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Welcome to Bargaining Chips!
Bargaining Chips is a new publication specifically for members working in the five gaming establishments organized by OPSEU. They are: Casino Niagara, Fort Erie Racetrack Slots, Rideau-Carleton Racetrack Slots, Thunder Bay Charity Casino and Windsor Racetrack Slots.
One purpose for this publication is to keep members at all of these facilities plugged in to one another. That way, we can build our strength through communication and information sharing. Often, a situation or issue that is affecting one worksite is likely affecting another. By keeping each other in the loop, we can
plan our strategies and share our solutions.
The other reason we are publishing this newsletter is that all of the sites (with the exception of Niagara) are either bargaining for a first collective agreement or about to start. It is imperative that we present a united front to our employers so that they cannot divide and conquer individuals or specific work
locations. You can bet on the fact that the employers at each of these sites is talking to one another - we had better be as well.
An important note to all of our members: you don't hear it from us, you can't be sure it's true. Don't let yourself be used by the employer to take strength away from your bargaining team. Rumours can be one of the most destructive forces during collective bargaining. Don't listen to the chatter - get the real facts
here.
In order for this publication to be successful, we need to hear from you. We need to know what is being said in the workplace, and what the members are thinking.
You can contact us at gaming@opseu.org . All communications are confidential.
Farewell to a driving force
Jerry Murray, local president at the Thunder Bay Charity Casino, is leaving for greener pastures.
Jerry was instrumental in organizing the Thunder Bay site, as well as other sites across the province. Jerry also published "The Poop Deck", a newsletter for his local members.
We wish Jerry well in his future endeavors, and want to take this opportunity to thank him for his dedication and selfless hard work for OPSEU members in the gaming industry.
We'll miss you, Jerry.
Results pending on Fort Erie vote
Arguments surrounding the decertification vote at Fort Erie Racetrack Slots will be heard at the Ontario Labour Relations Board on May 20 and 21.
The decertification vote, which OPSEU is alleging was driven by the employer at the site, was held on April 14. Due to OPSEU's legal objections over the way the vote was initiated, the ballot boxes were sealed until the Board hearing.
"We are very confident that we will remain the bargaining agent at Fort Erie," said Dan Marshall, Organizing Representative. "Members there are extremely angry over the employer's tactics, and turned out en masse at the vote."
We congratulate those who were not swayed by the employer's intimidation campaign. Stay strong.
Site Update
Bargaining team elected at Rideau
Members at Local 495, Rideau-Carleton Racetrack Slots, have elected their first bargaining team.
The local has chosen Hassan Hajjar, Kevin Maloney and Pierre Mainville to represent them at the bargaining table. Crystal Siczkar was elected as the alternate.
Negotiations are expected to begin soon.
Fort Erie bargaining on hold
Bargaining at Fort Erie is on hold until there is a decision on the results of the decertification vote.
Niagara begins the big move
Members at Casino Niagara have begun the transition from the casino's existing site to the newly constructed second location. The new site, as yet not open to the public, will mean a significant number of new members will be hired for the expanded facility. We wish the members luck during the changeover.
Thunder Bay still negotiating
Thunder Bay Charity Casino continues their contract negotiations with Local 709. As well, there will be an election on May 8 to replace former local president Jerry Murray.
There was a buzz when copies of the "secret" Niagara casino collective agreement (available on the OPSEU website) were distributed around the worksite. Management tried this in Fort Erie, and had everyone riled up until it was explained that the Niagara agreement was with a private US company, not the OLGC. What looks
like huge losses were actually gains for the members in Niagara due to the poor relationship they had with that employer.
Windsor Racetrack Slots at the table
Bargaining also continues with members at Local 111. Although progress has been slow, members remain solidly behind their bargaining team.
Note to file - back at you!
Does the term "Note to File" ring a bell?
The employer's method of placing unfavorable information on your file is the bane of many OPSEU gaming members. Now, here's your chance to "turn the tables".
Has your employer or one of the managers done something that's worthy of a "Note to File"? Would you like to see that transgression appear in a future edition of Bargaining Chips? Send it to gaming@opseu.org and we'll make it happen.
All submissions are confidential, and may be edited for clarity and liability.
BPS Conference fast approaching
A reminder to all locals to ensure that you have submitted your paperwork to attend the BPS Conference on June 6, 7 and 8 in Toronto. The conference is an invaluable learning experience, as well as a great opportunity to meet and network with other members.
Any local executives that haven't already received the package should immediately contact their nearest OPSEU Regional Office or e-mail Dan Marshall at dmarshall@opseu.org .
Bargaining Chips is available by e-mail and on the OPSEU website at www.opseu.org . If you wish to receive the newsletter, send your email address to gaming@opseu.org .
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