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Greetings to all 594 members

Last month, I provided a very positive update on the Grievance Backlog Project and the success that we achieved through that project. This month, my update will not be as positive as it will focus on the current grievance situation that we are currently facing.

At the time of writing this article, there are 154 active grievances at various stages in the grievance process. Since the start of 2025, the Union has filed 68 grievances this year, with a vast majority of these focusing on contracting out. As we are acutely aware, since 2019, there has been a massive increase in the amount of 594 work that has been contracted out. Specifically in Maintenance, the Company has taken steps to reduce the complement number to justify the increase in contracting out. There is plenty of opportunity to pull back work into the bargaining unit if the inefficient maintenance planning system were totally revamped. In the Union's opinion, these self-fulfilling prophecies are designed to erode our workforce and weaken the Union. The easy solution to this problem is to hire more staff and have 594 members perform this work more efficiently and cost-effectively than contractors. 

In 2025, we have seen an increase in discipline and subsequent grievances due to various factors stemming from this. These situations can be very stressful and difficult for the individuals involved, and as a group, we need to make sure we are there to support everyone. In order to hold the Company accountable to the contract they signed with 594 ever member needs to "keep their eyes open" and ask questions when they feel something doesn't seem right. Get in contact with your shop steward if you feel something may be breaking the contract and needs to be grieved.  

Of these 154 grievances, 144 are beyond the grievance timelines that are outlined in Article 14 of the CBA, with a few of them dating back. The vast majority of these 144 are stalled at the Company level as the Union waits on numerous responses, meetings, etc.. This can be attributed to many different factors, such as the "revolving door" in HR/LR that we have witnessed in the past few years, scheduling conflicts, staffing issues in management, etc... 

When the Company and the Union engaged in discussions that prompted the Grievance Backlog Project, there were 143 active grievances, and we are now facing more active grievances than we did back in 2022. In an effort to avoid a Grievance Backlog Project 2.0, I have been diligently engaging with the Company to begin to address this situation. I am happy to report that in October, the Company and the Union will be having two full days of meetings to address a large number of grievances. I am optimistic that if we can gain some momentum in these meetings, we can get on the right path of the grievance resolution process.  

In closing, I would like to thank everyone in 594 for their contributions to the success of the refinery. As we face more change and challenges every day, I have the utmost faith in my fellow brothers and sisters and couldn't be prouder to work next to each and every one of you.  

In Solidarity,

Kurt Haakensen

Chief Shop Steward

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UNIFOR 594 GOLF TOURNAMENT

September 19th could not have brought a better day for our Third Annual Golf Tournament.

A big shoutout to our Social Committee, who put in so much work to make this event, like every other event, a huge success. Every part of the day was well planned, from pre-golf lunch to hole sponsor challenges, to hole events, to a delicious post-golf meal and prizes for every attendee.

Huge round of applause to our many sponsors who have helped make this a successful event. Please consider supporting these businesses in the future.

BUILDING STRENGTH THROUGH COLLECTIVE BARGAINING EDUCATION

As an executive and proud member of our bargaining team, I recognize the importance of preparation, knowledge, and confidence as we look ahead to our next contract. The opportunity to participate in Unifor’s collective bargaining education course in Port Elgin, ON, was not only timely but also invaluable for ensuring that we represent our members with strength and clarity at the table.

The course provides in-depth information and practical tools on all aspects of collective bargaining. It is designed to build the confidence of Unifor bargaining committee members, equipping us with the skills needed to navigate negotiations effectively. Through this program, we also had the chance to outline and discuss the Unifor bargaining program in detail, ensuring our strategies are aligned with the broader goals of the National Union.

One of the most impactful aspects of the course is the analysis of strategic approaches to bargaining. Understanding how to anticipate challenges, respond to employer proposals, and maintain solidarity throughout the process is essential to protecting and advancing the interests of our members. 

Just as important, the course offers opportunities to network with Unifor members nationwide. Although they were in other courses, I was also very grateful for the opportunity to spend part of the week with some of our own: Nathan Kraemer, Shawn Freestone and James Cheeseman. Thank you for sharing the memorable week with me. 

I deeply appreciate this opportunity to prepare alongside 594’s bargaining team. As we move toward our next contract, I am confident that this training will not only strengthen our committee’s ability to bargain effectively but will also reinforce our shared commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our members.

Through education, preparation, and solidarity, we are building the foundation for a stronger future together.



Jamie Wolf, PDD VP