Happy Holidays and a Peaceful 2009
December 22, 2008
As 2008 comes to a close, I extend my sincere gratitude to
our dedicated Local Executives, to all our provincial teams and to the
thousands of spirited front line activists across the province.
As expected, the past year was extremely busy for our
union. If anyone had been wondering why we called our 2008-2009 bargaining
agenda the Perfect Storm, well, they got their answer. From colleges to
healthcare to many BPS sectors and from LBED to the OPS – OPSEU activists
and talented staff certainly rose to the challenge. The intensity of our
bargaining campaigns has been remarkable.
In every corner of Ontario, our membership demonstrated what
OPSEU is all about. You came through at the bargaining table, on picket
lines, at hearings and rallies to promote a good jobs economy and in
campaigns to defend our work.
Safety at work and human rights were two central issues on
which we continued to pressure employers. We also put equality for part
time public sector workers on the map. Our new application to represent
part time college workers is being considered under a law we forced the
province to reform.
All of you who pitched in should be proud. Our progress
this year is particularly impressive given the onset of a tough recession,
coupled with the shocking reluctance of governments at all levels to
recognize the central role of the public sector in keeping our economy
healthy.
We are fighting the good fight. It’s what we do. And
there is much unfinished business. In the days and weeks ahead and
throughout 2009, I know we can count on your solidarity to help bring home
solid contracts for the OPS and all our sectors and locals who will be at
the table.
But it’s also time now for some rest, rejuvenation and
celebration with family and friends.
On behalf of Patty Rout, First Vice-President/Treasurer, the
Executive Board and the staff of the Ontario Public Service Employees Union,
we extend to everyone a happy holiday season and all the best for the New
Year.
In solidarity,
Warren (Smokey) Thomas
President
OPS Bargaining 2008
