We couldn’t have done it without you!

That was the headline from your bargaining teams in the last issue of The Source, and truer words were never spoken.

This contract was all about member support. It was about applying pressure, showing solidarity and sticking together as months dragged on and times looked grim. Mostly, it was about taking our message directly to those who made the decisions…namely, the Liberal MPPs.

From the time we started bargaining, we knew our #1 job was putting pressure on the government -- and keeping it there. And that job was performed to perfection.

MPPs across the province never got used to the “attention” members were paying to them. At times, it was obvious those MPPs were desperate for an agreement. That’s what pressure is all about.

This collective agreement is one you can be proud of. There are significant gains in the agreement that will benefit members for years to come. While there are some concessions, we always must remember that we achieved a lot without going on strike.

Many members, some of whom were still hurt by previous rounds with the Tories, asked the bargaining teams to do things differently this round. The teams did. Things were different in many ways. From the length of time spent in negotiations, to the timing of votes, your teams wanted you to be sure they were doing everything possible to get to a deal. Mostly, your teams wanted your trust. We believe they earned it.

I want to personally thank the bargaining teams, the member mobilizers, activists, local executives, Executive Board members and staff for the incredible work they have done. I especially want to thank you, the members, for your support and encouragement since last fall. This is your contract. You deserve it.

In Solidarity,

Leah Casselman, President.