COPE 378 members

Coast Mountain ARBITRATION VICTORY(cont’d from previous page)assistance of the Labour Board. The committeeand members held strong in fightingthe employer’s concession proposals thatwould have resulted in up to 25% cuts inwages and benefits.The May 30, 2006 agreement includeda general wage increase and retainedthe Reduced Work Week Leave days theemployer wanted to eliminate while keepingimportant benefits such as the pensionplan. The settlement also saw an importantgain, seniority for casuals when competingon job postings. A signing bonus was partof the deal including $1500 for full timeregular and full time temporary employeesand $1000 for part time regular and casualemployees.Private SECTOR BargainingSchneider ElectricCanadaThe settlement of private sector agreementsare important milestones for the unionand the three-year collective agreement atSchneider Canada achieved significant winsfor our members.The agreement included a salaryincrease of 2.5% in the first year, 3% in thesecond year and 3.25% in the third year.There was also an increase in the benefitplan and the implementation of a DirectPay Drug Plan. There were several positivelanguage changes to the collective agreementincluding a revamping of the grievanceprocedure.The agreement runs from April 1,2006 to April 1, 2008.Arbitration win for Coast Mountain members based on collective agreementlanguage dating back a half century.The end of April broughtgreat news for memberswho have, or will, retire fromCoast Mountain Bus Company.In 2004, the Public ServicePension Board of Trusteesmade cuts to the groupmedical benefits made availableto retirees.COPE 378 filed a grievanceenacting a section ofthe collective agreement thatdates back a half century tothe BC Electric Company.The dusted-off language proved as validas the day it was written, allowing a retiringemployee to maintain coverage if theyhad completed ten years service. Attestingto the importance of preserving language,the article had remained in the collectiveagreement throughout a long line of employersand ending with the current employer,Coast Mountain Bus Company.In an unequivocal decision, DonMunroe awarded his arbitration decisionin favour of the union saying, “In my view,the union’s reading of this article is by farthe more natural. I agree with this argumentby the union.”Fortis talks continueCoast Mountain shop stewards recently gathered to discussoutstanding issues.Agreeing that the retiring employee,not the employer, has the option tomaintain benefit coverage, the award wasextended to all employees retiring afterApril 16, 2003. It gives them the optionof retaining coverage under the plan andorders the employer to cover any lossessuffered to date.The major arbitration win was alsosent to BC Transit and Translink, whocome under the same contract clauses.COPE 378 has close to 500 membersworking at the Coast Mountain BusCompany, 130 at Translink and a further100 at BC Transit in Victoria.COPE 378 and FortisBC resumed negotiationson June 12, 2006 and at presstime were still in discussions.Bargaining sessions took place theweeks of May 1 and 15 and there werevery few non-monetary proposals leftoutstanding at that time. The committeewas optimistic going into June 12 thatprogress on wages and other issues couldbe made.The current collective agreementhas expired but all the terms and conditionsremain in force and effect until negotiationsfor a renewed agreement havebeen settled.The COPE 378 – Fortis bargainingcommittee includes: Rob Maschek, DaveMason, Suzanne Stansbury and COPE378 Union Representative Jackie Brown.COPE has approximately 150members working at FortisBC. The electricalgeneration and distribution companyoperates in BC’s interior.cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006Page

Live racing returns to Hastingswith a close call and a story of cooperationCOPE 378 members working at HastingsEntertainment started live racing season onApril 14, with a few bumps.A week before opening day, COPE 378union representative, Kelly Quinn, received a callfrom the First Aid Attendants at Hastings concernedabout how they were being scheduled forlive racing days. Kelly met with the members andit appeared the employer was cutting back on Attendantsbecause the jockeys had requested outsideparamedics.Kelly then raised the issue with COPE 378’shealth and safety specialist, Steve Milne, and togetherthey met with Human Resources Manager,Jeff Strickland, and Hastings’ Director of Operations,Raj Mutti. The First Aid Attendants presentedtheir case, explaining how scheduling cutsimpacted their ability to work safely and hinderedtheir capacity to protect the workers at Hastings,as well as the general public.With the sound of the trumpet and pounding of hoofs onthe dirt track, opening day arrived at Hastings with a positiveresponse from management. With adequate staff coverage anda full house, management and workers boasted a very successfulfirst day of the season, but for those few bumps.With full first aid coverage in place, our members weresummoned in the last race to respond to some potentially seriousincidents.A horse on the farside of the oval droppedits jockey, jolting COPE378 first aiders into action.At the same time aCOPE 378 Union Rep KellyQuinn, left, discusses issues withCOPE member Ani Killoran atHastings Race Track in Vancouver.COPE 378 members who work in health & safety at The Track are, from left, TonyGaingian, Yan Leung and Ani Killoran.worker in the back stretch was booted by an enthusiastic horse,requiring our members to administer assistance to a very soreshoulder.News from the track reports that all those involved in themishaps are recovering nicely from their injuries. Including thehorse, who after a nasty tumble, scrambled to his feet to try andfinish the race—rider-less!But perhaps the best story can be found in the cooperationdisplayed between the employer and the union. Hastingsresponded quickly and decisively to safety concerns and in fact,has since hired more first aid staff. A first-rate example of howworking together can ensure a safe workplace, for everyone.The First Aid Attendants at Hastings are classified asAmbulance Drivers and work along side some two hundred andfifty COPE 378 members who prepare and guide the horsesinto the starting post, work in administration and customerservice, and as maintenance and other skilled workers.The majority of COPE 378 collective agreementshave provisions for joint management-union committeesincluding for health and safety issues.Page cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006

COPE 378membersBUILDING OUR FUTURE. FIFTY YEARS STRONG.Accenture Business Servicesfor Utilities (ABS)Senior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Reps: Kevin Smyth, Karen RockwellAccenture Business Services for Utilitiesprovides outsourced services to utilities inNorth America. COPE 378 members work incall centres, customer service and meter readingfor BC Hydro.Aviscar, Inc.Senior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Kevin SmythAvis Rent-A-Car System, Inc. and itssubsidiaries operate the world’s second largestgeneral-use car rental business. COPE 378 hasbeen certified as a union representing workersat Aviscar Inc. in British Columbia since 1969.British Columbia AutomobileAssociation (ERS & SC)Senior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Pat JunnilaBCAA is a not-for-profit member servicesorganization offering services to travelersincluding through Service Centres andEmergency Road Services. COPE 378 beganrepresenting workers at BCAA in 1998.BC Transit - VictoriaSenior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Kevin PayneBC Transit is the provincial crown agencycharged with coordinating the delivery of publictransportation throughout BC (outside theGreater Vancouver Regional District).BC Transit manages and operates the VictoriaRegional Transit System. COPE 378 hasrepresented workers here since 1977.more at >> www.cope378.caBritish Columbia Government& Service Employees UnionSenior Union Rep: Dave McPhersonBCGEU is a diverse union representingapproximately 60,000 people in BC. Theunion employs a number of workers to carryout the union’s affairs including support andadministrative staff. COPE 378 has representedsupport staff at the BCGEU since 1996.BC HydroSenior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Reps: Barbara Junker, Vic FothBC Hydro provides power to fuel economicgrowth in British Columbia. Its primarybusiness activities are the generation anddistribution of electricity. Transmission of thatelectricity is facilitated by the BC TransmissionCorporation on behalf of BC Hydro. COPE378 has represented workers at BC Hydro since1962 and with it’s predecessor, The BC ElectricCompany, since 1955.BC Transmission CorporationSenior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Jackie BrownBritish Columbia Transmission Corporation(BCTC) is an independent electric transmissioncompany responsible for the planning,management and operation of BC Hydro’stransmission assets. It officially began operationson August 1, 2003. COPE 378 has representedemployees at BC Hydro since 1962 andcontinue to represent those now with BCTC.Berlitz Canada Inc.Senior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Teresa DavieBerlitz Canada provides Canadians with livelanguage instruction for personal or professionalrequirements. COPE 378 has representedworkers here since 2003.COPE 378 members work throughoutBC at over 30 different facilities.Although our union name is new, ourpredecessor unions have been representingworking people in BC since 1955.Capilano CollegeSenior Union Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Karen RockwellCapilano College’s main campus is in NorthVancouver, with regional campuses in Squamishand Sechelt. COPE 378 has representedsupport and administrative staff at CapilanoCollege since 1974.Canadian Northern ShieldSenior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Brian NelsonCanadian Northern Shield Insurance offers a fullrange of personal insurance products, includingpolicies for homeowners, condominium ownersand tenants, commercial insurance and privateauto insurance. COPE 378 has representedworkers at this company since 1974.Coast Mountain Bus CompanySenior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Kevin PayneCoast Mountain Bus Company is part of theTransLink family providing daily bus andSeaBus services to Greater Vancouver. COPE378 has been the union for workers who provideoperational, scheduling and administrativeservices for the company since 1977.Columbia Hydro ConstructorsLtd.Senior Union Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Jackie BrownCHC, a wholly owned subsidiary of BC Hydro, ismandated to provide a labour relations structureand to be the employer of construction labour tosupport power generating projects in BC.Dollar Thrifty AutomotiveGroup Canada Inc.Senior Union Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Kevin SmythThrifty Car Rental is one of the largest carrental companies in the world. COPE 378 hasbeen representing workers at this company’slocations in BC since 2000.Fortis BCSenior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Jackie BrownFortis BC generates and distributes electricity tohomes and businesses in south central BC. Theyprovide repair and emergency response, build,maintain and upgrade power lines and facilitiesand install and read meters. COPE 378 hasrepresented workers here since 1980.Page 10 cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006

Greyhound Lines of CanadaSenior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Teresa DavieGreyhound Canada is the largest providerof intercity bus transportation in Canada.While they are well known for their regularlyscheduled passenger service, the companyalso provides a number of other servicessuch as Courier Express and Travel Services.Greyhound employees range from driversto dispatchers and support staff. COPE 378has represented dispatch and support staff atGreyhound since 1974.Hastings Entertainment, Inc.Senior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Kelly QuinnHastings Entertainment Inc. - Racecoursefeatures live and simulcast thoroughbred racingfrom the grounds of the historic PNE inVancouver. Hastings is part of Great CanadianCasinos Inc., a British Columbia casino andgaming operator, and the largest communitybasedgaming management company inWestern Canada. COPE 378 has representedworkers at the race track since 1981.Hertz CanadaSenior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Kevin SmythHertz is the largest car rental company in theworld and has operated for 80 years.COPE 378 has represented employees at HertzCanada in BC since 1969.Insurance Corporation of BritishColumbia - ICBCSenior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Reps: Kelly Quinn, Ardell Brophy, BrianNelson, Jaime Zygmunt, Pat JunnilaICBC is a provincial Crown corporationestablished in 1973 to provide universal autoinsurance to BC motorists. In addition, ICBCis responsible for driver licensing, vehicleregistration and licensing. COPE 378 hasworkers in all classifications at ICBC since 1974.KCC 244 Holdings Ltd.(Handy Pack)Senior Union Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Vic FothCOPE 278 has represented workers at thisfacility since 2002.Konica Minolta BusinessSolutions (Canada) Ltd.Senior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Ardell BrophyKonica Minolta Business Solutions (Canada)Ltd. provides systems and solutions fordocument creation, production and distribution:black & white and full-color printers, copiers,facsimile machines and multifunctionaldocument systems, as well as the supportservices and the software solutions. COPE 378has represented workers at Konica Minoltasince 1994.MKA Leasing Ltd. (DiscountCar & Truck Rentals)Senior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Kevin SmythDiscount Car & Truck Rentals is a privatelyowned company established in 1980 inHamilton, Ontario by Herb and RhodaSinger. They were the first car and truckrental company in Canada to focus on theinsurance replacement business. COPE 378 hasrepresented workers at Discount since 2002.National Car RentalSenior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Kevin SmythNational Car Rental has been in the car rentalindustry for over 50 years with offices innumerous countries including Canada.COPE 378 has represented workers at NationalCar Rental in BC since 1996.Pacific Vehicle TestingSenior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Kevin PayneAirCare - Pacific Vehicle Testing TechnologiesLtd. is the motor vehicle emissions inspectionand maintenance program operating in BritishColumbia. TransLink administers the programon behalf of ICBC. The inspection contractorfor AirCare is Envirotest Canada. COPE 378has represented workers at ICBC since 1974.PowerTech Labs(subsidiary of BC Hydro)Senior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Barbara Junker, Vic FothPowerTech Labs solves technical problemswith power equipment and systems and offersexpertise with electrical, chemical, environmental,gas technologies, mechanical, metallurgical,materials, civil and structural engineering.COPE 378 members were first certified at thisproperty in 1962 when it was BC Hydro.Ricoh CanadaSenior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Ardell BrophyRicoh provides document and content managementsolutions: development of computernetworkedand digital multifunctionaldocument systems, colour and black & whitedigital imaging systems, facsimile products,printers, scanners, digital duplicators, documentmanagement and wide format engineeringsystems. COPE 378 has represented workers atRicoh since 1992.Schneider Electric CanadaSenior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Brian NelsonSchneider Electric leads in electricaldistribution, industrial control and automationproducts, systems and services, and are the onlyelectrical manufacturer dedicated solely to thedistribution and control of electricity. Productsand technologies are installed in utilitiesand industrial, commercial and residentialfacilities. COPE 378 has represented workers atSchneider Electric since 1968.Southern Rail of BCSenior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Jaime ZygmuntSouthern Rail, part of the Rail Link System ofthe Washington Companies, is a transporter offreight handling over 70,000 railcars annuallyin British Columbia’s Lower Mainland andFraser Valley. Almost one-half of trafficoriginates or terminates on Annacis Island,where major automobile and forest productdistribution facilities are located. COPE 378has represented workers at Southern Railwaysince 1989.Teletheatre BCSenior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Kelly QuinnTeletheatre BC has 16 centres throughoutBC for betting on horse races. Partners areHastings Entertainment, Inc., Fraser Downs,BC Standardbred Association and Horsemen’sBenevolent & Protective Association.COPE 378 members have been represented atthis property by the union since 1995.Terasen Gas UtilitySenior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Jackie BrownTerasen Gas delivers natural gas to homes andbusinesses in BC. It is owned by Texas-basedKinder Morgan who operate natural gas andpetroleum transportation pipelines, terminalsthat store and transfer fuels like gasoline andthey handle bulk products like coal. COPE 378has represented members working at Terasensince 1988, prior to the takeover.T ransLinkSenior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Kevin PayneTransLink is involved with transportationplanning & administration including securityand law enforcement for Coast Mountain Bus,SeaBus, SkyTrain and West Coast Express.COPE 378 has represented workers heresince 1977.Tree Island IndustriesSenior Rep: Brad BastienUnion Rep: Vic FothTree Island Industries is a wire and wireproducts manufacturing company, whichoperates integrated wire drawing mill. Its mainproduction facility is located in Richmond, BC.COPE 378 members who work at Tree Islandhave been represented by the union since 1995.Working EnterprisesInsuranceSenior Rep: Dave ParkUnion Rep: Jaime ZygmuntWorking Enterprises Insurance Services hasfive product divisions: WE Home, WE Auto,WE Life, WE Commercial, and WE GroupBenefits and Consultants. COPE 378 hasrepresented workers at this company since 1988.cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006 Page 11

The COPE 378 Financial TeamCOPE 378 Secretary-Treasurer Lori Mayhew and President AndyRoss review archived financial journals from the union library.Wendy Ham, COPE 378Controller.Secretary-TreasurerLori MayhewThe Secretary-Treasurer is the Chief Financial Officer for the union. The positionwas made full-time in 2006.ControllerWendy HamThe Controller position was created in 2005 and is held by a certified accountantto act in a professional capacity as the Director of Finance for the union.StaffLinda Allan, Donna Morris, Sandi MalhameCOPE 378 staff assist the Secretary-Treasurer and Controller in theday-to-day financial operations including accounts payable and receivable anddata management.TrusteesGuy Dinoto, Margaret Marleau and Jay PatelThe Trustees are elected to examine the financial and proceduralrecords of the Executive Board and Council of the union and determineproper documentation and authorization of spending.AuditorsPricewaterhouseCoopersThe independent auditors conduct an annual audit of the books andaccounts of the union and prepare a report for the Executive Board.The Board in turn shares the findings with the Executive Council andmembership.Page cope 378 FINANCIAL REPORT 2006

Sound financial management and planning result in a strongfinancial position for COPE 378 year end.In our 50 th year as Local 378, sound financial managementand planning are the cornerstones of our operationand key to the future growth of the union.We surpassed our revenue expectation for 2005and our overall expenses came in at less than budget.On the revenue side, additional dues not included inthe budget forecast account for the revenue increaseand lower spending than expected contributed to thereduction of expenses.We discovered anew in 2005 that our historyharkens back more than fifty years as a local union toa time in the early 1900s when our official reporting tomembers was more about social activities than fiduciaryresponsibilities.Our union financial history also emerged this yearas we uncovered some of our historic records. Lookingat the hand-written journals from the 1940s brings allnew meaning to repetitive strain injuries and the challengeof an era before software programs and spreadsheets.And of course our most recent history as a unionhas been instrumental in shaping our financial futurewith June 20, 2006, marking our second anniversaryas an autonomous, Canadian union.2005 was a year of positive change and growthas steps were taken to improve our effectiveness andcommunication with members and important stakeholders.Many key projects were implemented in 2005 andhave now been completed in 2006.The new membership database allows greaterflexibility and integration with our other software.Unionware is a SQL-based package providing a fullyintegrated membership dues and grievance database.At the beginning of 2005 we also changed our accountingsoftware from ACCPAC to QuickBooks Premier.Renovations in the union office were started andpaid for out of the tenant improvements negotiated inour new lease, and a capital asset replacement plan toreplace equipment was conceived.On the financial management side, COPE Local 378continued to address the realities of operating a sophisticated,professional union. We began the process toupdate our constitution to include the Secretary-Treasureras a full-time paid position. And in June 2005, afull-time Controller was hired to provide comprehensivefinancial information and to ensure an appropriate levelof accounting and business controls within the union.2005 ended on the same strong financial footingthat it began. With the efforts of its financial team andguidance of professional advisors, COPE 378 is wellpositionedto maintain its strong finances throughout2006 and into the future.Servicing OrganizationCOPE 378 is servicing organization focused on representingmembers. The services are paid for with dues income from membersand have remained at the same rate for over a decade.Efficient OperationWith $18 million in assets and an annual operating budget exceeding$6 million, the union has worked hard to establish sound financialoperating practices and procedures. COPE 378 has an investmentstrategy that includes working with Blackmont Capital to manageits liquid assets. The union also owns and operates an independentholding company, COPE Building Ltd., that administers the union’soffice building and equipment.Effective RepresentationA strong defence fund is the foundation for ensuring effectiverepresentation of union members. COPE 378 ended 2005 withslightly more than $13 million in its defence fund, an increase ofnearly $1 million over the previous year.The union also operates funds for political action and job protection.These reserve funds are designated from the General Fund and allowthe union to address workplace issues such as privatization and otherjob threatening actions.Allocation of Union DuesUnion Operations 70.41%Defence Fund 19.39%COPE per capita 8.82%Other per capita 1.42%Political Action 0.21%cope 378 FINANCIAL REPORT 2006Page

Standing up for our members—our most important priorityCOPE 378 Secretary-Treasurer’s ReportAchieving a strong financial position is an importantgoal for a union. Financial strength is directlyrelated to our most important priority—standingup for our members.There was a time inlabour history that standingup for members meantlong strikes and militant jobaction. While the ultimatestrength for unions remainsin their willingness to withdrawlabour, more and more,our fights involve workingtogether with other unions,Lori Mayhew,COPE 378 Secretary-Treasurercommunity groups and thepublic.Political action and workplacecampaigns have become an important tool inour efforts to support members. Political action is thesame unity of purpose applied to the greater communityas Labour solidarity has been in the workplace.Of course, as a union, our first duty is to representour members. We also strive to counter the impact ofpolitical decisions and obtain the best possible workingconditions, benefits and wages for the membership.The 2005 Financial Report for COPE 378 is a snapshotof our financial picture. But behind the numbersand pie charts, is a story, many stories in fact, aboutthe services and positive actions we take on behalf ofour members. Through political action or job action,through collective bargaining and handling grievances,that is our role and responsibility as your union.We also play a role in ensuring our members havesound benefit and pension plans. Many COPE 378members have pension benefits in their collectiveagreements and in our recent member survey, over 80percent thought we did a good job at getting membersdecent pensions.COPE 378’s strong financial position will serve uswell as we work together over the coming year. Butto remain strong, we must look to the future and opportunitiesfor growth. COPE President Andy Ross haspresented three goals for 2006 that will keep us strongand focused on our most important priorities.The goals are outlined in the article, “President’sWord”, found in the June edition of Local Voice. Thethree goals are:• Strengthening our bargaining power: Collectivebargaining is the lifeblood of the union movement andcontinues to be the central function of COPE 378.• Organizing new workplaces: Start by addressingbarriers to achieving first collective agreements suchas having adequate financial support for new membersin the event of job action.• Political Action: Building support for our positions sowe can defend the rights and interests of our members.Thank you for taking the time to read our 2005Financial Report. We welcome your comments andquestions on the report or on other issues. You canreach us at editor@cope378.ca.I hope you enjoy the summer and take quality timeto spend with your family and friends.Lori MayhewSecretary-Treasurer, COPE 378Did you know COPE 378 has aPension Committee?The COPE 378 Pension Committee is comprised of pension Trusteesand Advisors from COPE 378 bargaining units. The mandateof the committee is to:• Be a resource on pension matters for COPE 378.• Communicate general and bargaining unit specific pensioninformation and issues to COPE 378 members.• Provide pension related education courses and information toCOPE 378 members.The COPE 378 Pension Committee invites members’ suggestionsor questions on pension issues. Specific plan information shouldbe directed to your Plan’s administrator. If you are unsure who thisis, please contact us. The committee can be reached by e-mail ateditor@cope378.ca.COPE 378 bargaining units have various forms of pension plans.Some have defined contribution plans and some have definedbenefit plans. The following is a summary of the plans in our bargainingunits. If your bargaining unit is not listed here, then eitherthere is no pension plan, or we are unaware of it.Defined BenefitJointly Trusteed Plans with Company & COPE 378 Trustees:• Fortis BC • Terasen • ICBC • Southern RailCompany Trusteed Plans with COPE 378 advisors:• BC Hydro • BC Transmission Company • Accenture BusinessServices • Canadian Northern Shield • BCAADefined Contribution• Working Enterprises InsurancePublic Service Pension Plan• BC Transit (Victoria) • BCGEU • Coast Mountain BusCompany • TransLink • ICBCMunicipal Employees Pension Plan• Capilano CollegePage cope 378 FINANCIAL REPORT 2006

GENERAL FUNDOPERATING EXPENSES - 2005Administration 45.75%Union Government 19.2%Membership Services 31.27%Communications 3.78%Membership Services Cost % of totalCollective agreementmanagement $ 1,191,411Arbitration & Grievances 248,757Bargaining & Strike 255,718Member education 177,297$ 1,873,183 31.27%Communications $ 226,355 3.78%AdministrationStaff holidays and leaves 629,542Office administration support 474,754Services & supplies 335,023Staff benefits 450,876Office furniture & equipment leases 271,537Office rent & occupancy costs 319,815Finance department salaries 206,246Audit fees 46,293Staff education 6,970$ 2,741,056 45.75%Union GovernmentDisbursements from reserves 353,504Executive Council 187,050Conventions 68,026Executive Board 163,687Members' meetings 64,439Committees 218,906Honoraria 25,789Donations 17,041Elections 51,749$ 1,150,191 19.20%$ 5,990,785 100.00%COPE 378Collective Agreement Expiry DatesBargaining Unit Certification # of members Expiry DatesAccentureBusiness Services(inc. Westech) 1395 Mar. 31, 2009Aviscar Inc. July 15, 1969 64 May 31, 2007BCAA ServiceCentre Various 178 Sept. 30, 2008BCAA-ERS July 7, 1998 74 Sept. 30, 2008BCGEU Aug. 22, 1996 118 Mar. 31, 2007BC Hydro & PowerAuthority (inc.PowerTech &Const. Services) July 31, 1962 1367 Mar. 31, 2010BC Transit April 29, 1977 98 Mar. 31, 2010BC TransmissionCompany July 31, 1962 56 Mar. 31, 2010Berlitz April 11, 2003 27 June 30, 2007Capilano College Dec. 17, 1974 294 June 30, 2010Canadian NorthernShield Nov. 5, 1974 116 Sept. 30, 2007Coast MountainBus Company Apr. 29, 1977 474 Mar. 31, 2007Columbia Hydro 29Discount Feb. 14, 2002 44 Nov. 24, 2008Dollar ThriftyAutomotiveGroup Canada Inc. Aug. 21, 2000 58 Dec. 31, 2007Fortis Nov. 19, 1980 143 Jan. 31, 2006Greyhound Canada Apr. 16, 1974 14 Dec. 31, 2006Handy Pack–KCC244 Holdings June 3, 2002 25 May 31, 2006Hastings EntertainmentInc. June 3, 1981 245 July 31, 2008Hertz Canada July 15, 1969 67 Oct. 31, 2006Insurance Corp.of BC Nov. 5, 1974 4301 June 30, 2010Konica MinoltaBusiness Solutions(Canada) Inc. Dec. 22, 1994 46 Mar. 31, 2008National Car RentalCanada Aug. 15, 1996 106 July 31, 2008Pacific VehicleTesting Tech. Nov. 5, 1974 10 Mar. 31, 2007Ricoh Canada April 6, 1992 23 Dec. 31, 2006Schneider Electric Oct. 28, 1968 17 Mar. 31, 2009Southern Railwayof BC Apr. 19, 1989 11 Mar. 31, 2010TBC Teletheatre BC Dec. 13, 1995 51 Mar. 31, 2008Terasen Gas Dec. 28, 1988 450 Mar. 31, 2007TransLink Apr. 29, 1977 130 Mar. 31, 2007Tree Island Ind. May 15, 1995 64 Sept. 30, 2007WorkingEnterprisesInsurance Aug. 26, 1988 7 May 31, 2008Total 10,102(June 12, 2006) - per capita as at April, 2006Page cope 378 FINANCIAL REPORT 2006

COPE 378 funds and reserves definedGeneral Fund is the operating fund of the union.Dues coming from members are paid into theGeneral Fund to cover the operating expenses ofCOPE 378. Expenses include those for bargainingand strike administration, legal costs, staff salaries,education programs, and member communicationssuch as the union magazine and website. Whenthere are excess revenues, the union ExecutiveCouncil can vote to transfer funds to the Defenseor Contingency Funds or into reserve accounts.Office Employees’ Building Ltd. is a union heldcompany which administers the union’s office buildingand equipment.Defense Fund is like a savings account that is setaside to be used for strike pay.Contingency Fund pays for bargaining and strikeadministration costs above those budgeted forin the General Fund. The balance can fluctuatedepending on how many members are involved inbargaining and whether there is strike action.ReservesThe Local has set aside certain discretionary reservesfrom the General Fund and other Funds forvarious purposes.Job Protection Reserve is a reserve used to fightjob threatening actions brought about by employers.Political Action Reserve receives 15 cents permember per month to allow the union to participatein political activities to protect and promote members’interests.Note: These reserves are reported under the NetAssets (Internally Restricted Reserve) section of theConsolidated Statement of Financial Positionon page 4.In the photo below, COPE 378 Secretary-Treasurer LoriMayhew (standing) is pictured with the Financial Administrationstaff, seated from left: Linda Allan, AccountsPayable; Sandi Malhame, Accounts Receivable; DonnaMorris, Accounts Receivable.From left, Lori Mayhew, COPE 378 Secretary-Treasurer; Andy Ross, COPE 378 President;Wendy Ham, COPE 378 Controller.cope 378 FINANCIAL REPORT 2006Page

2nd floor, 4595 Canada WayBurnaby, British Columbia V5G 1J9phone: 604-299-0378 toll free: 1-800-665-6838www.cope378.ca editor@cope378.caCANADIAN OFFICE & PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEES UNION, LOCAL 378

cope 378 News & EventsFight for the Living, Mourn for the DeadNational Day of MourningApril 28, 2006The National Day of Mourning rememberingworkers killed and injuredon the job started over two decadesago and is now recognized around theglobe. April 28 is an opportunity for workersand employers to remember the dead,injured and ill as well as publicly renewtheir commitment to improve health andsafety in the workplace.This year, COPE 378 PresidentAndy Ross, wrote to the employers whereour members work and asked them to joinwith us by marking the Day of Mourningwith a one minute silence. “We are askingall our employers to pledge to the silence asa symbol of remembrance and dedicationfor renewed safety,” said President Ross ina letter to employers.The union was very pleased with theresponse with over two-thirds of employersparticipating in the Day of Mourning.Some employers, like BC Hydro, havewell-established programs to recognizeworkers killed or injured in the workplaceand other employers, like National CarRental, took the time to write to COPE378 to share their experiences after theevent. A quote from the letter Nationalsent to the union: “…I can assure you ithas touched everyone deeply and made usall more aware of the need for care duringA procession of workers carried 188 “pseudo coffins” through downtown Vancouver on the morningof April 28, the Day of Mourning. The coffins represented the number of workers killed as a result ofworkplace accidents in 2005. COPE 378 members were there in support, including Vic Foth, photoupper right, COPE 378 Union Rep who was previously employed at Greyhound Canada.our day-to-day duties… we will endeavorto make this an annual event.”All the employer-participants receiveda certificate of recognition fromCOPE 378 and their names were postedon our website, www.cope378.ca.2006 EMPLOYER PARTICIPANTS• BC Hydro • Accenture • BCGEU• BC Transmission Corp. • Capilano College• Coast Mountain Bus Company •Fortis BC • Greyhound Canada • HandyPack • Hastings Entertainment • ICBC• Pacific Vehicle Testing • Powertech• National Car Rental • Konica Minolta• Ricoh Canada • Southern Rail •Schneider Canada • Teletheatre BC •Terasen-KMI • Translink • Tree Island •Working Enterprises Insurancecope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006 Page 13

cope 378 News & EventsBill Bell retires after more thantwo decades of service to the unionNearing his last day of work at the COPE 378 office in Burnaby, Bill Belland colleagues were still at it! Pictured above, from left, are Kim Smith,Kevin Smyth, Bill Bell, Barbara Junker, Jackie Brown, Pat Junnila. In thephoto on the left, COPE 378 members and co-workers bid Brother BillBell a fond farewell at a recent retirement party where they presented himwith a huge card, signed by all his well-wishers.In two decades of union work, Bill hasacquired many monikers and foughtmany giants. He leaves behind a treasurechest full of memorable quotes and mordantquips, earning him the respect offriends and foes alike.Bill’s correspondence to employers isthe stuff of legends. It’s hard to categorizea man who so mastered prose to portrayhis views. Like when showing his disgustabout layoffs: “…this month’s inundationof layoffs… this month’s avalanche oflayoffs… the recent flood of layoffs,” andwhen putting employers in their place: “Aslong as the issues we bring forward aredealt with effectively, we ultimately don’tcare who in the vast human resources armydeals with them.” But Bill’s quick wit andintellect created no barrier between himselfand the members.Bill became a job steward over 20years ago while working as an engineer-“Members think the unionmeans the union office. It’s not.The union is every member,all the members together.”William Bell, COPE 378 SeniorUnion Representativeing drafter at BC Gas (now Terasen) becausehe wanted to help co-workers dealwith management. He became a union repin 1993 and described his happiest careermoment as when he won his first arbitration,a job selection grievance. “I felt as ifI’d won the Stanley Cup.”Bill actually tried to retire fromCOPE 378 two year ago, shortly afterwinning half a million dollars for membersat Terasen Gas in a job evaluation arbitration.But he stayed for one more round andhis last giant killing battle at COPE mayserve as his most gratifying victory.As the senior rep for Accenture BusinessServices, Bill led the 13-month fightto keep the collective agreement from beingshred apart and to fend off demandsfor major concessions.He communicated the bargainingcommittee’s resolve month after monthto members, leaving no doubt about thecommittee’s approach or the employer’sattitude: “The employer’s goal is to reduceour members’ rights, benefits and entitlementswherever and whenever it can… Itis our duty to you to resist the predationsof this employer, which has descendedupon us like a plague of locusts, devouringeverything that gives aid, comfort andmeaning to your working lives.”Right down to the wire, on May30, 2006, COPE 378 signed a mediatedagreement with Accenture that includednone of the employer concession demandsand going from 25 per cent cuts to a generalwage increase. Just one day later, Billofficially retired.And what, you ask, of the affectionatemonikers we placed upon the retiringBill Bell? Well, for starters there is “BlueTooth Bill”—for his, some would say, aversionto all thing high-tech. Then there isthe most recent, “Last Minute Bill”—forpulling off the Accenture deal one day beforehis retirement. And my personal favourite:“Chairman Bill”—for his memorableand prolific writings and perhaps as areminder of his more political side.Andy RossCOPE 378 PresidentPage 14 cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006

cope 378 News & EventsNews from the COPE 378 LTD PlanCare Management Program brings improvement toquality of life assisting more members to return to workResearch has shown that a successful disability managementsystem focuses on early intervention, active rehabilitation, effectiveclaims management, and early return to work.With this in mind, the COPE Trustees last year engaged aprofessional group to help develop and implement a comprehensivecare management and rehabilitation program. Early detectionand accurate diagnosis of an illness or injury has allowed forthe introduction of care and treatment programs that focus onreceiving the best treatment and enabling a safe and quick returnto work.The care management, early intervention approach is amore positive way of looking at disability management whichfocuses on the person by providing an advocate to ensure thoroughassessment and treatment and proactive rehabilitation andreturn-to-work efforts.Nearing the one year mark of the new program, an interimreport to the COPE Trustees indicates over 100 LTD cases havebeen processed under the new approach with more than half returningto work within a short time frame.Although there has been measurable cost savings and, moreimportantly, many positive responses and success stories, the numberof overall claims continues to rise.In fact, the number of LTD claims hasrisen in many other Plans, not just the oneat COPE 378. Many factors have been citedsuch as demographics, an ageing population,and, a large increase in psychological disordersand the effects of stress on our lives.The good news is that through caremanagement and early intervention, peoplecan, and are, returning to work faster and areenjoying their quality of life. However, thepressures on the LTD system will continueand measures will need to be taken to addressthe high incidence of claims.The Plan covers members employedat ICBC, Canadian Northern Shield, PacificVehicle Testing and the COPE union office.It is overseen by five Trustees, all membersof COPE 378 and employs a full time Administrator.The individual employers collectpremiums and provide administrativeassistance in LTD application processing.The COPE 378 Health and WelfareTrust operated by Trustees are COPE 378members appointed by the President.COPE 378 LTD Plan Trustees, left to right are John Ciardullo, Ray Manning,Geri Smith, Audrey Robertson and Hilary Dymond.Derby & the BlimpBob Derby was elected to the COPE378 Executive Board in May 2005and is currently the chair of the SocialEvents & Planning Committee andthe Electoral Committee. Bob worksat Coast Mountain BusCompany and recently hadoccasion to work out aunique arrangement withthe company involvingthe union’s blimp.In putting togetherCOPE 378’s inauguralSun Run team, Bobpresented a proposalto Coast Mountain toborrow a transit vehicleto use as a platformfrom which to fly theunion’s new blimp.The COPE 378 LTD Plan Administrator is Jim Moynham.Jim can be reached by phone at 604-299-0378 or by email atjmoynham@shaw.ca.The Plan is underwritten and adjudicated by BC Life Insurance,a subsidiary of Pacif ic Blue Cross, The Care ManagementProgram is operated by Organizational Health Inc, a thirdparty unrelated to BC Life.The company agreed as long as Bobhanded out job recruitment information.As COPE 378 members crossedthe Sun Run finish line, a cheering BobDerby was there. It was a sight to beholdfor miles around, the transit truck,recruiting banner and the COPE 378high-flying union blimp!cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006 Page 15

cope 378 political actionVictoria MLA LobbyCOPE 378 President and Executive Board members traveled twice toVictoria during the spring sitting of the Legislature. The first trip was tobrief MLAs on key issues of importance to COPE 378 members and thesecond trip was to lobby politicians to oppose amendments to privacylegislation.Andy Ross and Lori Mayhew speakwith Labour Minister Mike de Jong.Then COPE 378 Vice-President Pat Junnila speakswith Coquitlam-Maillardville MLA Diane ThorneChinese Head Tax RedressCOPE 378 Executive Councillors were honoured to invite representativesof the Chinese community to make a presentation on the issue of redressingthe Chinese Head Tax. The union wrote to MPs and the Prime Minsterand is pleased that an official apology and redress are underway.Andy Ross and David Black look on as ChineseHead Tax redress advocate Thekla Lit speaks toreporters.Campaign for Open GovernmentThe Campaign for Open Government is a community-wide coalition setup by the Freedom of Information and Privacy Association to hold governmentaccountable and push for the full introduction of access to informationchanges. COPE 378 has been invited to join the coalition to help putan end to secret deals.Take Back the PowerHarkening back to a time when the power was in the hands of the people, COPE 378 isprimed to launch its public awareness and political action campaign this September.Armed with strong public support, the union will set out on a three year campaign toput BC Hydro back in public hands. Culminating in time for the 2009 provincial election,COPE 378 cites opinion polls that say 72% of all voters will support any political partythat returns the services of BC’s public utility to public control.The power is ours. Stay informed at www.cope378.ca.Page 16 cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006

cope 378 political actionRespect for privacy goes southby David Black,Chair of COPE 378 Political ActionCommitteeWeeks after filing privacy complaintsinto the security breach and thestorage of employee data, COPE 378learned storage of BC Hydro data outsideof Canada is not uncommon at Hydro’s privatizedarm, Accenture Business Services.The privacy violation involves the transferof data from the data bases Accenturecontrols on behalf of BC Hydro.The increased awareness about privacylegislation led Accenture employeesto sound the alarm about requests askingthem to send BC Hydro data bases outsideof Canada. The union reports membershave stopped information from leavingthe country on several occasions.Other privacy concerns have COPEmembers speaking to Employee HelpDesks in India and confirming that theforeign Accenture offices have personal informationincluding SIN numbers storedin their computers.COPE 378 has actively pursuedprivacy complaints and BC Hydro madean apparent, unsuccessful attempt to getAccenture to halt its outside of Canadastorage practices.The union intensified its efforts inMay with the imminent passage of Bill30, a Miscellaneous Statutes Bill that containedamendments to the Privacy Act allowingthe temporary storage of data outsideCanada (the practice was outlawed in2004 over concerns about the far-reachingUSA Patriot Act).The passage of the Bill was opposedby the NDP, but as of June 1, 2006, theBC government and its suppliers can, onceagain, store data outside Canada. Proponentsof the change naively claim that storageis only allowed under narrow terms.However, there is no ability to track thedata and there is no mechanism in placeto ensure any level of accountability. Theconcern is even greater when the data isone step removed from government, as isthe case with Accenture and other outsourcingcompanies.COPE 378 has joined with otherconcerned groups to speak out about thethreat of storing data outside of Canada—for any reason. The groups COPE has beenworking with include the BC Governmentand Service Employees Union, the BCFederation of Labour, the BC Freedom ofInformation and Privacy Association andthe BC Civil Liberties Association.Please see page 22 ofLocal Voice for more onemployee privacy.The issue of employee privacyexploded at BC Hydro andAccenture in March with the theftof 5,000 personal records. Therecords were allegedly left on alaptop computer at AccentureBusiness Services and containedpayroll and personal data of BCHydro and Accenture Employees.Many of the union’s questionsremain outstanding including whythe records were left vulnerableto theft. The security breach isbefore BC’s Privacy Commissioneralong with broader privacyissues concerning the storage ofdata outside of Canada.cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006 Page 17

cope 378 executive report38 Towns in 30 DaysCOPE Board takes to the road for province-wideregional meetingsMid-March saw the COPE 378 Board travelingto all corners of the province to meetwith members and give them an opportunity to voteon proposed constitutional changes.The COPE 378 regional meetings ended inApril and with the last ballot cast, the results weresoon tabulated.An overwhelming 91 per cent of COPE 378members voted in favour of a new constitution makingthe union more democratic and responsive to themembership.The constitution, made necessary whenCOPE 378 became a Canadian union, adopts aconvention model of governance and allows for theSecretary-Treasurer to be a full-time paid officer ofthe union. There are also changes making the electionof Vice Presidents more representative of theunion as a whole.The COPE 378 inaugural conventionwill be held from April 23 to April 25, 2007, bringingmembers together from all over the provinceto participate in debates and discussions and voteon important issues such as future constitutionalchanges.Summary of Constitution ChangesOver a year ago, President Andy Rossappointed a COPE 378 committeeand constitutional lawyers showed ushow to bring our constitution in linewith the COPE National Union. Thecommittee reviewed the old constitutionand proposed changes to COPE378’s Executive Council. Members atregional meetings then accepted thenew constitution this spring pavingthe way for positive changes.The constitution defines the overallobjectives of COPE Local 378 anddetermines how we operate and howwe are governed. It addresses the allocationof dues, holding of conventionsand the duties and responsibilities ofour elected leaders.There are three major changes in thenew constitution:Democratic StructureReplacement of regional meetingswith a convention.Responsible LeadershipMaking our chief financial officer,the Secretary-Treasurer, a full-timepaid position.Fair RepresentationMaking the election of VP’s morerepresentative of the union asa whole.COPE 378’sinaugural conventionwill be held in April,2007 bringing memberstogether from allover the province.COPE 378inaugural conventionApril 23-25, 2007Renaissance Hotel,Vancouver BCPage 18 cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006

cope 378 members in actionThe COPE Community – Members Making a Differencemajor james barrettCanadian Forces Reservist makesa commitment to CanadaMajor Jim Barrett, a COPE 378member who works at ICBC is amember of the Canadian ArmedForces Reservists.Major James ( Jim) Barrett, CD CanadianForces Reservist, 39 CanadianBrigade Group. Second-in-Command,15th Field Artillery Regiment(RCA), VancouverFrom NATO exercises before thewall fell in Germany to being prepared toassist during domestic emergencies, suchas earthquakes and forest fires, Major JimBarrett has lived a life-time of experiencesin Canada’s Army Reserves.Jim is a COPE 378 member workingfor ICBC since 1985, and currentlyworks as a Bodily Injury Adjuster investigatingfraudulent and exaggerated injuryclaims.While working as a high schoolteacher in 1982, a Canadian Reservesrecruiting poster caught Jim’s eye and hevolunteered for service. After completingthe Army’s “summer youth employmentprogram” as a private soldier, Jim washooked, starting his two and half decadecareer in the Reserves.Later that year, Jim received hiscommission from the Queen as an officerwith the rank of Second-Lieutenant.“That’s pronounced the Canadian wayof ‘LEF tenant’, and not the American‘LOO tenant’, said Barrett in a recentinterview with COPE 378. “There’s a lotof work and training involved in becomingan officer. I have trained all over thecountry, from Nanaimo to Alberta, and inPetawawa, Ontario,” added Barrett.Jim’s original home regiment wasThe British Columbia Regiment (Dukeof Connaught’s Own), and in 2005, hemoved regiments to become Second-in-Command at the 15th Field ArtilleryRegiment (RCA).During his almost 25 years of service,Jim has trained and risen throughthe ranks becoming a Captain in 1991and as a Combat Team Commander thesame year qualified as a Major. Like mostReservists, Jim works full-time at his jobwhile volunteering every month for fieldexercises and at least once a year for annualfield exercises.COPE 378 asked Jim about a definingmoment, one he looks back on andremembers as significant in his volunteercareer.“We are always ready to respond todisaster situations in Canada from floodsto fires and earthquakes. I’ve really noticeda difference in the past few yearsabout how people have become moreaware of the role of the military in Canada.You just have to attend an annualRemembrance Day ceremony and see thegrowing crowds,” said Jim.“But I think for me, the definingmoment was in 1984 as a NATO umpireduring fall exercises in Germany,” heIn this regular feature, we highlightCOPE 378 members whoare active in their communitythrough charitable work, sportsand other activities. We want toknow if you or someone in yourworkplace is making a differenceor has a special achievementyou would like to sharewith our readers.We also post regular storiesabout our members inaction on our website atwww.cope378.caPlease send your stories toeditor@cope378.ca and don’tforget to include pictures.explained. “Fall exercises are historicallywhere opposing forces, at the same time,stop to perform exercises and maneuvers.”“The 1984 exercises in Germanywere the largest since the 1950s. It wasthe last decade of the cold war, the heightof deployment of cruise missiles, and EastGermany still lay behind the Iron Curtain,”he added.“As an umpire, I traveled the WestGerman countryside determining if maneuverswere successful. At one point wewere without sleep for 72 hours and ifI needed to read a map, I often had toshake my driver to wake up! The peopleof Germany were wonderful and I broadenedmy scope of understanding aboutNATO forces and our military role,” concludedJim.COPE 378’s collective agreementwith ICBC allows for fourteen days militaryleave, all other time away from workis taken from Jim’s holiday time. Jim saysICBC has been very supportive about hismilitary service in the Canadian ForcesArmy Reserves.cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006 Page 19

cope 378 members in actionPeter Corren, above left with partner MurrayCorren, is a long time member of COPE 378and the union has been proud to support theirimportant fight.Human rights complainantsreach settlementCOPE 378 President Andy Rosscouldn’t wait to congratulate Peterand Murray Corren on the settlement oftheir long-standing human rights complaint.Writing the day of the historicaward, he said: “Congratulations Peter,your fight has been long and I know howmuch time and passion you and Murrayhave invested into this issue. It is extremelysatisfying to see it concluded insuch a positive manner”.The complaint brought against theMinistry of Education by Murray andPeter Corren sought through the BCHuman Rights Tribunal, the addition ofsexual orientation and gender identitytopics to the BC schools curriculum.The arguments put before the Tribunalstated that schools were guilty ofsystemic discrimination for failing toteach about sexual orientation as part ofthe curriculum.The settlement means BC becomesa leader in North America in teaching respectfor diversity. A new elective coursefor Grade 12 students will explore thenature of a just and equitable society byfocusing on social justice issues. Studentswill be able to study the legal, political,ethical, and economic perspectives thatinform Canadian concepts of justice,equality, and equity. Content includestopics such as race, ethnicity, gender, familystructure, and sexual orientation.Page 20 cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006

cope 378 members in actionBUILDING OUR FUTURE. FIFTY YEARS STRONG.cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006 Page 21

A View onThe Freedom of Information and Privacy Association (FIPA) is British Columbia’s major public watchdog for freedom of information(FOI) and privacy issues, and the only advocacy group in Canada devoted solely to these issues. The following is an excerptfrom FIPA’s submission to the Information and Privacy Commissioner on Draft Employment Privacy Guidelines—November2004. A full copy of the submission can be found on their website at www.fipa.bc.ca.Freedom of Information and Privacy AssociationPrivacy and Privacy Protection DefinitionPrivacy, as we define it, is the ability or right to have a “private life” -to be left alone, free from illegal or unwanted scrutiny and intrusions.Privacy rights include informational privacy - the right to controlor limit the collection, use and disclosure of one’s own personalinformation by other agencies, whether they are part of governmentor the private sector.Since knowledge brings power to those who possess it, knowledgeof our private lives tends to increase the power and influence thatgovernments and corporations have over us. Some limits must beimposed in order to maintain the delicate balance of power thatsustains our democracy.“Privacy protection” means defending the privacy of individuals bylegislation or other means.Privacy rights as fundamental rights inCanadian democracyThe Purpose of the Personal Information ProtectionAct (“PIPA”) is stated in section 2:The purpose of this Act is to govern the collection,use and disclosure of personal information byorganizations in a manner that recognizes both the rightof individuals to protect their personal information andthe need for organizations to collect, use or disclose personalinformation for purposes that a reasonable personwould consider appropriate in the circumstances.This statement of purpose points to a fundamentalelement of the law on employee privacy: the privacyrights of employees are to be balanced against the businessneeds of their employers. When determining theappropriate balance, it is essential to bear in mind thecontrasting characterizations of the interests at state.The “need for organizations to collect, use ordisclose personal information” is a function of practicalreality: organizations must be able to take these actionsin order for certain business endeavours to succeedor for systems to function. Employers need to have aworkable human resources regime in order to functioneffectively and fairly.However, the business needs of employers canonly be met to the extent that they respect and upholdthe privacy rights of individual employees. Privacy rightsare of fundamental importance in our society, both asexercised by individuals and as an essential feature ofour democracy.FIPA helps the public with their questions,problems and concerns regarding accessto information and privacy protection byproviding information and non-legal advice.CONTACT INFORMATION:Tel: 604-739-9788Email: info@fipa.bc.caFax: 604-739-9148Street Address: #103 - 1093 West Broadway,Vancouver, BC V6H 1E2Page 22 cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006

cope 378 labour world24-7 workers find support fromBC Federation of LabourThe BC Federation of Labour has taken up the cause of those working in the 24-7industry gas stations, convenience stores and other retail outlets. Below is the latestnews release on the issues the predominantly young workers face.Despite a tragic death, warnings,and WCB inspections, the Maple Ridgegas station, where last year Grant DePatielost his life is still failing to abide by BC’sHealth and Safety laws, said BC Federationof Labour President Jim Sinclair.“Despite Grant’s death and despiteprevious inspections and orders, this employeris allowed to remain out of compliancewithout any penalty or meaningfulaction from WorkSafeBC,” Sinclair said.In the last week, the Federation visitedthe operation twice after 11:00 pm tolearn that not only is the station ignoringits late night pay before you pump policy,it’s also failing to ensure the doors arelocked after 11:00 pm, contradictory tothe employer’s health and safety plan.An investigation by WorkSafeBCinto Grant DePatie’s death determinedthat had they been enforced, “the latenight payment policies would have preventedthis fatality.”“The employer only filed a plan afterGrant’s death, but the plan means nothingif the employer isn’t following it,” Sinclairstated. “A worker’s death shouldn’t be theneeded wake up call to employers aboutthe importance of health and safety standards,but when even that’s not enough wehave a huge problem on our hands.“Employer self policing isn’t working,”said Sinclair. “Any employer who isfailing to protect nightshift workers employedin gas stations and conveniencestores, should face an immediate crackdownfrom WorkSafeBC.”In January, the BC Federation ofLabour conducted an informal survey ofgas stations operating in the Lower Mainland.Of the 12 stations surveyed, only oneappeared to have implemented a WorkingAlone Policy as outlined by WorkSafeBCregulations.“Our survey showed employershaven’t put in place the rules to protectworkers’ health and safety,” Sinclair stated.“That’s why we’re calling on the provincialgovernment and WorkSafeBC to ensurethat within 30 days, employers registertheir plan for working alone or risk beingshutdown for late-night operations.”While regulations currently requireemployers to have a plan in place forpeople working alone, there is no mechanismto ensure that this law is being followed.Sinclair has previously called onLabour Minister Mike de Jong and Solicitor-GeneralJohn Les to implementnew measures in response to continuedreports of violence and threats of physicalharm to nightshift workers employed inthe service industry.These measures include:• Requiring all employers open tothe public with 24-hour or late-nightoperating hours, to file, within 30 days,with the Workers’ Compensation Boardthe employers’ plans for employees workingalone. Any employer who fails to filesuch a plan should be barred from operatingin these hours;• Implementing regulations thatwould require customers to pay for gasolinebefore they pump, in an effort to preventviolent crimes occurring;• An education and awareness campaignfor both workers and employers, advisingthem of the risks, rights and obligationsin the service sector;• Greater enforcement by the WCBand Ministry of Labour, EmploymentStandards Branch, of current laws andstandards; and• Ensuring that at least two workersare on shift together during latenight hours.CLC honouredwith stampThree million Canadian Labour Congressstamps will be printed and circulated thisyear commemorating the 50th anniversary ofCanada’s largest labour organization. The stampdepicts the CLC logo with a list of accomplishmentsachieved in the organization’s 50 years ofexistence in the background. For more informationvisit www.clc-ctc.ca.COPE 378 thanksSinclairCOPE 378 presented BC Federationof Labour President Jim Sinclair witha gift to show appreciation for hishard work on behalf of the labourmovement and workers during thepast year. Sinclair addressed COPE378 members at the union’s recentShop Steward Training program heldat the Coast Hotel in downtown Vancouver.He is shown above on rightwith COPE 378 President Andy Ross.cope 378 Local Voice SUMMER 2006 Page 23

Standing Together!Standing Strong!COPE 378 Accenture Workers:The Heart and Voice of BC HydroYou stood strong and won!The four year agreement includes a general wage increase and keepsyour important benefits. The employer wanted 25% cuts and majorconcessions with no wage increase. We call that a major victory!Congratulations on standing togetherand standing strong.RETURN UNDELIVERABLE PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 41267023CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO:#200 - 4595 CANADA WAY,BURNABY, BC V5G 1J9