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BTS Associates: Certification Application is Approved

It has been both a privilege and an honour to accompany the BTS Associates on their journey to become unionized in Ontario.

I was inspired to hear their personal stories and witness their sheer will to push forward.

I want to see them gain full representation; I want them to have fair compensation; and most importantly, I want them to know that they can support themselves and their families without fear of termination for demanding equality.

The application for certification has been approved and we are now determining our next steps.  Although this process is still far from over, we have conquered the biggest hurdle.

The coming months will be very exciting and I look forward to continuing the journey together.

Thanks,
Sam Snyders
President, Local 1996-O

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Benefitting from a NEW Home Dispatch Policy

After five years in arbitration, a new home dispatch policy is set to come into effect on July 1st that will help many techs.

On May 18, 2015, the Labour Relations Committee, our designated group of employment lawyers and company officials met once again to hash out the arbitration on home dispatch. After opening arguments by both sides, the arbitrator made it clear that a ruling would not benefit either side in this matter.

Instead, arbitrator Herman provided guidance and assistance throughout two days of negotiations and eventually helped all of us involved arrive at a mediated solution.

The new home dispatch policy was drafted and agreed upon, and is set to come into effect on July 1, 2015.

In addition, the company has agreed to grant every home dispatch employee, employed by the company both as of the date of filing the grievance and as of the date of signature of the settlement, twenty-four (24) hours of TGP.

It was further agreed in a letter of commitment that home dispatch benefits will be provided to an additional 200+ employees by August 31, 2015.

It has been an extremely long process and I appreciate the memberships’ patience throughout the proceedings.

In solidarity,

Sam Snyders
President, Local 1996-O