Sisters and Brothers:

Last year when I wrote my holiday wishes I talked about 2020 being a year like no other; we were in the throes of the COVID 19 pandemic with many areas of our country either shut down or headed in that direction. While 2020 did offer some promise with the role out of vaccines and the level of comfort they offered, as a result we did see things open up and life appeared to be headed back to some semblance of normal. Well folks, sadly it appears as we approach this year’s holidays we are once again faced with new challenges.

The latest mutation, the Omicron strain, which appears to be the most contagious strain to date, is ravaging our country and once again leading to shutdowns.  Restrictions are again being imposed, many community and sporting events are once again being cancelled, family gatherings are suggested to be limited in size, and travel is being limited and advised against.  Even with the challenges we face again at this time of year, it is important that we take the opportunity the holiday season provides to get some much-needed rest and spend time with our families the best we can, and as safely as we can.

One serious side effect of the pandemic, and it continues to worsen as time goes on, is Mental health issues that have risen to crisis levels across Canada and the world. The additional stress that the uncertainty of these times causes, the financial strain many have experienced, and the isolation that has brought many people to their breaking point. So please if you need help, seek it!  If you know of someone who may be struggling, please reach out, a simple phone call can go a long way.

Last year I said I could not be prouder of how all of you have stepped up, met the challenges, and showed the world exactly what the IBEW is about, and this year is no different. I want to thank you all for what you do and your loyalty to the IBEW.

On behalf of myself and the entire IBEW First District staff, I wish you all the best for the 2021 holiday season, and again look forward to improved conditions for 2022. Please enjoy your holidays and please stay safe. I look forward to working with you and your continued support and hard work in 2022.

In solidarity,

Tom Reid

International Vice President, First District (Canada)

IBEW, First District

300-1450 Meyerside Drive

Mississauga, ON L5T 2N5

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Ph: (905) 564-5441

Fax: (905) 564-8114

Website: www.ibewcanada.ca

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

There were some 2021 Calendar books mixed in with the 2022 order we've received by the supplier. Please call the union office and provide your name so we can send out the 2022 calendar book in the new year.

Thank you and be safe!

Please see the link below to watch Jim Sponagle and Peter Gregg 7 Minutes of Safety:

7 Minutes for Safety Jim Sponagle and Peter Gregg (vimeo.com)

Please see below the Paragon Protection arbitrators decision regarding dismissing a grievance that challenged a mandatory Covid vaccination policy.

Paragon Protection Arbitration 

Greetings:

Originally called "Armistice Day", Remembrance Day was first observed throughout the British Commonwealth in 1919.  It was held to pay tribute to the end of the First World War through the signing of the Armistice Agreement on November 11, 1918 at 11 am.  Armistice Day was held on the Monday during the week in which November 11th fell until 1931 when it was renamed "Remembrance Day" and was to take place solely on November 11th.

Today, on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, Canadians pause for a moment of silence to remember all those who have fought and continue to fight for this country.  It is because of the brave men and women who have served this great nation that we enjoy the peace and freedoms we have today.

IBEW Canada is also a proud partner of Helmets to Hardhats Canada, which provides career transition opportunities to Canadian Forces veterans looking to start a second career in the trades.

Sisters and Brothers, we must remember and involve ourselves on Remembrance Day, November 11^th, so that the courage and selflessness of these women and men is not lost to future generations; we remember because through their sacrifices we have the right to participate and reap the benefits of our Union.  I encourage our Local Unions, officers and members to take part in local events in your area to pay tribute to all of those who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today.

In solidarity,

IVP Tom Reid

IBEW, First District

Please click HERE for helpful information regarding the Covid-19 Vaccine, know your. FACTS

Greetings:

Thanksgiving Day in Canada has been a holiday on the second Monday of October since 1957.  It is a chance for people to give thanks for a good harvest and other fortunes in the past year.

Of course this is now our second Thanksgiving that we are celebrating while dealing with COVID-19; this country is now experiencing the fourth wave and it is imperative that we stay vigilant and continue to adhere to Public Health guidelines in your local area.

Despite the pandemic, we do have a lot to be thankful for.  Many of us remained working during these times and we give thanks for the opportunity to do so.  We are also grateful to live in a country that continues to provide social benefits to out of work Canadians as a result of this virus. 

As union members, we give thanks to the builders of our Labour Movement; it’s because of them that today we reap the benefits of their hard work through our collective bargaining agreements and the legislation they fought so hard to put in place.   

Please have an enjoyable and safe Thanksgiving long weekend.  It is important to take the time to be with your family and friends, whether virtually or safely in person.

Happy Thanksgiving!

In solidarity,

Tom Reid

International Vice President, First District (Canada)

IBEW, First District