Message from the President

January 2013

New Year’s Greeting

A new year is upon us and 2013 promises to be a year full of activity and promise for IUPAT members. Already, we have hit the ground running in 2013 as we are in the midst of collective bargaining negotiations for various trades including drywall finishing, ICI painting, hazmat (asbestos), EIFS (stucco),  firestopping  and fireproofing. Negotiations will soon commence with respect to glazing and residential painting. I encourage all of our members to attend their monthly union meetings to obtain the latest updates on the status of the various negotiations.

As well, as many of you know, 2013 is also a year where the “open period” or “raiding season” is allowed under the Ontario Labour Relations Act. Commencing on February 1st and ending on April 30th, 2013, you may see representatives from other Unions approaching you on jobsites and trying desperately to convince you to leave the IUPAT and to join their union by signing one of their union cards. They will likely make all sorts of exaggerated promises and tell you how everything would be so much better for you if you sign their Union card and leave the IUPAT. Don’t be fooled! More importantly do not sign anything that may affect not only your life, but the lives of your family members as well. If you are approached on a jobsite by a representative of another union, call our office or an IUPAT representative immediately. I also encourage all IUPAT members to read the short but excellent article titled the “Raiding Season” right here on this website. This will help you get informed and be prepared for the Raiding Season.

There will be a lot more happening this year, so check this website often for updates. Should you have any questions regarding your union or how we can help you, do not hesitate to contact myself or any one of your IUPAT representatives. I want to wish all of you and your families a happy, healthy and prosperous new year!

Respectfully yours,
Joseph Russo