National Construction Council, Local 1999: Advocating for Members' Prosperity

Introduction

Local 1999 of the National Construction Council sets a remarkable standard by offering exceptional service to members.

Just this week, members from other unions joined us because they found it refreshing to be treated with respect and dignity by Local 1999 staff and representatives.

Drop toxic misogyny, old-school tough-guy personas, gender discrimination, racism, anti-Indigenous sentiment and whatever-phobia at the door. These have no place at Local 1999 and in no way enhances service or value. We are modern, with the times, inclusive, and focus on service and creating value for members.

We are also strategic and apply business acumen to support Local 1999 members. Some throw criticism our way for this. We say, our team has a tremendous amount of business acumen - why not use it to the fullest to support members?

It's not just about fighting for jobs or negotiating collective agreement language; it's about advocating for the prosperity of its members.

Local 1999 stands beside its members, fighting for markets, work scopes, wages, benefits, and ultimately, member health and wealth creation.

Fighting for Jobs and Markets

One of the primary objectives of Local 1999 is to secure employment opportunities for members. We understand that job security is vital for the financial well-being of members and their families. However, Local 1999 takes it a step further by fighting for markets. The only way to sustainably grow and protect jobs is the focus on markets.

What does it mean to fight for markets?

It means advocating for policies, projects, and initiatives that create a conducive environment for more work, including for work in manufacturing, industrial, construction and maintenance industries. Local 1999 actively engages with policymakers, contractors and other employers, and other stakeholders to ensure that work is abundant and accessible for members. This proactive approach secures jobs and opens up new opportunities for members.

More work, more variety of work and better work - it's the Local 1999 way.

Collective Agreement Language, Markets and Work Scopes

While collective agreement language is essential, Local 1999 recognize that members need more than words on a page to thrive. Members can't eat an obscure and outdated collective agreement clause language, especially if the clause causes signatory employers to lose the work to non-union or alternative union companies. We fight for markets, and work scopes and target projects that provide members meaningful employment.

This means negotiating contracts that specify work terms and conditions and outline the scope of work and how to expand it, ensuring that each job is a potential launchpad for more work for members.

By focusing on work scopes, Local 1999 ensures members engage and grow in projects that match our training, skills and expertise. This enhances job satisfaction and boosts productivity on job sites, benefitting both workers and contractors by setting us up for more work.

Wages and Benefits: The Path to Health and Wealth Creation

Local 1999 understands that wages and benefits are the lifeblood of members' financial well-being. We vigorously negotiate for competitive wages that reflect members' skills and experience. Additionally, we provide accessible (often direct-pay), benefits packages that include healthcare, retirement plans, and other essential benefits.

Securing competitive wages and comprehensive benefits isn't just about financial security; it's about fostering health and wealth creation among members. When workers earn fair wages and access quality healthcare, they can care for their physical and mental health, leading to a more productive and fulfilling life. Moreover, retirement plans ensure members can retire comfortably with financial peace of mind.

Conclusion

The National Construction Council, Local 1999 advocates for members' prosperity.

We don't settle for mere job opportunities; we fight for markets.

We continue beyond a short-term view of collective agreement language; we secure work scopes and projects. We don't just negotiate for wages; we ensure comprehensive benefits for the health and wealth creation of their members.

In an era where workers' rights and fair compensation are paramount, we stand for support for industrial, maintenance, transportation, fabrication and construction members. Our efforts in representing members demonstrate commitment to securing jobs and building better futures for members and their families.?

In doing so, we prove that a strong labour union can make a significant difference in the lives of workers and the industry.

Respectfully,

Sam Kemble , National Construction Council