Through a series of membership meetings held between August 29, 2009 and September 27, 2009 the members of the RSMC have provided overwhelming support for their program of demands. In over 200 ratification meetings held across Canada and Quebec and of those in attendance at these meetings 95.2 % voted in favour of the negotiation demands package.

NEGOTIATION COMMITTEE BEGINS ITS WORK

The members of the RSMC Negotiating Committee attended the President’s meeting in Ottawa on September 19 & 20, 2009. They then began their negotiations committee work on September 21, 2009. During their first week they have been reviewing the demands and accumulating the information and documentation the Committee will require to successfully pursue the demands of the membership.

NOTICE TO BARGAIN GIVEN

By letter to the employer dated October 1, 2009 the Union requested the commencement of negotiations. According to the provisions of clause 36.03 negotiations continue for a total of sixty (60) days after a request for negotiation has been given. After this period either the Union or the employer can refer any unresolved issues to a third party for resolution. Therefore, as of November 30, 2009 any unresolved issues can be referred to a third party. Nevertheless, the Union believes that if the employer comes to the bargaining with reasonable expectations and demands, the parties can negotiate a collective agreement within this stipulated period of time.

MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT MUST CONTINUE           

As stated above the membership have provided overwhelming support to the Negotiating Committee through its high turnout at ratification meetings and its acceptance vote for the package of demands. However, throughout the negotiation process, the membership must continue to support the efforts of the Negotiating Committee by participating in local activities arranged by their local executive committees. Participation in local activities will show the employer that the membership wants solutions to the many work floor problems they are experiencing daily at work.