Canada’s unions applaud asbestos ban regulations

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Thursday, October 18, 2018

Canada’s unions applaud the federal government for introducing regulations to ban the import, export, manufacture, sale and use of asbestos and asbestos-containing products. The regulations, announced in December 2016 will come into force on December 30, 2018.

“This is a critical step on the long road to banning asbestos, and will, without a doubt, save lives for generations to come,” said Canadian Labour Congress President, Hassan Yussuff.

The new regulations, under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act 1999 (CEPA), prohibit the import, sale and use of asbestos, the manufacture, import, sale and use of products containing asbestos, as well as the export of asbestos and asbestos-containing products, with a limited number of exceptions. Combined, this is a historic step to protect the health of Canadian workers and the public, and to address Canada’s history as an exporter of this deadly substance. With these regulations, Canada now joins 55 countries that have banned the use of asbestos.

Yussuff said that it will be crucial for protection from exposure to extend to everyone living in Canada, including those living in First Nations housing filled with asbestos-ridden vermiculite insulation.

“Because these diseases have a long latency period, the danger is not over, but this is the beginning of the end. Now we need the provinces and territories to show the same leadership that the federal government has shown and move quickly to take stock of where asbestos is, harmonize regulation around disposal and remediation, and ensure a comprehensive response,” he said.

“We can all breathe easier. The introduction of these regulations in a timely manner is the result of years of advocacy and hard work by people dedicated to safer, healthier workplaces. Today, I celebrate and thank the government for giving the next generation of Canadians a better future, free from the pain and suffering caused by asbestos,” said Yussuff.

A robust enforcement strategy to ensure compliance with these new regulations will be important to a successful implementation and to addressing the legacy of asbestos-contaminated workplaces.

“We look forward to continuing to work with the federal government on the broader whole-of-government strategy to protect Canadians from the harms of asbestos,” added Yussuff.

Issue:
Health and Safety

Fight for workers rights

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The Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act is in danger of being canceled by the current government. We need to do what we can to stop this from happening. By sending a message to our MMPs, we become a collective voice in this fight. We can’t allow the Ford government to strip workers of they’re rights! To send an email, click on the link below.

In Solidarity

http://www.myrights.ca/email_mpp

IAM’s Bagwell Honored by Metal Trades Department

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For those of us who have been fortunate enough to have attended Henry’s class at the WWW center, we know how deserving he is of this award. His class is never boring and always keeps you engaged with his unique style of teaching. Congrats Henry!

October 16, 2018

IAM Education Representative Henry Bagwell was recently presented with the prestigious Chico McGill Award by the AFL-CIO Metal Trades Department.

The award recognizes trade unionists who exhibit the strength, fortitude and commitment of the late Chico McGill, a former IBEW member and officer who was known as an outspoken advocate for working people.

“This is a great honor for me,” said Bagwell, who met McGill after being introduced by IAM Government Employees Director Jim Price several years ago. “There are many people in this room who have mentored me. If you can pay it forward and mentor somebody, I think that’s one of the greatest gifts we have as trade unionists.”

Bagwell, a 33-year IAM member, served previously as president of the Amarillo, TX Metal Trades Council. He helped develop and implement training for the Metal Trades Department while working at the Winpisinger Center and serving as a personal mentor to many members.

“Henry’s influence on this union, our membership and the labor movement as a whole cannot be overstated,” said IAM International President Bob Martinez. “We are so grateful for what he does for Machinists Union members every day and I congratulate him on this high honor.”

Bagwell initiated into IAM Local 1255 in Amarillo, TX in 1985. There he served in multiple roles, including steward, alternative steward and chief steward. He also served as an associate instructor for the Center for Workers Health and Safety for more than 15 years. Since 2006, Bagwell has been a member-favorite instructor at the IAM’s Winpisinger Center.

“If you pass through one of Henry’s classes, you are now better prepared to represent your workers,” said Jimmy Hart, President of the Metal Trades Department. “Henry is one those guys who will feel your pain, but won’t just pat you on the back. He’ll help you solve your problems.”

Bagwell holds an associate’s degree in radiologic technology from Amarillo College and a bachelor’s degree in occupational education from Wayland University.

Day of Action to defend new labour laws

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October 16, 2018

Yesterday morning, the first of more than 50 actions planned for the October 15 Day of Action kicked off. Throughout the province union members and social activists were mobilized to defend Ontario’s new labour laws and minimum wage increase.

Protests and petitions were expended to try to convince the Ontario, Doug Ford Government to put our need for decent work ahead of corporate interests. IAM members participated in a number of the events.

If you were unable to take part you can still send an email to Premier Doug Ford and your local MPP. Also ask your friends to do the same!