that changing unions can seriously affect your pension, benefits, wages, ability to work in your trade, etc. Make sure that you have the facts before making any decisions which can affect the future of you and your family. We urge you to contact any of our representatives to learn the facts.
