Sisters and Brothers,

To start this report, I would like to congratulate Ian Lewis on his appointment to the Chair of the Unit Council. Ian is a long-standing unionist and the Chairperson of Welland Chevrolet. His experience and involvement will be valuable to the Local and the Executive Board. I would also like to congratulate Dan Kyle on his appointment to the position of Young Worker by my predecessor. Dan serves as the Midnight Shift Shop Representative of General Motors and will hopefully add a fresh perspective to the Executive Board.

At the beginning of June, National Staff Representative Doug Orr, myself and the Bargaining Committee for Brunner Manufacturing (Bob Lohrke, Unit Chairperson, Tim Koop, Committeeperson, Dave Murphy, Committeeperson) ratified a four-year collective agreement. I would like to congratulate Doug Orr and the Bargaining committee for securing modest increases over the life of the agreement.

I would also like to draw attention to Ontario Stamping Solutions. Peter Bonnette, Chairperson, reported to me earlier this month that business is booming. Orders have been increasing regularly, with the membership fully utilized, including a few new hires. For the first time in over a decade, there has been a startup of a second shift. This is great news for our members working at O.S.S. There is an important notice to membership regarding Valbruna ASW, in Welland. They are currently hiring labourers and certified trades. This is an excellent opportunity, with good wages and benefits.

We have an exciting announcement to make. Welland Chevrolet is offering a special deal to UNIFOR members. By presenting their Unifor card, members can earn $500 extra trade-in value when purchasing a new or used vehicle. Members can also save 15% on parts. This is an excellent opportunity for our members and the Executive Board would like to extend their thanks to Welland Chevrolet.

Stay safe, heatlhy, and enjoy the beautiful weather.

In solidarity,

Jordan Lennox, President
Unifor Local 199
On behalf of the Executive Board
Steve McMullen, Mike Winterbottom, Tim Mckinnon, Lori Gaboury, Alex Latham, Fred Dougan, Lawrence Robson, Ian Lewis, Dan Kyle