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# CUPE Local 79

Taking Care of Toronto

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://cupelocal79.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Solidarity with Grassy Narrows](https://cupelocal79.org/solidarity-with-grassy-narrows/) - This morning, Local 79 members marched alongside Grassy Narrows First Nation to demand that Premier Ford deliver on mercury justice. For over 60 years, the people of Grassy Narrows have been living with the devastating effects of industrial mercury poisoning — and they’re still waiting for the justice they deserve. Solidarity!
- [Local 79 Black History Month Celebration](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-black-history-month-celebration/) - This past Saturday, we came together for an afternoon of reflection, learning, and celebration. The program featured Land and Ancestral Acknowledgements, the Black National Anthem and poetry by Nicky Lawrence, welcome remarks from Brigett Coleman, an engaging Q&A with LTtheMonk (also our MC), and a powerful fireside chat with Robyn Maynard and Brianna Plummer. We
- [Local 79 Endorses Avi Lewis for NDP Leader](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-endorses-avi-lewis-for-ndp-leader/) - After meeting with leadership candidates and hearing their visions, CUPE Local 79’s Board has unanimously endorsed Avi Lewis for Leader of Canada’s New Democratic Party. Every candidate we interviewed was great and would serve the party well. Our endorsement reflects Avi’s ability to articulate a bold and unapologetic progressive vision — one that does not
- [Local 79 attends International Women's Day March](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-attends-international-womens-day-march/) - Today we marched for International Women’s Day under the powerful theme “Rise and Resist: Uniting for a New World.” The rally reflected the strength and diversity of the feminist movement, bringing together women, workers, migrants, racialized communities, queer and trans activists, and allies. International Women’s Day has always been rooted in struggle, and today’s march
- [Aimee Carnell](https://cupelocal79.org/aimee-carnell/) - Aimee has worked for the City for over 15 years in several roles in the Shelter, Support & Housing Division — most recently as a Client Service Worker. She has a background in Social Work and worked in the hospital sector for over 20 years. Aimee has been a Steward for approximately 10 years, chaired
- [Celebrate Toronto Public Service Week with CUPE Local 79!](https://cupelocal79.org/celebrate-toronto-public-service-week-with-cupe-local-79/) - This week is Toronto Public Service Week — a time to recognize and celebrate the vital work that we all do in service of Toronto and its communities every day. To mark the week, we're holding random draws for members that have registered an account with their personal email in the Member's Portal. If you are
- [Joint statement on proposed demonstrations by-law](https://cupelocal79.org/joint-statement-on-proposed-demonstrations-by-law/) - CUPE Local 79, CUPE-Ontario, OCHU-CUPE stand firmly opposed to the City’s proposed by-law that would prohibit protests and picketing within designated “bubble zones.” Any version of this by-law is unnecessary, unconstitutional, and unjustified. The right to peacefully protest and picket is a fundamental freedom protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Enacting a by-law
- [Local 79 deputes on ferry service and health & safety reporting](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-deputes-on-ferry-service-and-health-safety-reporting/) - Local 79 Vice-President Keith Fiering, accompanied by Local 79 President Nas Yadollahi, attended the City of Toronto's March 19 Executive Committee to depute on the Toronto ferry service operations and how it highlights improper health and safety reporting at the City of Toronto, including a lack of a strong internal response system. View the deputation
- [City publishes misleading bargaining update](https://cupelocal79.org/city-publishes-misleading-bargaining-update/) - Last week, the City misled the public by releasing manipulative wage proposal details. It's time to set the record straight. Why do we contend that the City’s 3.95%, 3.9%, 3.8% and 3% offer is not enough? Under John Tory, Local 79 members saw years of wage increases below the rate of inflation, with an average
- [City workers one step closer to strike; Highlight inequity between increases for management and front-line workers](https://cupelocal79.org/city-workers-one-step-closer-to-strike-highlight-inequity-between-increases-for-management-and-front-line-workers/) - The Ontario Labour Relations Board has issued CUPE Local 79 a No Board Report, setting the clock toward a possible strike or lockout as early as Saturday, March 8, 2025. This move comes as the City of Toronto continues to refuse to negotiate a fair deal with its frontline workers. “For years, our members—some of
- [City workers request No Board Report – Prepare for possible strike action](https://cupelocal79.org/city-workers-request-no-board-report-prepare-for-possible-strike-action/) - CUPE Local 79, representing 30,000 City workers, has officially requested a No Board Report in its ongoing negotiations with the City of Toronto, moving closer to a potential strike or lockout deadline. Despite months of bargaining, the City has refused to engage in meaningful negotiations, forcing frontline municipal workers to take a stand. "City workers
- [Majority of Torontonians support investments in City services and fair wages for workers, new poll finds](https://cupelocal79.org/majority-of-torontonians-support-investments-in-city-services-and-fair-wages-for-workers-new-poll-finds/) - An online poll of Torontonians found that 81% support investments in city-run services. The most commonly used city services among respondents were parks, pools and wading pads (37%), recreation programming and community centres (25%), employment services (20%) and 311 (16%). Among those that expressed an opinion, 60% of respondents believe that all City of
- [Toronto’s 2025 Budget: Rebuilding requires investing in workers](https://cupelocal79.org/torontos-2025-budget-rebuilding-requires-investing-in-workers/) - For a decade, the City of Toronto has lived under a climate of austerity which has affected not just the residents of our city but its workers. Our buildings are falling apart, our services are stretched thin and the staff who run our city are being run off their feet. Today, Mayor Chow launched her
- [Over 90% of City workers vote in favour of a strike mandate, in historic turnout](https://cupelocal79.org/over-90-of-city-workers-vote-in-favour-of-a-strike-mandate-in-historic-turnout/) - After a historic vote, which doubled the largest turnout in the union’s history, City of Toronto workers voted overwhelmingly in favour of a strike mandate. The City of Toronto is experiencing a crisis in retention and recruitment after nearly two decades of austerity and underinvestment. Since 2019, the vacancy rate in positions at the City
- [Release: CUPE Local 79 serves notice to bargain with City of Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/release-cupe-local-79-serves-notice-to-bargain-with-city-of-toronto/) - Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79, the union which represents workers in over 70 City of Toronto divisions, has provided notice to bargain a new collective agreement. The union represents City workers across sectors like public health, emergency services, childcare, social services, long-term care and recreation. The union’s current five-year agreement with the
- [Yadollahi speaks to GlobalTV after serving notice to bargain](https://cupelocal79.org/yadollahi-speaks-to-globaltv-after-serving-notice-to-bargain/) - After serving the City of Toronto notice to bargain, Local 79 President Nastaran Yadollahi spoke to Global News
- [Nas Yadollahi](https://cupelocal79.org/nas-yadollahi/) - Nas is a trade unionist and activist who immigrated to Canada with her family in 1987. She became a City of Toronto Children's Services employee in 1999 and in 2008 moved to Parks, Forestry & Recreation Division, where in 2015 she became a Youth Outreach Worker. She is a union Steward and has represented members
- [Keith Fiering](https://cupelocal79.org/keith-fiering/) - Keith has dutifully represented CUPE Local 79 members for over 15 years: at the bargaining table, as an organizer during the 2009 strike, and has been one of Local 79's strongest health and safety advocates over many years. As a long-standing Steward, Keith represented members at various levels of the grievance process, including at the
- [Brigett Coleman](https://cupelocal79.org/brigett-coleman/) - Brigett has been a CUPE member for over 21 years with a decade of training as a union representative at Local. She is a former Duty Officer and is currently a Local 79 Health and Safety Representative. Brigett has a Bachelor’s of Arts degree with certificate as a Law Clerk, and also holds a Paralegal
- [Coline Babin](https://cupelocal79.org/coline-babin/) - Coline is passionate about worker solidarity and is often seen on picket lines supporting other unions with coffee and donuts in hand. Coline has always believed that the power of a union resides in the hands of its members. Coline has been with the City of Toronto since 2014, working within Technology Services. Since that
- [Fred Shilson](https://cupelocal79.org/fred-shilson/) - Fred is a 2nd generation City of Toronto employee, now a member of the Information Technology team in Senior Services & Long-Term Care. Fred has held many union roles: CUPE’s National Political Action Chair, Young Worker Chair, Member at Large on the CUPE Ontario Executive Board, and representative on the Canadian Labour Congress National Political
- [Shannon Berseth](https://cupelocal79.org/shannon-berseth/) - Shannon first became a Local 79 member in 2013 when she began working for 311 Toronto. She became active in the Local when asked to be on the 2015 Bargaining Committee representing the Part-Time Unit B. Since then, Shannon has filled many roles at Local 79 including Steward, Duty Officer, Acting Unit Officer, Executive Board
- [Local 79 hosts 2024 Equity Symposium](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-hosts-2024-equity-symposium/) - On Thursday, September 26, 2024, Local 79 hosted its 2024 Equity Symposium. Members from the City of Toronto, Toronto Community Housing Corporation, Toronto Seniors Housing Corporation, and Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital to explore this year’s theme: “Confronting Systems of Oppression,” and were invited to reflect on the ways we are all interconnected within systems that perpetuate
- [Ice cream recreation centre tour!](https://cupelocal79.org/ice-cream-recreation-centre-tour/) - From September 3-16, look out for the Local 79 ice cream truck making visits to recreation centres across the City. Come get a free ice cream, meet a member of the Executive, and let your union know if you have any issues or concerns about your workplace. See the schedule below:
- [Local 79 calls on Ford government to reverse policy that will close supervised consumption sites](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-calls-on-ford-government-to-reverse-policy-that-will-close-supervised-consumption-sites/) - Today, front-line workers from Toronto’s supervised consumption sites, alongside union representatives, held a press conference at Queen’s Park to address the devastating impact of the provincial government’s new policy. This policy, which prohibits Supervised Consumption Sites from operating within 200 meters of schools and child care centers, will force the closure of most of these
- [Member Spotlight: Shannon Berseth](https://cupelocal79.org/member-profile-shannon-berseth/) - This week, our member spotlight is on Shannon Berseth, a Part-Time 311 Toronto customer service representative. Shannon began working for the City in 2013, bringing with her a host of call centre experience. One of her last gigs was as a manager at a large corporate outfit, which she left after being offered a package
- [Ensuring an ethical FIFA World Cup](https://cupelocal79.org/ensuring-an-ethical-fifa-world-cup/) - On March 19, 2024, CUPE Local 79 teamed up with the Toronto Environmental Alliance, the Toronto Community Benefits Network, TTCriders, Progress Toronto, Social Planning Toronto and Toronto & York Region Labour Council, in order to write a letter to Toronto City Council about concerns we shared over labour and environmental concerns regarding preparations for the
- [Ensuring an ethical FIFA World Cup](https://cupelocal79.org/ensuring-an-ethical-fifa-world-cup/) - On March 19, 2024, CUPE Local 79 teamed up with the Toronto Environmental Alliance, the Toronto Community Benefits Network, TTCriders, Progress Toronto, Social Planning Toronto and Toronto & York Region Labour Council, in order to write a letter to Toronto City Council about concerns we shared over labour and environmental concerns regarding preparations for the
- [Black History Month: Reflections on “Origin”](https://cupelocal79.org/black-history-month-reflections-on-origin/) - This is a personal reflection on the film "Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents," by Local 79 President Nas Yadollahi. It is part of an effort to further explore equity issues and prolong our focus on equity issues beyond Black History Month. A few weeks ago, in honour of Black History Month, I attended a
- [Featuring our new member spotlight](https://cupelocal79.org/featuring-our-new-member-spotlight/) - Local 79 has debuted a new video media spotlight on members in the workplace. Meet our first member spotlight: Brenda, a Client Service Worker at Seaton House in the Toronto Shelter and Support Services (TSSS) division. In sharing her experience and perspectives on being a frontline worker for the City of Toronto, Brenda talks about
- [Local 79 celebrates Black History Month](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-celebrates-black-history-month/) - Local 79 Vice President Brigett Coleman is planning an exciting celebration for this year's annual Black History Month celebration, featuring keynote speakers, entertainment and light refreshments. Members are encouraged to find more details and register for the event in our Members’ Portal. Our distinguished keynote speakers for for our Black History Month event (pictured above)
- [<strong><em>City workers’ unions urge Mayor to keep critical investments in Budget</em></strong>](https://cupelocal79.org/city-workers-unions-urge-mayor-to-keep-critical-investments-in-budget/) - In a united front, the leadership of CUPE Local 79, ATU Local 113 and the Toronto Public Library Workers' Union - CUPE Local 4948 came together this morning to urge Mayor Chow to keep the staff-proposed critical investments in City services in the 2024 City Budget. Collectively, these three union locals represent over 44,000 workers
- [<strong><em>City workers’ unions urge Mayor to keep critical investments in Budget</em></strong>](https://cupelocal79.org/city-workers-unions-urge-mayor-to-keep-critical-investments-in-budget/) - In a united front, the leadership of CUPE Local 79, ATU Local 113 and the Toronto Public Library Workers' Union - CUPE Local 4948 came together this morning to urge Mayor Chow to keep the staff-proposed critical investments in City services in the 2024 City Budget. Collectively, these three union locals represent over 44,000 workers
- [President Nas Yadollahi comments on City Budget](https://cupelocal79.org/president-nas-yadollahi-comments-on-city-budget/) - On Monday, January 22, 2024, Local 79 President Nas Yadollahi attended the City of Toronto's Budget Committee to comment on the 2024 City Budget. In her deputation, Nas commended the City on beginning the process of re-investing in the Toronto's public services. She also asked the Committee to further invest in the City's community centres
- [Local 79 President Nas Yadollahi pens Toronto Star OpEd](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-pens-toronto-star-oped/) - In today's Toronto Star, Local 79 President Nas Yadollahi has written an OpEd marking the 20 year anniversary of her brother Soroush's murder. She details the impacts of his death, and the process of how she came to understand that, while we as a city couldn't save her brother, there are clear ways we can
- [Executive for 2024-2026 term take office](https://cupelocal79.org/executive-for-2024-2026-term-take-office/) - Local 79's newly elected Executive has taken office for the 2024-2026 term. "I want to start the year off by thanking all the members who have spent the holidays at work — tirelessly contributing to making our city a better place and taking care of Toronto’s residents and the city’s most vulnerable," said Local 79
- [Our solidarity with education workers is succeeding](https://cupelocal79.org/our-solidarity-with-education-workers-is-succeeding/) - This morning, we witnessed an incredible example of what happens when we utilize our union solidarity. In the face of a rallies across Ontario and the threat of province-wide general strike, the Ontario Conservative government vowed to repeal its Bill 28 legislation, which imposed a contract on education workers and removed their Charter-protected right to
- [Feb 28: Black History Month celebration](https://cupelocal79.org/feb-28-black-history-month-celebration/) - February is Black History Month, a month in which we celebrate Black excellence while also reflecting upon the systemic barriers and implicit biases that Black Canadians still face. On Monday, February 28, 2022 at 6 p.m., please join us for our annual Black History Month celebration as we turn our focus on Black health & wellness.
- [Women's Committee hosts financial planning seminar](https://cupelocal79.org/womens-committee-hosts-financial-planning-seminar/) - On December 1, 2021, Local 79's Women’s Committee and Alterna Savings co-hosted a virtual financial planning workshop. We had an outstanding turn out, with over 100 people attending. Congratulations to Committee Co-Chairs Claudia White and Valerie Joseph for organizing such a successful event. View a recording of the presentation below.
- [Tentative Agreement reached between Local 79 and TCHC](https://cupelocal79.org/tentative-agreement-reached-between-local-79-and-tchc/) - Early Friday morning (August 20, 2021), after an intense day of negotiations with a mediator, Local 79 reached a tentative agreement with TCHC.Local 79 was able to push off major concessions sought by TCHC thanks to the solidarity demonstrated amongst Local 79 members and the support received from the public. Details of the agreement will not be
- [No Board received in negotiations with TCHC](https://cupelocal79.org/no-board-received-in-negotiations-with-tchc/) - On Friday, August 6, 2021 - the Ontario Ministry of Labour issued a No Board Report for the negotiations between CUPE Local 79 and the Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC). Local 79 requested the No Board Report from the Ministry in response to TCHC's unproductive approach to negotiations. The issuance of the No Board Report
- [Media release: Toronto Community Housing Workers Trigger Countdown to Legal Job Action to Enhance Services for Residents](https://cupelocal79.org/media-release-toronto-community-housing-workers-trigger-countdown-to-legal-job-action-to-enhance-services-for-residents/) - Workers at the Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC), represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79, are bargaining to enhance safety, improve quality, and ensure affordability for Torontonians who rely on social housing. The union has requested a “no-board” report from the Ministry of Labour, following TCHC’s targeting of job security, seniority
- [Remembering Sydney Allan Martin](https://cupelocal79.org/remembering-sydney-allan-martin/) - On Wednesday, June 9, 2021, Local 79 member Sydney Allan Martin passed away unexpectedly. Sydney was a loving and dedicated father to his 5 children, beloved partner, son, brother, uncle, and friend. Sydney was an employee in the City of Toronto's Shelter, Support & Housing Administration division, and will be missed dearly by his fellow
- [Labour Council: 150 years of working for justice](https://cupelocal79.org/labour-council-150-years-of-working-for-justice/) - This year – 2021 – marks the 150th anniversary of the Toronto & York Region Labour Council, of which CUPE Local 79 is a proud and active member. For a century and a half working people have organized collectively within Labour Council with a vision towards economic and social justice. Visit Labour Council's anniversary 150
- [MEDIA RELEASE: CUPE Local 79 files for conciliation in negotiations with Toronto Community Housing](https://cupelocal79.org/media-release-cupe-local-79-files-for-conciliation-in-negotiations-with-toronto-community-housing/) - TORONTO, ON – Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE Local 79) inside workers, has filed for conciliation in their negotiations with the Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC), a move they hope will lead to more constructive discussions at the bargaining table. CUPE Local 79, which represents over 700 full and part-time
- [Local 79 turns 79!](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-turns-79/) - We are celebrating a special anniversary this year. On March 23, 2021, CUPE Local 79 turns 79! One year after our founders first organized, the Trades and Labour Congress issued a Charter to the Toronto Municipal Association Local 79 (now CUPE Local 79) on March 23, 1942. Our goals have remained the same since inception:
- [Local 79 calls out Anti-Asian racism](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-calls-out-anti-asian-racism/) - The murder of six Asian women in Georgia spas by a white gunman last week has only highlighted what is an alarming increase in horrifying xenophobic violence towards Asian Americans across the United States. We recognize and stand alongside our fellow Asian Canadian members as we collectively mourn the pain from recent events and vow
- [Feb 25: COVID-19 and its effects on Black communities](https://cupelocal79.org/feb-25-covid-19-and-its-effects-on-black-communities/) - Please join us for Local 79's online Black History Month event taking place this Thursday, February 25, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. The event will feature live performances by Shi Wisdom and Krystle Chance, and a keynote presentation on COVID-19 and its impact on Black communities featuring Dr. Akwatu Khenti, Aina-Nia Ayo'dele Grant and Hamud Mbarak. A Local 79 member who contracted
- [Updates on COVID-19](https://cupelocal79.org/updates-on-covid-19/) - Local 79 is working to support members as the City of Toronto, Bridgepoint and Toronto Community Housing keeps critical public services operating during the COVID-19 pandemic. The health and safety of our members is paramount. Our members at Toronto Public Health are keeping the best and most up-to-date resources on COVID-19, which you can access
- [Maguire calls for contingency plan amongst child care centre closures](https://cupelocal79.org/maguire-calls-for-contingency-plan-amongst-child-care-centre-closures/) - Amongst a host of recommendations to the City's Community Development & Recreation Committee (see our briefing note), Maguire told the City's Community Development & Recreation Committee that the closing of two child care Centres will reduce the City’s childcare capacity by 67 spaces for a period of time. When Centres are slated for closure, the City
- [CUPE Local 79 members ratify five-year agreement with City of Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-members-ratify-five-year-agreement-with-city-of-toronto/) - Saturday, June 27, 2020 — Members of Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 79 (CUPE Local 79) ratified a 5-year collective agreement today for its four City of Toronto bargaining units: Full-Time, Part-Time Recreation Workers, Unit B Part-Time and Long-Term Care Homes & Services. “Our bargaining committee worked diligently to negotiate a deal that brought improvements to
- [A discussion on confronting anti-Black racism](https://cupelocal79.org/confronting-anti-black-racism-a-discussion/) - On June 10, 2020, CUPE Local 79's Human Rights Committee hosted a virtual discussion about confronting anti-Black racism, featuring Black community leaders Louis March, Akilah Haneef-Jabari and Desmond Cole. If you missed the event, you can watch our recordings of it below. Watch the event's organizer, Local 79 Equity Vice-President Avaline Miller, introduce the evening,
- [FAQ on City's redeployment survey](https://cupelocal79.org/faq-on-citys-redeployment-survey/) - Questions about the City's redeployment process during the COVID-19 crisis? Please see our frequently asked question fact sheet below. REDEPLOYMENT Can I request an accommodation instead of redeployment? Yes. You have the right to request an accommodation. You need to choose between opting in or opting out of redeployment. You may still opt-in to redeployment
- [CUPE Local 79 reaches tentative agreement with City of Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-reaches-tentative-agreement-with-city-of-toronto/) - Toronto, ON—A tentative agreement has been reached between Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE Local 79) and the City of Toronto. Negotiators reached the tentative agreement following several days of round-the-clock bargaining ahead of a deadline of 12:01 a.m. this morning. If approved by CUPE Local 79 members and Toronto City
- [With pandemic here and deadline fast approaching, CUPE 79 urges City of Toronto to ‘get this right’ and conclude negotiations](https://cupelocal79.org/media-release-with-pandemic-here-and-deadline-fast-approaching-cupe-79-urges-city-of-toronto-to-get-this-right-and-conclude-negotiations/) - TORONTO – With a global pandemic here and the deadline for labour disruption just around the corner, the leader of Canada’s largest local union today urged the City of Toronto to reach a settlement. “The whole city is watching. The actions we all take in the coming days will be incredibly consequential. We have to
- [Black History Month Celebration](https://cupelocal79.org/black-history-month-celebration/) - On Friday, February 28, 2020, Local 79 held its annual Black History Month celebration. We were joined by Olivia Nuamah, former executive director of both Pride Toronto and the Atkinson Foundation, who discussed her experience as a black woman in leadership roles and the negotiation of identity in the context of race and gender. We
- [City of Toronto needs to shift focus from contingency planning to negotiating a fair deal with CUPE Local 79](https://cupelocal79.org/city-of-toronto-needs-to-shift-focus-from-contingency-planning-to-negotiating-a-fair-deal-with-cupe-local-79/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE— Toronto, ON—The President of the Union representing 20,000 City of Toronto ‘Inside’ workers today urged the City to shift its focus from contingency plans to the place it needs to be— the bargaining table. “The best possible contingency plan is to negotiate a fair contract,” said Dave Mitchell, President of Local 79
- [Local 79 joins Social Planning's call for City Council to end decade of austerity](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-joins-social-planning/) - On Friday, February 7, 2020, Social Planning Toronto released an open letter to Mayor Tory and all Councillors asking for the City to take real steps in the 2020 City Budget to address numerous issues that are affecting our city and end the decade of austerity that has done real and significant damage to Toronto. Local 79
- [CUPE Local 79 Files for Conciliation in Negotiations with City of Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-files-for-conciliation-in-negotiations-with-city-of-toronto/) - TORONTO, ON – Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE Local 79) has filed for conciliation in their negotiations with the City of Toronto, a move that they hope will lead to more constructive discussions at the bargaining table. CUPE Local 79, which represents over 20,000 full and part-time inside workers for
- [CUPE Local 79 requests no-board in negotiations with City of Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-requests-no-board-in-negotiations-with-city-of-toronto/) - TORONTO, ON – CUPE Local 79, representing over 22,000 inside workers with the City of Toronto, has requested a no-board report in their negotiations with the City, citing a lack of meaningful discussion on significant outstanding issues. “The City has been quite open about their attempts to seek significant concessions, erode job security and set
- [Mitchell says 2020 City Budget leaves services under-resourced](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-says-2020-city-budget-leaves-services-under-resourced/) - On January 20, 2020 — CUPE Local 79 President Dave Mitchell attended the City of Toronto's Budget Committee meeting to present his views on the 2020 City Budget. He told the Committee that City services aren't keeping up with a growing Toronto, pointing to enormous waitlists in services like recreation, child care and social housing.
- [Introducing Bob Cutz, the face of our new campaign](https://cupelocal79.org/introducing-bob-cutz-the-face-of-our-new-campaign/) - We all know of the cuts-at-all-costs politician. Or the cranky relative who believes that public services are a waste. But what would happen if these characters came face-to-face with the people who deliver these services and had the chance to see and experience firsthand the value they bring to our communities? Our new campaign, featuring
- [Local 79 members overwhelmingly vote for strike mandate (Media Release)](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-members-overwhelmingly-vote-for-strike-mandate/) - Members of CUPE Local 79, which represents over 20,000 City workers, turned out in historic numbers on Friday to give their bargaining team a strike mandate in its negotiations with the City of Toronto. 90% of participants in Friday’s vote supported a strike mandate. "City workers are expecting a contract that is fair and recognizes
- [Local 79 seeking members' input on TCHC restructuring plans](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-seeking-members-input-on-tchc-restructuring-plans/) - In September, TCHC announced its intentions to restructure. Since then, Local 79 has met with management and attended meetings hosted by Chief Operating Officer Sheila Penny. In those meetings, TCHC committed to creating a restructuring advisory committee that would solicit staff input on their plans. While we wait for TCHC to make good on its promises to consult, we
- [Local 79 members celebrate at our Holiday Party](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-members-celebrate-at-our-holiday-party/) - On Saturday, December 14, 2019, Local 79 held its second holiday party at the Sheraton Hotel. The night was full of good eats, dancing and huge prize giveaways. Thanks to all the members who attended and danced the night away, we had a fabulous time celebrating with you! Click here to see all the photos
- [Local 79 and OCHU sign solidarity pact](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-and-ochu-sign-solidarity-pact/) - The leaders of CUPE Local 79 and the Ontario Council of Hospital Unions/CUPE signed a solidarity pact today, committing the organizations and their members to support one another in bargaining. CUPE Local 79’s 20,000 members are in bargaining now with the City of Toronto. The Ontario Council of Hospital Unions has 42,000 members, over 10,000
- [Local 79 President comments on E&Y Value-Based Outcomes Review](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-president-comments-on-ey-value-based-outcomes-review/) - On December 11, 2019 — Local 79 President Dave Mitchell offered his feedback to the City of Toronto's Executive Committee on the commissioned Ernst & Young LLP (EY) 'Value-Based Outcomes Review' (VBOR). Dave told the committee that the VBOR fails to address the problem of long-term predictable and sustainable funding and instead focuses on what it terms are "opportunities and efficiencies" in the guise of contracting out and service cuts.
- [Bargaining Proposal Ratification](https://cupelocal79.org/bargaining-proposal-ratification/) - Local 79's Bargaining Committee has finished reviewing members’ bargaining survey responses and has drafted its bargaining proposals. These proposals will be presented to the City of Toronto once bargaining commences, but first they must be accepted, or ratified, by Local 79’s membership. We invite all members to review and ratify these proposals on: CITY OF
- [Media advisory: First-ever violence poll of staff at City-run, long-term care homes released Tuesday – 12:30 p.m. at Toronto City Hall](https://cupelocal79.org/media-advisory-first-ever-violence-poll-of-staff-at-city-run-long-term-care-homes-released-tuesday-1230-p-m-at-toronto-city-hall/) - TORONTO, ON – The findings of a new poll that probed the frequency and type of violence staff experience at City of Toronto-run, long-term care homes, will be released Tuesday, April 9 (2019) at 12:30 p.m. at Toronto City Hall – Second Floor – Reception A. In addition to incidence of violence, staff, represented by
- [Implementing Tenants First – A New Seniors Housing Corporation and Proposed Changes to Toronto Community Housing Corporation’s Governance](https://cupelocal79.org/implementing-tenants-first-a-new-seniors-housing-corporation-and-proposed-changes-to-toronto-community-housing-corporations-governance/) - Secretariat Contact Julie Amoroso 10th floor, West Tower, City Hall 100 Queen Street West Toronto, ON M5H 2N2 Dear Mayor Tory, Re: EX7.1 Implementing Tenants First – A New Seniors Housing Corporation and Proposed Changes to Toronto Community Housing Corporation’s Governance. As the union for workers at Toronto Community Housing, CUPE Local 79 agrees that
- [Training on lock-down procedures for City of Toronto and City Council Members’ staff](https://cupelocal79.org/training-on-lock-down-procedures-for-city-of-toronto-and-city-council-members-staff/) - After a spate of lock-downs at City of Toronto workplaces where insufficient information was provided to staff, City Councillors Bradford and McKelvie brought a motion forward to City Council requesting training for all staff on lock-down procedures. Local 79 President Dave Mitchell sent a letter to Council supporting the motion, and asking that CUPE Local
- [Survey reveals TCHC tenants feel more satisfied in direct-managed buildings](https://cupelocal79.org/7146-2/) - TCHC's 2018 Tenant Experience Survey revealed that tenants living in contract-managed buildings consistently report feeling less satisfied than tenants in direct-managed buildings. In light of these findings, Local 79 President David Mitchell wrote to TCHC's Board of Directors to say that it's time for the contract-managed buildings to come under direct management. Timothy Murphy Chair
- [Bill 148 Submission](https://cupelocal79.org/bill-148-submission/) - Bill 148 Submission
- [Transportation Services Workplace Issues Form](https://cupelocal79.org/transportation-workplace-issues-form/) - Local 79 and the City’s Transportation Services Division are undertaking joint Labour-Management Committee meetings. These meetings provide a forum for management and the union to discuss and resolve workplace issues not related to health & safety, bargaining or grievances. Do you have workplace issues or concerns you would like to see discussed at Labour-Management? If so,
- [Toronto must do better for homeless left in the cold](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-must-do-better-for-homeless-left-in-the-cold/) - Read Local 79 President Tim Maguire's support for a 90% capacity shelter rate and the opening of a 24/7 drop-in for vulnerable women. This deputation was delivered to the the Community Development and Recreation Committee on January 15, 2015. Dear Councillor Pasternak and Members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee: RE: Homelessness and
- [A good news story](https://cupelocal79.org/a-good-news-story/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire recounts how unions came together to support Toronto's communities through the United Way. Dear Sisters & Brothers, A few weeks ago, I thought I’d have some fun with my campaign for the CN Tower Climb for the United Way by making playful videos encouraging people to join the CUPE Local
- [2013 Labour Day](https://cupelocal79.org/get-set-for-labour-day-2013-sept-2/) - On Monday, September 2, 2013 — Local 79 had a great turnout for its march in the 2013 Labour Day parade. Marchers this year sported new shirts in Local 79 blue, and received some great words of support from local City Councillors. We also got the chance to show our solidarity towards other workers, especially
- [Local 79 at Night Market and Youth Day](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-at-night-market-and-youth-day-this-weekend/) - Night Market: July 19-21 We’ll be up until midnight this weekend as we attend the Chinese-inspired Waterfront Night Market at the TNT Supermarket. The night market lets you experience street food and general merchandise in an open-air market by the waterfront. We’ll be handing out information about Local 79 members and the valuable work they
- [2013 Annual Dinner & Dance](https://cupelocal79.org/friday-nov-22-dinner-dance/) - On Friday, November 22nd, 2013, Local 79 members came together to shimmy the night away at the Lithuanian Banquet Hall for the Local's annual dinner & dance, which this year featured a massive silent auction! All proceeds went to the United Way. Take a look at all our photos from the event:
- [Celebrating Pride 2013](https://cupelocal79.org/celebrating-pride-2013/) - We couldn't have had better weather as Local 79 members joined the dancing crowds down Yonge St. at the 2013 Toronto Pride Parade on Sunday, June 31, 2013. This year, we had special guest William Lyon Mackenzie - Toronto's first mayor - march with us, along with his wife and a cohort of newsies. Take
- [Old Fashioned Picnic 2013](https://cupelocal79.org/old-fashioned-picnic-2013/) - On Saturday, June 22nd, 2013 — Local 79 members converged on High Park to partake in Local 79's first Old Fashioned Picnic. Despite the rain storm that endured throughout the day, families enjoyed a park-wide scavenger hunt, live entertainment, a barbeque, and tonnes of fun. Take a look at our pictures from the event:
- [United Way honours CUPE Local 79 for charitable leadership](https://cupelocal79.org/united-way-honours-cupe-local-79-for-charitable-leadership/) - Toronto — United Way Toronto has honoured CUPE Local 79 with two awards for its charitable campaign leadership. CUPE Local 79 received top honours with the "2012 United Way Toronto Spirit Award for Best Organizational Support in the Public Sector." The award recognizes CUPE Local 79 for its support of United Way Toronto’s 2012 campaign
- [Jan. 26: Rally for Rights and Democracy](https://cupelocal79.org/jan-26-rally-for-rights-and-democracy/) - The Ontario government has been shut down while workers’ rights are under threat and cuts to jobs and services are hurting every community. Where: Allan Gardens Toronto Time: 1:00 pm Date: Saturday, January 26th, 2013 The 2012 Ontario Budget slashed funding and threatened thousands of jobs that are essential to the delivery of vital public
- [Ping Pong Social: Young workers and activists come together](https://cupelocal79.org/ping-pong-social-young-workers-and-activists-come-together/) - As a thank you to the young workers and activists who've been working hard to promote the Recreation Works! Campaign, Local 79 hosted a ping pong social at Spin! Toronto in their honour on Thursday, October 18, 2012. This event is part of an ongoing effort to engage members — and especially young workers —
- [Local 79 conquers CN Tower for United Way](https://cupelocal79.org/step-up-with-local-79-in-the-cn-tower-stairclimb/) - On Sunday, October 21st, we took on the stairs of the CN Tower to help United Way agencies help the Toronto communities that Local 79 members serve. It was a milestone for our union, as CUPE Local 79 became the first labour group to participate in and sponsor the United Way's biggest fundraising event of
- [Community Health Impacts of a Casino in Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/community-health-impacts-of-a-casino-in-toronto/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire delivered this deputation on the community health impacts of a casino in Toronto to the members of the City of Toronto's Board of Health. Dear Councillor Filion and Members of the Board of Health: Re: HL19.4 Community Health Impacts of a Casino in Toronto (Ward All) CUPE Local 79 represents
- [Tell the Liberals we won't forget](https://cupelocal79.org/today-tell-the-liberals-we-wont-forget/) - We’re joining education workers and concerned citizens today (Friday, October 5, 2012) from 3:45-5:00 p.m., at the offices of the six sitting Liberal Cabinet Ministers in Toronto. Bill 115, "The Putting Students First Act," is an unprecedented attack on the established collective bargaining process. Join us as we send the message that we will not
- [Join Local 79 in supporting the United Way](https://cupelocal79.org/join-local-79-in-supporting-the-united-way/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers, Local 79 members working with the many diverse communities that make our city so vibrant and unique, know how important the United Way is to residents of Toronto. United Way Toronto is the only major funding organization that delivers significant core operating support to social service agencies. These community
- [CUPE Local 79 meets thousands of residents during summer awareness campaign](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-meets-thousands-of-residents-during-summer-awareness-campaign/) - Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees is heading into Labour Day buoyed by a successful summer of its “Taking Care of Toronto” campaign. The Local 79 team has been a regular fixture at summertime events - giving away water bottles and sunscreen, and inviting residents to cool off in the misting tent,
- [Dear Jack: Together we remember](https://cupelocal79.org/dear-jack/) - Dear Jack, Thank you. On behalf of more than 20,000 members of CUPE Local 79 – we will always remember how hard you worked for the people of this City and the services our members provide. You reminded us all of the importance of not only fighting for social justice – but also of engaging
- [Local 79's 3rd Annual Fall Golf Classic](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-3rd-annual-fall-golf-classic/) - On Wednesday, September 19, 2012, CUPE Local 79 held its 3rd Annual Fall Golf Classic at the Deer Creek Golf & Banquet facility. This year's golf classic was by far the best attended. Our golfers shared a beautiful day with us the greens, and helped us raise thousands of dollars for charity. We extend a
- [Take a look at our summer campaign!](https://cupelocal79.org/take-a-look-at-our-summer-campaign/) - Toronto residents enjoying the city’s summertime events may get to know Toronto’s inside workers, as we launch our summertime campaign aimed at building awareness of the services our members deliver daily and celebrating the City in the summer. Beginning this weekend and continuing throughout the summer, we'll be a presence at events and activities across
- [Black Out, Speak Out](https://cupelocal79.org/2414-2/) - Right now, Parliament is pushing through a bill to weaken many of the country's most important environmental protection measures and silence the voices of all Canadians who seek to defend nature. Today it's the voices for nature, labour groups and charities; tomorrow it could be yours. Silence is not an option. Speak Out with us.
- [Three Local 79 Members Win an iPod Touch in our History Quiz Contest](https://cupelocal79.org/enter-local-79s-history-quiz-for-a-chance-to-win-an-ipod-touch/) - This year marks Local 79’s 70th Annivesary, and we’re celebrating by taking a look back at our union’s history. Lots of members showed off their research skills in our Local 79 History Quiz, but there could only be three winners of a brand new iPod Touch! Now that the quiz is over, take a look
- [Maguire on comments from Chair of Mayor’s Task Force on Child Care](https://cupelocal79.org/maguire-on-comments-from-chair-of-mayors-task-force-on-child-care/) - Dear Members: Today, the mayor’s task force on child care released its report on how to improve child care in Toronto. We are currently reviewing the report and recommendations carefully. Already making the news, however, is something not even in the report. Councillor Mammoliti, who chairs the mayor’s task force, announced yesterday that he would
- [Slashing Youth Outreach Workers Program undermines health of City's future](https://cupelocal79.org/slashing-youth-outreach-workers-program-undermines-health-of-citys-future/) - The following letter was presented to the City's Budget Committee as a deputation by CUPE Local 79's President Tim Maguire. In it, Maguire questions the City's foresight in cutting the Youth Outreach Workers program, saying we should be looking back at the City's history to properly understand the implications of these cuts. RE: BU 25.3
- [President’s 70th Anniversary Message](https://cupelocal79.org/presidents-70th-anniversary-message/) - As Local 79 turns seventy, Local 79 President Tim Maguire reflects on the union's great history and on what lies ahead. "The year is 1941 and a group of Toronto employees seeking better wages and working conditions began to organize what is now CUPE Local 79. From such humble beginnings 70 years ago, Local 79
- [Local 79 bids farewell to Ron Brett](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-says-goodbye-to-ron-brett/) - On December 16, CUPE Local 79 bid farewell to Ron Brett as he embarked on a well-deserved retirement, capping a 34-year career working for the City that included nine years served at Local 79 in several roles. In 1978, Ron first joined the workforce of what was then the Borough of Etobicoke, creating records for
- [Local 79 participates in the Cancer Society's Relay for Life](https://cupelocal79.org/2252-2/) - On Friday, June 8th and 22nd, Local 79 joined the Cancer Society's Relay for Life (Etobicoke & Scarborough locations, respectively). It was a great event where we laughed, cried, all while raising money for a really great cause. The event included laps around a track, an appearance from an NHL hockey player, Jazzercise classes,
- [Local 79 Calls City Back to Bargaining After Two Units Reject Offers](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-calls-city-back-to-bargaining-after-two-units-reject-offers/) - Two CUPE Local 79 Bargaining Units have voted to reject the contract offers presented by the City’s negotiators. Local 79's Bargaining Committee decided to present the City’s final offers directly to a membership vote, without making any recommendation to accept or reject. Members of Local 79 working in the Full-time and Part-time Unit B bargaining
- [Bargaining Bulletin Vol. 12 posted](https://cupelocal79.org/bargaining-bulletin-vol-11-posted/) - Bargaining Bulletin Volume 12 has been posted, and addresses the new concessions tabled by the City over the weekend. Log into the Members' Portal and look under the 'Bargaining Information' heading to download the latest copy.
- [Four! Upcoming Telephone Town Halls](https://cupelocal79.org/four-upcoming-telephone-town-halls/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire is preparing for another union telephone town hall, but this time he’s doing things a little differently. In order to talk to members and answer questions that affect their specific bargaining unit, and minimize the chance of call-drops due to overcapacity on the city’s local phone switchers, four telephone town
- [Local 79 wins two Telly awards for TV spots](https://cupelocal79.org/1754-2/) - CUPE Local 79's Fall “Taking Care of Toronto” television spots won two Bronze Awards at the International Telly Awards. Pretty amazing given the 11,000 entries from 5 continents. The Telly Awards is the premier award honoring the finest film and video productions, groundbreaking web commercials, videos and films, and outstanding local, regional, and cable TV
- [This Thursday: Telephone Town Hall](https://cupelocal79.org/this-thursday-telephone-town-hall/) - This coming Thursday evening, at 6:30 p.m., CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire will be hosting a telephone town hall meeting for all members who work for the City of Toronto. The meeting is to talk about contract negotiations. During the meeting, you will be able to ask questions and make comments, just like in
- [Ann hosts final tele town hall as President](https://cupelocal79.org/this-evening-telephone-town-hall/) - On Thursday, December 29th, CUPE Local 79 held its second union telephone town hall meeting for City of Toronto members. The purpose of the meeting was to talk about the union's contract negotiations with the City. The meeting was hosted by outgoing Local 79 President Ann Dembinski and incoming Local 79 President Tim Maguire. The
- [Study dispels myths about public sector pay](https://cupelocal79.org/study-dispels-myths-about-public-sector-pay/) - Who gets paid more, public or private sector workers? The recession and resulting public deficits have put a spotlight on the pay of workers in the public sector. The administration of Mayor Ford has certainly attacked public sector wages, with plans to enact pay freezes, pay constraints and contracting out of public services, using the
- [Thousands participate in Local 79 Telephone Town Hall](https://cupelocal79.org/sunday-local-79-telephone-town-hall/) - On Sunday, November 20th, Local 79 President Ann Dembinski hosted the union's very first telephone Town Hall meeting to discuss bargaining with members from the City of Toronto. Thousands of members participated in the call, answering poll questions and listening as Ann as she fielded questions from members and gave a comprehensive update on how
- [Local 79 wins Best Design Award for website](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-wins-best-design-award-for-website/) - This morning, Local 79 was pleased to accept the Communications Award for ‘Best Website Design’ at the CUPE 2011 National Convention taking place in Vancouver this week. Local 79’s website was re-developed earlier this year with unionized web-development studio Raised Eyebrow. Local 79’s Communications Representative, Tor Sandberg, and Raised Eyebrow’s Client Manager, Anna Geromes, both
- [Core Service Review: Where do things stand now?](https://cupelocal79.org/core-service-review-where-do-things-stand-now/) - A few months ago, Mayor Ford hired private consulting firm KPMG to review city services with the goal of cutting them, downsizing the city workforce, selling off city assets, and contracting out city workers’ jobs. The Mayor claimed there was a $774 million deficit to justify his cuts, warning that otherwise a 35% property tax
- [Supporter of public services sends Local 79 Rob Ford cartoon parody](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-members-draws-rob-ford-cartoons/) - An enterprising supporter of public services sent the union office some fun caricatures of Rob Ford as a comment on his governing style. Take a look!
- [Massive Toronto poll shows city residents overwhelmingly against Ford cuts](https://cupelocal79.org/massive-toronto-poll-shows-city-residents-overwhelmingly-against-ford-cuts/) - Want councillors to break with mayor to protect services Click to download PDF: Forum Research Poll shows Toronto united against Ford cuts to city services Click to download PDF: Forum Research Ward by Ward Poll report TORONTO- In the largest-ever public opinion poll conducted in Toronto, residents in every one of the City's 44 wards
- [Ann Dembinski announces she will not seek re-election as president of CUPE Local 79](https://cupelocal79.org/ann-dembinski-announces-she-will-not-seek-re-election-as-president-of-cupe-local-79/) - After 11 years, President of Canada's largest local union to 'progress into a new chapter' TORONTO, ONTARIO-- Ann Dembinski, President of Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79, today announced she will not seek re-election later this year. "I will be leaving the presidency with great pride and confidence in the Local's future," Dembinski
- [Dembinski fights for members at Executive Committee meeting](https://cupelocal79.org/dembinski-fights-for-members-at-executive-committee-meeting/) - Thursday, July 28 2011 - CUPE Local 79 President Ann Dembinski stood up for members at the City Hall Executive Committee meeting on the core services review. Ann Dembinski's comments were picked up by The Globe and Mail, Canoe.com, and Citytv News - after members of the public cheered her comments in the Committee Room.
- [Public engagement campaign: Taking Care of Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/make-a-splash/) - On Monday July 11, we began running a city-wide public engagement campaign called “Taking Care of Toronto.” Ads and special events throughout the city will help educate the public by showcasing many of the valuable services that CUPE Local 79 members perform. The campaign will continue through the fall as part of our union’s ongoing
- [Join the conversation](https://cupelocal79.org/join-the-conversation/) - Websites like Facebook, Twitter, Google +, and Flickr are what people call 'social media'. They're a great way to stay connected to your friends and the places you're engaged and interested in. CUPE Local 79 has a dedicated presence on social media sites. Come chat and get the latest on what's happening at CUPE Local
- [CUPE Local 79 Elections](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-elections/) - CUPE Local 79 is a democratic organization. It’s governed through the elected bodies of the Executive Board, the Executive Committee, the Auditor Trustees and the Unit Officers. According to the Union’s bylaws, Local 79 members have the right to elect their officers every three years. The following gives an explanation of how this year’s Local
- [5th Annual Equity Symposium](https://cupelocal79.org/5th-annual-equity-symposium/) - Imagine Acceptance Through Understanding and Respect On January 9th, 2012, the 5th Annual Equity Symposium, held at the St. Lawrence Great Hall, continued from previous years with the theme “Imagine Acceptance, Through Understanding and Respect”. CUPE Local 79 strongly supports the concept of a caring, compassionate society, based on the inherent dignity of all its
- [Earth Day April 22: EnviroAction Contest!](https://cupelocal79.org/earth-day-enviroaction-contest/) - On April 22, millions of people in over 160 countries will celebrate Earth Day, an event designed to promote a clean and healthy environment. Here at Local 79, we’ve been doing our best in this last year to limit our environmental impact. We’ve retrofitted washrooms to decrease water usage, automated lights to conserve energy, and
- [Join us for the March 9th International Women's Day Rally](https://cupelocal79.org/march-9th-international-womens-day/) - The 2013 International Women’s Day March and Rally will take place in Toronto, on Saturday, March 9th, beginning with the Rally at 11:00 a.m. at O.I.S.E., 225 Bloor St. West, at the St. George subway station. Be sure to visit the Local 79 table in the OISE lobby. The March will follow at 1:00 p.m.
- [United Way Canada to Local 79: Thanks a million!](https://cupelocal79.org/united-way-canada-to-local-79-thanks-a-million/) - On Thursday, June 6th — United Way Canada recognized CUPE Local 79 at their “Thanks a Million” 2012 Toronto Award Breakfast. The acknowledgement honours corporations, employers and labour organizations who along with their members helped raise over a million dollars for the charity. CUPE Local 79 was recognized for its charitable leadership in partnership with
- [We're adding a twist to our summer campaign with street theatre!](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-adds-twist-to-its-summer-campaign-with-street-theatre/) - TORONTO – As the weather heats up, CUPE Local 79 (representing approximately 20,000 Toronto workers) is launching its third annual summer campaign. Only this year, they’re doing it with a light-hearted nod to Toronto’s beginnings, starring its first mayor, William Lyon Mackenzie. The union will launch its “Chill With Will” summer campaign today with a
- [National Aboriginal Day](https://cupelocal79.org/national-aboriginal-day/) - On the morning of June 21st, CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire joined Aboriginal groups and civic leaders at City Hall to mark National Aboriginal Day. The sunrise ceremony, which took place at 5:36 am, also marks the summer solstice. Early rising Local 79 members are welcome to join in on the celebrations next year
- [Quality Jobs Council Briefing Notes](https://cupelocal79.org/quality-jobs-council-briefing-notes/) - Toronto is rapidly becoming polarized by income, with greater concentration of wealth in some areas and a growing number of low-income neighbourhoods. Promoting quality jobs, rather than precarious, low-paying jobs, is essential for reversing this trend. Read our City Council Briefing Notes supporting recommendations that would make Toronto a more equitable place to live and
- [Instead of bullying, let’s have an ‘adult conversation’ about ‘flatlined’ city service levels, says CUPE 79 President](https://cupelocal79.org/instead-of-bullying-lets-have-an-adult-conversation/) - The country’s largest local union today welcomed the opportunity to discuss how ‘flatlined’ budgets are harming service levels in community centres and other vital public services across Toronto. “Instead of urging people to bully and harass front-line staff, and very likely violating a long-standing policy of not permitting photos to be taken in community centres,
- [Childcare Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day 2013](https://cupelocal79.org/childcare-childcare-worker-and-early-childhood-educator-appreciation-day-2013/) - On Saturday, October 19th, 2013 - Local 79 hosted its annual "Childcare Childcare Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day” celebration. Take a look at the photos from the event:
- [Watch our Webinars on the City Budget](https://cupelocal79.org/join-our-webinar-on-the-city-budget/) - The City Budget process has begun. Find out how that process unfolds and how it affects you. Local 79 has teamed up with Social Planning Toronto to produce a webinar that explains the City Budget process and what you can do to mobilize for a better budget. There are 3 separate webinars for each of
- [Local 79 deputes on the proposed 2014 City Budget](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-deputes-on-the-proposed-2014-city-budget/) - On Monday, December 2nd, 2013, Local 79 President Tim Maguire deputed on the proposed 2014 City Budget, where he exposed alarming levels of under-staffing in some City Divisions. Watch his deputation, or read the full text version, below Dear Councillor Di Giorgio and Members of the Budget Committee: RE: BU49.1 - 2014 Capital and
- [Ice Storm 2013](https://cupelocal79.org/ice-storm-2013/) - Thank-you Local 79 members. You always Take Care of Toronto, but in the last week you have really stepped up. Toronto needs you, and as the City digs out from this extreme ice storm, you are there providing services. In the last week you have been a lifeline for the residents of Toronto. In the
- [Feb. 15: National Flag of Canada Day](https://cupelocal79.org/national-flag-of-canada-day/) - February 15 was declared National Flag of Canada Day in 1996. It marks the day in 1965 when our red and white maple leaf flag was first raised over Parliament Hill in Ottawa, and in hundreds of communities across Canada. Red and white were designated as Canada's official colours in 1921 by His Majesty George V.
- [Budget 2014 Council Briefing Notes](https://cupelocal79.org/budget-2014-council-briefing-notes/) - The 2014 City budget being presented to Council is a status quo budget with some targeted service enhancements. While a flat-lined budget is not near where City services need to be, this budget is a dramatic improvement over recent City budgets containing deep service cuts and high levels of gapping. Read our Budget 2014 Council Briefing
- [Friday, Oct. 24 Dinner & Dance](https://cupelocal79.org/friday-oct-24-dinner-dance/) - Every year, our Dinner & Dance gets bigger and better — don't miss it! This year's event features a live band, a DJ, some surprise entertainment, door prizes, spot dances, & reasonably priced cash bar. Last year’s silent auction raised hundreds of dollars for the United Way, so we’re doing it again! Don’t miss bidding
- [Still time to donate to the United Way Stair Climb!](https://cupelocal79.org/participate-or-sponsor-in-the-united-way-stair-climb/) - Local 79 participated yet again this year in the CN Tower Climb for the United Way, and there's still time for you to donate. Couldn't climb this year? You still have until November 14th, 2014 to sponsor some of the folks who participated from Local 79: Sponsor Local 79 President Tim Maguire here. Sponsor Local 79 Board Member
- [Upcoming CUPE Local 79 Elections](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-elections-2/) - Nominations are now being accepted in the CUPE Local 79 elections. CUPE Local 79 is a democratic organization. It’s governed through the elected bodies of the Executive Board, the Executive Committee, the Auditor Trustees and the Unit Officers. According to the Union’s bylaws, Local 79 members have the right to elect their officers every three
- [Heroes Seen and Unseen: Remembering Muriel Collins](https://cupelocal79.org/remembering-muriel-collins/) - On February 25th, 2015, as part of CUPE Local 79’s celebrations for Black History Month 2015, an event was held to honour and reflect on the extraordinary life of Muriel Collins, who passed away on November 12th, 2013. We were honoured to welcome several members of Muriel's family to celebrate with us, as well as
- [TCHC workers dress in blue to show support for their bargaining committee](https://cupelocal79.org/tchc-workers-dress-in-blue-to-show-support-for-their-bargaining-committee/) - Starting on Wednesday, February 22nd, 2018 — Local 79 members who work for the Toronto Community Housing Corporation began dressing in blue on Wednesdays to show support as their Local 79 Bargaining Committee negotiates a contract with their employer. Members are sending in their photos of the action and Local 79 Bargaining Committee members, staff
- [2018 Equity Symposium: #TimesUp - Working together to end workplace sexual harassment](https://cupelocal79.org/2018-equity-symposium-metoo-working-together-to-end-workplace-sexual-harassment/) - On June 4th, Local 79 and the City of Toronto co-hosted the 11th Annual Equity Symposium: #TimesUp - Working together to end workplace sexual harassment. The annual symposium aims to help over 100 union stewards and City managers deepen their understanding on a particular topic relating to equity. This year’s symposium featured two keynote presentations
- [CUPE Local 79 signs letter urging transparency over dealings with Sidewalk Labs](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-signs-letter-urging-transparency-over-dealings-with-sidewalk-labs/) - Local 79 President Dave Mitchell has joined a group of academics, business leaders and experts in signing an open letter urging Waterfront Toronto, the organization administering the redevelopment of Toronto's waterfront, to show transparency in its private dealings with SideWalk Labs. The Google subsidiary has proposed plans to acquire public land to build a data-driven smart
- [November 9: Rally to save the services that save us!](https://cupelocal79.org/november-9-rally-to-save-the-services-that-save-us/) - We're helping the Ontario Health Coalition organize a massive rally to save our health care services from cuts, closures, and mergers. There will be live music, speakers, noisemakers, visual presentations, hot chocolate, snacks and more! We need your help to mount an enormous amount of pressure on the Doug Ford government for a full reversal
- [Holiday party at the Sheraton sold out](https://cupelocal79.org/order-your-tickets-for-our-holiday-party-at-the-sheraton/) - Tickets for Local 79's Holiday Party are sold out. For those who were able to purchase a ticket, the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel has reserved a number of rooms for Local 79 members at a discounted rate of $159.00. Contact their Reservations Center at 1- 888- 627- 7175 with group code CU3881 to book a
- [Hundreds of Local 79 members march in the 2019 Labour Day Parade](https://cupelocal79.org/registration-is-now-open-for-the-2019-labour-day-parade/) - We extend our thanks to all the Local 79 members who attended the Labour Day Parade on Monday, September 2, 2019. Hundreds of us marched through the streets of Toronto in our blue t-shirts with thousands of other union members to show our union pride. This year's theme, as designated by event organizers The Toronto
- [Local 79 hosts 2019 Equity Symposium on addressing bias in the workplace](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-hosts-2019-equity-symposium/) - On Monday, June 3, 2019 — CUPE Local 79 held its annual Equity Symposium, an event jointly organized with the City of Toronto. The Equity Symposium is a training event for union stewards and management that focuses on an equity-related issue each year. This was the 12th annual Equity Symposium and its theme was: Addressing Bias
- [Hundreds rally in support of Bridgepoint Hospital workers](https://cupelocal79.org/hundreds-rally-for-bridgepoint-hospital-workers/) - On May 30, hundreds of CUPE Ontario members marched up to Mount Sinai Hospital to join Local 79 for a rally to support Bridgepoint workers, who are being mistreated by their employer: Sinai Health Systems. CUPE Local 79 has been working towards negotiating a fair collective agreement for our Bridgepoint Hospital nurses, paramedical and service
- [Local 79 rallies against cuts to Toronto Public Health](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-rallies-against-cuts-to-toronto-public-health/) - In late April, news leaked that Doug Ford planned to expand his attack on health care by slashing funding to public health units across Ontario. He has targeted Toronto with the worst of the cuts, slashing $1 billion dollars from Toronto Public Health over the next 10 years. Public health services affect every aspect of
- [87% of PSWs and RPNs at Toronto-run long-term care homes experience violence](https://cupelocal79.org/87-of-psws-and-rpns-at-toronto-run-long-term-care-homes-experience-violence/) - Staff at the City of Toronto ten, long-term care homes– particularly racialized workers – experience a high level of violence, abuse and harassment, a newly released poll of front-line long-term care workers has found. The poll is the first time that CUPE Local 79 has surveyed its long-term care members – the vast majority of
- [Responding to Ford government safe injection site funding cuts](https://cupelocal79.org/ford-government-cuts-funding-for-safe-injection-sites/) - CUPE Local 79 strongly supports Toronto’s supervised consumption and treatment services and the life saving work that harm reduction workers do every day. Our members in Toronto Public Health keep our city healthy by providing health clinics, nutrition programs, and working to stop infectious diseases. The front-line workers at Toronto Public Health’s supervised consumption and
- [Local 79 joins Stewards Assembly to organize against Province's cuts](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-joins-stewards-assembly-to-organize-against-provinces-cuts/) - With the Ford government's relentless attack on the province's public services, the Toronto & York Region Labour Council held a Stewards Assembly last month to organize against those attacks. A large contingent of CUPE Local 79 Stewards (pictured above) attended. One of our Stewards, Patricia Gamarra, was featured in a video that screened at the Stewards Assembly. She
- [Local 79 purse drive in full swing!](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-purse-drive-in-full-swing/) - Our members have stepped up in a big way to our purse and toiletry donation challenge! All donations collected will be delivered to clients at the City's shelters. Local 79 workplaces across Toronto are competing to collect the most donations. The winners are promised a surprise at the end of April. A shout out to
- [Bargaining feedback](https://cupelocal79.org/bargaining-feedback/) - Have a question, comment or tip for our Emergency Measures or Bargaining Committees? Please leave it below. Your personal information remains strictly confidential. While adding your contact information is optional, we strongly recommend doing so for appropriate follow-up. [formidable id="41"]
- [Local 79 celebrates Black history month](https://cupelocal79.org/black-history-month-2019/) - Thank you to everyone who was able to celebrate Black History Month with us at the end of February. We were joined by prominent journalist Desmond Cole, who drew parallels with his family’s history and personal experiences in Toronto with the ongoing challenges that Black Canadians face. NBA legend Jamaal Magloire also joined us and
- [Local 79 joins calls for City to declare state of emergency over homelessness](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-joins-calls-for-city-to-declare-state-of-emergency-over-homelessness/) - With several City of Toronto shelters operating at over-capacity, the President of CUPE Local 79, Dave Mitchell, is supporting housing advocates' call for the City of Toronto to declare a state of emergency over homelessness. Despite more resources being promised to the City's shelter system, capacity isn't being increased fast enough to meed demand. "Shelter
- [Local 79 Holiday Party at the Sheraton](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-holiday-party-at-the-sheraton/) - On December 14, 2018 — Local 79' held its 2019 Holiday Party at the Sheraton Hotel's Dominion Ballroom. Thanks to our fantastic Master of Ceremony Andrew Cox, and to Soul Food and DJ Kester for the music! Thank you to Snapdragon Studios for the great photos. Click here to view our holiday party photo album!
- [Celebrating the work of our Human Rights Committee!](https://cupelocal79.org/celebrating-the-work-of-our-human-rights-committee/) - CUPE Local 79's Human Rights Committee has had a busy December, and we'd like to acknowledge their great work. At a recent Human Rights Committee meeting, members opted to donate their meeting honorariums to the Daily Bread Foodbank, raising $200. The Committee also ran a winter clothing drive this December, and were completely overwhelmed by
- [CITY EMPLOYEE CAMPAIGN FOR UNITED WAY KICK OFF!](https://cupelocal79.org/city-employee-campaign-for-united-way-kick-off/) - Local 79 attended the Toronto Public Service Employee Campaign for United Way Greater Toronto kickoff in Nathan Philips Square today. We were represented by Full-Time Unit Officer Lily Chang, who helped unveil this year’s fundraising goal of $1,550,000! With the high levels of inequality and poverty in Toronto, we understand the importance of continuing our
- [Labour Day 2018](https://cupelocal79.org/labour-day-parade-registration-open-possible-route-change-due-to-cne-lockout/) - Thank you to everyone who was able to join us at the 2018 Labour Day parade. Despite not attending the CNE, due to our decision to stand in solidarity with IATSE Local 58 members who had been locked out by Exhibition Place, we had a great time at the Lamport Stadium afterparty — replete with
- [How you can fight back against Doug Ford’s attack on Toronto’s democracy](https://cupelocal79.org/how-you-can-fight-back-against-doug-fords-attack-on-torontos-democracy/) - After Doug Ford announced his intention last week to cut City Council seats in half, many people across Toronto are asking why, especially after there was no mention of such a plan during his campaign. While Ford says his intention is to reduce the size of government, it’s conspicuous that he has no plans to
- [Local 79 members ratify new Collective Agreement with TCHC](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-members-ratify-new-collective-agreement-with-tchc/) - On Wednesday, June 6, 2018, Local 79 members voted to ratify a new Collective Agreement with the Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC). The new contract applies from January 1, 2016 and will be in effect until December 31, 2019. Local 79's bargaining committee members extend their gratitude to members from TCHC for showing their support
- [Local 79 pushes back against Auditor General's Report on child care](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-pushes-back-against-auditor-generals-report-on-child-care/) - On April 26th, 2018 - the City's Auditor General released a report titled Children's Services Division Opportunities to Achieve Greater Value from Public Funds. The report contained some good recommendations on how the City could find savings in the administration of the child care system through better use of existing spaces, managing waitlists and ensuring
- [CUPE members amongst injured and killed in Monday's horrendous attack](https://cupelocal79.org/statement-on-the-van-attack-tragedy-in-north-york/) - We regret to report that fellow CUPE members were amongst those injured and killed on Monday in the horrendous attack that took place on Yonge Street. Our very own Local 79 member Amaresh Tesfamariam, a Registered Practical Nurse at Fudger House, was gravely injured and remains in critical condition at Sunnybrook Hospital. We are keeping
- [Local 79 echoes alarm over City's Long-Term Financial Plan](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-echoes-alarm-over-citys-long-term-financial-plan-report/) - On March 19, 2018 — Toronto city manager Peter Wallace released his report on the City's longterm financial plan. The report made a shocking revelation: that Toronto will face a deficit of $1.42 billion in 5 years if it continues on its current financial trajectory. The City's unsustainable practice of dipping into reserve funds, relying
- [March 21: International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination](https://cupelocal79.org/march-21-international-day-for-the-elimination-of-racial-discrimination/) - Labour Council and the Urban Alliance on Race Relations are holding a special "Unite to Stop the Hate: Access to Justice" event in the Council Chamber of Toronto City Hall on Wednesday March 21st to recognize the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. Where: Council Chamber, Toronto City Hall When: Wednesday, March 21st
- [International Women’s Day is March 3](https://cupelocal79.org/international-womens-day-is-march-3/) - Local 79 will join in the International Women’s Day march and rally on March 3, 11:00a.m. – 1:00p.m. at OISE Auditorium, 252 Bloor St. W. Look for the CUPE Local 79 flags to join our contingent as we march to Ryerson University. In the meantime, get motivated by Queen Cee's remake of the "Bread & Roses" poem/song
- [2018 Black History Month celebration!](https://cupelocal79.org/february-is-black-history-month/) - On Wednesday, February 28th, 2018 — Local 79 celebrated Black History Month to our best-ever attended annual event! Attendees were treated to five fantastic guest speakers: Ken Amoroso, Past CUPE Local 79 Membership Secretary & Chair of Local 79's Retirees Committee; Don Styles, CUPE National Representative; Aubrey Gonsalves, President of CUPE Local 2316 and Family
- [Lessons from privatization: Toronto should learn the Carillion lesson](https://cupelocal79.org/6813-2/) - Contracting out and privatization is risky, costs more, and reduces the reliability of public services. Last week, the collapse of Carillion in the UK shook policy-makers and public service providers. Carillion is one of the largest privatization companies in the world, responsible for delivering essential public services ranging from highway clearing and maintenance to delivering
- [City divisions forced to use vacancies to meet budget requirements](https://cupelocal79.org/city-divisions-forced-to-use-vacancies-to-meet-budget-requirements/) - On January 10th, 2018 — Local 79 Vice President Jason Chan participated in the City's consultations on the 2018 City Budget, telling the Budget Committee that after many years of budget cuts, frontline city workers are feeling stretched. Chan highlighted the need for more recreation programs and made the case for better investments for services across
- [We're joining the call to support Tim Hortons workers!](https://cupelocal79.org/were-joining-the-call-to-support-tim-hortons-workers/) - In response to the 2018 minimum wage increase, some Tim Hortons franchises have eliminated workers’ paid breaks and access to benefits. Local 79 activists participated in today's Fight for $15 and Fairness campaign to show solidarity for Tim Hortons workers. Join the campaign! Sign the petition to tell Tim Hortons to support its workers and to
- [More warming centres on the way, but they need proper staffing](https://cupelocal79.org/warming-centres-need-to-be-properly-staff/) - The City's announcement of opening warming centres will only help if these sites are properly staffed. Existing drop-ins, like the Peter Street Referral Centre, have seen nights with 80 individuals and only two staff when this location is not equipped nor staffed to act as a shelter. The safety of Toronto's homeless and of shelter
- [Local 79's 2018-2020 Executive take office](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-2018-2021-executive-take-office/) - CUPE Local 79’s 2018-2020 Executive have taken office. Click here to learn a bit about each member of the Executive Committee. Local 79 President Dave Mitchell ran on a plank of “members first” and says he plans to fulfill that promise by increasing Local 79’s responsiveness to members’ requests for support on grievances and WSIB/benefits-related issues.
- [There's a shelter crisis in Toronto: Mayor Tory needs to call a state of emergency](https://cupelocal79.org/theres-a-shelter-crisis-in-toronto-mayor-tory-needs-to-call-a-state-of-emergency/) - On Monday November 20th, 2017, the City's Community Development & Recreation Committee (CDRC) called for the Mayor to declare a state of emergency and immediately open 1000 additional shelter beds after hearing from numerous groups about how the homelessness crisis is overwhelming our shelter system. More than 5000 people use Toronto’s shelter system on any
- [Maguire tells City it's not doing enough to confront Toronto's shelter crisis](https://cupelocal79.org/maguire-tells-says-city-its-not-doing-enough-to-confront-torontos-shelter-crisis/) - Toronto’s homeless are under-housed and our shelters are understaffed. More than 5,000 people use Toronto’s shelter system on any given night. Shelters are consistently above the 90% occupancy rate set by Council and shelter use by families has gone up 50% from last year. Toronto is experiencing a homeless crisis. Watch Local 79 President Tim Maguire
- [Local 79 calls for better plan to tackle recreation waitlists](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-calls-for-better-plan-to-tackle-recreation-waitlists/) - Waitlists for recreation programs have grown by 74% over the last three years to 198,236 and, if nothing is done, the waitlist will grow to 400,000 by 2025. Click here to read our briefing note on the recreation file and watch below as Local 79 member Asasha McCreath and President Tim Maguire tell the City's
- [Recreation waitlists expected to grow to 400,000 if nothing is done](https://cupelocal79.org/recreation-waitlists-expected-to-grow-to-400000-if-nothing-is-done/) - Toronto waitlists for Recreation programs expected to grow to 400,000 if nothing is done. Help us push for expanding programs across the City. A new report going before the City’s Community Development and Recreation Committee (CDRC) this Monday shows that waitlists for recreation programs have grown by by 74% over the last three years to
- [Focus on longterm care & childcare at CUPE Ontario political action conference](https://cupelocal79.org/longterm-care-and-childcare-major-issues-at-cupe-ontario-political-action-conference/) - This week, CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire and other union activists attended CUPE Ontario's first political action conference. Conference participants (pictured above) are coming away from their discussions to push two immediate actions. To make a care standard for nursing home residents. Ontario funds long-term care at a lower level than just about any other Canadian
- [2018 Budget Townhall](https://cupelocal79.org/2018-budget-townhall/) - Do you want to see changes made in your neighbourhood? Are you passionate about making your community a better place to live in? Do you want to learn more about how you can make an impact? Share your vision for a better Toronto and help your city councillors decide on the people’s budget. Come to
- [Local 79's 75th Anniversary Good Jobs Gala](https://cupelocal79.org/6689-2/) - On Saturday, October 28th, 2017 — CUPE Local 79 celebrated 75 years of building good jobs that deliver quality services in Toronto. We reflected on highlights of the last 75 years and talked about our path forward. Attendees enjoyed delicious dishes and wines presented by Chef Annick using ingredients gathered from local and sustainable sources
- [CUPE National Convention strengthens resolve against austerity](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-attends-cupe-national-convention-that/) - Local 79 delegates attended the CUPE National Convention last week and brought forward a number of resolutions on issues like basic income, affordable childcare and defending defined benefit plans. Of note — convention delegates approved a resolution to begin pay for eligible members of striking locals on the first day of a strike, instead of the fifth, as is currently
- [Local 79 mourns the death of 311 worker Jonathan Prosper](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-mourns-the-death-of-311-worker-jonathan-prosper/) - It is with great sadness that we at Local 79 share the news that Local 79 member Jonathan Prosper has passed away. His sudden death was a shock to coworkers in the City of Toronto’s 311 Division and has left many of them reeling. Jonathan began working in 311 in April of 2010, where he
- [Local 79 successfully pushes City to study impacts of understaffing at Public Health](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-successfully-pushes-city-to-study-impacts-of-understaffing-at-public-health/) - On September 25, 2017 — Local 79 President Tim Maguire showed the City of Toronto's Board of Health that Public Health will be 90 positions short of its approved complement in 2017, despite a growing population in Toronto that warrants growing services. Maguire asked the Board of Health for the Medical Officer of Health to report on
- [Maguire cautions City on implementation of new time attendance and scheduling system](https://cupelocal79.org/maguire-cautions-city-on-implementation-of-new-time-attendance-and-scheduling-system/) - Kronos, the City’s new time attendance and scheduling system, continues its roll-out across City divisions. Before the City injects additional funding into the project to continue its expansion, Tim Maguire told members of the Government Management Committee that they need to make sure the system that's already been implemented is working. During labour-management meetings, we've
- [CUPE Local 79 is with Jagmeet](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-is-with-jagmeet/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire has announced that CUPE Local 79 is endorsing Jagmeet Singh for Leader of Canada's NDP. Read Tim's letter to Local 79 members about this endorsement. Dear Local 79 members: The next leader of the NDP will be charged with refreshing and growing our party’s base to offer Canada a better
- [Labour Day 2017](https://cupelocal79.org/labour-day-2017/) - This year marks 75 years (from 1942 to 2017) of fighting for better jobs and working conditions! March with us in the Labour Day parade and stay for the festivities at the CNE. Order your Labour Day t-shirt in the Members’ Portal right now! When: Monday, September 4, 2017 Registration & t-shirt pick-up: 7:00 - 9:00
- [Long term care](https://cupelocal79.org/long-term-care/)
- [Join us at the Toronto Zoo on July 26!](https://cupelocal79.org/come-join-us-at-the-toronto-zoo-on-july-26/) - Join us for our first adventure to the Toronto Zoo! See the pandas before they leave. See all the great work that the members of CUPE Local 1600 do in taking care of the animals. Hop onto the Members' Portal for all the details and to register now. Where: Metro Toronto Zoo 2000 Meadowvale Rd, Toronto When: Wednesday,
- [Toronto Community Housing Workers Support Strike Mandate](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-community-housing-workers-support-strike-mandate/) - TORONTO, ONTARIO — Workers at the Toronto Community Housing Corporation represented by CUPE Local 79 have voted overwhelmingly in favour of a strike mandate. Local 79 has been negotiating a new contract with TCHC since October. "We are bargaining for good, stable jobs that support delivering great services to TCHC tenants," said Tim Maguire, president of Local
- [Local 79 takes Toronto Public Health to task over elimination of Flex-Time](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-takes-toronto-public-health-to-task-over-elimination-of-flex-time/) - On Tuesday, Local 79 visited the offices of Toronto Public Health to push the Division to find a resolution on flex-time. A year ago, Toronto Public Health (TPH) cancelled the Compressed Workweek program that helped workers in TPH balance work-life with home-life. Local 79 pressed TPH into considering an alternative flex-time program and last fall we met
- [Local 79 recognized by United Way at Thanks A Million Awards breakfast](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-recognized-by-united-way-at-thanks-a-million-awards-breakfast/) - Local 79 was invited to the 2016 Thanks A Million Awards breakfast, where the City of Toronto and its unions/associations received recognition for helping to raise more than $1 Million in 2016 campaign. Local 79 Treasurer Lily Chang (pictured far right) accepted the award. We're so proud of our ongoing relationship with the United Way.
- [](https://cupelocal79.org/6581-2/) - Last week at the City's Executive Committee meeting, Local 79 President Tim Maguire was joined by Karen Pascual, a longtime member working at TCHC, to call for a better social housing system for Toronto. Karen and Tim told the Committee that not only do we need to fix the City's current social housing, but we
- [Local 79 relaunches Good Jobs TO campaign](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-relaunches-good-jobs-to-campaign/) - Local 79 has relaunched its Good Jobs TO campaign to remind Torontonians that over half the city's workers don’t have stable, secure work — and there are ways to change that. One strategy is to push the City of Toronto, one of the region’s largest employers and buyers of goods and services, to be a leader in good
- [The fight for $15 has been won](https://cupelocal79.org/the-fight-for-15-is-won/) - After mounting pressure from labour and community groups, the Ontario Liberals finally responded by announcing they'd raise the minimum wage to $15 over the next 18 months. Local 79 has worked alongside groups like Fight for $15 & Fairness, CUPE Ontario, the Toronto and York Region Labour Council and the Ontario Federation of Labour to achieve this significant change,
- [Toronto one step closer to being a leader on good stable jobs](https://cupelocal79.org/why-contracting-out-cleaners-at-torontos-union-station-is-misguided/) - On Monday, May 29th, 2017 — the City took a step forward to improve the general work standards for anyone who works for the City. The Government Management Committee directed staff to develop new standards that provide anyone working for the City either directly or through a contractor with: At least 7 paid sick days a year
- [Maguire accuses City of irresponsibility for its persistent underfunding of City services](https://cupelocal79.org/maguire-gets-fired-up-over-citys-underfunding-of-services-for-vulnerable-communities/) - On Thursday, May 11th, 2017 — Local 79 President Tim Maguire attended the City's Budget Committee and accused the City of persistently underfunding services. Maguire's comments came in response to the City's first quarter operating variance report for 2017, which gives an update on whether the City is on track to meet its budget goals. The report showed
- [Nursing Week 2017: May 8-14](https://cupelocal79.org/nursing-week-2017-may-8-14/)
- [Shelter, Support & Housing Administration Workplace Issues Form](https://cupelocal79.org/shelter-support-housing-administration-workplace-issues-form/) - Local 79 and Shelter, Support & Housing Administration are undertaking joint Labour-Management Committee meetings. Meetings provide a forum for management and the union to discuss and resolve workplace issues not related to health & safety, bargaining or grievances. Do you have workplace issues or concerns you would like to see discussed at Labour-Management? If so, please
- [Provincial Budget Full of Half-Measures](https://cupelocal79.org/provincial-budget-full-of-half-measures/) - On Thursday, the Provincial Liberal government released its 2017 Budget. While it seems there is good news in the budget, it falls short in many ways. To reduce poverty, the budget raises OW and ODSP rates by 2%. That’s good, but it’s a far cry from the 10% increase that is really needed. Even worse, Budget
- [Local 79 sends delegation to Ontario NDP Convention](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-sends-delegation-to-ontario-ndp-convention/) - For the first time since Local 79 members voted at the May 2015 General Membership Meeting to affiliate with the New Democratic Party, a delegation of 17 Local 79 members participated in the 2017 Ontario NDP Convention. Our delegation watched as the Ontario NDP launched a 'Vision for Ontario' that promised new money for health care, education, public transit and social
- [Old Fashioned Picnic: Saturday, June 17th](https://cupelocal79.org/old-fashioned-picnic-saturday-june-17th/) - Come out to our signature annual event — Local 79's Old Fashioned Picnic — fit for the whole family! Our annual picnic features a live band, a free BBQ lunch, lots of prizes, races for kids, a scavenger hunt, a tour of Howard House, a puppet show — and so much more! Registration begins at 9:00
- [Shelter cuts reversed, bar for basic income set higher, and childcare growth strategy adopted at City Committee](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-zeroes-in-on-shelter-cuts-basic-income-at-city-hall/) - On April 13, 2017 — the Community Development and Recreation Committee took major action on three important issues. Shelter Cuts Reversed Staffing cuts in Shelters, Support and Housing Administration as a result of the budget have been reversed. Local 79’s President Tim Maguire joined other shelter advocates to highligh the importance of the reversal but also
- [The Pride Parade is on Sunday, June 25th!](https://cupelocal79.org/the-pride-parade-is-on-sunday-june-25th/) - Join us for one the best celebrations of the year! Come dance through the streets of Toronto on June 25th as we show pride in our diversity. Get your dancing shoes and sunscreen ready, but don't forget to register. Click here to sign in to the Members' Portal and claim your spot!
- [Time is running out! Register now for Local 79's Annual Golf Tournament](https://cupelocal79.org/time-is-running-out-register-now-for-local-79s-annual-golf-tournament/) - CUPE Local 79’s Annual Golf Tournament is on Wednesday, June 21st, 2017 at the Richmond Hill Golf and Country Club. Don't miss this fun day of golf, prizes and dinner. To register, contact Local 79 Equity Vice President Ainsworth Hamilton at EquityVP@cupelocal79.org, or fill out this registration form.
- [Local 79 kicks off its 75th Anniversary celebrations](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-launches-its-75th-anniversary-celebrations/) - On Thursday, March 23, 2017 — Local 79 turned 75 and kicked-off what's planned to be a year of celebrations. On our 75th birthday, we held an event at City Hall and watched as Local 79's flag was raised on the City of Toronto's flagpole. Local 79 members and friends were invited for a light lunch. Local 79
- [Annual Equity Symposium turns 10](https://cupelocal79.org/annual-equity-symposium-turns-10/) - This year the Equity Symposium marked a special anniversary. For 10 years now, the City of Toronto and CUPE Local 79 have cooperated to host this event with the goal of improving equity in our workplaces. Click on the 2017 Equity Symposium program to read the welcome letters from Local 79 President Tim Maguire and Equity Vice-President
- [Heroes Seen and Unseen: Celebrating the life of Viola Desmond](https://cupelocal79.org/heroes-seen-and-unseen-celebrating-the-life-of-viola-desmond/) - Local 79 celebrated Black History month this year by honouring the life of Viola Desmond — a black businesswoman from Nova Scotia credited for helping shape the civil rights movement in Canada. Please read about her below and watch some of the moving remarks from some of our guest speakers. Welcome message from Local 79 President Tim Maguire On behalf of
- [Join us on March 11th for International Women's Day 2017](https://cupelocal79.org/join-us-on-march-11th-for-international-womens-day-2017/) - Join Local 79 as we attend the International Women's Day rally and march (please note new location!) When: Saturday, March 11th, 2017 (Indoor rally begins at 11:00 a.m./March begins at 1:00 p.m.) Where: Medical Sciences Building Auditorium, 1 Kings College Circle (University of Toronto) This year's theme is "Stop the Hate! Unite the fight! Build the Resistance!"
- [March with us in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade! (March 19)](https://cupelocal79.org/march-with-us-in-the-st-patricks-day-parade-march-19/) - Join us as we partcipate for the first time ever in Toronto’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade! Meet us at St. George and Bloor on Sunday, March 19th, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. The parade begins at 12:00 noon.
- [Local 79 helps draw attention to City Budget that lacks a heart](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-helps-draw-attention-to-city-budget-that-lacks-a-heart/) - Just before Council began its final deliberations on the 2017 City Budget, "Commitment 2 Community" held a post-valentines' "Have a Heart, Stop the Cuts" rally at City Hall. Local 79 attended and Part-Time Recreation worker Laura Aversa spoke on the effects of service cuts to Parks, Forestry and Recreation. Watch her presentation at the rally in the video
- [Ontario 2017 Budget, Pre-Budget Consultations](https://cupelocal79.org/ontario-2017-budget-pre-budget-consultations/) - Dear Minister Sousa: RE: Ontario 2017 Budget, Pre-Budget Consultations It is my pleasure to submit comments to the Minister of Finance’s pre-budget consultations on behalf of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79. This submission is intended to complement the verbal remarks I gave at the November 21, 2016 consultation. Local 79 represents
- [Consultation on Early Years and Child Care Strategy (EYCC)](https://cupelocal79.org/consultation-on-early-years-and-child-care-strategy-eycc/) - Dear Indira Naidoo-Harris, RE: Consultation on Early Years and Child Care Strategy (EYCC) I am writing on behalf of CUPE Local 79, the largest municipal union in Canada representing over 20,000 City of Toronto employees. Local 79 members provide Early Learning & Child Care Services at publicly operated child care centres across the City of
- [Local 79 responds to the Province's pilot project on Basic Income](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-responds-to-the-provinces-pilot-project-on-basic-income/) - In March 2016, the Provincial government announced its intention to run a pilot project on Basic Income. There are many models of basic income, but the idea is to replace programs such as Ontario Works (OW) and the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) with a fixed benefit. Local 79 has serious concerns about basic income
- [Parks, Forestry & Recreation Workplace Issues Form](https://cupelocal79.org/parks-forestry-recreation-workplace-issues-form/) - Local 79 and the City’s PF&R Division are undertaking joint Labour/Management Committee meetings. These meetings provide a forum for management and the union to discuss and resolve workplace issues that aren’t related to health & safety, bargaining or grievances. Do you have workplace concerns or issues that you would like to see raised at the
- ["Play-In" outside Mayor's Office over cuts to child care and recreation](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-co-hosts-play-in-outside-mayors-office-over-cuts-to-child-care-and-recreation/) - On Tuesday, February 7th — around 30 children (and their guardians) descended on City Hall to participate in a "Play-In" to protest Mayor John Tory's cuts to child care and recreation in the proposed City budget. The event was co-hosted by the Ontario Coalition for Better Child Care, Toronto Women's City Alliance, Social Planning Toronto
- [Local 79 celebrates the privatization deferral of Local 416's waste collection service](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-celebrates-the-privatization-deferral-of-local-416s-waste-collection-service/) - On Tuesday, City Council supported Mayor John Tory’s motion to defer plans to further privatize waste collection. Tory moved for deferral because knew that he simply didn’t have enough votes at City Council to go ahead with his contracting out scheme. The Council vote comes after months of campaigning from CUPE Local 416, whose members provide
- [Local 79 highlights continued SAMS administrative burden & flawed Fleet Services contract](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-highlights-continued-sams-administrative-burden-flawed-fleet-services-contract/) - On Monday, January 23 — Local 79 presented at the City's Government Management Committee about our concerns regarding the Social Assistance Management System's (SAMS) continued administrative burden in the Toronto Employment & Social Services Division. We questioned the wisdom of eliminating 66 temporary positions that were originally brought in to help alleviate that burden. We
- [The Basics On Basic Income](https://cupelocal79.org/the-basics-on-basic-income/) - What is Basic Income? The Basic Income program that the Province plans to pilot would replace OW and ODSP payments to guarantee low-income people in the pilot areas with a basic annual income of about $17,000 to $34,000 depending on their household size. So far, the Province has suggested that additional supports and benefits received
- [Mayor Tory's push to privatize waste collection is just the start](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-expresses-frustration-over-proposal-to-further-privatize-waste-collection/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire expressed frustration today at the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee over the proposal to further contract out waste collection in Toronto. Tim cited both a 2015 Ernst & Young and City staff report that showed Toronto will not save money by pursuing further contracting out of solid waste collection; residents will be
- [Local 79 stands in solidarity with the Women’s March on Washington](https://cupelocal79.org/join-local-79-at-the-womens-march-on-washington-this-saturday/) - In the spirit of saying no to hate and yes to justice, equity and social change — people from around the world mobilized on the day after Donald Trump's presidential inauguration. On Saturday, January 21, we marched in one of the largest global demonstrations ever, uniting our communities in Toronto to speak out against acts of hate. Not
- [Local 79 members presented at City's Budget Subcommittee meetings](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-members-presented-at-citys-budget-subcommittee-meetings/) - We brought Local 79 frontline workers to the Budget Subcommittee meetings at the City's six civic centres. Four members of Local 79 joined Local 79 President Tim Maguire at these meetings to tell their stories of how proposed budget cuts will hurt the public services we all depend on. Scarborough Civic Centre - Nikeisha Anderson - RPN in
- [Local 79 joins coalition to highlight City Budget's gender inequity](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-joins-coalition-to-highlight-city-budgets-gender-inequity/) - This year Local 79 joined allies in promoting City Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam's push to examine the impacts of the City Budget under a gender equity lens. We joined a communications strategy that used social media to comment on how the City's budget cuts affect women and families, using the hashtag #GenderEquityTO. On January 10th, our very own Local 79
- [Local 79 tells City's Budget Committee about impacts of cuts in 2017 Budget](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-tells-citys-budget-committee-about-impacts-of-cuts-in-2017-budget/) - On Tuesday, January 10th — Local 79 President Tim Maguire deputed alongside Local 79 member Jennifer Chandran from the Housing Connections program (Shelter, Support, and Housing Administration Division). They told the City’s Budget Committee that cuts to City Divisions are impeding staff’s ability to deliver the level of service that Toronto’s communities need and are harming
- [The Gardiner Tsunami](https://cupelocal79.org/the-gardiner-tsunami/) - The TorontoCanDoBetter.ca coalition has put together a great little report about how the City's focus on repairing the Gardiner (instead of choosing the at-grade boulevard option for rehabilitating the eastern portion of the Gardiner), is drowning the City's ability to properly maintain and invest in the rest of Toronto. Take a look at this short
- [Local 79 joins allies to launch TorontoCanDoBetter.ca campaign](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-joins-allies-to-launch-torontocandobetter-ca-campaign/) - Toronto’s public services help build better lives, but they are under threat. We are joining other workers and community allies to fight against cuts to services and the elimination of hundreds of frontline staff. We need a long-term solution that supports our services. Join our Toronto Can Do Better Campaign now by sending an email
- [Local 79 supports new revenue options for City](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-supports-new-revenue-streams-for-city/) - On Dec. 1st, Local 79 acting Vice-President Jason Desjardins and Local 79 Strategic Communications and Campaigns Consultant Katrina Miller told the City's Executive Committee that Local 79 supports the City Manager's recommendation that Council adopt a package of revenue options to support public services. Watch their deputations below.
- [Be a budget champion!](https://cupelocal79.org/be-a-budget-champion/) - Once you sign up, you'll be contacted by our engagement team who will provide you with all of the info you need to participate in a budget consultation in your neighbourhood. [formidable id="32"]
- [Local 79 advocates for youth employment opportunities in Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-advocates-for-youth-employment-opportunities-in-toronto/) - Today the City released its report of the Youth Employment Action Plan Advisory Committee. Local 79 is deeply committed to advocating for good stable jobs, especially for our young workers who are trying to build a life. We were disappointed that despite our willingness to participate on the Advisory Committee, Local 79 was not consulted
- [Send some holiday cheer and solidarity to Essex County Library Workers!](https://cupelocal79.org/send-some-holiday-cheer-and-solidarity-to-essex-county-library-workers/) - It has been a hard 5 months for CUPE 2974 Essex County Library Workers. They have been on the picket lines since June 25, and their employer has shown no sign of moving to end the strike. We are collecting donations to help carry these workers through the holidays. Any amount is appreciated. Let's show Essex
- [City planners at breaking point due to development pressures, new report shows](https://cupelocal79.org/city-planners-at-breaking-point-due-to-development-pressures-new-report-shows/) - (TORONTO) - A new report shows increasing development and planning challenges in Toronto have brought City planners to a breaking point. CUPE Local 79 surveyed its members in the City’s Planning Division and found that workloads are often unmanageable and overworked staff are sometimes unable to meet legislated requirements for development applications. “Our planners are
- [Local 79 wins commitment from City committee for a Job Quality Assessment Tool within 6 months](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-wins-commitment-from-city-committee-for-a-job-quality-assessment-tool-within-6-months/) - On Nov. 14, 2016, Local 79 President Tim Maguire and our allies won a commitment from the City's Government Management Committee to develop and implement a Job Quality Assessment Tool within six months. Tim was joined by Local 79 member Rob Carnell, Deena Ladd from the Workers’ Action Centre, and Yogendra Shakya from Access Alliance.
- [GOOD JOBS Workplace Action Campaign](https://cupelocal79.org/good-jobs-workplace-action-campaign/) - What is the Campaign About? The services that Local 79 members provide are the foundation of our city, helping build better lives across Toronto. But years of budget cuts mean that the workload of our members has increased while their jobs have become less stable. That needs to change. We need good stable jobs and healthy workplaces at
- [Our Hydro](https://cupelocal79.org/our-hydro/) - Did you know your power is at risk? Toronto Hydro is 100% publicly owned, giving us the electricity we rely on to power our lives. Now Toronto City Council is considering selling it, which means private investors will be in charge. We will lose public control, resulting in higher rates and less reliable service. Tell
- [Blue Mondays kick off in support of Local 79's TCHC bargaining team](https://cupelocal79.org/blue-mondays-kick-off-in-support-of-local-79s-tchc-bargaining-team/) - On Mondays, Local 79 members in TCHC are wearing blue in their workplaces to show support for their bargaining committee. Keep checking back on this post as we share more photos of their action!
- [Today is Child Care Worker & Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day!](https://cupelocal79.org/today-is-child-care-worker-early-childhood-educator-appreciation-day/) - Today we celebrate all the incredible work that our members perform in child care centres across Toronto. Child Care Worker & Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day recognizes the important work of child care workers and early childhood educators and acknowledges the contributions they make to the vibrancy of Toronto communities. Research shows the many economic
- [We did it! Local 79 teams up with other unions to conquer the CN Tower for the United Way!](https://cupelocal79.org/6271-2/) - On Oct. 23, we showed Toronto what we can achieve when we work together! Representatives from 10 unions across Toronto climbed the CN Tower together to raise money for the Toronto & York Region United Way. It was the first-ever labour umbrella group to climb, a tradition that Local 79 hopes to continue organizing for years
- [Local 79 deputes at 2nd Quarter Operating Budget Variance Report](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-deputes-at-2nd-quarter-operating-budget-variance-report/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire and members Fred Shilson (Long-Term Care cleaner) & Laura Versa (Parks, Forestry and Recreation worker) — were at City Hall on September 22 to speak to the City’s Second Quarter Operating Budget Variance Report. They told the City of Toronto's Executive Committee that the Report shows budget cuts have led to increased gapping and vacancies in their Divisions, and detailed how understaffing puts the health of
- [October 1: Pledge to join us at the demonstration for $15 and fairness](https://cupelocal79.org/october-1-demonstrate-for-15-and-fairness/) - Do you deserve respect at work? Do you want to see a $15 minimum wage? Do you agree that all of us need at least 7 paid sick days? Do you believe in fair scheduling? Do you want to stop wage theft? Then we need YOU at Queen’s Park on October 1. The Queen’s Park Rally
- [City's second quarter budget report shows vacancies and gapping increasing](https://cupelocal79.org/citys-second-quarter-budget-report-shows-vacancies-and-gapping-increasing/) - This week, City Council’s Budget Committee will look at how well the City is keeping to the 2016 Operating Budget. Local 79 always keeps a close eye on budget reports because they directly impact our members’ work and the services we deliver to Toronto’s communities. This report shows that vacancies and gapping continue to increase. In
- [Put on your dancing shoes on Friday, November 4th!](https://cupelocal79.org/put-on-your-dancing-shoes-on-friday-november-4th/) - Come enjoy a rockin' band, DJ, entertainment, door prizes, spot dances, & reasonably priced cash bar! Dinner – 6:15 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Dance – 8:00 p.m. – 12:00 midnight Lithuanian Banquet Hall, 2nd Floor 1573 Bloor Street West (Dundas & Bloor — Dundas West Subway Station) There are limited tickets (only 2 tickets/member). Phone
- [Labour Day 2016](https://cupelocal79.org/labour-day-2016/) - On September 5th, Local 79 members came out in force to march through the streets of Toronto in a show of labour solidarity! It was a beautiful day to come together and then have some fun on the last day of the CNE. See the images below!
- [Maguire deputes on contracting out of mechanics in Fleet Services](https://cupelocal79.org/maguire-deputes-on-contracting-out-of-mechanics-in-fleet-services/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire told the City's Government Management Committee yesterday that their plans to contract out mechanics that do maintenance in Fleet Services is ill-advised. While Local 79 members aren't being targetted by this proposed contracting out, we do have many members who rely on preventative maintenance to ensure they are able to safely deliver
- [2016 Lifeguard Competition](https://cupelocal79.org/2016-lifeguard-competition/) - On July 29th, Local 79 was proud to sponsor Toronto's annual lifeguard competition. City of Toronto lifeguards put their in-depth training to the test while building solidarity and camaraderie. It's also a great venue for lifeguards to further improve their skills. Take a look at the fantastic photos from the event, generously provided by the City of Toronto.
- [We're gearing up for Labour Day 2016!](https://cupelocal79.org/were-gearing-up-for-labour-day-2016/) - Join your fellow union members for a march through the streets of Toronto! Celebrate the labour movement and enjoy free entrance on the last day of the CNE. Where: Start at the Local 79 Union Office (34 St. Patrick Street) When: Monday, September 5th, 2016 (Registration & t-shirt pickup will be from 7:00 - 10:00
- [2016 Caribbean Carnival](https://cupelocal79.org/2016-caribbean-carnival/) - Fourty Local 79 members donned their costumes this year and danced the day away for the 2016 Caribbean Carnival! This year's Carnival followed a motif of LOST: Secrets of the Amazon — and our revellers wore white outfits with blue feathers. Take a look at all the fun that was had in the photos below!
- [2016 Toronto Island Picnic](https://cupelocal79.org/2016-toronto-island-picnic/) - Local 79's annual picnic was held at Toronto Centre Island on Thursday, July 21st. Members were treated to a beautiful, hot summer day and enjoyed activities for children and discounted admission to the Centreville amusement park. Take a look at the photos below!
- [Local 79 joins ACORN Canada in raising concerns over tenant security at TCHC](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-joins-acorn-canada-in-raising-concerns-over-tenant-security-at-tchc/) - Thousands of TCHC tenants may have recently lost access to the live video feed of their lobby after Rogers Communications changed the wiring system in their buildings - making access to the feeds only available to those who have a Rogers cable package. Live video feeds are a key security feature for tenants and staff,
- [Local 79 & Social Planning raise concerns over alarming City budget cuts](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-joins-commitment2community-in-alarm-over-city-budget-cuts/) - Local 79 is alarmed at Tuesday’s City Council decision to reduce the 2017 budget by 2.6% and leave critical programs at risk of cuts in the coming months. City Council voted against specific motions to protect Childcare, Toronto Community Housing, TTC, and the City's Poverty Reduction Strategy from service reductions and fee hikes. It is
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- [Rexdale wants decent work](https://cupelocal79.org/rexdale-wants-decent-work/) - Inequality is growing in Ontario. Nearly every family knows someone who is having a hard time finding a decent job with living wages. The government has to decide if they really want to tackle the crisis of bad jobs and precarious employment. Work needs to be respected – in every sector of the economy. If
- [Let's make TCHC the housing provider tenants deserve](https://cupelocal79.org/lets-make-tchc-the-housing-provider-tenants-deserve/) - Transforming TCHC into the kind of housing provider tenants deserve starts with proper funding to make repairs in a timely manner and provide appropriate supports to meet tenants’ needs. The City should also look to bring long-needed stability to TCHC, reforming the structure carefully to improve accountability and decentralize decision-making to allow front-line workers to
- [Help Tim Maguire beat Bay St. for charity!](https://cupelocal79.org/help-tim-maguire-beat-bay-st-for-charity/) - On June 16th, support Tim Maguire as he takes on Bay Street! Tim will be running in support of the labour movement and to bring awareness to our shared goals. From protecting good jobs and benefits to stopping the privatization of Toronto Hydro, Tim’s run signifies an important team effort in our fight against precarious
- [Help Tim Maguire beat Bay St. for the United Way!](https://cupelocal79.org/help-tim-maguire-beat-bay-st-for-the-united-way/) - As we kick off another season of fundraising for the United Way, Local 79 President Tim Maguire is running the 5K Rat Race on June 16th with the team from OMERS (Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System). On June 16th, support Tim Maguire as he takes on Bay Street! Tim will be running in support of
- [Andrea Horwath attending our June General Membership Meeting](https://cupelocal79.org/andrew-horwath-attending-our-june-general-membership-meeting/) - We're pleased to welcome Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath to Local 79's General Membership Meeting. Hear how the Ontario New Democrats are fighting the Wynne Liberals’ plans to sell off public hydro, undermine child care workers and cut health care. This is our last monthly General Membership Meeting of the summer, until we resume again
- [Petition: Fairness for Bridgepoint Health staff](https://cupelocal79.org/6111-2/) - TO: Dr. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health WHEREAS the Nursing and Paramedical staff of Bridgepoint Hospital, which is now a part of the Sinai Health System, are currently negotiating a collective agreement for April 1st 2014 to March 31st, 2016, and; WHEREAS other bargaining units in the province have received wage increases of 1.4
- [It’s time to invest in the city we want](https://cupelocal79.org/its-time-to-invest-in-the-city-we-want/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire today told the City's Executive Committee about several ways Toronto can improve its financial position. Watch his deputation; read his comments; or take a look at Local 79's recommendation in the briefing note below. Today, Toronto’s Executive Committee will be considering the City Manager’s report on the City’s long-term financial
- [City’s first-quarter budget update shows big vacancies… again](https://cupelocal79.org/citys-first-quarter-budget-update-shows-big-vacancies-again/) - Today, the City’s Budget Committee is reviewing spending, revenues and staffing for the first three months of 2016. Today’s update shows the City is already running a budget surplus but it also has over 3,000 vacant positions. High vacancies lead to pressure on service standards and higher stress on workers due to stress. Local 79
- [Library workers holding Teddy Bear Picket this Saturday](https://cupelocal79.org/library-workers-holding-teddy-bear-picket-this-saturday/) - The library workers of CUPE Local 4948 are holding a great event to support library workers and their campaign to end precarious work. The Teddy Bear Picket will be held this Saturday in Nathan Phillips Square from 11:00 a.m to 1:00 p.m. It's a family friendly event with music, face-painting and children's stories so we
- [We can protect the public interest and say no to Uber Capitalism](https://cupelocal79.org/we-can-protect-the-public-interest-and-say-no-to-uber-capitalism/) - The City of Toronto has been reviewing its taxicab regulations as a result of the service provider Uber operating in Toronto. In a report to the Licensing and Standards Committee, City staff put forward recommendations that would lessen and eliminate specific criteria and regulations for all drivers, existing taxicabs and Uber operators. The City is
- [P3s are risky and expensive](https://cupelocal79.org/p3s-are-risky-and-expensive/) - A recent issue of Novae Res Urbis, a publication dedicated to planning issues in Toronto, included a discussion of Public-Private-Partnerships (P3s), also known as ‘alternate financing and procurement’. Mayor John Tory and the Ontario Liberal Government are strong advocates of P3s, but CUPE has long opposed them. Tim Maguire submitted a response to the article
- [Heroes Seen and Unseen: Remembering Peter Marcelline](https://cupelocal79.org/heroes-seen-and-unseen-remembering-peter-marcelline/) - On Thursday, February 17th, 2016, CUPE Local 79 celebrated Black History Month 2016 by holding an event to honour and reflect on the extraordinary life of Peter Marcelline, who passed away on October 4th, 2015. We were honoured to welcome several members of Peter's family to celebrate with us, as well as many guests from
- [Local 79 submission to Ministry of Education on proposed changes to child care](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-submission-to-ministry-of-education-on-proposed-changes-to-child-care/) - Proposed changes to age groupings, group sizes and staff ratios will undermine the ability of child care staff to carefully and comprehensively nurture the children entrusted to their care. Child Care Modernization c/o Early Years Division Ministry of Education RE: Regulatory Registry Posting related to the Child Care and Early Years Act, 2014 and the
- [International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination](https://cupelocal79.org/international-day-for-the-elimination-of-racial-discrimination-5/) - March 21st is designated by the United Nations (UN) as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It is a day observed all around the world to focus attention on the problems of racism and the need to promote racial harmony. The UN made this designation in 1966 to mark a tragic event
- [Local 79 comments on Domestic and Sexual Violence Workplace Leave, Accommodation and Training Act, 2016](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-comments-on-domestic-and-sexual-violence-workplace-leave-accommodation-and-training-act-2016/) - Local 79 strongly endorsed the Ontario NDP Bill calling for more supports for women who are victims of domestic and sexual violence. Bill 177 recommends paid leave, flexibility in the type of evidence required for accommodation and more workplace training. Dear MPP Sattler: RE: Ontario NDP, Private Member’s Bill on Domestic and Sexual Violence
- [CUPE Local 79 ratifies collective agreements](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-ratifies-collective-agreements/) - TORONTO – Members of Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE Local 79) today ratified collective agreements for the local’s Full-Time, Part-Time Recreation and Unit B Part-Time members with the City of Toronto. “We are pleased our members ratified the agreements we negotiated, made possible because of the strength they showed during bargaining,” said
- [All women rise up proud and strong](https://cupelocal79.org/all-women-rise-up-proud-and-strong/) - International Women’s Day is about unity and what we can all do together, in solidarity, to make change happen. In Canada, women still earn less than men for the same work and they still experience violence and discrimination. We must join together to say no to violence, hate, racism and poverty. More than 100 years
- [Our ratification vote is this Wednesday](https://cupelocal79.org/our-ratification-vote-is-this-wednesday/) - CUPE Local 79 will be holding ratification votes on Local 79’s tentative agreements with the City on Wednesday, March 9th, 2016 at three separate locations across the City. YOU CAN VOTE AT ANY LOCATION FROM 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. These votes are for members from the Full-Time, Part-Time B and Recreation Workers Part-Time Units.
- [CUPE Local 79 agrees to new four-year contract](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-agrees-to-new-four-year-contract/) - TORONTO – The bargaining team representing members of Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE Local 79) today agreed to terms on a tentative four-year contract with the City of Toronto. “In every round of bargaining, you set out to get the best deal possible at that time, under those circumstances,” said
- [March with us on International Women's Day 2016!](https://cupelocal79.org/march-with-us-on-international-womens-day-2016/) - We're celebrating International Women's Day on Saturday! Join us for a rally and march starting at 11:00 a.m. at OISE (252 Bloor St. West).
- [Corrections to ‘Highlights of the City’s Final Offer’ Document](https://cupelocal79.org/corrections-to-highlights-of-the-citys-final-offer-document/) - The ‘Highlights’ document describing the City’s ‘Final Offer’ contains a number of factual errors and misinterpretations. In many instances it doesn’t include the same language used or even the same proposals as in the document presented to Local 79. Read all about it here: Analysis of City’s ‘Final Offer’.
- [Local 79 hosts brown bag lunch rally in Nathan Phillips Square!](https://cupelocal79.org/this-thursday-brown-bagging-with-local-79/) - On Thursday, February 26th, 2016 — Community allies and labour leaders joined members of Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE 79) at Nathan Phillips Square for an informal ‘Brown Bag’ lunch. The event highlighted the current efforts by CUPE 79 members to secure a fair contract with the City of Toronto.
- [CUPE National President rallies Toronto city workers](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-national-president-rallies-toronto-city-workers/) - On Friday, February 12, 2016, CUPE National President Mark Hancock came to Toronto to offer a message of solidarity for Toronto city workers (members of Locals 79, 416 and 4948) from the 635, 000 members of CUPE from across Canada. Watch his message below:
- [Bargaining progress limited, CUPE proposes a new way forward](https://cupelocal79.org/bargaining-progress-limited-cupe-proposes-a-new-way-forward/) - The City of Toronto has made little effort to bargain in its contract negotiations with two unions, Local 79 and Local 416 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) reported today in an update on bargaining with the City. Click here to see Global TV's video coverage of our press conference on this proposal.
- [Mayor’s Task Force on Toronto Community Housing releases final report](https://cupelocal79.org/mayors-task-force-on-toronto-community-housing-releases-final-report/) - In January, the Mayor’s Task Force on Toronto Community Housing released its final report. Local 79 is working with community partners, progressive City Councillors and tenants’ groups to assess the report’s recommendations and propose alternatives. The Report’s major recommendation is to create a new non-profit housing provider “New Home” to operate TCHC’s current housing stock
- [TV Ad Launched to support Good Jobs, Great Services](https://cupelocal79.org/tv-ad-launched-to-support-good-jobs-great-services/) - Four locals of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), in contract negotiations with the City of Toronto, have launched a TV advertising campaign in support of bargaining. “This ad reminds Toronto residents that these frontline workers are responsible for the great services we all depend on,” said Linda Thurston-Neeley, CUPE’s Regional Director in
- [City of Toronto workers need stable jobs, say part-timers](https://cupelocal79.org/city-of-toronto-workers-need-stable-jobs-say-part-timers/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire held a press conference earlier today with Local 4948 President Maureen O'Reilly and City of Toronto Part-Time workers, who called on the City to provide more stable jobs. Click here for an article from CP24 that covered the event. Read the accompanying press release below. Press Release TORONTO, ON –
- [Local 79’s 2016 City Budget Guide – Staffing (Other City Programs & Agencies)](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-2016-city-budget-guide-staffing-other-city-programs/) - OTHER CITY PROGRAMS: City Manager's Office – net reduction of 14.5 positions resulting in cost savings of $2.667 million gross and $1.263 million net. A reduction of 0 permanent positions in Strategic Communications (3 positions) and Human Resources (10 positions) will result in savings of $1.263 million gross and net. The work-load has been restructured
- [Local 79’s 2016 City Budget Guide – Staffing (Cluster C)](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-2016-city-budget-guide-staffing-cluster-c/) - Every year, the City approves its staff complement to meet the needs of communities and ensure the provision of essential City services by all of its Divisions. Every year, the City reports vacancy rates through unfilled staff positions and gapping. Changes in staffing directly impact Divisional service provision – often with cause for concern. The
- [Local 79’s 2016 City Budget Guide – Staffing (Cluster B)](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-2016-city-budget-guide-staffing-cluster-b/) - Every year, the City approves its staff complement to meet the needs of communities and ensure the provision of essential City services by all of its Divisions. Every year, the City reports vacancy rates through unfilled staff positions and gapping. Changes in staffing directly impact Divisional service provision – often with cause for concern. The
- [Local 79's 2016 City Budget Guide - Staffing (Cluster A)](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-2016-city-budget-guide-staffing-cluster-a/) - Every year, the City approves its staff complement to meet the needs of communities and ensure the provision of essential City services by all of its Divisions. Every year, the City reports vacancy rates through unfilled staff positions and gapping. Changes in staffing directly impact Divisional service provision – often with cause for concern. The
- [Local 79's 2016 City Budget Guide - Contracting Out](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-2016-city-budget-guide-contracting-out/) - The City continues to push forward on contracting out services provided by our members. As we bargain new Collective Agreements for City of Toronto members, we are pushing for stronger protections against contracting out. Our Good Jobs TO campaign are both about the importance of good, stable, secure jobs. That means promoting good jobs in
- [Local 79's 2016 City Budget Guide - Gapping](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-2016-city-budget-guide-gapping/) - Gapping is the amount Divisions are expected to save each year because positions are left vacant either intentionally or through unanticipated staff turnover. The problem is that, although City Council wants to expand services, Councillors haven’t been willing to find ways of paying for those services. This means Divisions have to absorb additional costs while
- [Local 79's 2016 City Budget Guide - Staffing and Budget Impacts by Division](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-2016-city-budget-guide-staffing/) - Every year City Council approves the staff complement it believes Divisions need to deliver high quality services to Toronto’s communities. Every year, the City also reports vacancy rates, which represent unfilled staff positions and gapping. Changes in staffing directly impact divisional service provision – often with cause for concern. As Toronto communities continue to grow
- [Local 79's 2016 City Budget Guide - Unanswered Questions](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-2016-city-budget-guide-unanswered-questions/) - A thoughtful conversation about the budget depends on comprehensive and detailed information. Budget 2016’s Analyst Notes provide a great deal of information but also leave major gaps. Local 79 encourages Councillors to ask questions about and/or request briefing notes on the following issues. Key Data Reporting on the ratio of full-time to part-time workers is
- [Local 79's 2016 City Budget Guide - New and Enhanced Services that would likely be delivered by members of Local 79](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-2016-city-budget-guide-new-and-enhanced-services-that-would-likely-be-delivered-by-members-of-local-79/) - In December 2015, the City Manager and Chief Financial Officer presented the staff-recommended 2016 City Budget. That’s the Budget that gets discussed, revised and approved by City Council. This year, the City Manager refused to present a balanced budget. He simply told Councillors how much the current gap is between revenues and expenses (it is
- [Local 79's 2016 City Budget Guide](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-2016-city-budget-guide/) - Toronto is a dynamic city with the potential to be the best city to in which to live, work, play and raise a family, but the truth is we face some incredible challenges that stop us from reaching our potential. We are the most unequal city in Canada with the highest concentration of working poor.
- [Local 79 launches Blue Mondays in support of its Bargaining Committee](https://cupelocal79.org/blue-mondays/) - On every Monday, starting January 25th, CUPE Local 79 members have been wearing blue as a sign of solidarity against the City's unreasonable bargaining demands and as a sign of support for their bargaining committee. They've been taking photos of themselves in blue and sharing them on social media with the hashtag: #TO79. Please share
- [Hancock commends CUPE locals 79 and 416 for cooperation and member mobilization](https://cupelocal79.org/hancock-commends-cupe-locals-79-and-416-for-cooperation-and-member-mobilization/) - In one of his first visits to Toronto as CUPE National President, Mark Hancock took a moment to commend members of CUPE Local 416 and 79 for their level of coordination and cooperation as they attempt to renew their collective agreements with the City of Toronto. Brother Mark, who was bringing solidarity greetings to a CUPE
- [2016 City Operating Budget at City Hall Budget consultations](https://cupelocal79.org/2016-city-operating-budget-at-city-hall-budget-consultations/) - The City’s Budget Committee conducted three days of public consultations (January 12-14, 2016) about the proposed 2016 Operating and Capital Budgets that affect all workers who work for the City of Toronto. The details in the 2016 budget show how staffing levels, gapping rates and vacancies have had a major impact on the delivery of
- [Local 79 Training Survey](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-training-survey/) - When Local 79 talks about good jobs and the important protections contained in our Collective Agreements, we tend to focus on things like employment security, predictability, and living wages (check out our Good Jobs TO campaign!). However, access to quality training is an equally important part of a good job. Training helps workers adapt to
- [Toronto needs to act now on to foster reconciliation](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-needs-to-act-now-on-to-foster-reconciliation/) - On December 15, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released its final report into the legacy of Residential Schools in Canada, along with 94 Calls to Action. The TRC spent six years speaking to survivors, gathering documents and meeting with communities. On December 18, the City’s Aboriginal Affairs Committee heard a presentation about what municipalities can
- [Member Spotlight: Rob Carnell](https://cupelocal79.org/member-spotlight-rob-carnell/) - Our member spotlight this week is on Rob Carnell, a Heavy-Duty cleaner at Toronto Police Headquarters. Rob came to the City after the aluminum company he worked for downsized in 2007, ending his 27-year career at the plant. After his lay-off, Rob contemplated retirement. “But the lady said no,” he laughs, referring to his wife
- [Member Profiles: Zachary Fraser](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-member-zachary-fraser-profiled-in-metro-news/) - Introducing Zachary Fraser, who’s been working in the Parks, Forestry & Recreation Division for the past 11 years."I like working with youth," says Zachary. "I particularly like helping them find new opportunities."Metro News recently chronicled Zachary’s history of precarious employment at the City. His story puts a face to our ongoing Good Jobs TO campaign.
- [Council Briefing Notes: New Revenue Tools, Gapped Positions, Additional Supports for Youth Employment](https://cupelocal79.org/council-briefing-notes-new-revenue-tools-gapped-positions-additional-supports-for-youth-employment/) - This week Local 79 sent Council Briefing Notes to City Councillors. Briefing Notes highlight issues at City Council that are important to, and impact, Local 79 Members.Some of those issues include identifying new revenue tools to fund City programs and services, filling gapped positions and staff vacancies to improve services, and creating additional supports for
- [City workers set another United Way fundraising record!](https://cupelocal79.org/city-workers-set-another-fundraising-record-for-united-way/) - Yesterday, City workers announced another fundraising record of $1,580,000 in support of United Way Toronto & York Region. Local 79 was proud to participate in many of this year’s events, including the Civic Run, the fire truck team pull, the Civic Gala, and the CN Tower Stair Climb.We are proud to say we've been recognized,
- [Diversity is our strength – the City should reflect that strength in its translation and interpretation services](https://cupelocal79.org/diversity-is-our-strength-the-city-should-reflect-that-strength-in-its-translation-and-interpretation-services/) - This week, the City’s Executive Committee considered a recommendation to review how translation services are delivered to Toronto’s residents. Tim Maguire pointed out that even though Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world, we contract out most of our translation services. He argues the City should consider a strategy to deliver
- [Toronto needs social infrastructure investments, and that means new revenue tools](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-needs-social-infrastructure-investments-and-that-means-new-revenue-tools/) - Tim Maguire was at the City’s Executive Committee to discuss the City Manager’s recent report on Toronto’s fiscal framework. The City Manager reported that City Council will need to consider new revenue tools if it wants to build the City’s physical infrastructure. Tim argued that we can’t afford to neglect the social infrastructure delivered by
- [Intimate Partner Violence against Women Report](https://cupelocal79.org/intimate-partner-violence-against-women-report/) - Read Local 79 President Tim Maguire’s deputation on the Board of Health's report and recommendations on Intimate Partner Violence against Women, dedicated to the memory of Zahra Abdille and her sons, who were killed on November 29, 2014. Zahra was a public health nurse and a member of CUPE Local 79. Dear Councillor Mihevc and
- [Toronto Public Health 2016 Operating Budget Request](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-public-health-2016-operating-budget-request/) - Public health programs are essential for the well-being of everyone and the need is ever-growing. In this deputation to the Board of Health, Local 79 President Tim Maguire says he wants a solid commitment from the City not to cut-back on any of the services that are needed. Public health is not a ‘frill’; it’s
- [Toronto’s Youth Employment Action Plan Update](https://cupelocal79.org/torontos-youth-employment-action-plan-update/) - In this deputation, Local 79 President Tim Maguire provides input to the members of the Economic Development Committee on Toronto's Youth Employment Action Plan.Dear Councillor Thompson and Committee Members,ED8.2 Toronto’s Youth Employment Action Plan UpdateAccording to a recent report from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) titled The Young and the Jobless: Youth Unemployment
- [City can address economic health of our City by responding to the issues of income inequality and precarious employment](https://cupelocal79.org/city-can-address-economic-health-of-our-city-by-responding-to-the-issues-of-income-inequality-and-precarious-employment/) - The City’s Economic Dashboard provides a summary of the most recent data available on key economic indicators benchmarking the city's economic performance. As municipalities such as Toronto explore their role within the global economic context, inequity and employment need to be top-of-mind when making budget, staffing and service decisions. Dear Councillor Thompson and Committee Members,ED8.14 Economic
- [Toronto's workers launch campaign for Good Jobs](https://cupelocal79.org/torontos-workers-launch-campaign-for-good-jobs/) - Today, CUPE Local 79 launched a campaign calling on the City to become a leader in building good jobs, starting with its own employment, contracting and procurement practices."Toronto is the most unequal city in Canada and that is due in a large part to the fact that over half of workers don't have stable secure
- [Tim talks inequality at Innovation Lab's TEDucation Series](https://cupelocal79.org/tim-talks-inequality-at-city-staff-innovation-labs-teducations-series/) - As part of the Innovation Lab’s TEDucation Series, Local 79 President Tim Maguire spoke to an audience of City Staff on October 29th, 2015, addressing the theme of City efforts to address poverty. Tim spoke about how the City and policy makers can take bold, innovative action against income inequality through employment models that include
- [Persons Day - October 18](https://cupelocal79.org/persons-day-october-18-4/) - On October 18, 1929, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in England, then the appeals court for the Canadian Supreme Court, ruled that women had the right to be appointed to the Senate of Canada, become members of other federal bodies, attend university, and practice a liberal trade. Prior to that decision, the federal
- [Go Vote! Advance Polls Open](https://cupelocal79.org/go-vote-advance-polls-open/) - Advanced voting polls opened today and will stay open through Monday, Oct. 12 from noon to 8 p.m. daily. Advanced polling often happens at a different location from where ballots are cast on Election Day. The address for the advanced polls can be found on your voter information card, or check the Elections Canada website.
- [Tim Maguire recommends new protections for workers at Changing Workplaces Review](https://cupelocal79.org/tim-maguire-recommends-new-protections-for-workers-at-changing-workplace-review/) - After two decades in which jobs have become less secure and full-time work increasingly hard to find, the Ontario Ministry of Labour is reviewing the Labour Relations Act and the Employment Standards Act. Tim Maguire presented to the review’s Special Advisors on behalf of CUPE Local 79. He emphasized the need for minimum guaranteed hours
- [Good Jobs are the Key to Poverty Reduction](https://cupelocal79.org/good-jobs-are-the-key-to-poverty-reduction/) - This week, City Council’s Government Management and Community Development and Recreation Committees looked at how to implement the Interim Toronto Poverty Reduction Strategy. Tim Maguire highlighted the importance of quality jobs for providing a path out of poverty. He told the committees that the City needs to become a living wage employer, develop and implement
- [Labour Day 2015](https://cupelocal79.org/labour-day-2015/) - On Monday, September 7th, 2015 — Local 79 members marched through the streets of Toronto to celebrate our solidarity and the gains the Labour Movement has made.We made a splash with our bright-orange t-shirts, making clear which party we'll support in the 2015 Federal Election (Thomas Mulcair's New Democratic Party in case you were still
- [Watch Local 79 President Tim Maguire's Labour Day message](https://cupelocal79.org/watch-local-79-president-tim-maguires-labour-day-message/) - There's lots to celebrate as Canadian workers, but we keep marching every year in solidarity to defend the gains we've made, and for others whose workplace rights need improving.Watch CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire's Labour Day message below.
- [](https://cupelocal79.org/5653-2/)
- [Sign up form](https://cupelocal79.org/sign-up-form/) - [formidable id=22]
- [Implementing Toronto’s Poverty Reduction Strategy](https://cupelocal79.org/implementing-torontos-poverty-reduction-strategy/) - As City Council’s Budget Committee considered the Interim Toronto Poverty Reduction Strategy, Tim Maguire highlighted three budgetary priorities: thinking carefully about how a proposed 2% cut would affect Torontonians experiencing poverty, the importance of the City becoming a living wage employer, and the need to consider alternate revenue tools to provide stable funding to anti-poverty
- [Local 79 jumps up at Caribbean Carnival 2015](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-jumps-up-at-caribbean-carnival-2015/) - On Saturday August 1st, 2015, CUPE Local 79 members celebrated the cultures of the Caribbean by dancing the 3.5 km length of Caribbean Carnival’s Grande Parade. Take a look at the photos of Local 79 members who marched to represent our union in the parade section for organizations, and the members who donned Carnival costumes
- [Come on down to Local 79's Blue Jays Social!](https://cupelocal79.org/come-on-down-to-local-79s-blue-jays-day-social/) - When: Friday, August 28, 2015 — Game time: 7:07 p.m.Where: Rogers CentreGet to know some of your fellow Local 79 members and come out to the ball game! Tickets available for purchase by registering on CUPE Local 79′s Members’ Portal under the Events tab.This event is open to all Local 79 members and their families.
- [Local 79 sponsors Toronto Lifeguard Competition](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-sponsors-toronto-lifeguard-competition/) - Local 79 was proud to sponsor the Toronto Lifeguard Competition again this year. Toronto operates 65 indoor pools, 57 outdoor pools, 104 wading pools, and 93 splash pads — all made possible by the work of Local 79 members. Toronto's lifeguards showed off their lifesaving skills today through various mock scenarios. Take a look at
- [Help us find the stars of our next public engagement campaign!](https://cupelocal79.org/help-us-find-the-stars-of-our-next-public-engagement-campaign/) - Three years ago, we began a public engagement campaign that showed how Local 79 members are “Taking Care of Toronto.”In the next phase of our campaign, we’re giving Torontonians the chance to champion the city services that they hold dear. And we’re asking you to be one of our casting directors!Do you know a member
- [Local 79 hosts its first-ever Stewards Summit](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-hosts-its-first-ever-stewards-summit/) - It takes workplace leaders to help keep our approximately 20,000 members active and organized.That’s why we’re proud of the workplace Stewards who came to Local 79’s first-ever Stewards Summit. They’re learning to make our workplaces better, so that we can in turn deliver the outstanding public services that Toronto communities deserve.Take a look at some
- [Toronto’s Poverty Reduction Strategy – Local 79 gives input to the City after surveying Local 79 members](https://cupelocal79.org/torontos-poverty-reduction-strategy-local-79-gives-input-to-the-city-after-surveying-local-79-members/) - In this deputation, Local 79 President Tim Maguire calls upon the City to be to be a model employer and lead by example as it holds up quality jobs and living wages as a central pillar of a Poverty Reduction Strategy. Local 79 used the feedback from the Local 79 Members Survey on Poverty Reduction
- [Report: Local 79 Members Survey on Poverty Reduction](https://cupelocal79.org/report-local-79-members-survey-on-poverty-reduction/) - Members of Local 79 are often on the front-line of service delivery. Many of our members also live in Toronto. As people who proudly deliver a diverse range of services and as workers committed to ‘Taking Care of Toronto’, our members are uniquely positioned to contribute to the City’s ongoing efforts to develop a poverty
- [Trouble ahead with 2% budget cuts in 2016](https://cupelocal79.org/big-holes-in-citys-2015-budget/) - With Mayor John Tory proposing a further across-the-board 2% cut to City services, City Divisions not filling gapped positions, and a dearth of revenue tools — Local 79 President Tim Maguire points to big problems in the 2016 Budget proposals in this deputation to the City's the Budget Committee. Dear Councillor Crawford and Members of the
- [City’s Executive Committee Silent on Hydro Privatization](https://cupelocal79.org/citys-executive-committee-silent-on-hydro-privatization/) - At their May 26th meeting, City Council’s Executive Committee unanimously voted to avoid even talking about the Wynne Liberals’ plans to privatize Hydro One. In this deputation Tim Maguire describes the serious, negative impacts privatizing Hydro One will have on Toronto’s communities and the services our members deliver.Dear Mayor Tory and Members of the Executive
- [CUPE Local 79 votes to affiliate with Canada's New Democrats](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-votes-to-affiliate-with-canadas-new-democrats/) - TORONTO, ONTARIO-- Canada's largest local union has voted to affiliate with Canada's New Democrats.At a general membership meeting this week, members of Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE 79) voted unanimously to affiliate with the federal New Democratic Party (NDP)."Our members understood that they can't sit on the sidelines during the
- [Annual Charity Golf Tournament](https://cupelocal79.org/annual-charity-golf-tournament/) - Register now for Local 79's Annual Golf Tournament, where all proceeds are donated to United Way Toronto to assist in the important work they do for the city’s communities and neighbourhoods.Download the 2015 Local 79 Charity Golf registration package and return it no later than Monday, June 2nd, 2015 to: Attn: Ainsworth Hamilton (by mail)
- [Victory at the Labour Board](https://cupelocal79.org/victory-at-the-labour-board/) - Local 79 is pleased to welcome Building and Community Facilitators into our Bargaining Unit at TCHC. Many Members will be aware that this is a result of a recent decision in Local 79’s favour at the Labour Board. Local 79 will meet soon with TCHC management to discuss how we will now move forward to
- [Gapping levels and the number of vacancies in some Divisions remain a cause for concern](https://cupelocal79.org/gapping-levels-and-the-number-of-vacancies-in-some-divisions-remain-a-cause-for-concern/) - In this deputation to the City's Budget Committee, Local 79 President Tim Maguire says the 2014 Operating Budget relied on hiring delays and “under-spending in salaries and benefits” to meet unrealistically tight budget targets — and these cuts are having an impact on services. Dear Councillor Crawford and Members of the Budget Committee:RE: BU8.3 Operating Variance
- [May Day Message](https://cupelocal79.org/may-day-message/) - Read CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire's 2015 May Day message. On the morning of May 1st, Local 79 attended a rally supporting USW members who have been on strike against Crown Holdings for two years (pictured above). Every workplace right we have represents a major accomplishment of the labour movement. In that spirit, we celebrate
- [Upcoming dates of significance](https://cupelocal79.org/upcoming-dates-of-significance/) - In May, Local 79 will mark Asian Heritage Month, Jewish Heritage Month, and the International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. Please read more about these days to learn more about them.Asian Heritage MonthIn December 2001, Senator Vivienne Poy introduced a motion in the Senate of Canada to designate May as Asian Heritage Month and
- [Local 79 sponsors 2nd Annual City Ball Hockey Tournament](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79/) - On Saturday, March 28th, hundreds of kids got to enjoy a great day of ball hockey, pizza and fun at the 2nd Annual City Ball Hockey Tournament, held at the Better Living Centre.This year’s annual tournament featured 16 teams of boy’s and girl’s ball hockey teams assembled from participating Community Recreation Centres. It was also
- [International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination](https://cupelocal79.org/international-day-for-the-elimination-of-racial-discrimination-4/) - March 21 is designated by the United Nations (UN) as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It’s a day observed all around the world to focus attention on the problems of racism and the need to promote racial harmony.The UN made this designation in 1966 to mark a tragic event that took
- [Calling a Code Red on SAMS](https://cupelocal79.org/calling-a-code-red-on-sams/) - On March 12, 2015, CUPE Local 79 members wore red as part of CUPE Ontario’s call to implement a CODE RED on the Province’s Social Assistance Management System (SAMS).Ever since its rollout, SAMS has caused headaches for the recipients of social assistance and the social service workers that administer the program. And the Province has
- [Game Changer Tour - How to bring out the vote](https://cupelocal79.org/game-changer-tour-how-to-bring-out-the-vote/) - Brigette DePape was the Parliamentary Page who disrupted the Senate Throne speech with a “Stop Harper” sign. Today, Brigette is a campaigner for the Council of Canadians and is embarking on a national tour that can make a difference in the election outcome. This tour will be in Toronto on March 23 at Ryerson Student
- [Be part of our Local 79 contingent for International Women’s Day](https://cupelocal79.org/be-part-of-our-local-79-contingent-for-international-womens-day-2015/) - On March 8 (1857), women ‘garment workers’ in clothing and textile factories were attacked by police in New York City when they staged a protest against inhumane working conditions and low wages. Two years later, again in March, these women formed their first labour union to try and protect themselves and gain some basic rights
- [Where does the 2015 City Budget take us?](https://cupelocal79.org/where-does-the-2015-city-budget-take-us/) - Toronto’s 2015 Budget spares Toronto some of the deep cuts to services we have seen since amalgamation, but Local 79 does have concerns in a few key areas.For example:The proposed budget reduces homelessness services at Streets to Homes and the Parks Ambassador program;Rather than including the 3 new Youth Lounge spaces that were promised last
- [New shelters should build on City-run expertise](https://cupelocal79.org/new-shelters-should-build-on-the-expertise-of-existing-shelters/) - In this deputation to the Budget Committee, Local 79 President Tim Maguire cautions against having new proposed City shelters run privately, pointing the the gains that have been made with the award-winning models of the City-operated shelters. Dear Councillor Crawford and Members of the Budget Committee:RE: BU5.4 – 2015 Capital and Operating Budget 2015 Operating Budget
- [February is Black History Month](https://cupelocal79.org/february-is-black-history-month-3/) - In December 1995, the Parliament of Canada officially recognized February as Black History Month, following a motion introduced by the first Black Canadian Woman elected to Parliament, the Honourable Jean Augustine, M.P. of Etobicoke-Lakeshore, who at the time was Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister. The motion was carried unanimously by the House of Commons.The
- [Lunar New Year](https://cupelocal79.org/lunar-new-year/) - In 2015, Lunar New Year begins on Thursday, February 19th and is the Year of the Sheep. It is sometimes referred to as the Year of the Ram or Goat, depending on one’s interpretation of the Chinese word. The date changes according to the Lunar Calendar and is always determined by the second New Moon
- [Salu-Salo 2015](https://cupelocal79.org/salu-salo-2015/) - Salu-Salo is a Filipino word that means gathering, coming together. The Filipino Workers Network and the Toronto & York Region Labour Council invites you to an evening of networking and gathering of Filipino-Canadian union members.Date: February 21, 2015Venue: OPSEU Centre, 31 Wellesley St. EastTime: 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.Ticket price: $10For more information, call/text: 416-828-0441
- [Local 79 responds to the proposed 2015 City Budget](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-responds-to-the-proposed-2015-city-budget/) - What are the good aspects of this City Budget, and where does it fall short? Read Local 79 President Tim Maguire's deputation to the City's Budget Committee to find out. Dear Councillor Crawford and Members of the Budget Subcommittee:BV1.1 Budget Subcommittee for City Hall and Scarborough Civic Centre Consultation (City Hall)Local 79 has a vision of
- [More discounts for Local 79 members](https://cupelocal79.org/more-discounts-for-local-79-members/) - Hop onboard Local 79’s discount program! We’ve got companies that want Local 79 members as customers, and are offering us discounts as an incentive.We started the program last year with discounts on prescriptions from Loblaws’ drug stores. We're now pleased to announce that Yoga Tree is offering us their corporate discount. Yoga Tree is one
- [Dental Care Hansard Transcripts - Legislative Assembly of Ontario](https://cupelocal79.org/dental-care-hansard-transcripts-legislative-assembly-of-ontario/) - Official Records for 8 December, 2014Oral QuestionsMs. Andrea Horwath: My question is for the Premier. In hundreds of schools and clinics across this province, public health units provide basic teeth cleaning and checkups to low-income children, but New Democrats found out that Liberals are quietly cutting preventative dental care for kids by cutting this service
- [Local 79 & Ontario NDP push Liberals to reverse cuts in preventive dental care](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-ontario-ndp-push-liberals-to-reverse-cuts-in-preventive-dental-care/) - What a difference a day makes. After months of pressure on the Ontario Government, Local 79 and the NDP teamed up and finally got results.In June, Local 79 was shocked to discover the Province’s plan to cut preventive dental services for children in low-income families. By removing preventive dental care services from the Ontario Public
- [SAMS Survey results](https://cupelocal79.org/4859-2/) - Click here to access the SAMS Survey Summary Charts.
- [Local 79 members express disappointment & frustration over SAMS](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-members-express-disappointment-frustration-over-sams/) - The following letter from CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire, faxed to the Minister of Community and Social Services on Dec. 5, shares the disappointment and frustration felt by Local 79 members over the Province's new Social Assistance Management System (SAMS). Dear Minister Jaczek,The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79 has grave concerns regarding
- [On domestic violence and our sister Zahra Abdille](https://cupelocal79.org/on-domestic-violence-and-our-sister-zahra-abdille/) - A message from CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire about slain Local 79 member Zahra Mohamoud Abdille. It is with sadness that I share some heartbreaking news.Fellow Local 79 member Zahra Mohamoud Abdille, 43, and her sons Faris, 13, and Zain, 8, were killed last Saturday in what appears to have been an act of domestic violence.Zahra
- [Tim Maguire acclaimed to second term as Local 79 President](https://cupelocal79.org/tim-maguire-acclaimed-to-second-term-as-cupe-local-79-president/) - Tim Maguire has been acclaimed to a second three-year term as President of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79, which represents workers at the City of Toronto, Bridgepoint Hospital, and Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC). Maguire became a CUPE Local 79 member in 1990 as a caseworker in what is now the Toronto
- [November 2014 President's Report (City)](https://cupelocal79.org/november-2014-presidents-report-city/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: Effective January 1, 2015, all Local 79 members working for the City of Toronto, will receive an increase of 2.25% on gross regular pay. This was negotiated with the City in 2012 as part of the current Collective Agreements, with the exception of members in Long-Term Care Homes and
- [November 2014 President's Report (Bridgepoint)](https://cupelocal79.org/november-2014-presidents-report-bridgepoint/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at Bridgepoint Hospital: ELECTION:Now that the municipal election is over, it’s time to move forward.Congratulatory messages have already been sent to the Mayor-elect as well as to the new and incumbent City Councillors.John Tory has said that he wants to bring people together and move Toronto forward. We
- [National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women](https://cupelocal79.org/national-day-of-remembrance-and-action-on-violence-against-women-3/) - Please see the Women Won't Forget website for commemoration event details. December 6 is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in Canada. Established in 1991 by the Parliament of Canada, this day marks the anniversary of the murders in 1989 of 14 young women at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal.As you
- [Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights](https://cupelocal79.org/anniversary-of-the-universal-declaration-of-human-rights/) - Sixty six years ago, in the wake of the horrendous cruelty committed during the Second World War, the world was determined to end human rights violations. In 1948, on December 10, the first global treaty on human rights — the Universal Declaration of Human Rights — was signed at the United Nations. Canadian Law Professor
- [Childcare Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day celebration!](https://cupelocal79.org/childcare-worker-and-early-childhood-educator-appreciation-day-celebration/) - On Saturday, October 25th, 2014 — Local 79 celebrated Childcare Workers and Early Childhood Educators, who work day-in and day-out to take care of Toronto's children.Take a look at our photo slideshow from the event:
- [November 2014 President's Report (TCHC)](https://cupelocal79.org/november-2014-presidents-report-tchc/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at TCHC:ELECTION:Now that the municipal election is over, it’s time to move forward.Congratulatory messages have already been sent to the Mayor-elect as well as to the new and incumbent City Councillors.John Tory has said that he wants to bring people together and move Toronto forward. We particularly welcome his
- [Generation Y Young Workers Symposium](https://cupelocal79.org/oct-18-generation-you-youth-symposium-2/) - Generation Y faces unique challenges in the workforce and globally. That's why — on Saturday, October 18, at the North York Civic Centre — Local 79 held its first Symposium exclusively for young workers.Participants discussed how to increase participation in the union, financial literacy, underemployment/unemployment, and electoral participation.A special thank you to all our performers:
- [Street sweeper fiasco shows folly of cutbacks, contracting out](https://cupelocal79.org/street-sweeper-fiasco-shows-folly-of-cutbacks/) - Media reports of malfunctioning street sweepers spewing dust and debris into the air are not surprising to the members of Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE 79)."The street sweeper fiasco Torontonians learned of this week was entirely predictable, and we, in fact, warned the councillors who voted to outsource the city's
- [CN Tower Stair Climb 2014](https://cupelocal79.org/cn-tower-stair-climb-2014/) - Join us for the CN Tower Climb for the United Way Toronto on Sunday, October 19, 2014. Corporate Challenge 2 is sponsored by CUPE Local 79.
- [Countdown to Labour Day! (Sept. 1)](https://cupelocal79.org/countdown-to-labour-day-sept-1/) - Join us for the annual Labour Day Parade, where we march through the streets of Toronto celebrating the achievements of the Labour Movement.We cap it off with a day of festivities at the CNE. Registration is now open in the Members' Portal -- don't forget to select your t-shirt size!
- [Labour Day 2014](https://cupelocal79.org/countdown-to-labour-day-sept-1-2/) - On Monday, September 1st, 2014 — Local 79 members marched through the streets of Toronto to celebrate our solidarity and the gains the Labour Movement has made.We made a splash with our bright-yellow tshirts this year, and had a great time at the CNE following the march. Take a look below for our photos from
- [Our election mobilization began on Labour Day](https://cupelocal79.org/our-election-mobilization-begins-on-labour-day/) - Read CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire's Labour Day 2014 remarks. "We must all march with union pride on Labour Day. Workers’ rights and benefits, that are now taken for granted, are rooted in a hard fought history dating back to 1872. The first Labour Day event happened in 1872 when unions were illegal in Canada.The
- [Local 79's 5th Annual Charity Golf Tournament](https://cupelocal79.org/register-for-local-79s-5th-annual-charity-golf-tournament-2/) - On September 24th, 2014, Local 79 held its 5th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at the Richmond Hill Golf Club.The weather couldn't have been better, and participants came prepared to play some top-notch golf on a beautiful course.We'd like to extend our gratitude to the sponsors and volunteers whose support made this event possible.We're proud to
- [Local 79 celebrates at York-Eglinton International Street Festival](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-celebrates-at-york-eglinton-international-street-festival-2/) - On the August 16-17 weekend, 2014 – Local 79 was proud to participate in, and sponsor, the York-Eglinton International Street Festival.Check out the photos of folks who came to our booth to talk about how Local 79 members are taking care of Toronto.
- [Risk assessment needed for warrant checks](https://cupelocal79.org/risk-assessment-needed-for-warrant-checks/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire warns in this deputation to the City's Community Development and Recreation Committee that requiring shelter staff to undertake warrant checks could pose a health and safety threat, and calls for a risk assessment. Dear Councillor Perruzza and Members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee:RE: CD31.14 - Authorization for Shelter Staff
- [Toronto’s top doctor & Local 79 urge province not to cut 15,000 kids from preventive dental care program](https://cupelocal79.org/torontos-top-doctor-and-cupe-local-79-urge-province-not-to-cut-15000-kids/) - On August 18th, 2014, the Toronto Board of Health heard a presentation by CUPE Local 79 and reviewed a new report by the Medical Officer of Health (MOH) that details the hidden cuts in the province’s planned integration of its dental health programs. If the provincial changes go through, more than 15,000 children in Toronto
- [Impact of removing preventive oral health services from Ontario Public Health Standards](https://cupelocal79.org/4577-2/) - With the Province considering changes to the Ontario Public Health Standards, Local 79 President Tim Maguire deputed to the City's Board Of Health, asking the City to urge the Premier and the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care to maintain the current eligibility for preventive dental services under the OPHS. Dear Councillor Mihevc and Members of
- [Local 79 pledges to use 'every tool' to get answers in wake of bomb threat breakdown at City Hall](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-79-pledges-to-use-every-tool-at-our-disposal/) - Employee health and safety mustn't be compromised by flagrant disregard for well-established policies for dealing with threats, says President Tim Maguire TORONTO, ONTARIO -- The president of Canada's largest local union is pledging to use 'every tool at our disposal' to identify why a 'complete breakdown' in city policies followed last Monday's 'bomb threat' incident at
- [Toronto Social Development Dashboard needs to measure inequality](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-social-development-dashboard-needs-inequality-indicators/) - In this deputation, CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire comments on the Social Development Dashboard, arguing the proposed indicators don't tell the whole story about Toronto communities.Dear Councillor Perruzza and Members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee:In Divisions across the City, Local 79 members are on the front lines, taking care of Toronto, directly
- [Local 79 celebrates at the 2014 Caribbean Carnival](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-celebrates-at-the-caribbean-carnival/) - On Saturday August 2, 2014, CUPE Local 79 members celebrated the cultures of the Caribbean by dancing the 3.5 km length of Caribbean Carnival's Grande Parade.Take a look at the photos of Local 79 members who marched to represent our union in the parade section for organizations, and the members who donned Carnival costumes to
- [Local 79 celebrates Youth Day as lead sponsor](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-celebrates-youth-day-as-lead-sponsor/) - On July 20, 2014 – Local 79 was proud to participate in, and sponsor, Youth Day.Youth Day Toronto is a one-day summer festival held at Yonge-Dundas Square, and features the work and performances of over 350 youth. The day was founded in 2005, after Toronto’s “Summer of the Gun” to provide youth a free platform
- [World Pride 2014](https://cupelocal79.org/world-pride-2014/) - On June 29, 2014, Toronto welcomed over a million people for World Pride. Local 79 was proud to participate in this international celebration of diversity and equality. We printed a Pride rainbow banner that featured the word 'welcome' in 73 languages, and danced and marched with a DJ through the streets of Toronto for the parade.Take
- [Join the Chinese-Canadian or Filipino-Canadian Workers Network](https://cupelocal79.org/join-the-chinese-canadian-or-filipino-canadian-workers-network/) - The Toronto and York Region Labour Council is working to build networks of union activists in a number of newcomer communities in Toronto. Two years ago they started the Chinese Workers Network, which has been an overwhelming success. Now they're calling on Filipino-Canadian union members to come together and plan how to take a pro-union
- [July 23 & 24: Wild Water Kingdom Annual Picnic!](https://cupelocal79.org/july-23-24-wild-water-kingdom-annual-picnic/) - Join us on Wednesday & Thursday, July 23-24 for our annual picnic at Wild Water Kingdom. The fun starts at 10:30 a.m. each day.There is a minimal charge of $10 per person for using the water park area. The use of the picnic area is free and parking is free for all Local 79 members.
- [The Impact of Implementation of Healthy Smiles  Ontario Dental Program](https://cupelocal79.org/the-impact-of-implementation-of-healthy-smiles-ontario-dental-program/) - This deputation was given to Toronto's Board of Health by CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire, and sounds the alarm over the Province's plans to remove prevention services from the Ontario Public Health Standards and the consolidation of dental programs. Dear Councillor Mihevc and Members of the Board of Health: CUPE Local 79 members in Toronto
- [CUPE 79 Sounds alarm over Province's cut to Toronto's dental prevention services](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-79-sounds-alarm-over-provinces-cut-to-torontos-dental-prevention-services/) - TORONTO, ONTARIO -- The union representing Toronto's inside city workers expressed shock today at the Province's plans to remove dental prevention services from the Ontario Public Health Standards and halt funding for the programs. "Dental prevention services are part of the Ontario Public Health Standards for a reason," said CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire.
- [Old Fashioned Picnic in High Park 2014](https://cupelocal79.org/saturday-june-21-old-fashioned-picnic/) - On Saturday, June 21, 2014, Local 79 members attended a fun-filled day in High Park, replete with prizes, games, music and shows.Take a look below for photos of those who attended as they participated in our races, the fishing demonstrations, the shows, and so much more.
- [A program for Toronto: Creating Immigrant Friendly Cities](https://cupelocal79.org/a-program-for-toronto-creating-immigrant-friendly-cities/) - Toronto has long been recognized as a leader in creating effective multicultural communities. As a City, we have set our sights on being a great place for people from around the world to come and settle and become a full part of the community we share. We know, both instinctively and officially, that diversity is
- [The City is not doing enough to honour its budget commitment to fill vacancies and reduce gapping](https://cupelocal79.org/the-city-is-not-doing-enough-to-honour-its-budget-commitment/) - After the City failed to live up to its budget commitments to fill staff vacancies, Local 79 President Tim Maguire deputed to the City's Executive Committee urging them to do so.Dear Deputy Mayor Kelly and Members of the Executive Committee:RE: EX42.6 – Vacancies and Staff Actions (Ward All)CUPE Local 79 has been keeping a watchful
- [Restoration of Funding for Youth Employment Toronto Program](https://cupelocal79.org/restoration-of-funding-for-youth-employment-toronto-program/) - This deputation was given by Local 79 President Tim Maguire to the members of City Council's Executive Committee, and stresses the importance of restoring funding for the Youth Employment Toronto Program.Dear Deputy Mayor Kelly and Members of the Executive Committee:RE: EX42.33 - Restoration of Funding for Youth Employment Toronto Program I am pleased the Executive
- [1 in 4 Torontonians live in Poverty - The City needs a strategy](https://cupelocal79.org/1-in-4-torontonians-live-in-poverty-the-city-needs-a-strategy/) - Dear Councillor Thompson and Members of the Economic Development Committee:RE: ED31.9 Economic Dashboard (Ward All)On behalf of CUPE Local 79, I would like to comment on the May 9, 2014 Staff Report update on the Toronto Economic Dashboard. The fact that the City’s population is growing faster than the national average and experiencing an unemployment
- [Preferred home and auto insurance rates](https://cupelocal79.org/preferred-home-and-auto-insurance-rates-for-cupe-local-79-members/) - An insurance company is offering Local 79 members preferred rates on home and auto insurance — part of Local 79's ongoing effort to find members savings.Take a look in the Members' Portal for more information.
- [‘A culture of fear at the top always filters downward,’ warns CUPE 79 in wake of Ombudsman’s damning TCHC report](https://cupelocal79.org/a-culture-of-fear-at-the-top-always-filters-downward-warns-cupe-79-in-wake-of-ombudsmans-damning-tchc-report/) - Yesterday’s shocking report by City of Toronto Ombudsman Fiona Crean into management practices at Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) should serve as “a wake-up call to all Torontonians,” the President of Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE 79) said today.“While the Ombudsman’s report dealt specifically with TCHC’s management-level tier, it is
- [Local 79 member recieves Emergency Medical Dispatcher of the Year Award](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-member-recieves-emergency-medical-dispatcher-of-the-year-award/) - Congratulations!Local 79 member Norman Rivera received the Emergency Medical Dispatcher of the Year Award today from Toronto EMS Chief Paul Raftis at the annual Toronto EMS awards event. Brother Rivera has worked as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher for eight years, and, according to EMS, “He exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding 911 call taker. He
- [Secrets of the gender pay gap revealed](https://cupelocal79.org/secrets-of-the-gender-pay-gap-revealed/) - Although pay equity is the law in Ontario, women, on average, earn 31% less than men. This pay gap affects women of all ages and education levels.Women are often paid less, even when their skill, effort, responsibility and working conditions are similar to men’s. Women of colour, Aboriginal women and women with disabilities face the
- [National Nursing Week May 12 – 18, 2014](https://cupelocal79.org/national-nursing-week-may-12-18-2014/) - NURSING: A LEADING FORCE FOR CHANGECanada’s National Nursing Week for 2014 is May 12 – 18. The theme – “Nursing: A Leading Force For Change” recognizes the vital role nurses play to enrich and maintain the health and well-being of all the residents of the City of Toronto, as part of Canada’s publicly-funded, universal health
- [April 2014 President's Report (City)](https://cupelocal79.org/4209-2/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: At the end of last month, Local 79 sent more than a dozen members to the Municipal Political Action Conference. Organized by the Toronto and York Region Labour Council, the event focused on the importance of electing City Councillors in October who will support, and advocate for, strong public
- [April 2014 President's Report (TCHC)](https://cupelocal79.org/april-2014-presidents-report-tchc/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at TCHC: TCHC management and the leadership of Local 416 held a secret meeting with part-time members in the Local 79 Bargaining Unit at the end of March. Immediately following the meeting, TCHC posted positions, with Local 79 duties, in the Local 416 Bargaining Unit. At the meeting, Local
- [April 2014 President's Report (Bridgepoint Health)](https://cupelocal79.org/april-2014-presidents-report/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at Bridgepoint Hospital: The Clinical Nutritionists celebrated Nutrition month in March, and on March 27th they had a nutrition month display table near the cafeteria – the theme was “Simply Cook and Enjoy”. 75 people participated in the theme-related quiz and the winners received gifts donated by Local 79.Service Units
- [Asian Heritage Month 2014](https://cupelocal79.org/asian-heritage-month-2014/) - In December 2001, Senator Vivienne Poy introduced a motion in the Senate of Canada to designate May as Asian Heritage Month and in May, 2002 the Government of Canada officially recognized May as Asian Heritage Month.This is a worthy acknowledgement of the long and rich history of Asian Canadians and their contributions to Canada. Canada's,
- [Jewish Heritage Month (2014)](https://cupelocal79.org/jewish-heritage-month-3/) - On February 23, 2012, the Ontario Legislature passed Bill 17, making the month of May Jewish Heritage Month in the Province. The legislation received strong cross-party support, being introduced by Liberal MPP Mike Colle as a private member’s bill with co-sponsorship from Peter Shurman of the Progressive Conservative Party and Cheri DiNovo of the NDP.This
- [CUPE 79 helps make annual ball hockey tournament "The 'best-est' Saturday ever" for hundreds of city kids](https://cupelocal79.org/through-community-engagement-cupe-79-helps-annual-hockey-tournament/) - The Union representing 20,000 City of Toronto ‘Inside’ workers wants the ‘best-est’ ball hockey tournament in Toronto to be the biggest.On the heels of this weekend’s successful 2014 City Ball Hockey Tournament, Tim Maguire, President of Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE 79) pledged to make next year’s bigger and even
- [Impact of Delays in Filling Vacant Positions in the Fleet Services Division](https://cupelocal79.org/impact-of-delays-in-filling-vacant-positions-in-the-fleet-services-division/) - Dear Councillor Shiner and Members of the Government Management Committee:RE: GM29.3 – Impact of Delays in Filling Vacant Positions in the Fleet Services DivisionOn behalf of the members of CUPE Local 79 I would like to thank Councillor Shiner and Members of the Government Management Committee for their ongoing monitoring of vacant front-line positions here
- [Developing a Toronto Poverty Reduction Strategy - "There are so many in need - we must act together to make a better life for all our citizens."](https://cupelocal79.org/developing-a-toronto-poverty-reduction-strategy/) - Dear Councillor Perruzza and Members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee:RE: CD27.9 - Developing a Toronto Poverty Reduction StrategyOn behalf of CUPE Local 79 members who deliver front-line services and know first-hand how hard life is for people living in poverty in Toronto, I applaud Councillor Mihevc and the Committee’s efforts to develop a
- [International Women's Day 2014](https://cupelocal79.org/international-womens-day-2014/) - This year’s International Women’s Day Rally and March was a huge success as thousands of women, and men, marched to celebrate in solidarity with women all around the world.It was great to see so many people visiting our Local 79 table in the O.I.S.E. lobby beforehand and our pin was a big hit!Thanks especially to
- [March 2014 President's Report (City)](https://cupelocal79.org/march-2014-presidents-report-city/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: Local 79 will be asking you to partake in various campaigns this year. Firstly, we could be just weeks away from a potential Provincial Election and Local 79 members must be prepared to get engaged and fight for the continuation of our rights in the workplace. At the beginning
- [March 2014 President's Report (Bridgepoint Health)](https://cupelocal79.org/march-2014-presidents-report-bridgepoint-health/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at Bridgepoint Hospital: Local 79 will be asking you to partake in various campaigns this year. Firstly, we could be just weeks away from a potential Provincial Election and Local 79 members must be prepared to get engaged and fight for the continuation of our rights in the workplace.
- [March 2014 President's Report (TCHC)](https://cupelocal79.org/march-2014-presidents-report-tchc/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at TCHC: Local 79 will be asking you to partake in various campaigns this year. Firstly, we could be just weeks away from a potential Provincial Election and Local 79 members must be prepared to get engaged and fight for the continuation of our rights in the workplace. At
- [International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (2014)](https://cupelocal79.org/international-day-for-the-elimination-of-racial-discrimination-3/) - March 21 is designated by the United Nations (UN) as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It’s a day observed all around the world to focus attention on the problems of racism and the need to promote racial harmony.The UN made this designation in 1966 to mark a tragic event that took
- [Celebrating Mandela](https://cupelocal79.org/celebrating-mandela/) - As part of CUPE Local 79’s celebrations for Black History Month 2014, we held an event in partnership with CUPE Local 4400 and the City of Toronto, to honour the life of the late Nelson Mandela by reflecting on his extraordinary life. We believe it was both important and appropriate to reflect on the life
- [March 8: International Women's Day](https://cupelocal79.org/march-8-international-womens-day-march/) - Join us on Saturday March 8th for the 2013 Annual Toronto International Women’s Day Rally and March. This year’s theme is “Women Taking Power”. The Rally starts at 11 am at OISE, 252 Bloor Street West. The March – to support the $14 minimum wage campaign, public services and women’s services, and, the generation squeezed
- [Local 79 to Audit Committee: Providing solid training opportunities will help fill job vacancies](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-tells-audit-committee-that-providing-solid-training/) - Read CUPE Local 79 Tim Maguire's deputation to the City's Audit Committee, where he calls on the City to live up to its duty to properly train its employees. Dear Mary-Margaret McMahon, Chair and Members of the Audit Committee,RE: Review of Training, Conference and Related Travel ExpensesOver the last six months, CUPE Local 79 has brought
- [Local 79 Submission to Province on Proposals to Amend the Day Nurseries Act](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-submission-to-province-on-proposals-to-amend-the-day-nurseries-act/) - Child Care Modernization c/o Early Years Division, Ministry of Education To Whom It May Concern: RE: Proposals to Amend Regulation 262 under the Day Nurseries Act – Child Care Modernization Document Many members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79 work in the City of Toronto’s directly-operated child care centres. On
- [City Staff Report Validates Local 79 Concerns, Findings on Gapping](https://cupelocal79.org/staff-report-supports-local-79s-position-on-gapping/) - Councillor David Shiner, Chair And Members, Government Management Committeec/o Clerks OfficeCity of TorontoCity HallToronto, Ontario Dear Councillor Shiner, and Members, Government Management Committee, Re: Item Number GM28.8 Follow-up Report on the Impact of Delays in Filling Vacant Positions In the past number of months, I have appeared before the City’s Budget Committee and the
- [February 2014 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/february-2014-presidents-report/) - Read the February 2014 edition of the Seventy-Niner, a publication that replaces the President’s Report three times a year. Click here to download a PDF version of the June 2013 edition of The Seventy-Niner.
- [Unlisted](https://cupelocal79.org/unlisted/)
- [Thoughts on the 2014 City Budget](https://cupelocal79.org/thoughts-on-the-2014-city-budget/) - Take a look at Local 79 President Tim Maguire's video commentary on the highs and lows of the 2014 City Budget. A letter to members follows below. Dear Members, After months of meetings and debate the 2014 City Budget was approved on January 30th. Local 79 would like to thank you for your active
- [February is Black History Month - 2014](https://cupelocal79.org/february-is-black-history-month-2014/) - In December 1995, the Parliament of Canada officially recognized February as Black History Month, following a motion introduced by the first Black Canadian Woman elected to Parliament, the Honourable Jean Augustine, M.P. of Etobicoke-Lakeshore, who at the time was Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister. The motion was carried unanimously by the House of Commons.The
- [Jan. 31: Lunar New Year](https://cupelocal79.org/feb-10-lunar-new-year/) - In 2014, Lunar New Year begins on Friday, January 31st and is the Year of the Horse. The date changes according to the Lunar Calendar and is always determined by the second New Moon after the winter solstice. Each year is designated by one of the 12 Animals (Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse,
- [January 2014 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/january-2014-presidents-report/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: First of all, I would like to wish you and your families a happy and healthy New Year. I’m really looking forward to working together to face any challenges we may face in 2014! I want to thank members for your extraordinary efforts displayed as you helped “Take Care
- [January 2014 President's Report (TCHC)](https://cupelocal79.org/january-2014-presidents-report-tchc/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at TCHC: First of all, I would like to wish you and your families a happy and healthy New Year. I’m really looking forward to working together to face any challenges we may face in 2014! I want to thank members for your extraordinary efforts displayed as you helped
- [January 2014 President's Report (BPH)](https://cupelocal79.org/january-2014-presidents-report-bph/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at Bridgepoint Hospital: First of all, I would like to wish you and your families a happy and healthy New Year. I’m really looking forward to working together to face any challenges we may face in 2014! In December 2013, Local 79 sent a notice to all nurses at
- [Ice Storm Letter to Members](https://cupelocal79.org/ice-storm-letter-to-members/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers, I want to thank each and every one of you for your extraordinary efforts displayed as you helped “Take Care of Toronto” during the ice storm. All across the City of Toronto you, went above and beyond the call of duty 24/7, together with our sisters and brothers in
- [Discounts for Local 79 members](https://cupelocal79.org/more-discounts-for-local-79-members-2/) - Hop onboard Local 79’s discount program! We’ve got companies that want Local 79 members as customers, and are offering us discounts as an incentive. We started the program months ago with discounts on prescriptions from Loblaws’ drug stores, and now we’ve added three more companies:Perkopolis – an membership discount portal where you can access a
- [Local 79 Supports City Recommendations Urging the Province to Increase Funding for Long-Term Care](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-urging-the-province-to-increase-funding-for-long-term-care/) - December 3, 2013Councillor Anthony Perruzza, ChairAnd Members, Community Development and Recreation Committee100 Queen Street West10th Floor, West TowerToronto, OntarioM5H 2N2 Dear Councillor Perruzza, and Members of the Community Economic Development Committee:Re: Agenda Item # CD25.7 - Provincial Health System Funding Reform Related to Long-Term Care Homes and ServicesOn behalf of CUPE Local 79, I wish to
- [Expanding Recreational Services for Youth is Progressive and Achievable](https://cupelocal79.org/expanding-recreational-services-for-youth-is-progressive-and-achievable/) - Dear Councillor Perruzza and Members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee: RE: CD25.6 – Recreation Services for Youth: Expansion CUPE Local 79 supports the Recreation Service Plan and the engagement strategies, programs and services for youth. Investing in youth is a priority for this City, and any improvement to youth services that any of
- [November 2013 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/november-2013-presidents-report/) - Read the November 2013 edition of the Seventy-Niner, a publication that replaces the President’s Report three times a year. Click here to download a PDF version of the June 2013 edition of The Seventy-Niner.
- [The 65th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights](https://cupelocal79.org/the-65th-anniversary-of-the-universal-declaration-of-human-rights/) - Sixty five years ago, in the wake of the horrendous cruelty committed during the Second World War, the world was determined to end human rights violations. In 1948, on December 10, the first global treaty on human rights — the Universal Declaration of Human Rights — was signed at the United Nations. Canadian Law Professor
- [National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women (2013)](https://cupelocal79.org/national-day-remembrance-action-violence-against-women-2013/) - December 6 is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in Canada. Established in 1991 by the Parliament of Canada, this day marks the anniversary of the murders in 1989 of 14 young women at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal.As well as commemorating the 14 young women whose lives ended in an
- [A message on the Philippines disaster](https://cupelocal79.org/a-message-on-the-philippines-disaster/) - A message from Local 79 President Tim Maguire on the devastation from Super Typhooon Haiyan on the Philippines. Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: On behalf of the members of Local 79, I would like to express solidarity and support for all our members who have family and friends suffering from the aftermath of
- [Local 79 deputes at the Toronto Water Budget](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-deputes-at-the-toronto-water-budget/) - Dear Councillor Di Giorgio and Members of the Budget Committee: RE: BU46.1 2014 Rate Supported Budgets – Toronto Water and 2014 Water and Wastewater Rates and Service Fees The rate-supported budgets before the Budget Committee today reflect the alarming trend in all the City’s Divisions, Agencies, Boards and Commissions of frontline staff shortages and high
- [Leaving front-line positions vacant not the way to balance the Toronto Public Health Budget](https://cupelocal79.org/leaving-front-line-positions-vacant/) - Dear Councillor Mihevc and Members of the Board of Health:RE: HL25.6 – Toronto Public Health Staff Vacancies as at August 31, 2013 and HL25.8 – Toronto Public Health 2014 Operating Budget RequestThe number of staff vacancies and gapped positions continue to be a year-in year-out problem at Toronto Public Health (TPH). Service levels must be
- [October 2013 President's Report (City of Toronto)](https://cupelocal79.org/october-2013-presidents-report-city-of-toronto/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: The City’s 2014 budget process has begun and we have to get active! It all began with a report showing that the City left 2,500 positions unfilled, or “gapped” this year. Each Division then produced a Service Level Review that appeared to be only budget-driven and not at all
- [October 2013 President's Report (Bridgepoint Hospital)](https://cupelocal79.org/october-2013-presidents-report-bridgepoint-hospital/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at Bridgepoint Hospital: The new Local 79 office has been opened at Bridgepoint Hospital and it’s on the 10th floor. This meeting space, exclusive to Local 79 members, will afford the opportunity for members to meet with Local 79 Unit Officers for Union business. Local 79 has served Notice
- [October 2013 President's Report (TCHC)](https://cupelocal79.org/october-2013-presidents-report-tchc/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at TCHC: The Local 79 Executive met with TCHC Part-time workers to discuss the implementation of the new Collective Agreement, on Wednesday October 16, 2013. There was a good turnout and I’d like to thank everyone who attended the meeting. October is Healthy Workplace Month at TCHC. The focus
- [Leafs Nation Pack Deal](https://cupelocal79.org/leafs-nation-pack/) - Leafs Nation Pack Deal package includes 2 or 4 seats to one of the following Maple Leafs games... Click to learn more and get yours today!
- [Persons Day - October 18 2013](https://cupelocal79.org/persons-day-october-18-2/) - On October 18, 1929, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in England, then the appeals court for the Canadian Supreme Court, ruled that women had the right to be appointed to the Senate of Canada, become members of other federal bodies, attend university, and practice a liberal trade. Prior to that decision, the federal
- [Raptors tickets deal](https://cupelocal79.org/raptors-tickets-deal/) - For more information, contact MLSE agent Jennifer Seedu at Jennifer.Seedu@mlse.com or 416-263-3903.
- [Celebrating Toronto’s Public Health Inspectors](https://cupelocal79.org/celebrating-torontos-public-health-inspectors/) - At the Toronto Board of Health meeting on October 1st, 2013 – the great work of Local 79 members who keep Toronto communities healthy and safe was recognized through the Mayor’s Proclamation of “Public Health Inspectors Week”, which ran from September 23-27, 2013. Toronto has over 100 highly trained Public Health Inspectors who monitor thousands
- [Vacancies and Staff Actions Report is only a Report-by-Half — there's a lot missing](https://cupelocal79.org/the-vacancies-and-staff-actions-report-is-only-a-report/) - The detailed breakdown of front-line and management positions and a thorough description of the impact are both missing.Dear Councillor Di Giorgio and Members of the Budget Committee:RE: BU44.2 – Vacancies and Staff ActionsOn behalf of CUPE Local 79 members, who deliver hundreds of front-line services across the City, and on behalf of the more than
- [Board of Health Report shows 224 vacant positions](https://cupelocal79.org/board-of-health-report-shows-224-vacant-positions/) - Delays in hiring reduced TPH’s services across all programs Dear Councillor Mihevc and Members of the Board of Health: RE: HL24.11 – Toronto Public Health Operating Budget Variance for the Six Months ended June 30, 2013 After seeing the Operating Variance at Budget Committee earlier this month, and the Service Level Reviews at the
- [Service Level Review budget-driven, instead of what communities need](https://cupelocal79.org/the-service-level-review-process-has-been-budget-driven/) - The review exposes the fact that services are being reduced as Divisions are asked to do more with less this year and next year.Dear Mayor Ford and Members of the Executive Committee:RE: EX34.3 – 2014 Service Level ReviewCity Manager’s Office, Office of the Deputy City Manager/Chief Financial Officer, City Clerk’s Office, Legal ServicesThe Service Level
- [Constrained and reduced budget dollars are the driving force behind these Service Level Reviews](https://cupelocal79.org/constrained-and-reduced-budget-dollars-are-the-driving-force/) - Public Works & Infrastructure Committee Review of Engineering & Construction Services; Policy, Planning, Finance & Administration; Solid Waste Management Services; Toronto Water; Transportation ServicesDear Councillor Minnan-Wong, and Members of the Public Works & Infrastructure Committee:RE: PW26.16 – 2014 Service Level ReviewThe pre-budget Service Level Review exercise does not provide any true indication of what staffing
- [MLS must have the proper resources to do its job.](https://cupelocal79.org/mls-must-have-the-proper-resources-to-do-its-job/) - MLS is responsible for the enforcement of over 29 bylaws and their services include everything from zoning to bringing animals to shelter. Dear Councillor Palacio and Members of the Licensing & Standards Committee: RE: LS23.1 – 2014 Service Level Review Municipal Licensing and Standards (MLS) Division The Service Level Review for the Municipal Licensing
- [Service Level Reviews for 10 Divisions are on the agenda at the Community Development and Receration Committee](https://cupelocal79.org/service-level-reviews-for-10-divisions-are-on-the-agenda/) - There are challenges in each and every Division and questions abound about what exactly are the adequate staffing levels.Dear Councillor Perruzza and Members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee:RE: CD23.10 2014 Service Level ReviewAffordable Housing Office, Children’s Services, Community Recreation (PFR Division), Emergency Medical Services, Fire Services (Cluster B), Long-Term Care Homes & Services,
- [The Report highlights the services that make Toronto a liveable City](https://cupelocal79.org/the-report-highlights-the-services-that-make-toronto-a-liveable-city/) - The work of the Divisions reporting through the Economic Development Committee underscores the importance of ensuring staffing levels meet community needs. Dear Councillor Thompson and Member of the Economic Development Committee: RE: ED24.11 Service Level Review Economic Development & Culture, Social Development, Finance & Administration, Toronto Employment & Social Services The Service Level Review before
- [Parks and Environment - Service Levels should be driven by community needs, not the budget process](https://cupelocal79.org/parks-environment-service-levels-should-be-driven-by-community-needs/) - The Parks & Environment Committee and Council should reject service level reductions - Torontonians deserve better.Dear Councillor Ainslie and Members of the Parks and Environment Committee:RE: PE 22.2 – 2014 Service Level ReviewCUPE Local 79 members deliver front-line services across Toronto to help make this a healthy, safe and liveable city. Our members also live
- [The jobs are there, the budget money is there, where are the workers?](https://cupelocal79.org/the-jobs-are-there-the-budget-money-is-there-where-are-the-workers/) - There are over 2,500 City jobs still unfilled halfway through the 2013 budget cycle. Local 79 President, Tim Maguire, asked why at the Service Level Review. Dear Councillor Milczyn and Members of the Planning and Growth Management Committee: RE: PG26.1 – 2014 Service Level Review The staffing levels in the City are not adequate to
- [Join us in the CN Tower Stair Climb!](https://cupelocal79.org/join-us-in-the-cn-tower-stair-climb/) - Join us in the CN Tower Stair Climb! Watch the video and share with friends. See you at the CN Tower Stair Climb!
- [How can service levels be sustained with so many positions unfilled?  Tim Maguire asks as the City's 2014 Budget cycle begins](https://cupelocal79.org/how-can-service-levels-be-sustained/) - Dear Councillor Shiner and Members of the Government Management Committee:RE: GM24.15 – 2014 Service Level ReviewCourt Services, 311, Fleet, Facilities Management and Real Estate (excluding the Environment & Energy Office), Information & Technology and the Office of the TreasurerI would like to congratulate Councillor Shiner on his appointment to Chair the Government Management Committee. The
- [Local 79 tells City Budget Committee that the 2013 surplus comes at quite a price](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-tells-city-budget-committee-that-the-2013-surplus-comes-at-quite-a-price/) - Dear Councillor Di Giorgio and Members of the Budget Committee: RE: BU43.2 – Operating Variance Report for the Six Month Period Ended June 30, 2013 Yes there is going to be another Budget surplus in 2013, but it comes at quite a price. That price is a service deficit. The City is facing a growing
- [Register now for Oct. 20 CN Tower Stair Climb!](https://cupelocal79.org/cntower/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire is stepping up in this year’s United Way campaign as one more way to show that our members are taking care of Toronto. Tim is a Labour Representative on United Way Toronto’s Campaign Cabinet, and at the City Employees' United Way Toronto Campaign launch, Tim was named Co-Patron of the
- [Toronto's First Mayor Wows Crowds at City Festivals - Taste of the Danforth Next!](https://cupelocal79.org/torontos-first-mayor-wows-crowds-at-city-festivals-taste-of-the-danforth-next/) - CUPE Local 79's "Chill with Will" theatrical show will entertain visitors attending the Taste of the Danforth this weekend, August 9-11. "It is apparent to me that Toronto has much to celebrate," said William Lyon Mackenzie, the star of the show. "There is clean water piped into every house, and City 'swim instructors' teach kids
- [Letter to CRTC Regarding Cuts by Rogers to OMNI TV](https://cupelocal79.org/letter-to-crtc-regarding-cuts-by-rogers-to-omni-tv/) - SENT BY FAX AND REGULAR MAIL August 6, 2013 John TraversySecretary GeneralCRTCOttawa, ON K1A 0N2 Dear Secretary General Traversy, Re: Application 2013-0996-4 regarding changes by Rogers Broadcasting Limited to OMNI television programming I am writing to you on behalf of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79, Canada’s largest municipal Union Local,
- [Victory at City Hall! Quality Jobs, Living Wages and Fair Wages in Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/victory-at-city-hall-quality-jobs-living-wages-and-fair-wages-in-toronto/) - Click here to skip ahead and read about the fight we still have left for Medicare. Local 79 and our community partners scored an important victory during last week’s meeting of City Council. Council debated agenda item EX 33.2, “Quality Jobs, Living Wages and Fair Wages in Toronto”, which included proposals that could make it
- [Redevelopment of Seaton House and the Revitalization of George Street - Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam's support appreciated by Local 79](https://cupelocal79.org/redevelopment-of-seaton-house-and-the-revitalization-of-george-street/) - Dear Councillor Wong-Tam:RE: Redevelopment of Seaton House and the Revitalization of George StreetOn July 17, 2013 City Council adopted the Staff Report, with amendments, on the Redevelopment of Seaton House and the Revitalization of George Street.CUPE Local 79 would like to thank you for your keen and informed interest in the City’s shelter system and,
- [Quality Jobs, Living Wages and Fair Wages in Toronto - "Toronto is facing a crisis brought on by the increase of low-wage, low-quality jobs," Tim Maguire tells City's Executive Committee](https://cupelocal79.org/quality-jobs-living-wages-and-fair-wages-in-toronto/) - Mayor Ford and Members of the Executive Committee:RE: EX 33.2 - Quality Jobs, Living Wages and Fair Wages in TorontoLocal 79 represents approximately 20,000 employees in the City of Toronto delivering a wide range of services including cleaning in many of the City’s facilities.Updating the City’s Fair Wage Policy is long overdue – by a
- [Multiculturalism Day](https://cupelocal79.org/multiculturalism-day/) - Multiculturalism is a fundamental characteristic of the Canadian heritage and since 2002 Canadians have celebrated Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27. The former Governor General, Adrienne Clarkson, made the proclamation on behalf of the Canadian Government on November 13, 2002, declaring June 27 of each year a celebration of the contributions of Canada’s diverse people
- [Young Workers' Committee heads out to the ball game](https://cupelocal79.org/young-workers-committee-heads-out-to-the-ball-game/) - On Sunday, June 23rd, 2013 — almost eighty Local 79 members of all ages went out to the ball game together to watch the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Baltimore Orioles. The event was organized by Local 79's Young Workers' Committee, and featured discounted Jays tickets and Local 79 branded baseball swag. Want to get
- [June 2013 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/june-2013-presidents-report/) - Read the June 2013 edition of the Seventy-Niner, a publication that replaces the President’s Report three times a year. Click here to download a PDF version of the June 2013 edition of The Seventy-Niner.
- [May 2013 President's Report (City of Toronto)](https://cupelocal79.org/may-2013-presidents-report-city-of-toronto/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: Earlier this month, many Local 79 members of the Joint Health and Safety Committees participated in the 14th Annual Joint Health and Safety Recognition event. The participants heard encouraging and supportive speeches from a number of speakers. Local 79 Equity Vice-President, Ainsworth Hamilton addressed the participants in my absence,
- [May 2013 President's Report (Bridgepoint Hospital)](https://cupelocal79.org/may-2013-presidents-report-bridgepoint-hospital/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at Bridgepoint Hospital: In recognition of the recent celebration of Nursing Week, on behalf of the Executive of Local 79 I’d like to thank Local 79 nurses at Bridgepoint Hospital for your dedication and commitment to the health and well-being of the residents of Bridgepoint Hospital. Local 79 is
- [May 2013 President's Report (TCHC)](https://cupelocal79.org/may-2013-presidents-report-tchc/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at TCHC: TCHC: Thanks to all the TSCs and CSFs who braved the dismal rainy weather last month to share their thoughts and ideas with us on the proposed restructuring in Asset Management. Your input was really appreciated and Local 79 not only shared the information in a letter
- [Join us today for our Summer campaign launch!](https://cupelocal79.org/join-us-on-june/) - You're Invited! Don't miss out on the celebration of our city´s history and see how CUPE Local 79 members continue to take care of Toronto. On Monday, June 17th, come on down to the historic Winter Garden Theatre and join other CUPE Local 79 members and friends for a chance to meet Toronto´s first mayor,
- [Sign the petition to preserve quality services](https://cupelocal79.org/3506-2/) - On June 11-12, 2013 — City Council will consider taking the first steps towards contracting out food and cleaning services at all City-run homeless shelters, and contracting out the award-winning Fort York Residence entirely. TogetherToronto.ca has taken up the cause to help protect quality public services and good jobs in Toronto. Click here to sign
- [National Aboriginal History Month (2013)](https://cupelocal79.org/national-aboriginal-history-month-2/) - In June, Canadians celebrate Aboriginal History Month, an opportunity to honour the heritage, contributions and cultures of Aboriginal peoples in Canada.June was declared National Aboriginal History month in 2010, after Nanaimo-Cowichan Member of Parliament, Jean Crowder, introduced a motion to make June a month of recognition for First Nations, Inuit and Métis. The motion received
- [2013 Ontario Budget - "By consulting with the people of Ontario, New Democrats ensured that many of the critical issues were addressed"](https://cupelocal79.org/2013-ontario-budget-by-consulting-with-the-people-of-ontario/) - Andrea Horwath, Leader, New Democratic Party of Ontario Dear Ms. Horwath: RE: 2013 Ontario BudgetOn behalf of the members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79 working for the City of Toronto, the Toronto Community Housing Corporation and Bridgepoint Hospital, I was pleased to hear that through the strong voice and leadership of the
- [City Shelters under threat of contracting out](https://cupelocal79.org/city-shelters-under-threat-of-contracting-out/) - The following letter from CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire was delivered to the Toronto City Councillor Robinson and members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee. In it, Maguire urges the Committee to reject the prospect of contracting out cleaning and food services at City Shelters, as these services are provided as a team
- [Scholarships available to Local 79 Members](https://cupelocal79.org/scholarships-available-to-local-79-members/) - Take a look at the scholarships available to Local 79 members and their families: Alex Gregory Memorial Scholarship Applications for the Alex Gregory Memorial Scholarship will be accepted for students who are in their final year of secondary school in Ontario, and are registered in a post-secondary institution this fall. Five scholarships for $500 each
- [National Day Against Homophobia](https://cupelocal79.org/national-day-against-homophobia-2/) - National Day against Homophobia will be celebrated in 2013 on Friday May 17th and this year’s campaign theme is Fight the Homophobia Web Virus. According to the campaign website: Homophobia is becoming increasingly present on the Web and in social media. The anonymity of the Internet facilitates the spread of abusive comments and cyberhomophobia. Cyberhomophobia
- [City honours Local 79 members with Health & Safety Award](https://cupelocal79.org/city-honours-local-79-members-with-health-safety-award/) - Congratulations to all Local 79 members working in the Shelter Support and Housing Administration Division, and the Facilities Management Division. At the recent 14th Annual Joint Health and Safety Recognition event, the Shelter Support and Housing Administration Division was awarded the Dr. Sheela Basrur Health and Safety Award. This award is given annually to a
- [2013 Ontario Budget - Austerity will never bring prosperity](https://cupelocal79.org/2013-ontario-budget-austerity-will-never-bring-prosperity/) - Kathleen Wynne, Premier Dear Premier Wynne: RE: 2013 Ontario Budget – Austerity will never bring prosperity On behalf of the 20,000-strong membership of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79, I would like to comment on the 2013 Ontario Budget introduced on May 2, 2013. CUPE Local 79 is the largest municipal union
- [Nursing:  A Leading Force for Change - CUPE Local 79 celebrates Nursing Week](https://cupelocal79.org/nursing-a-leading-force-for-change-cupe-local-79-celebrates-nursing-week/) - CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire thanks City nurses. The theme for this year’s Nursing Week – Nursing: A Leading Force for Change – captures the value and importance of the work you do every day. You lead by example. You perform some of the most important work there is throughout the City. You promote
- [On the 10th anniversary of SARS](https://cupelocal79.org/on-the-10th-anniversary-of-sars/) - A very sad anniversary was marked recently. It was ten years ago that severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) first appeared in Toronto. From February 23, 2003, to June 7, 2003, 387 people in Toronto were infected with SARS and 44 of them died. On April 23, 2003 the World Health Organization issued a travel advisory
- [Jewish Heritage Month (2013)](https://cupelocal79.org/jewish-heritage-month-2-2/) - On February 23, 2012, the Ontario Legislature passed Bill 17, making the month of May Jewish Heritage Month in the Province. The legislation received strong cross-party support, being introduced by Liberal MPP Mike Colle as a private member’s bill with co-sponsorship from Peter Shurman of the Progressive Conservative Party and Cheri DiNovo of the NDP.This
- [Asian Heritage Month 2013](https://cupelocal79.org/asian-heritage-month-2013/) - In December 2001, Senator Vivienne Poy introduced a motion in the Senate of Canada to designate May as Asian Heritage Month and in May, 2002 the Government of Canada officially recognized May as Asian Heritage Month.This is a worthy acknowledgement of the long and rich history of Asian Canadians and their contributions to Canada. Canada's,
- [April 28, 2013: Day of Mourning](https://cupelocal79.org/april-28-2013-day-of-mourning/) - The following message was spoken at the Day of Mourning memorial by CUPE Local 79 First Vice-President Nancy Murphy on April 26th, 2013. In 2012, a Local 79 member suffered a heart attack and passed away at work. Steven Hanneson was a heavy-duty cleaner for the City of Toronto, and he passed away on
- [Closure of Bellevue Child Care Centre fails Torontonians](https://cupelocal79.org/3390-2/) - The following letter from CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire was delivered to the General Manager of Children's Services, questioning why the City is allowing Bellevue Child Care Centre to close when there's such a great need for child care in Toronto. Dear Ms. Baxter-Trahair: RE: Bellevue Child Care Centre closure, July 19, 2013
- [Don't make the City an employer of precarious work](https://cupelocal79.org/dont-add-to/) - This letter from CUPE Local 79 Vice-President Nancy Murphy was sent to Mayor Ford and the members of his Executive Committee. It warns against the increasing level of precarious employment in Toronto, and asks the City not to take part in creating that kind of work by facilitating the contracting out of cleaning services.
- [April 2013 President's Report (City of Toronto)](https://cupelocal79.org/april-2013-presidents-report-city-of-toronto/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: Following release of the Federal Budget, I wrote to Stephen Harper telling him that Local 79 believes that the provision of stable, sustainable Federal policies and resource commitments are long overdue to enable the residents of Canada’s largest city, Toronto, to grow and prosper. Harper’s so-called Economic Action Plan
- [April 2013 President's Report (Bridgepoint Health)](https://cupelocal79.org/april-2013-presidents-report-bridgepoint-health/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at Bridgepoint Hospital: April 14, 2013 was the big Move Day from the old Bridgepoint Hospital to the brand new building. This has been a very exciting time and throughout the transition there have been issues to address. Now that the big Move Day is over, Local 79 will
- [April 2013 President's Report (TCHC)](https://cupelocal79.org/april-2013-presidents-report-tchc/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at TCHC: Members of the Local 79 Executive, the TCHC Unit Officer, and the CUPE National Representative were at selected meetings last week to listen to discussions between our members at TCHC and management. It was important for Local 79 Representatives to hear these discussions, although this was a
- [No to a Casino.  "Gambling addictions and increasing poverty will overwhelm a social service infrastructure already under siege."](https://cupelocal79.org/no-to-a-casino-gambling-addictions-and-increasing-poverty/) - Mayor Rob Ford, Chair, and Members of the Executive Committee RE: Executive Committee Meeting 30 (Special) Item EX30.1 – New Casino and Convention Development in TorontoMy name is Lily Chang. I am the Treasurer of CUPE Local 79, Toronto’s inside workers. I’m deputing to Executive Committee representing over 2000 members working for the City’s Employment
- [CUPE Local 79 says No to a casino - "It is clear from a public health perspective that a casino is the wrong choice for Toronto."](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-says-no-casino-is-the-wrong-choice-for-toronto/) - Mayor Rob Ford, Chair, and Members of the Executive CommitteeRE: Executive Committee Meeting 30 (Special) Item EX30.1 – New Casino and Convention Development in TorontoMy name is Nancy Murphy, and I am the First Vice President of CUPE Local 79. I am submitting this deputation to highlight concerns raised by Local 79 members working in
- [CUPE Local 79 deputes at the Casino debate on the excessive strain placed on people working across a broad range of services - just say "No"](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-deputes-at-the-casino-debate/) - Mayor Rob Ford, Chair, and Members of the Executive Committee RE: Executive Committee Meeting 30 (Special) Item EX30.1 – New Casino and Convention Development in TorontoI would like the Executive Committee to receive this deputation from me as Chief Steward of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Local 79 and as a City
- [On Eve of Casino Decision, City Union Reminds Council That No Means No](https://cupelocal79.org/on-eve-of-casino-decision-city-union-reminds-council-that-no-means-no/) - The union president representing Toronto's inside city workers is reminding Council today that City workers have said no to a new casino in Toronto. "Council should listen to the resounding 'no' that Toronto residents, community groups and workers have given to the idea of a mega-casino being built in Toronto," said CUPE Local 79 President
- [Action needed on precarious employment in Ontario](https://cupelocal79.org/action-needed-on-precarious-employment-in-ontario/) - The following letter by CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire was sent to Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, urging for government action on the trend of increased precarious employment. Dear Premier Wynne, On behalf of the approximately 20,000 members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79, I wish to acknowledge and applaud
- [Celebrating Peter Kormos (1952-2013)](https://cupelocal79.org/celebrating-peter-kormos-1952-2013/) - In this note , CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire reflects on the life of Peter Kormos, a great ally for Ontario workers. It was with great sadness that I learned about the passing of Peter Kormos, former NDP MPP from Welland, Ontario. I grew up in Niagara, and went to high school in Welland. When
- [Toronto Workers’ Union Opposes Casino](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-workers-union-opposes-casino/) - Toronto — The union representing Toronto’s inside city workers announced today its opposition to a new casino in Toronto. CUPE Local 79, whose members provide a range of social services to communities across Toronto, announced its decision after the results of an internal poll showed 67% of responding members oppose a casino outright. 81% thought
- [Maguire gives welcome at CLC National Leaders Summit](https://cupelocal79.org/maguire-gives-welcome-at-clc-national-leaders-summit/) - The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) gave CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire the honour of welcoming more than 350 labour leaders to its one-day summit on Friday, March 22nd. The CLC’s ‘National Leaders Summit’ was organized to discuss ways of strengthening union members’ ability to advocate for greater fairness for all Canadians. Maguire dedicated his
- [Canada’s Economic Action Plan 2013 – A “Shell Game”](https://cupelocal79.org/canadas-economic-action-plan-2013-a-shell-game/) - Tim Maguire responds to PM Harper’s budget - What’s missing in the Economic Action Plan 2013 is a plan for workers and needed services for communities. Dear Prime Minister: I am writing to you on behalf of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79, the largest municipal union local in Canada, representing
- [March 2013 President's Report (Bridgepoint Health)](https://cupelocal79.org/march-2013-presidents-report-bridgepoint-health/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at Bridgepoint Hospital: Here’s some good news for our members in the Service Unit who were laid off in September 2010 and were on recall. The members affected by this lay-off have been offered permanent positions in the new hospital. April 14, 2013 is Moving Day to the new
- [March 2013 President's Report (TCHC)](https://cupelocal79.org/march-2013-presidents-report-tchc/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: As the Labour movement faces serious challenges, including threats to bargaining rights, Local 79 remains committed to working in solidarity in CUPE and with other Unions. In February, Local 79 participated in CUPE’s first national bargaining conference in Ottawa. This conference focused on the challenging landscape for collective bargaining,
- [Against Road Tolls: The 407-ization of the daily commute](https://cupelocal79.org/against-road-tolls-the-407-ization-of-the-daily-commute/) - The following letter was written by CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire and sent to the City of Toronto's Planning and Growth Management Committee. Modified versions were sent to the Chair of Metrolinx and the Premier of Ontario (posted subsequently). It expresses Tim's views that road tolls are not a fair way to make up
- [March 2013 President's Report (City of Toronto)](https://cupelocal79.org/march-2013-presidents-report/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: As the Labour movement faces serious challenges, including threats to bargaining rights, Local 79 remains committed to working in solidarity in CUPE and with other Unions. In February, Local 79 participated in CUPE’s first national bargaining conference in Ottawa. This conference focused on the challenging landscape for collective bargaining,
- [Countdown to a big start to Spring](https://cupelocal79.org/coundtown-to-a-big-start-to-spring/) - With the cool weather lingering this week, you may be longing for warmer summer days. But rest assured, this coming Thursday, March 21st, is the first day of Spring, and we’re starting it off by helping social justice bloom! We hope you’ll join us for some of the following events. Campaign to Raise the Minimum
- [Toronto Public Health wins Baby-Friendly Initiative designation](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-public-health-wins-baby-friendly-initiative-designation/) - Congratulations to all Local 79 members working in Toronto Public Health (TPH)! Last month TPH received the prestigious Baby-Friendly Initiative (BFI) designation, a worldwide program of the World Health Organization and UNICEF. This designation ensures that Toronto residents continue to receive high quality infant feeding services from TPH staff. Read more from the City's press
- [International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (2013)](https://cupelocal79.org/international-day-for-the-elimination-of-racial-discrimination-2/) - March 21 is designated by the United Nations (UN) as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It’s a day observed all around the world to focus attention on the problems of racism and the need to promote racial harmony.The UN made this designation in 1966 to mark a tragic event that took
- [International Women's Day 2013](https://cupelocal79.org/international-womens-day-2013/) - On Saturday, March 9th, 2013, Local 79 participated in the 2013 International Women’s Day events, with a rally starting at OISE followed by a march all the way to Ryerson University to a fair that took on the ongoing violence against women. “Fires are burning, we are rising” was the slogan of the 2013 Annual
- [Open Letter Urging Toronto City Council to Take Immediate Action to Save the Lives of People Who are Homeless by Opening Emergency Shelter Space](https://cupelocal79.org/open-letter-to-save-the-lives-of-people-who-are-homeless/) - There is an urgent need to open additional shelter space to reduce the pressure on the system, improve its responsiveness, and ensure that no one is left out in the cold.On February 12, Stewart Poirier’s name was added to Toronto’s Homeless Memorial as the 700th person that we know of to die in our city
- [2013 Annual Equity Symposium](https://cupelocal79.org/2013-annual-equity-symposium/) - On Monday, February 11th, 2013, CUPE Local 79 and the City of Toronto co-hosted the 6th Annual Equity Symposium. This year's theme focused on the important topic of mental health in the workplace, and took place in Council Chambers at Toronto City Hall. We were pleased to receive Dr. Martin Shain as our keynote speaker,
- [February 2013 President's Report (City of Toronto)](https://cupelocal79.org/february-2013-presidents-report-city-of-toronto/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: Local 79 received a favourable Arbitrator’s Award recently regarding vacation entitlement for members who move from the City Part-Time Bargaining Units to the Full-time Bargaining Unit. Prior to the Award, these members had to wait an entire year for vacation entitlement. Now they will receive some vacation entitlement in
- [February 2013 President's Report (Bridgepoint)](https://cupelocal79.org/february-2013-presidents-report-bridgepoint/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at Bridgepoint Hospital: Transition to the new hospital is on schedule and the move will take place in early April 2013. Local 79 will continue to protect your interests and monitor any changes that might affect you in the workplace. As issues arise Local 79 will continue to meet
- [February 2013 President's Report (TCHC)](https://cupelocal79.org/february-2013-presidents-report-tchc/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers at Toronto Community Housing: TCHC Bargaining - Local 79’s bargaining proposals were ratified at a well-attended meeting on January 30, 2013. Local 79’s Bargaining Committee would like to thank all members who endorsed the proposals and added their valuable input. On February 14, 2013, Local 79 and
- [Toronto Newcomer Strategy](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-newcomer-strategy/) - "Newcomers need to know what’s available to help them settle and thrive – they need to know how welcome they are." President Tim Maguire speaks at the City's Community Development and Recreation Committee Councillor Jaye Robinson, Chair and Members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee RE: CD18.7 Toronto Newcomer Strategy CUPE Local 79 would
- [Local 79 joins thousands at Rally for Rights and Democracy](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-joins-thousands-at-rally-for-rights-and-democracy/) - On January 26th, 2013, CUPE Local 79 was proud to join over 25,000 union activists in the Rally for Rights and Democracy. Two large groups gathered in rallies at Moss Park and Allen Gardens before marching to Maple Leaf Gardens, where the Ontario Liberal Party was holding its leadership convention. The rally, with its historic
- [CUPE launches 'Bargaining Works' ad](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-launches-bargaining-works-ad/) - The Canadian Union of Public Employees is launching a television advertising campaign intended to help build awareness of the benefits of collective bargaining for everyone in Ontario. The commercial is a reminder of a number of the benefits common in workplaces today that exist in part because they were first negotiated by a union bargaining
- [January 2013 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/january-2013-presidents-report/) - Introducing the Seventy-Niner, which replaces the President's Report three times a year. Click here to download a PDF version of the January 2013 edition of the Seventy-Niner.
- [Video: Wrap-up on Budget 2013](https://cupelocal79.org/video-round-up-on-budget-2013/) - A video message from CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire about some of the positive and negative aspects of the 2013 City Budget.
- [February is Black History Month - 2013](https://cupelocal79.org/february-is-black-history-month-2013/) - In December 1995, the Parliament of Canada officially recognized February as Black History Month, following a motion introduced by the first Black Canadian Woman elected to Parliament, the Honourable Jean Augustine, M.P. of Etobicoke-Lakeshore, who at the time was Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister. The motion was carried unanimously by the House of Commons.
- [City Budget Ignores Social Infrastructure Deficit, says Local 79 President](https://cupelocal79.org/city-budget-ignores-social-infrastructure-deficit-says-local-79-president/) - (Toronto) Tim Maguire, President of CUPE Local 79, Toronto Inside Workers, criticized the City's 2013 operating budget for failing to address the rapidly growing need for recreation services, childcare spaces and affordable housing. "This budget ignores the growing social infrastructure deficit the City is facing. We are one of the fastest growing cities in the
- [Toronto School Board Closure](https://cupelocal79.org/tomorrows-toronto-school-board-closure/) - Ontario's public elementary teachers will stage a one-day political protest on Friday, January 11th, in response to the Ontario provincial government imposing contracts on them (using Bill 115). Local 79 members who work at a site that could be affected are covered by a Collective Agreement with the City and have an obligation to report
- [Act now on Budget 2013: Support Recreation Services](https://cupelocal79.org/act-now-on-budget-2013/) - Tell your City Councillor to support crucial recreation programs & fix the social infrastructure deficit in Budget 2013 with the letter below. For more information on our recreation campaign, please visit Recreation Works!. You can also call your City Councillor and tell to re-invest the $3 million “efficiencies” into recreation programs that help children and
- [And what a year it's been...](https://cupelocal79.org/and-what-a-year-its-been/) - A holiday message from CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire. Greetings Sisters and Brothers of Local 79, 2012 was quite a year for all of us at Local 79. It was the worst of times; it was the best of times! The year started out with an extremely tough and tense set of negotiations with the
- [Budget grows deficit in services, hurts needy most, says CUPE Local 79 President](https://cupelocal79.org/budget-grows-deficit-in-services-hurts-needy-most-says-cupe-local-79-president/) - TORONTO -- Tim Maguire, President of CUPE Local 79, Toronto Inside Workers, criticized the City’s proposed operating budget for leaving tens of thousands waiting for childcare, recreation programs, and shelters, and called on City Council to close the gap, starting with recreation. “This budget makes the wrong choice,” said Maguire. “We are one of the
- [Tim Maguire's deputation on the 2013 Capital & Operating Budgets](https://cupelocal79.org/tim-maguires-deputation-on-the-2013-capital-operating-budgets/) - This deputation was given to the City's Budget Committee by Local 79 President Tim Maguire. In it, Maguire lays out the most glaring problems with the 2013 Capital & Operating Budgets. Dear Councillor Del Grande, Chair, and Members of the Budget Committee: RE: BU35.1 – 2013 Capital and Operating Budgets – Public Consultation Once again
- [Kraft: Don't kill Toronto jobs for condos](https://cupelocal79.org/dont-kill-toronto-jobs-for-condos/) - For years, the workers at the Mr. Christie factory on Lakeshore have baked countless products, from Ritz crackers to Chips Ahoy cookies, right here in Toronto. But that could soon change.On November 1st, the company announced it was shutting down the plant to allow condos to be built on the land instead, with no warning to
- [Budget 2013: Get Ready to Fight Cuts](https://cupelocal79.org/budget-2013-get-ready-to-fight-cuts/) - *Member Mobilization meetings are taking place the week of December 10th. Click here to see times/locations. Once again the City has sounded a false alarm with the 2013 Budget numbers declaring a state of economic crisis here in Toronto. The ‘so-called’ opening pressures on the Operating Budget have been calculated to scare people into thinking
- [All-Members CUPE Meeting tonight!](https://cupelocal79.org/all-members-cupe-meeting-tonight/) - Your right to freely negotiate a contract with your employer is under attack. Come to this special meeting to find ways on how to fight back. When:Monday, Nov. 26 6:00 – 8:00 pm Where:Sheraton Toronto Centre123 Queen Street WestToronto Collective bargaining is one of the cornerstones of the labour movement. It is a right earned
- [The 64th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights](https://cupelocal79.org/the-64th-anniversary-of-the-universal-declaration-of-human-rights/) - Sixty four years ago, in the wake of the horrendous cruelty committed during the Second World War, the world was determined to end human rights violations. In 1948, on December 10, the first global treaty on human rights — the Universal Declaration of Human Rights — was signed at the United Nations. Canadian Law Professor
- [National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women (2012)](https://cupelocal79.org/national-day-remembrance-action-violence-against-women-2012/) - December 6 is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in Canada. Established in 1991 by the Parliament of Canada, this day marks the anniversary of the murders in 1989 of 14 young women at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal.As well as commemorating the 14 young women whose lives ended in an
- [November 2012 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/november-2012-presidents-report/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: Effective January 1, 2013, all Local 79 members working for the City of Toronto, with the exception of members in Long Term Care Homes and Services Part-Time Unit, will receive an increase of 0.5%, and a 1.5% lump sum payment on gross regular pay. This was negotiated with the
- [City’s commitment to environmental sustainability at risk](https://cupelocal79.org/citys-commitment-to-environmental-sustainability-at-risk/) - In this letter to the members of the City's Executive Committee, CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire critiques the recommendation to close the Toronto Energy Conservation Fund and the Toronto Green Energy Fund. Dear Mayor Ford, Chair and Members of the Executive Committee: RE: EX24.2 – Environment and Energy Efficiency FunctionsEX24.3 – Repurposing of the
- [Full house at our Fall 2012 Dinner & Dance!](https://cupelocal79.org/friday-put-on-your-dancing-shoes/) - On Friday, Nov. 16th, Local 79 members came together for a fun evening of dining, entertainment, and a night of dancing. We packed Toronto's Lithuanian Banquet Hall and raised over $1000 for the United Way in the process! Thanks to everyone who made the event possible and came out to shimmy on the dance floor.
- [TCHC End of Year Staff Celebration](https://cupelocal79.org/tchc-annual-year-end-celebration/) - More details will be available at a later date.
- [Parks, Forestry & Recreation presents new Recreation Service Plan](https://cupelocal79.org/parks-forestry-recreation-presents-new-recreation-service-plan/) - "Reaching out and engaging youth through recreation is of critical importance to CUPE Local 79," President Tim Maguire's deputation to the city on the Recreation Service Plan. Giorgio Mammoliti (Chair), and Members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee: RE: CD17.2 2013-2017 Recreation Service Plan Thank you for the opportunity to speak to you today
- [Water and solid waste management systems in need of repair](https://cupelocal79.org/2013-city-budget-toronto-water-solid-waste-management-services/) - "Safe drinking water and environmentally safe disposal of solid waste are not frills or budget lines to be passed over. Public health and safety depends on it, and Provincial and Federal legislation demands it," Local 79 President Tim Maguire told the City's Budget Committee. Dear Councillor Del Grande and Members of the Budget Committee: RE:
- [Persons Day - October 18 2012](https://cupelocal79.org/persons-day-october-18/) - On October 18, 1929, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in England, then the appeals court for the Canadian Supreme Court, ruled that women had the right to be appointed to the Senate of Canada, become members of other federal bodies, attend university, and practice a liberal trade. Prior to that decision, the federal
- [Persons Day - October 18](https://cupelocal79.org/persons-day-october-18-3/) - On October 18, 1929, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in England, then the appeals court for the Canadian Supreme Court, ruled that women had the right to be appointed to the Senate of Canada, become members of other federal bodies, attend university, and practice a liberal trade. Prior to that decision, the federal
- [Middle Childhood Strategy for the City of Toronto introduced](https://cupelocal79.org/middle-childhood-strategy-for-the-city-of-toronto-introduced/) - "Providing parents and families with quality care for their children is one of the most important services the City of Toronto provides." Local 79 President, Tim Maguire's submission to the City's Community Development and Recreation Committee. Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, Chair And Members, Community Development and Recreation Committee RE: CD16.2 – Introducing a Middle Childhood Strategy
- [Childcare Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day](https://cupelocal79.org/childcare-worker-and-early-childhood-educator-appreciation-day/) - On Sunday, October 28th, 2012, Local 79 hosted a Childcare Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day in honour of its members who work in the field. Take a look at the photos from the event:
- [Housing Working Group has re-established the value of helping house the people of Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/housing-working-group-has-re-established-the-value-of-helping/) - This letter to was delivered as a deputation by CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire to the City's Executive Committee. In it, Maguire praises the goals of the Special Housing Working Group, while cautioning against proposals to sell off standalone housing units.RE: Item EX23.4Putting People First, Transforming Toronto Community Housing –Special Housing Working Group’s ReportSale
- [October 2012 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/october-2012-presidents-report/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: Local 79 has launched a campaign to fight the ‘Protecting Public Services Act, 2012’. This pending Act by the McGuinty Liberals would impose wage freezes and cuts to benefits to workers who provide provincially-funded services, like Long-Term Care, Public Health and Bridgepoint Hospital. The negative impact of this legislation
- [Local 79 Young Workers cheer on the Blue Jays](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-young-workers-head-out-for-a-night-with-the-blue-jays/) - On Friday, September 28th, CUPE Local 79's Young Workers Committee invited its members and friends out to the ball game to cheer on the Toronto Blue Jays. Here at Local 79, we're happy to see so many young people getting involved with their union. As Local 79 President Tim Maguire mentioned that evening: "It bodes
- [September 2012 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/september-2012-presidents-report/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: At this year’s Labour Day Parade CUPE Local 79 had our biggest contingent in recent history. Members, with their families, from the City of Toronto, Toronto Community Housing Corporation, and Bridgepoint Hospital joined sisters and brothers from both public and private sector unions in this annual celebration of working
- [New TV ad shows Local 79 workers in action](https://cupelocal79.org/new-tv-ad-shows-local-79-workers-in-action/) - Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, the Union representing Toronto’s inside workers, is launching a new television ad campaign aimed at increasing awareness of and support for its members and the services they deliver. The ad follows a typical Toronto family through a day as they interact with and depend on services
- [Modernizing Child Care in Ontario - Local 79 comments on Provincial discussion paper](https://cupelocal79.org/modernizing-child-care-in-ontario-local-79-comments-on-provincial-discussion-paper/) - "The future vision of child care for Toronto and Ontario can no longer be about saving the system, or sustaining the system. It must be about how we can grow a high-quality, accessible, accountable, public/not-for-profit child care system," said Tim Maguire in Local 79's response to the Provincial Government's discussion paper. Child Care Modernization, c/o
- [Local 79 responds to Children's Services Report](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-responds-to-childrens-services-report/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire's submission to the Community Development and Recreation Committee on new Provincial funding for child care and response to the Provincial Discussion Paper on Modernizing Child Care. Dear Councillor Mammoliti and Members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee: RE: CD15.7- New Provincial Funding for Child Care and Response to Provincial
- [Local 79 calls for contracting-in of cleaning services at Toronto Police stations](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-calls-for-contracting-cleaning-services-at-toronto-police/) - President Tim Maguire tells the City's Government Management Committee that Local 79 has serious concerns about renewing the contract with the private company contracted to clean Toronto Police Service locations.Dear Councillor Ainslie and Members of the Government Management Committee:RE: GM16.11 Performance Evaluation of Contracted Cleaning Services in Toronto Police Service Locations and Contract Renewal Options
- [Jennifer Leung: Honouring 25 years of service](https://cupelocal79.org/jennifer-leung-honouring-25-years-of-service/) - Today we were happy to celebrate Jennifer Leung's 25th anniversary as staff of Local 79. Jennifer has been our bookkeeper, and seen our Local change tremendously over the years, as membership grew more than two-fold and met changing technological and bookkeeping needs. Throughout the growth, Jennifer has continued to manage all the the bookkeeping of
- [Help Save Peel child Care](https://cupelocal79.org/help-save-peel-child-care/) - President Tim Maguire asks Local 79 members in Peel Region to take action on the closing of 12 child care centres and the elimination of over 850 child care spaces in Peel. To: CUPE Local 79 members in Peel Region HELP SAVE PEEL CHILD CARE On September 13th at the upcoming Peel Regional Council
- [Labour Day 2012](https://cupelocal79.org/labour-day-join-us-on-monday/) - Our 2012 Labour Day (Sept. 3rd) was the biggest one yet! We gathered early in the day to put on our bright Labour Day t-shirts and gather at the front of the parade. We were happy to have NDP Leader Thomas Mulcair join us along the route, as well as NDP MLA Peter Tabuns. It
- [Standing up for School Board Support Workers](https://cupelocal79.org/standing-up-for-school-board-support-workers/) - CUPE Local 79 is joining thousands of other CUPE members today to support School Board Support Workers in a rally at Queen's Park. Where: Queen's ParkWhen: Tuesday, August 28, 12 Noon The rallying point will be just East of the main legislature doors, on the lawn, near the giant flag pole at 11:30AM. Come join
- [August 2012 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/2589-2/) - Dear Local 79 Sisters and Brothers: First of all, I hope you are having a great summer with family and friends! Summer 2012 is more than halfway over and I just wanted to give you an update on all the activity that has been keeping Local 79 very busy this summer. Community Engagement: We have
- [Local 79 represents at Caribbean Carnival 2012](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-represents-at-caribbean-carnival-2012/) - Local 79 had a great time at the Toronto Caribbean Carnival again this year. This year was extra special, as Local 79 facilitated the participation of 5 Toronto youth. The welcome addition of 5 youth to celebrate and experience the parade to the fullest made Local 79’s participation even more fun. Local 79 wanted to
- [70th Anniversary Picnic on Centre Island](https://cupelocal79.org/70th-anniversary-picnic-on-centre-island/) - On July 18 & 19th, we celebrated our 70th Anniversary by holding our annual picnic where it first began: on Toronto Island. Check out our photos of the event, which featured games, races, snacks and a magic show! A great time for the whole family.
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- [June 2012 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/june-2012-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: In yet another victory for Local 79 and the services our members provide, City Council voted to reverse the decision to delete Youth Outreach Worker (YOW) positions. During the debate many Councillors gave glowing reviews of the valuable work done by our members who are YOWs. By lobbying City Councillors,
- [Local 79 celebrates 2012 Pride](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-getting-ready-for-2012-pride/) - In 2012, Local 79 went big with its Pride celebrations. First we attended the Pride Week flag raising at City Hall, where we sponsored the lunchtime BBQ, and then partied for diversity while marching in the 2012 Pride Parade. Take a look at all the celebration in our photos below! Flag raising at City
- [National Aboriginal History Month (2012)](https://cupelocal79.org/national-aboriginal-history-month/) - In June, Canadians celebrate Aboriginal History Month, an opportunity to honour the heritage, contributions and cultures of Aboriginal peoples in Canada.June was declared National Aboriginal History month in 2010, after Nanaimo-Cowichan Member of Parliament, Jean Crowder, introduced a motion to make June a month of recognition for First Nations, Inuit and Métis. The motion received
- [Ontario workers deserve to exercise their democratic rights without fear of reprisal](https://cupelocal79.org/ontario-workers-deserve-to-exercise-their-democratic-rights/) - The following deputation was delivered by Local 79 President Tim Maguire at Queen's Park regarding Bill 77: Labour Relations Amendment Act (Fairness for Employees).Good morning. My name is Tim Maguire and I am the President of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79. On behalf of the Executive and members of CUPE Local
- [Joining Local 966 on the picket line](https://cupelocal79.org/joining-local-966-on-the-picket-line/) - On Thursday, May 24th, Local 79 headed out to Local 966's picket line in Peel Region to support our unionized brothers and sisters in their fight for just working conditions. The Region of Peel unilaterally imposed new terms and conditions of employment on their employees, and asked their mostly female, unionized employees to accept a
- [Audit and enviornmental reports needed before the City outsources Fleet Parts and Inventory Management Program](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-calls-for-an-audit-and-enviornmental-reports/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire tells the City that there seemed to be little discussion about 'service efficiences' which was supposed to be the actual mandate for consultations with front-line staff working in Fleet Services.Councillor Paul Ainslie (Chair), and Members of the Government Management Committee RE: GM14.10: Contract Award – Request for Proposal (RFP) 6101-11-3241 for
- [70th Anniversary Dinner and Dance](https://cupelocal79.org/70th-anniversary-dinner-and-dance/) - On Thursday, June 14th, 2012, Local 79 celebrated its 70th anniversary with a dinner and dance at Toronto's Lithuanian Banquet Hall. Take a look at the highlights in the photo slideshow below (which includes an appearance from a hypnotist). All in all, the event raised almost $800, all of which Local 79 has donated to
- [More consultants?  More Services Reviews for Children's Services and Long-Term Care Homes and Services](https://cupelocal79.org/more-consultants-more-services-reviews-for-childrens-services/) - Local 79 President Tim Maguire asks why this administration seems intent on continuing to pursue the goals of cuts to servies and outsourcing.Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, Chair, andMembers of the Community Development and Recreation Committee (CDRC)RE: CD13.3 Terms of Reference - Service Review of Children’s Services and Long-Term Care Homes and Services On behalf of the front
- [May 2012 President's Report (City of Toronto)](https://cupelocal79.org/may-2012-presidents-report-city-of-toronto/) - Dear fellow Local 79 Member: Several proposals to use some of the 2011 budget surplus in order to protect various City services were rejected by the City’s Budget Committee this month, including a recommendation to continue funding for 16 Youth Outreach Worker (YOW) positions which are being deleted. While the City had decided to delete
- [May 2012 President's Report (TCHC)](https://cupelocal79.org/2369-2/) - Dear Fellow TCHC Member of Local 79: TCHC has hired a new CEO, Gene Jones, currently the head of Detroit's public housing body. He will officially begin as President and CEO of TCHC on June 18th. Local 79 will try to schedule a meeting with the new CEO and the TCHC Executive as soon as
- [Calling all Local 79 Young Workers!](https://cupelocal79.org/calling-all-local-79-young-workers/) - If you are under the age of 30 and looking to get involved this day is for you! The Young Workers Committee will be hosting their 2012 Young Workers educational day.
- [May 2012 President's Report (Bridgepoint)](https://cupelocal79.org/may-2012-presidents-report-bridgepoint/) - Dear Fellow Member of Local 79 Working at Bridgepoint Hospital: Local 79 is continuing to seek dates to complete bargaining for the Nurses and Paramedical Units. The arbitration to determine the RPN wage rate at Bridgepoint Hospital is ongoing. After many discussions with the Hospital and several attempts to reach an agreement on the wage
- [International Day Against Homophobia](https://cupelocal79.org/national-day-against-homophobia/) - International Day against Homophobia will be celebrated in 2012 on Thursday May 17th and this year’s campaign theme is 'Sexual diversity in the workplace, it pays off!' According to the campaign website, the purpose of this year’s campaign theme is, to point out the positive aspects of sexual diversity in the workplace as well as
- [Local 79 to engage the City, TCHC and Bridgepoint Health in discussions on Workplace Mental Health](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-to-engage-the-city-tchc-and-bridgepoint-health-in-discussions/) - The release of Canada’s first national mental health strategy on May 8th brings an urgency to the issue of Workplace Mental Health and presents us with an opportunity to find solutions, Local 79 President Tim Maguire states in his letter to the City, TCHC and Bridgepoint HealthWorkplace Mental HealthThis week is Mental Health Awareness week
- [13th Annual Joint Health and Safety Committee Recognition Event](https://cupelocal79.org/13th-annual-joint-health-and-safety-committee-recognition-event/) - On Friday, May 4th, 2012, Local 79 participated in the 13th Annual Joint Health and Safety Committee Recognition Event. It marked the first year that Local 79 had a booth, which telling from the pictures below, was very popular!
- [Youth Outreach Workers ask Budget Committee to fund program until it can be reviewed by staff](https://cupelocal79.org/youth-outreach-workers-ask-budget-committee-to-fund-program/) - (Toronto) — Youth Outreach Workers and the youth they support will speak at Toronto’s Budget Committee today to ask that their positions be maintained until the Youth Outreach Workers program can be properly reviewed as part of the Recreational Services Review.“The decision to eliminate the majority of these Youth Outreach Workers positions was made when
- [Asian Heritage Month 2012](https://cupelocal79.org/asian-heritage-month-2012/) - In December 2001, Senator Vivienne Poy introduced a motion in the Senate of Canada to designate May as Asian Heritage Month and in May, 2002 the Government of Canada officially recognized May as Asian Heritage Month.This is a worthy acknowledgement of the long and rich history of Asian Canadians and their contributions to Canada. Canada's,
- [Jewish Heritage Month (2012)](https://cupelocal79.org/jewish-heritage-month/) - On February 23, 2012, the Ontario Legislature passed Bill 17, making the month of May Jewish Heritage Month in the Province. The legislation received strong cross-party support, being introduced by Liberal MPP Mike Colle as a private member’s bill with co-sponsorship from Peter Shurman of the Progressive Conservative Party and Cheri DiNovo of the NDP.This
- [Local 79 reflections on May Day](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-reflections-on-may-day/) - As unionized workers in Toronto, we’ve faced, and continue to face, challenges from employers who want to strip away many of the rights and benefits we’ve struggled to obtain.Governments at every level are using embellished assertions of austerity to try and turn popular opinion against public sector workers.Here in Toronto, we saw the Ford administration
- [Recognizing 25 Years of Service](https://cupelocal79.org/25-years-of-service-recognition-luncheon/) - The following note from CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire is addressed to Local 79 members congratulating them for their 25 years of service to the City of Toronto. Congratulations to each of the Local 79 members who are being honoured by the City of Toronto for 25 years of service at a series of
- [Harper Must Reinstitute the National Council of Welfare](https://cupelocal79.org/harper-must-reinstitute-the-national-council-of-welfare/) - The following letter is to Prime Minister Harper expressing Local 79's dismay at the elimination of the National Council of Welfare. The Right Honourable Stephen HarperPrime Minister of CanadaLangevin Block, 80 Wellington StreetOttawa, OntarioK1A 0A2 Dear Prime Minister: On behalf of the more than 20,000 members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE)
- [April 27: Day of Mourning](https://cupelocal79.org/april-27-day-of-mourning/) - (Please note the date and change of location from the President's Report) Each year, Labour gathers on the annual Day of Mourning to remember workers killed or injured by their work. The ceremonies will be held this Friday, April 27th with the downtown Toronto ceremony moved to the Monument to Chinese Railway Workers, just south
- [Found Safe: Michelle Yu, 18 years old](https://cupelocal79.org/missing-michelle-yu-18-years-old/) - *Update: Police report that Michelle Yu, previously missing, has made contact with her family. She is safe and her family thanks everyone for their concern and prayers.* Along with police, we're asking for help in locating Michelle Yu, a North York high school student and Local 79 member, who disappeared Tuesday, April 17th. Michelle was
- [April 2012 President's Report (City of Toronto)](https://cupelocal79.org/april-2012-presidents-report-city-of-toronto/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: First of all, your Local 79 Bargaining Committee would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone for your support and encouragement during a most difficult round of bargaining. Full-time, Part Time Unit B, and Part Time Recreation Collective Agreements have now been ratified. Long Term Care workers are
- [April 2012 President's Report (TCHC)](https://cupelocal79.org/april-2012-presidents-report-tchc/) - Dear Fellow TCHC Member of Local 79: Notice to Bargain has not been served by either TCHC or Local 79 within the required notice period of 90 days prior to the termination of the existing Collective Agreement. The effect of this is that the existing Collective Agreement has been rolled over until December 31, 2012.
- [April 2012 President's Report (Bridgepoint)](https://cupelocal79.org/april-2012-presidents-report-bridgepoint/) - Dear Fellow Member of Local 79 Working at Bridgepoint Hospital: On Wednesday April 18, 2012, members of the Bridgepoint Hospital Nurses and Paramedical Units, and Service Units had an opportunity to attend information sessions on the transition plan into the new hospital. Following the information sessions, ratification votes were held and the members voted overwhelmingly
- [National Nursing Week: May 7 -13](https://cupelocal79.org/national-nursing-week-may-7-13/) - This year’s theme is “Nursing – The Health of Our Nation”, reflecting the positive impacts nurses make to the lives and well-being of Canadians. Nursing Week provides Local 79 with the opportunity to honour the caring and dedication of our members who work as nurses in Public Health, Long-term Care Homes and Services, Shelter Programs,
- [Join the Rally April 21st: Ontario Day of Action Against the Cuts](https://cupelocal79.org/join-the-rally-ontario-day-of-action-against-the-cuts/) - We must stop the cuts to public services in the Ontario Budget SATURDAY, APRIL 21 FROM 3 – 5 pmQUEEN’S PARK, TORONTO If McGuinty’s 2012 Budget is passed, everyone -- every family, community, city and town – will be the poorer for it. As Local 79 members you know all too well what it means
- [City Council won over by cleaners](https://cupelocal79.org/city-council-won-over-by-cleaners/) - "What I saw here today was a ray of hope," Local 79 President Tim Maguire told the City Hall Press Gallery. "Councillors are responding to the public support for the services our members provide." Decency and fairness won the day at City Council on April 11, 2012 after months and months of hard work by
- [The 2012 Federal Budget -- flunks](https://cupelocal79.org/the-2012-federal-budget-flunks/) - In this letter to Prime Minister Stephen Harper, CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire names Budget 2012 for what it is: a path for deregulation, privatization, contracting out, outsourcing and foreign ownership of our resources. The Right Honourable Stephen HarperPrime Minister of CanadaLangevin Block, 80 Wellington StreetOttawa, OntarioK1A 0A2 Dear Prime Minister: The
- [2012 Ontario Budget – People will be the poorer for it](https://cupelocal79.org/2012-ontario-budget-people-will-be-the-poorer-for-it/) - In this letter to Premier Dalton McGuinty, CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire criticizes the direction of the 2012 Ontario Budget, which punishes some of the most vulnerable people in the Province for a deficit they didn't create. Premier Dalton McGuintyQueens ParkMain Legislative Building, Rm 281Toronto, ON M7A 1A4 Dear Premier McGuinty, Ontario’s
- [Congratulations to New Federal NDP Leader](https://cupelocal79.org/congratulations-to-new-federal-ndp-leader/) - The following is a letter of congratulations to the Honourable Thomas Mulcair, Leader of the New Democratic Party and Leader of the Official Opposition. April 4, 2012 The Honourable Thomas Mulcair, M.P.Leader of the New Democratic PartyLeader of the Official OppositionHouse of CommonsOttawa, OntarioK1A 0A6 Dear Mr. Mulcair, On behalf of CUPE Local 79,
- [City recreation workers ratify contract](https://cupelocal79.org/city-recreation-workers-ratify-contract/) - Part-time recreation employees have ratified a new four-year contract with the City of Toronto. The 8,600 workers comprise the third of four bargaining units to accept a deal between the city and Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees. Members of two other bargaining units, representing full-time and part-time workers, accepted the city’s
- [Test](https://cupelocal79.org/test/) - test
- [Today: Part-Time Recreation Ratification Vote Locations](https://cupelocal79.org/ratification-vote-locations-wednesday-march-28/) - On Tuesday, April 3rd, CUPE Local 79 will hold a ratification vote on the City's amended offer to Part-Time Recreation Workers at three separate locations across Toronto. There will be a presentation on the City's offer every half hour at every vote location.Attendance to a presentation is requested before voting. Please see Bargaining Bulletin 17,
- [Tentative deal reached for Local 79 Part-Time Recreation Workers](https://cupelocal79.org/tentative-deal-reached-for-local-79s-part-time-recreation-workers/) - Negotiators for Local 79 and the City of Toronto have reached a tentative contract agreement covering 8,600 part-time recreation employees. The two sides went back to the bargaining table today to hammer out a better deal after the workers voted down a City offer on Wednesday. Local 79 President Tim Maguire said the union would
- [Local 79 meets with City today Re: Recreation Workers](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-meets-with-city-today-re-recreation-workers/) - CUPE Local 79’s Bargaining Committee is meeting this morning with City negotiators to discuss the rejection of the City’s contract offer by Local 79’s Recreation Workers Part-Time Unit. The meeting comes a day after Local 79 President Tim Maguire urged the City to come back to the table and negotiate solutions, rather than forcing their
- [Local 79 takes City’s Final Offer to Members for Vote](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-takes-citys-final-offer-to-members-for-vote/) - The union representing the majority of the City of Toronto employees has decided to submit the City’s final contract offer to a membership vote on Wednesday, March 28th. Tim Maguire, president of Local 79 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, said the union decided to submit the offer for a vote of its approximately
- [International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (2012)](https://cupelocal79.org/international-day-for-the-elimination-of-racial-discrimination/) - March 21 is designated by the United Nations (UN) as the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It’s a day observed all around the world to focus attention on the problems of racism and the need to promote racial harmony.The UN made this designation in 1966 to mark a tragic event that took
- [March 2012 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/march-2012-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Members: Bargaining Update – Our goal is to negotiate fair collective agreements without a strike. Local 79 members working for the City of Toronto are being asked to support the Local 79 Bargaining Committee with a strike vote on March 20th. We did not come by this decision lightly. In the
- [Every other worker in Ontario is covered by labour laws, why not migrant workers?](https://cupelocal79.org/every-other-worker-in-ontario-is-covered-by-labour-laws-why-not-migrant-workers/) - In a letter to Premier Dalton McGuinty, CUPE Local 79 President, Tim Maguire, wants the Ontario government to act and put protections, laws, and enforcement in place to ensure that tragic accidents, like the one in Hamptstead, Ontario, won't happen again. Premier Dalton McGuinty, Queen's Park Dear Premier McGuinty, Migrant workers should not be denied
- [Rallying in support of Library workers](https://cupelocal79.org/rallying-in-support-of-library-workers/) - On Wednesday, March 14th, 2012, Local 79 joined library workers from CUPE Local 4948 in a rally to show solidarity in their goal of reaching a fair negotiated contract with the City of Toronto. At the rally in front of the Toronto Reference Library, library workers spoke about the City of Toronto's practice of increasingly
- [Basic human rights protections must apply to migrant workers](https://cupelocal79.org/basic-human-rights-protections-must-apply-to-migrant-workers/) - "Migrant workers need protection, not exploitation," Tim Maguire, CUPE Local 79 President, says in a letter to Prime Minister Stephen Harper after the tragic deaths of 10 migrant workers on February 6, 2012. The Right Honourable Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada Dear Prime Minster Harper, Basic human rights protections must apply to migrant workers
- [Councillor Ana Bailão speaks out in support of City cleaners](https://cupelocal79.org/councillor-ana-bailao-speaks-out-in-support-of-city-cleaners/) - CUPE Local 79 President, Tim Maguire, thanks Councillor Bailão for her diligence and support in the fight to save living wage public service jobs from becoming low wage, poverty-level work. Councillor Ana Bailão, Toronto City Hall Dear Councillor Bailão, RE: City Council meeting March 6, 2012 - The Social Impact of Lower Wage Jobs
- [Poll shows Toronto knows that quality public services need quality public jobs](https://cupelocal79.org/poll-shows-toronto-knows-that-quality-public-services-need-quality-public-jobs/) - Previous polling showed Torontonians value their public services (84% wanted to increase or maintain funding), and a new poll shows this support extends right to the workers who provide them. The poll was a live-interview telephone poll of 600 Toronto residents, with a +/-4.0% margin of error, conducted by Environics Research Group from March 9
- [City demands more concessions in talks; Local 79 files bad faith bargaining charge](https://cupelocal79.org/city-demands-more-concessions-in-talks-local-79-files-bad-faith-bargaining-charge/) - The City of Toronto has added six more demands to their long list of concessions in bargaining with CUPE Local 79 over the weekend. The union responded by laying a charge of bargaining in bad faith against the City at the Ontario Labour Relations Board. Tim Maguire, president of CUPE Local 79, said the City's
- [Part-time City workers need quality working conditions to deliver quality services](https://cupelocal79.org/1855-2/) - Maureen O'Reilly and Tim Maguire, presidents of Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) locals 4948 and 79, joined city workers to warn the public about an increased reliance on increasingly precarious part-time work. By aiming for more part-time work (such as in Local 4948) and reducing access to hours for part-time workers (such as in
- [City requests no board: Shows little commitment to meaningful bargaining](https://cupelocal79.org/citys-no-board-request-shows-little-commitment-to-meaningful-bargaining/) - Tim Maguire, President of CUPE Local 79, reacted today to the City of Toronto's request for a “no board” report regarding contract negotiations. “I'm very concerned by the City's decision to a request a no board without engaging in meaningful bargaining,” said Maguire. “We've waited 12 weeks for discussions and real proposals on issues affecting
- [Drummond Report ‘road map’ would lead to a dead end](https://cupelocal79.org/drummond-report-road-map-would-lead-to-a-dead-end/) - The following letter by CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire was sent to Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty, expressing alarm over the irresponsible public sector cuts recommended in the Drummond Report. Dear Premier McGuinty: On behalf of the largest municipal local union in Canada, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Local 79, I am alarmed
- [Transparency within the TCHC will make it more responsive and accountable](https://cupelocal79.org/transparency-within-the-tchc-will-make-it-responsive-and-accountable/) - The following is a letter from CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire, sent to Toronto Mayor Rob Ford recommending strategies to make the Toronto Community Housing Corporation more accountable and responsive to the needs of its stakeholders. Dear Mayor Ford, RE: Audit Report Toronto Community Housing Corporation (TCHC) The recent Audit Report at TCHC
- [Rally in support of CUPE Local One](https://cupelocal79.org/today-rally-in-support-of-cupe-local-1/) - On Monday, February 27th, Local 79 joined CUPE Local One for a mass rally at Toronto Hydro's head office to protest the downsizing and layoff threat of 460 members. Here are a couple photos from the event:
- [IWD 2012: Good Jobs, Services, Dignity](https://cupelocal79.org/join-us-for-iwd-2012-good-jobs-services-dignity/) - On Saturday, March 3rd, Local 79 participated in the 2012 International Women's Day events, where civic workers were featured in a rally starting at 11:00 am at OISE, 252 Bloor Street West. At 1:00 pm the march left OISE and proceeded to Nathan Phillips Square at City Hall in a show of support for civic
- [February 2012 President’s Report](https://cupelocal79.org/february-2012-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: Both Local 416 and the City have now ratified the contract settlement that was reached on February 5th. Local 416 beat back many of the worst concessions in the face of an all-out attack by the Ford Administration. The City’s bargaining focus will soon turn to Local 79. It remains
- [Selling off community housing is a step backward](https://cupelocal79.org/selling-off-community-housing-is-a-step-backward/) - This letter to Mayor Ford and the Members of the Executive Committee, from CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire, details the importance of Toronto Community Housing's Stand-Alone Units.The proposed sale would fly in the face of TCHC's own policies, which aim to avoid the creation of social housing ghettos by integrating tenants into mixed neighbourhoods.
- [Harper Abandons Workers at Electro-Motive - plant shut down](https://cupelocal79.org/harper-abandons-workers-at-electro-motive-plant-shut-down/) - The Right Honourable Stephen Harper Prime Minister of Canada Dear Prime Minister: RE: London, Ontario - Electro-Motive Diesel plant closure On behalf of Canada’s largest municipal local union, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 79, I must protest your total abandonment of Canadian workers at the Electro-Motive Diesel plant in London, Ontario. Prime
- [CUPE 416 members ratify four-year collective agreement](https://cupelocal79.org/city-set-to-impose-employment-conditions-on-local-416/) - Members of the Toronto Civic Employees Union (TCEU), Local 416 of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE 416) today ratified a four-year collective agreement with the City of Toronto. Highlights of the new four-year agreement include six per cent in wage improvements, an interest arbitration mechanism for EMS workers and the retention of employment
- [Do you have ASL interpretation skills?](https://cupelocal79.org/do-you-have-asl-translation-skills/) - We're looking for Local 79 members who have American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation skills. Equity and accessibility are important to Local 79, but official interpretation services for our members aren't always available on a last-minute or emergency basis. If you have the ability to interpret ASL, please contact Local 79 Recording Secretary, Sofia Reno, at
- [Poorest pensioners being asked to fund corporate tax cuts](https://cupelocal79.org/poorest-pensioners-being-asked-to-fund-corporate-tax-cuts/) - The following letter by CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire was sent to Prime Minister Harper to express concerns about the income security of Canada’s retirees and pensioners after plans to cut back on Old Age Security and the Guaranteed Income Supplement. Dear Prime Minster Harper, RE: Who’s being asked to fund the corporate tax
- [CUPE promotes public service workers in new campaign](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-counters-myths-about-unions-in-new-campaign/) - CUPE National has created a website in order to highlight the positive contributions of public sector workers in Toronto. torontotogether.ca explains who we are by listing the CUPE Locals that make up Toronto's public workforce and the services that we provide. The site also features a video that highlights the importance of CUPE members and
- [Rallying with CAW Local 27/Caterpillar workers](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-rallies-with-caw-local-27caterpillar-workers/) - On Saturday, September 21st, 2012, a group of Local 79 members boarded a bus headed to London to join thousands of others in a rally to support members of CAW Local 27. These workers have been locked out by Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD), a subsidiary of U.S.-based company Caterpillar, best known for manufacturing farm and construction
- [Local 79 celebrates Lunar New Year](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-celebrates-lunar-new-year/) - In 2012, Lunar New Year begins on Monday January 23rd and is the Year of the Water Dragon. The date changes according to the Lunar Calendar and is always determined by the second New Moon after the winter solstice. Each year is designated by one of the 12 Animals (Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster,
- [After the Budget: the fight to protect public services continues](https://cupelocal79.org/after-the-city-budget-the-fight-to-protect-valued-public-services-continues/) - Now that the dust has settled from City Council's January 17th vote on the 2012 Budget, it’s time to review what services were saved at the last minute, what has been lost and what’s ahead. Prior to Budget day some program funding had been restored for community centres, student nutrition, pools, arts & culture grants
- [CUPE runs ads promoting civic employees](https://cupelocal79.org/1633-2/) - CUPE has launched a TV ad profiling just a small portion of all the important work that its members do to keep Toronto a strong and vibrant city. The ad campaign, featuring seven CUPE members — including several from Local 79 — underlines the need to support city workers who provide the valuable services that
- [January 2012 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/january-2012-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: First of all, I would like to wish you a happy and healthy New Year. This is a very special year for Local 79 as we celebrate our 70th Anniversary! A group of City of Toronto employees began to organize Local 79 in 1941, seeking better wages and working conditions.
- [Toronto residents want services preserved, think Ford is on “wrong track:” poll](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-residents-want-services-preserved-think-ford-is-on-wrong-track-poll/) - TORONTO, ON -A majority of Toronto residents want city services maintained, even if it means increased fees or taxes, says a new poll by Environics research. The poll shows 64 per cent in favour of continued funding for public services. The poll, commissioned by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) also shows that 84
- [Mitzie Hunter appointed new CEO of the Greater Toronto Area CivicAction Alliance](https://cupelocal79.org/1572-2/) - The following is a letter to Mitzie Hunter congratulating her on her recent appointment as the CEO of the Greater Toronto Area CivicAction Alliance, and stressing the importance to Local 79 of forging strong working alliances with other organizations and individuals who share common goals regarding our city. January 10, 2012 Mitzie Hunter, CEOGreater
- [Prime Minister Harper must defend workers locked out by Caterpillar Inc.](https://cupelocal79.org/letter-to-prime-minister-harper-protesting-the-lockout-of-workers/) - The following is a letter to Prime Minister Harper protesting the current lockout of the workers from the Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) Local 27 by Electro-Motive Canada (EMC). January 10, 2012The Right Honourable Stephen HarperPrime Minister of CanadaLangevin Block, 80 Wellington StreetOttawa, OntarioK1A 0A2Dear Prime Minister:I am writing to you on behalf of the largest municipal
- [City has *not* requested No-Board in talks with Local 79](https://cupelocal79.org/city-has-not-filed-a-no-board-against-local-79/) - Various media reports have stated that the City has requested a no-board report in its talks with the City’s “unions.” To clarify: The City has NOT requested a no-board report in its talks with Local 79. The City requested a no-board report in its bargaining with Local 416 on Thursday, January 12th, 2012. A no-board
- [Huge turnout at the Rally for Toronto!](https://cupelocal79.org/rally-for-toronto/) - On Tuesday, January 17, at 5:30pm, Local 79 joined hundreds of others to rally outside City Hall against the proposed public services cuts in the Budget. As we rallied in Nathan Phillip's Square, City Council voted to reject a large number of the proposed cuts. In the meantime, take a look at the pictures from
- [Scarborough residents stand to lose valuable services in 2012 Budget](https://cupelocal79.org/scarborough-residents-stand-to-lose-valuable-services-in-2012-budget/) - This letter was presented as a deputation to the Scarborough Community Council by CUPE Local 79 President Tim Maguire. In it, Maguire details the impacts that the proposed 2012 Budget will have on Scarborough residents. Dear Councillor Paul Ainslie, ChairAnd Members of the Scarborough Community Council RE: Agenda Item SC12.23 – Budget Matters Affecting
- [Bridgepoint lauded for innovative care](https://cupelocal79.org/bridgepoint-lauded-for-innovative-care/) - On the eve of the new year, our members from Bridgepoint Hospital were featured in an article published on InsideToronto.com, for facilitating an innovative approach to care.Read up on how visits from volunteers and their dogs are helping to raise the spirits of patients with chronic disease and disability.
- [Scarborough: Public meeting on budget](https://cupelocal79.org/scarborough-public-meeting-on-budget/) - This is a special post for our members who live in Scarborough. This upcoming Tuesday evening, January 10th, Scarborough City Councillors are holding a public meeting on the city budget at the Scarborough Civic Centre. As a Scarborough resident, it’s important for you to attend this meeting. Your Councillors need to hear that Scarborough residents
- [Bridgepoint members raise $15,000](https://cupelocal79.org/bridgepoint-members-raise-15000/) - Local 79 members from Bridgepoint Hospital held a fundraising raffle to help in the construction of a Wellness Centre at the hospital. Today, Local 79 sent a $15,000 cheque to Bridgepoint, a combination of money raised from the raffle and a donation from CUPE Local 79. A big congratulations to all the Bridgepoint Local 79
- [Members raise over a million for charity](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-members-raise-over-a-million-for-charity/) - On December 13, 2011, City of Toronto employees presented a $1,260,000 cheque to United Way Toronto, far exceeding their fundraising goals. "The City of Toronto has raised more than $1 million annually for 11 years in a row, thanks to a dedicated team of co-ordinators and canvassers from the Toronto Public Service and its partners,
- [Dembinski: 'Workers axed, not management'](https://cupelocal79.org/1439-2/) - On Friday, December 9th, 2011, Ann Dembinski appeared as a guest columnist in The Toronto Sun. Her column is posted below. __________ When City Budget Chief Mike Del Grande tells Toronto Sun columnist, Sue-Ann Levy, “he brought in representatives of all unionized workers …and no one had any reasonable suggestions on how to tackle their
- [Marking 63 years of universal human rights](https://cupelocal79.org/marking-63-years-of-universal-human-rights/) - The 63rd anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human RightsSixty three years ago, in the wake of the horrendous cruelty committed during the Second World War, the world was determined to end human rights violations. In 1948, on December 10, the first global treaty on human rights — the Universal Declaration of Human Rights —
- [Dembinski to Budget Committee: Budget is reckless and irresponsible](https://cupelocal79.org/letter-to-the-chair-of-the-budget-committee/) - The following was delivered by Local 79 President Ann Dembinski on December 7, 2011 as a deputation to the Budget Committee Special Meeting. Text of the deputation follows the video. Dear Councillor Del Grande and Members of the Budget Committee: RE: BU19.1 Capital and Operating Budgets – Public Consultation At the Budget launch on
- [Dec 6: Ending Violence Against Women](https://cupelocal79.org/national-day-of-remembrance-and-action-on-violence-against-women/) - December 6 is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women in Canada. Established in 1991 by the Parliament of Canada, this day marks the anniversary of the murders in 1989 of 14 young women at l'École Polytechnique de Montréal. As well as commemorating the 14 young women whose lives ended in
- [2nd Annual Dinner & Dance](https://cupelocal79.org/2nd-annual-dinner-dance/) - Local 79's 2nd Annual Dinner & Dance was a sold-out affair that lasted well into the night. Take a look at the photos from the night, which included a fabulous dinner, salsa lessons, dancing, door prizes, and cake. This year we were overwhelmed by the response for bookings to this event - stay tuned for
- [City’s budget plan a ‘litany of broken promises and attacks on Toronto’s most vulnerable,’ CUPE Presidents say](https://cupelocal79.org/citys-budget-plan-of-broken-promises-and-attacks-on-toronto/) - TORONTO, ON– The leaders of three Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Locals representing City of Toronto Employees warned that the city’s most vulnerable people will suffer the most if Council does not step in and stop a budget that guts the services all Torontonians rely on.“No one who cares about this City can sit
- [Local 79 Election Results](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-election-results/) - On November 22nd, the results of the CUPE Local 79 Election (for the 2012-2014 term) were announced at the General Membership Meeting. Here are the full official results from the 2011 CUPE Local 79 Election for the 2012-2014 term: Executive Committee President — Tim Maguire First Vice-President — Nancy Murphy Vice-President - Chief Steward
- [November 2011 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/november-2011-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: As this is my last President’s Report before I step down from office, I would like to take a moment to reflect on my time as an elected official with Local 79. In the eleven years since I was first elected Local 79 President in 2000, I have had the
- [City Stonewalling to blame for bargaining delays, says CUPE 79 President Ann Dembinski](https://cupelocal79.org/city-stonewalling-to-blame-for-bargaining-delays/) - “We have repeatedly asked them to provide us with necessary financial information. Time and again, the Employer has refused to do so”TORONTO, ON—The City of Toronto’s decision yesterday to file a frivolous labour practices complaint “does nothing to move bargaining forward and is not helpful in any way,” the President of the City’s largest union
- [Bargaining with the City of Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/bargaining-message-for-local-79-members/) - As Local 79 bargains with the City of Toronto, members who work for the City should regularly check our secure Members' Portal for updates and information. To date there have been 5 Bargaining Bulletins posted in Members' Portal under the "Bargaining Information" heading. Note: Because information in the Members' Portal is catered to members' individual
- [Equality Statement](https://cupelocal79.org/equality-statement/) - Union solidarity is based on the principle that union members are equal and deserve mutual respect at all levels. Any behaviour that creates conflict prevents us from working together to strengthen our union. As unionists, mutual respect, cooperation and understanding are our goals. We should neither condone nor tolerate behaviour that undermines the dignity or
- [Contracting out cleaners will impact families, neighbourhoods](https://cupelocal79.org/contracting-out-cleaners-will-impact-families-neighbourhoods/) - This letter was submitted by CUPE Local 79 President Ann Dembinski to the members of the Community Development & Recreation Committee on the issue of contracting out City cleaners. In her letter, Dembinski points to the risks of losing highly-trained employees, and stresses the impacts that contracting out will have on the families and communities
- [Child care report should be acted upon immediately](https://cupelocal79.org/child-care-report-should-be-acted-upon-immediately/) - In this letter, CUPE Local 79 President Ann Dembinski sheds light on the difficult transition that child care centres are facing with the introduction of Full Day Early Learning Kindergarten. A 'Children's Services Report' that outlines the problem must go to City Council without delay. Dear Councillor Mammoliti, and Members of the Community Development &
- [Dembinski warns against sale of City assets](https://cupelocal79.org/dembinski-warns-against-sale-of-city-assets/) - Today CUPE Local 79 President Ann Dembinski expressed disappointment over proposed plans to sell city assets (10% of Toronto Hydro and 100% of Enwave) to private for-profit corporations. She noted in a letter to the City's Executive Committee, which will today vote on the matter, that assets which make a profit should not be sold
- [Selling energy assets a short-term fix, will cause longterm pain](https://cupelocal79.org/selling-energy-assets-a-short-term-fix-will-cause-longterm-pain/) - In this letter submitted to the City's Executive Committee, CUPE Local 79 President Ann Dembinski expresses her disappointment regarding proposed plans to sell city assets (10% of Toronto Hydro and 100% of Enwave), noting that assets that bring in revenue should not be sold to for-profit corporations at the expense of Torontonians. Mayor Rob
- [Local 79 Election ballots deadline: Nov 22](https://cupelocal79.org/union-office-closed-friday-oct-28/) - This note serves as a reminder that ballots for the 2011 CUPE Local 79 election are due on November 21st. Please make sure to mail in your ballot well in advance to ensure your vote is counted. If you never received your ballot or have any questions regarding the election, please call Mary Villa, Chief
- [Toronto Community Housing Board's plan to sell 706 homes will have terrible impact on City](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-community-housing-boards-plan-to-sell-706-homes/) - This letter was presented to the Toronto Community Housing Corporation's Board meeting by CUPE Local 79 President Ann Dembinski in writing and in person by deputation. Dembinski warns about the impact of selling off the stand-alone units, which would displace hundreds of tenants and families. Norman (Bud) Purves, ChairAnd Members of the Board of DirectorsToronto Community
- [Battle of the Bands fundraiser for the United Way](https://cupelocal79.org/battle-of-the-bands-fundraiser-for-the-united-way/) - On Friday, October 21, 2011, Local 79 attended the 'Battle of the Bands' fundraiser for the United Way, organized by the workers from 311 Toronto. Take a look at the pictures below as Concession 7, Room 2, The I.V. League, Sons of Beaches, IMPAK, The Digital Immigrants, Marla Zinger, and Goodbye Tomorrow rocked The Opera
- [Child Care and ECE Appreciation Day: Oct. 26](https://cupelocal79.org/child-care-worker-and-ece-appreciation-day-october-26/) - What follows is a letter from CUPE Local 79 President, Ann Dembinski, which honours those who work in childcare and early childhood education.On behalf of Local 79, the Executive and the Child Care Committee, I would like to congratulate everyone on the 11th Anniversary of Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day being
- [Local 79 Urges Prime Minister Harper to Reverse Plans to Cut Jobs and Public Services](https://cupelocal79.org/letter-to-prime-minister-expressing-local-79s-concerns-about-cuts-to-jobs/) - The following letter was sent to Prime Minister Harper expressing Local 79's grave concerns about cuts to jobs and public services at the Federal Level.October 19, 2011 The Right Honourable Stephen HarperPrime Minister of CanadaLangevin Block, 80 Wellington StreetOttawa, OntarioK1A 0A2Dear Prime Minister Harper,I am writing to you on behalf of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE)
- [Local 79's Health & Safety Summit wraps up](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-health-safety-summit-wraps-up/) - On Thursday, October 13th, 2011, Local 79 held its Health and Safety Summit in the beautiful Great Hall of St. Lawrence Hall. The Summit brought out more than 150 members of the Joint Health and Safety Committees (JHSC) that incorporate both Local 79 members and representatives from City management. The Summit began with introductions from
- [Public engagement: How we take care of Toronto (Part 2)](https://cupelocal79.org/public-engagement-phase-ii-this-is-how-we-take-care-of-toronto/) - On Monday, October 3rd, the second phase of our "Taking Care of Toronto" public engagement campaign kicked-off. This part features a more intimate look at how our members take care of Toronto. (If you missed the first part, click here to take a look). Below, you'll find the campaign images that are being featured on
- [Maguire urges Police Services Board not to sell out cleaners](https://cupelocal79.org/maguire-tells-police-services-board-not-to-sell-out-cleaners/) - On Wednesday, October 5, 2011, CUPE Local 79 First Vice-President Tim Maguire gave a deputation (on behalf of Local 79 President Ann Dembinski) at the meeting of the Toronto Police Services Board. There, Maguire outlined the many reasons why contracting out of cleaners should not take place. Below is a video of Maguire's deputation. To
- [Why Toronto Police Services cleaners shouldn't be contracted out](https://cupelocal79.org/maguire-outlines-to-police-services-board-why-cleaners-shouldnt-be-contracted-out/) - This letter was presented as a deputation to the Toronto Police Services Board meeting by Local 79 First Vice-President Tim Maguire, on behalf of Local 79 President Ann Dembinski. The video of the deputation is posted below. Chair Alok Mukherjee and MembersToronto Police Services Board RE: Toronto Police Service – 2012 Operating Budget Request,
- [October 2011 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/october-2011-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: The recent Ontario Election, which resulted in a minority government, may offer new avenues of opportunity for municipalities. Because of the minority situation, all three political parties have a significant voice in the legislature. All politicians at Queen’s Park should now be urged to advocate for additional money for municipalities.
- [Toronto Cleaners: The Hidden Cost of Budget Cuts](https://cupelocal79.org/toronto-cleaners-the-hidden-cost-of-budget-cuts/) - You probably don't have the same emotional connection with cleaners that you might have with librarians, firefighters or police. Cleaners' jobs are not glamorous; but cleaners are the unsung behind-the-scenes workers that keep our city clean and safe. We don't often consider the importance of cleaners, which makes them easy targets when governments look for
- [Ferris wheels and sports teams will not make this a world class city](https://cupelocal79.org/ferris-wheels-and-sports-teams-will-not-make-this-a-world-class-city/) - This letter was submitted to Mayor Rob Ford and the members of the Executive Committee by Local 79 President Ann Dembinski about the flawed direction the Mayor is taking the City. Mayor Ford, ChairAnd Members, Executive Committee Re: Core Service Reviews – Program Reviews On behalf of CUPE Local 79’s more than 18,000 members –
- [Rally for Respect: Demand a Toronto for Everyone](https://cupelocal79.org/rally-for-respect-demand-a-toronto-for-everyone/) - On Monday, September 26th, we joined thousands of Torontonians outside City Hall to call for the protection of Toronto's Public Services. Take a look at the photos below: Check out the poster for the event at the end of this post, and watch this video to see the flashmob dance that was featured at the
- ['Respecting the taxpayer' is not about selling off city services](https://cupelocal79.org/respecting-the-taxpayer-is-not-about-selling-off-city-services/) - This letter was presented to the Community Development and Recreation Committee by Ann Dembinski, who says Mayor Ford's attempts to cut city services have all been publicly and soundly discredited by the experts and by the people who call Toronto home. Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, ChairAnd Members, Community Development and Recreation Committee RE: CZ1.2 – Core
- [City Manager's Core Service Review Recommendations, 'A Betrayal of Voters' Trust' - Ann Dembinski](https://cupelocal79.org/city-managers-core-service-review-recommendations/) - If Approved, 'Thousands of Children and the Elderly Will Pay the Price for the Mayor's Actions,' Warns CUPE Local 79 PresidentTORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Sept. 13, 2011) - Thousands of Toronto's most vulnerable people and communities will pay the price if City Manager Joseph Pennachetti's Core Service Review recommendations go forward, the President of Canada's largest
- [September 2011 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/september-2011-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member After much thought, and with a mixture of emotions, I announced recently that I would not be seeking re-election later this year as the President of Local 79. I will be leaving the Presidency with great pride and confidence in the Local’s future. Throughout my 36-year career as a municipal
- [Labour Day 2011: Huge turnout for Local 79](https://cupelocal79.org/832-2/) - Monday, September 5, 2011 brought in a cold weather front, but Local 79 brothers and sisters brought the warmth by showing up in huge numbers to celebrate their work and their union.
- [City desperately needs Public Health Nurses offered by Province](https://cupelocal79.org/the-city-desperately-needs-the-three-public-health-nurses/) - In this letter, Local 79 President Ann Dembinski urges the City to accept the offer of three public health nurses from the Province.Councillor Mike Del Grande, ChairAnd Members of the Budget CommitteeRE: BU13.4 - Budget Adjustments to the Toronto Public Health 2011 Approved Operating budgetThe City desperately needs the addition of the three Public Health
- [Mourning the loss of Jack Layton](https://cupelocal79.org/775-2/) - Statement from CUPE Local 79 President Ann Dembinski on the death of The Honourable Jack Layton, Leader of the New Democratic Party of Canada. CUPE Local 79 is extremely saddened to learn of the death of Jack Layton, Leader of the New Democratic Party of Canada and Leader of the Official Opposition. Canada
- [Reducing staff at summer camps flies in the face of City policies](https://cupelocal79.org/city-of-toronto-summer-camps-proposed-staff-reductions/) - Local 79 President Ann Dembinski criticizes the reduction in staff at summer camps, noting there's a sustained need for programs in the City, advises staff be relocated instead. Janie RomoffDirector Community RecreationParks, Forestry and Recreation RE: City of Toronto summer camps – proposed staff reductions Your letter of July 6, 2011, stated that some part-time
- [KPMG skirting safety: Board of Health is not an option for cuts](https://cupelocal79.org/board-of-health-local-79-responds-to-kpmg-core-service-review/) - Local 79 President Ann Dembinski responds to the KMPG Core Service Review presenting options for cutting Board of Health services, saying that without rigorous public health standards and enforcement, the City would be at risk. Mayor Ford, ChairAnd Members, Executive Committee Re: Meeting # 8, (Special), July 28-29, 2011 Item # EX8.1 Core Service Review
- [City Core Services Review: What's Going On?](https://cupelocal79.org/city-core-services-review-whats-going-on/) - Mayor Ford has hired a private consulting firm to review city services with the goal of cutting and privatizing them, downsizing the city workforce, selling off city assets, and contracting out your jobs. During the municipal election campaign, Mayor Ford said he would not cut services. He seems to have already forgotten that promise. The
- [Local 79 Jumps Up at the Toronto Caribbean Carnival](https://cupelocal79.org/jump-up-with-cupe-local-79-at-the-toronto-caribbean-carnival/) - On Saturday, July 30th, Local 79 celebrated Caribbean cultures at the Toronto Caribbean Carnival. We danced to the sounds of soca, calypso, steel pan, reggae and salsa. We watched and participated as thousands of exciting masqueraders paraded through Toronto. We teamed up with talented costume designers and make-up artists to have Local 79 members and
- [Montreal union president sends letter of support to Local 79](https://cupelocal79.org/president-of-montreal-union-sends-letter-of-support-to-local-79/) - CUPE Local 79 received a letter of support from Monique Coté, President of CUPE Local 429, City of Montreal employees. The Montreal local has closely followed what's been happening in Toronto with Rob Ford as Mayor. Montreal civic employees have themselves lived through painful experiences with cuts to the labour force and services. The President
- [Toronto’s Residents and Reputation Will Suffer Under Ford’s Cuts](https://cupelocal79.org/torontos-residents-and-reputation-will-suffer-under-fords-cuts/) - Women and low income families will bear the brunt Toronto – Ann Dembinski, President of CUPE Local 79, presented at Toronto’s Executive Committee today calling on Mayor Ford to keep his promise not to make major cuts to city services. “Mayor Ford guaranteed during last year’s municipal election that he would not make major cuts
- [Councillors' contacts](https://cupelocal79.org/councillorss-contacts/) - Here's a list of City Councillors and their email addresses. Unsure of your Ward and City Councillor? Then click here to look it up. Paul Ainslie (Ward 43 Scarborough East)councillor_ainslie@toronto.ca Maria Augimeri (Ward 9 York Centre)councillor_augimeri@toronto.ca Ana Bailao (Ward 18 Davenport)councillor_bailao@toronto.ca Michelle Berardinetti (Ward 35 Scarborough Southwest)councillor_berardinetti@toronto.ca Shelley Carroll (Ward 33 Don Valley East)councillor_carroll@toronto.ca Raymond
- [The KPMG Core Services Review is seriously flawed](https://cupelocal79.org/deputation-to-the-executive-committee-regarding-the-kpmg-core-services-review/) - Letter to the Executive Committee Regarding the KPMG Core Services Review from Local 79 President Ann Dembinski, reminding that public consultations showed that Torontonians value their public services; and pointing out that the KPMG Core Services Review is flawed. Mayor Ford, ChairAnd Members, Executive Committee Re: Item # EX8.1 Core Service Review On behalf of
- [Take Action](https://cupelocal79.org/take-action/) - Tell your city councillor to save our city programs and services Please add your name to the letter and email it to your City Councillor. Tell them you support publicly-run city programs and services. Find your Councillor's email address on the right side of this page. Copy and paste it in the field below. If
- [Local 79 urges Planning and Growth Management Committee to reject proposed cuts and elimination of inspectors, public art and heritage services](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-urges-planning-growth-management-committee-to-reject/) - Peter Milczyn, Chair,And Members of the Planning and Growth Management CommitteeRE: PG7.1 Core Service ReviewWe are here today to discuss the 1% of the Planning and Growth Management budget that has been deemed discretionary by KPMG. The other 99% of these services are considered mandatory, essential and have been traditionally delivered by the City.Some of
- [Letter to the  Planning and Growth Management Committee - KPMG Core Services Report - Toronto Building and City Planning](https://cupelocal79.org/deputation-to-the-planning-and-growth-management-committee/) - Peter Milczyn, Chair,And Members of the Planning and Growth Management Committee10th floor, West Tower, City Hall100 Queen Street WestToronto, ON M5H 2N2Dear Councillor Milczyn and Members of the Planning and Growth Management Committee,RE: PG7.1 Core Service ReviewWe are here today to discuss the 1% of the Planning and Growth Management budget that has been deemed
- [Cleaners Confront City Hall](https://cupelocal79.org/cleaners-confront-city-hall/) - Dealing with Hepatitis, scabies, urine, HIV and blood are part of the job (Toronto) – Police Station Heavy Duty Cleaners made an impassioned and very personal appeal today at the Government Management Committee to save the services they provide. “We have difficult and dirty jobs. We clean cells at police stations, and this often brings
- [Contracting out of custodial services at police facilities could put City at risk Local 79 tells the Core Service Review](https://cupelocal79.org/contracting-out-of-custodial-services-at-police-facilities/) - Paul Ainslie, Chair And, Members of the Government Management Committee RE: GM6.1 – Core Service Review, Facilities and Real Estate - Custodial CareAlthough Facilities Management is deemed to be “an essential service required to successfully operate the City”, according to the KPMG Core Service Review of the Government Management Committee, one of the options on
- [Letter to the Government Management Committee - KPMG Core Services Review - Outsourcing some 311 Activities to the Private Sector](https://cupelocal79.org/deputation-to-the-government-management-committee/) - Councillor Ainslie , ChairAnd Members, Government Management Committee100 Queen Street West10th Floor, West TowerToronto, OntarioM5H 2N2Dear Councillor AinslieAnd Members, Government Management Committee,Re: Item Number GM6.1 Core Service ReviewOn behalf of Local 79 I wish to address the KPMG option to consider outsourcing some 311 activities to the private sector.311 is rapidly becoming the standard approach
- [Letter to the City's Licensing and Standards Committee - KPMG Core Service Review - Business Licensing, Waste Diversion, Cat and Dog Licensing](https://cupelocal79.org/deputation-to-the-citys-licensing-and-standards-committee/) - Councillor Palacio , ChairAnd Members, Licensing and Standards Committee100 Queen Street West10th Floor, West TowerToronto, OntarioM5H 2N2Dear Councillor Palacio,And Members of the Licensing and Standards Committee,Re: Item # LS6.1 Core Service ReviewI am here today on behalf of Local 79 to question options put forward by KPMG in the Core Service Review regarding:• Business Licensing•
- [Deputation to Parks & Environment Committee on KPMG Core Service Review](https://cupelocal79.org/deputation-to-parks-environment-committee-on-kpmg-core-service-review/) - Norman Kelly, ChairAnd, Members of the Parks and Environment Committee RE: PE6.1 Core Service Review After days of an extreme heat warning in Toronto two questions come to mind: 1. Where would we be without our parks and recreation programs in this heat wave? 2. Why is there an option to cut environmental services before
- [Mayor Ford Needs to Recant Misleading Statement](https://cupelocal79.org/mayor-ford-needs-to-recant-misleading-statement/) - "Public has a Right to Know the Truth" TORONTO, ONTARIO--- CUPE 79 President, Ann Dembinski, calls on Mayor Ford to recant his statement that labour costs make up 80% of City budget."The public has a right to know the truth. Mr. Ford needs to correct the record immediately," stated Dembinski, whose union represents the City of
- [Deputation on Parks, Forestry & Recreation to Community Development & Recreation Committee KPMG Core Service Review](https://cupelocal79.org/deputation-on-parks-forestry-recreation/) - Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, ChairAnd Members, Community Development and Recreation Committee RE: CD6.1 Core Service ReviewParks, Forestry & Recreation The options outlined in the KPMG Core Service Review of Parks, Forestry & Recreation run counter to the City’s stated Recreation Service Plan principles of Quality, Equitable Access, Inclusion, and Capacity Building. These options are also the direct opposite
- [Deputation on Parks, Forestry & Recreation to Community Development & Recreation Committee KPMG Core Service Review](https://cupelocal79.org/deputation-on-parks-forestry-recreation-to-community-development-recreation-committee-kpmg-core-service-review-2/) - Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, ChairAnd Members, Community Development and Recreation Committee RE: CD6.1 Core Service ReviewParks, Forestry & Recreation The options outlined in the KPMG Core Service Review of Parks, Forestry & Recreation run counter to the City’s stated Recreation Service Plan principles of Quality, Equitable Access, Inclusion, and Capacity Building. These options are also the
- [Deputation on Child Care to the Community Development and Recreation Committee KPMG Core Service Review](https://cupelocal79.org/deputation-on-child-care-to-the-community-development/) - Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, ChairAnd Members, Community Development and Recreation CommitteeRE: CD6.1 Core Service ReviewChildren’s ServicesChild care is not an expense, it’s an investment.It’s an investment in children, families, communities and the future of our City.The KPMG Core Service Review of Children’s Services before the Committee today has classified the delivery of directly-operated child care and
- [Letter to the Community Development and Recreation Committee - KPMG Core Services Review - Selling off 9 of the 10 Long Term Care Homes to the Private Sector.](https://cupelocal79.org/deputation-to-the-community-development-recreation-committee/) - Councillor, Giorgio Mammoliti, ChairAnd Members, Community Development and Recreation Committee100 Queen Street West10th Floor,WestTowerToronto,OntarioM5H 2N2Dear Councillor Mammoliti,And Members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee, Re: Item # CD6.1 Core Service ReviewI am here today to speak on behalf of Local 79 regarding the City’s Core Service Review, and specifically the option presented by KPMG of selling
- [Fun times at Local 79's Annual Picnic](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-annual-picnic-wild-water-kingdom/) - CUPE Local 79's annual picnic (2011), at Wild Water Kingdom, was blessed with sunshine, high temperatures and lots of fun. The local 79 team served up juice and ice cream bars; stamped hands for discounts at the water park, and hosted fun games and races for CUPE Local 79 members. If you missed this year's
- [Families Will Pay More for Services or Go Without](https://cupelocal79.org/families-will-pay-more-for-services-or-go-without/) - CUPE Local 79 says women will bear the brunt of privatization and downsizing TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 20, 2011) - CUPE 79 presented today to the Community Development and Recreation Committee on Mayor Ford's consultants' Core Service Review. "Families will have to pay more or go without services for seniors and children if any of
- [Letter to the Economic Development Committee: KPMG Core Service Review - Employment and Social Services](https://cupelocal79.org/core-service-review-employment-and-social-services/) - This letter was delivered by First Vice-President Tim Maguire on behalf of CUPE Local 79 President Ann Dembinski. July 14, 2011 Councillor Michael Thompson, ChairAnd Members, Economic Development Committee100 Queen Street West10th Floor, West TowerToronto, OntarioM5H 2N2 Dear Councillor Thompson, And Members of the Economic Development Committee, Re: Item # ED6.1 Core Service Review On
- [Voluntary Separation Package: What you need to know](https://cupelocal79.org/voluntary-separation-package-what-you-need-to-know/) - If you're a permanent City employee, you should have heard by now about the city extending a voluntary opportunity to apply for a separation program. The Voluntary Separation Program offers up to a maximum of 26 weeks salary as a lump sum payment, based upon your continuous years of service (pro-rated for part-time service), at
- [Celebrating CUPE Local 79 retirees](https://cupelocal79.org/celebrating-cupe-local-79-retirees/) - After years of dedicated work, CUPE Local 79 honoured its retirees by hosting a celebration in their honour. Here are some photos from that event - click on an individual photo to see a description.
- [Rob Ford's Toronto Doesn't Include Child Care and Long Term Care](https://cupelocal79.org/rob-fords-toronto-doesnt-include-child-care-and-long-term-care/) - TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 14, 2011) - The latest Report by the City's outside 'consultants' wants Councillors to consider transferring 57 City-operated child care centres to private operators and selling off 9 of the 10 City-run Long Term Care Homes to private sector operators. The Report even suggests that the sale of Long Term Care
- [Penny Wise, Pound Foolish](https://cupelocal79.org/penny-wise-pound-foolish/) - City Union Rejects Buy-Out - Would Lead to Service Cuts TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 13, 2011) - During the election campaign Rob Ford declared time and again that he would not reduce or cut services -- but his latest scheme, the Voluntary Separation Program, means that for every buy-out there will be a service reduction.
- [Services Cut, Taxpayers Ignored](https://cupelocal79.org/services-cut-taxpayers-ignored/) - City Releases Public Works and Infrastructure Core Service Review TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 12, 2011) - "So much for Rob Ford's campaign promises to not cut services in our City," says CUPE Local 79 President, Ann Dembinski, in reaction to today's release of the KPMG Core Services Review. "The very first report of this $3
- [Local 79 at the 2011 Pride Parade](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-at-the-2011-pride-parade/) - On July 3, 2011, CUPE Local 79 marched in solidarity with the LGBT community and in support of our LGBT members. It was the third Pride event that Local 79 had participated in, starting in 2008.
- [Letter to the Economic Development Committee Regarding the Sale of City Assets](https://cupelocal79.org/letter-to-the-economic-development-committee-regarding-the-sale-of-city-assets/) - June 30, 2011 Councillor Michael Thompson, ChairAnd Members, Economic Development Committee100 Queen Street West10th Floor, West TowerToronto, OntarioM5H 2N2 Dear Councillor Thompson,And Members of the Economic Development Committee, Re: Item # ED5.2 - Toronto Prosperity Initiative: Establishing The Path To Growth On behalf of Local 79, I wish to comment on the Toronto Prosperity
- [Local 79 supports City child care programs](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-supports-city-child-care-programs/) - June 28, 2011 Councillor Giorgio Mammoliti, ChairAnd Members, Community Development and Recreation Committee City Hall100 Queen Street West10th Floor, West TowerToronto, OntarioM5H 2N2 Dear Councillor Mammoliti, And Members of the Community Development and Recreation Committee, RE: CD5.7 – Recent Developments in Child Care and in Provincial Implementation of Early Learning On behalf of CUPE Local
- [Local 79's Photo Contest Winners](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79s-photo-contest-winners/) - At CUPE Local 79's June 28, 2011 General Meeting, the results of our union's photo contest were announced. Take a look at some of the winners! Click on an individual photo to read the caption. Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
- [Local 79 shows solidarity at Pride Week flag raising](https://cupelocal79.org/test-multimedia-3/) - CUPE Local 79 members took to City Hall on June 27, 2011, to celebrate its LGBT members and show support for Pride Week. Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.
- [CUPE 79 gets notice of contracting out cleaning in Toronto's police stations](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-79-gets-notice-of-contracting-out-cleaning-in-torontos-police-stations/) - TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - June 21, 2011) - Ann Dembinski, president of CUPE Local 79, representing inside workers at the City of Toronto, met today with senior management staff in the Facilities Division. The meeting follows last week's announcement that the city intends to contract out cleaners in police stations across the city. "This was a
- [June 2011 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/june-2011-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: It has come to the attention of Local 79 that the City is requesting blood and urine testing from some of our members who are attending Employee Health and Rehabilitation. Our lawyers have sent a letter to the Manager of Employee Health and Rehabilitation registering our objections, in the strongest
- [May 2011 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/may-2011-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: Councillor Anthony Perruzza vigorously supported the City's front-line workers during a recent session of City Council when he stated that the Service Review Program process set up by Mayor Ford, which includes a Core Service Review, Service Efficiency Studies, and a User Fee Review, is totally flawed and bound for
- [Local 79 members improve their literacy skills](https://cupelocal79.org/local-79-members-improve-their-literacy-skills/) - On April 18th, a group of Local 79 members from Bridgepoint Health graduated from a program put on by the Ontario Literacy Coalition. Local 79 President Ann Dembinski was there to offer her congratulations and present the graduates with their certificates of completion. CUPE Local 79 and the Ontario Literacy Coalition have had a successful
- [April 2011 President's Report for City of Toronto members](https://cupelocal79.org/april-2011-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: The memo sent recently by City manager Joe Pennachetti to senior City managers, instructing them how to answer staff questions about the three reviews of City services that the City is launching, is just one more indication that the City may attempt to contract out jobs and services. (Mayor Ford’s
- [April 2011 President's Report for TCHC members](https://cupelocal79.org/presidents-report-for-tchc-members/) - Dear Fellow Member of Local 79 Working at TCHC: On Saturday April 9, 2011, a large number of Local 79 members participated in the "Rally for Respect" organized by Labour, student and community groups. The media reported up to 10,000 people were there demanding that Mayor Ford stop selling off public housing, cutting social programs
- [April 2011 President's Report for Bridgepoint members](https://cupelocal79.org/presidents-report-for-bridgepoint-members/) - Dear Fellow Member of Local 79 Working at Bridgepoint Hospital: I recently sent a letter to Marion Walsh, expressing concerns that Bridgepoint Hospital continues to hire management and supervisory personnel, as well as create and fill new management positions that do not provide the delivery of front line services, while our members are being laid
- [CUPE Local 79 Calls for TCHC to Be Brought Under Direct City of Toronto Management](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-calls-for-tchc-to-be-brought-under-direct-city-of-toronto-management/) - TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - March 3, 2011) - The Canadian Union of Public Employee (CUPE) Local 79, City of Toronto inside workers, is calling for TCHC to be brought under direct management of the City. "We've always said there were efficiencies to be found if TCHC were directly managed by the City of Toronto," said Ann
- [Stephen Lewis - The Value of Municipal Services](https://cupelocal79.org/stephen-lewis-the-value-of-municipal-services/) - CUPE municipal workers from across Canada met in Toronto February 16-18 to discuss how to deliver quality public services to Canada's communities in the face of underfunding, privatization and trade agreements which threaten to undermine those services. In a powerful speech to delegates on the final day of the meeting, Stephen Lewis called on municipal
- [February 2011 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/february-2011-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: In January, I made deputations at the Community Development and Recreation Committee on two items that could have a potential impact on Local 79 members. One of the items was a proposal from the Chair of the Committee, Councillor Mammoliti, to form a Childcare Development Task Force. I questioned the
- [January 2011 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/january-2011-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: First of all, I would like to wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year! Toronto City Council will soon be making a decision on who will operate and deliver programmes at the new Warden Hilltop Community Centre, located near Warden Avenue and St. Clair Avenue East. Local 79
- [October 2010 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/october-2010-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member: The Municipal election on Monday October 25th is vital for the City of Toronto and for Local 79. We need City Councillors and a Mayor who will ensure that the City of Toronto will continue to provide all the services the citizens of Toronto expect and our members help deliver.
- [City Workers Flock to Centre Island for Annual CUPE Picnic](https://cupelocal79.org/city-workers-flock-to-centre-island-for-annual-cupe-picnic/) - TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - July 13, 2010) - Thousands of City of Toronto inside workers and their families will take the ferry to Centre Island on July 14 and 15 for their union's annual picnic. Activities including games, races, tug-of-war and rides for children, get underway at 10:30 a.m. both days, said CUPE Local 79 executive
- [June 2010 President’s Report For City of Toronto members](https://cupelocal79.org/june-2010-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member, Earlier this year, Local 79 met with City staff regarding upcoming office relocations in the Employment and Social Services Division, and the related concerns of members. The Division presented a detailed update of the planned new locations and expects the changes to be completed by September of this year. Local
- [CUPE Local 79, Second Harvest Launch Special Food Drive](https://cupelocal79.org/cupe-local-79-second-harvest-launch-special-food-drive/) - "City workers see hunger every day" TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - May 28, 2010) - CUPE Local 79 has joined forces with Second Harvest to launch a special week-long food drive that asks the union's 18,000 members to help reach the charity's goal of delivering a record six million pounds of food this year. "Whether they work
- [March 2010 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/march-2010-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Members, At the beginning of March, Local 79 made a deputation to the City of Toronto’s Budget Committee expressing concerns regarding the operating budget for the 2010 – 2011 fiscal year. Once again we registered our protest about the secrecy of the budget process and the ‘confidential’ references in the publicly
- [February 2010 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/february-2010-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Members, City of Toronto Seniority and Service Review of Full Time Unit – Local 79 is still waiting for the City of Toronto to resolve all of the undetermined issues related to the Seniority and Service Review of the Full Time Unit. Local 79 has requested arbitration dates for a number
- [January 2010 President's Report](https://cupelocal79.org/january-2010-presidents-report/) - Dear Fellow Local 79 Member, First of all, I would like to wish you a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year! The 2010 City of Toronto Operating Budget process will be underway, starting on February 16, 2010. As always, Local 79 will be closely monitoring the budget debate and taking an active role. Local 79
- [Six Practical Ways of Protecting Yourself Against the City's "Attendance Management Program"](https://cupelocal79.org/protecting-yourself-against-the-citys-attendance-management-program/) - In July 2001, City Council adopted an "Attendance Management Program" aimed at City employees.Under the Program, the City monitors, questions and generally gives employees a hard time over absences from work legitimately due to illness or to an injury which occurred away from work.Local 79's position is that the Program is unfair and contrary to
- [Pernicious position](https://cupelocal79.org/pernicious-position/) - The following letter was written by CUPE Local 79 President Steven David as a "letter to the editor" to the national newspaper The Globe and Mail. The men and women in CUPE Local 79 read with dismay your editorial on pay equity (The Politics Of Wages - Nov. 22). You seem to conclude that wage

## Pages

- [Home](https://cupelocal79.org/) - We're 30,000+ city workers who deliver the care, support, resources and services that Toronto relies on every day. Our communities are worth it. And so are we.
- [Home](https://cupelocal79.org/) - We're 30,000+ city workers who deliver the care, support, resources and services that Toronto relies on every day. Our communities are worth it. And so are we.
- [Contact us](https://cupelocal79.org/contact-us/) - Connect with Local 79 Have a comment or question? 34 St Patrick St, Toronto, ON M5T 1V1 Please reach out directly via the contact information listed below and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. Facebook-f Instagram Open in Google Maps Contacts General questions Duty Officers Media enquiries Health and safety WSIB, LTD,
- [Our executives](https://cupelocal79.org/our-executives/) - Meet our current officers Local 79 is run by its members, for its members. The Executive Committee, which makes day-to-day decisions that affect the union, is elected by the membership through a mail-in vote every three years. Nas Yadollahi President Email Nas Yadollahi Read more Keith Fiering First Vice-President Email Keith Fiering Read more Aimee
- [Our executives](https://cupelocal79.org/our-executives/) - Meet our current officers Local 79 is run by its members, for its members. The Executive Committee, which makes day-to-day decisions that affect the union, is elected by the membership through a mail-in vote every three years. Nas Yadollahi President Email Nas Yadollahi Read more Keith Fiering First Vice-President Email Keith Fiering Read more Aimee
- [Donations & Sponsorships](https://cupelocal79.org/donations-sponsorships/) - CUPE Local 79 receives hundreds of donation and sponsorship requests every year. If your request is provincial or national in scope, we encourage you to direct it to CUPE Ontario or CUPE National — both of which Local 79 helps fund precisely so that broader movement work is possible. For local requests, Local 79's Executive has established
- [Our Hospital Workers are Worth It](https://cupelocal79.org/worth-it-hbh/) - Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital workers face unfair wages workplace injuries, increasing workloads and abuse. We know Toronto’s health is worth it. So are they.
- [Strike Pay](https://cupelocal79.org/strike-pay/) - Strike Pay Application If you have any questions about this form or about our strike preparations, please call: 416-977-1629 x 650 or email: strike@cupelocal79.org
- [](https://cupelocal79.org/14216-2/) - The Toronto Star covered our press conference, but it is paywalled. If you have a subscription, read the story here. Otherwise, we've posted it below: TORONTO STAR: Toronto community and seniors housing workers vote for strike mandate over workplace violence concerns Front-line workers with the Toronto community and seniors housing corporations have voted “overwhelmingly” for
- [An active Toronto is worth it.](https://cupelocal79.org/an-active-toronto-is-worth-it/) - An active Toronto is worth it. CUPE Local 79 represents over 13,000 part-time and full-time recreation workers who make Toronto a great place to live, learn and play. They’re counselors and mentors, teaching new skills and connecting communities. Rec workers often hold multiple certifications and provide support for marginalized people and neighbours with disabilities, but
- [Our Housing Workers are Worth It](https://cupelocal79.org/worth-it-tchc/) - Toronto Community and Seniors Housing workers are underpaid, overworked and fearing for their safety. We know affordable housing is worth it. So are they.
- [Worth it](https://cupelocal79.org/worth-it/) - City workers deliver the vital services that help our city thrive. If that's worth doing, they're worth supporting. It's time to stand up for Toronto.
- [Bargaining](https://cupelocal79.org/bargaining-2/)
- [Cal](https://cupelocal79.org/cal/) - Cupe Local 79 Tentative Agreement Calculator Part Time Rec Full Time, Long Term Care and Unit B
- [TM](https://cupelocal79.org/tm/)
- [Wage Calculator-Tentative Agreement](https://cupelocal79.org/wage-calculator-tentative-agreement/)
- [News](https://cupelocal79.org/news/) - News Solidarity with Grassy Narrows 31 March 2026 This morning, Local 79 members marched alongside Grassy Narrows First Nation to demand that Premier Ford deliver on mercury justice. For over 60 years, the people of Grassy Narrows have Read More Local 79 attends International Women’s Day March 07 March 2026 Today we marched for International
- [The Collective Bargaining Process with the City of Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/bargainingprocess/) - Local 79’s collective agreements with the City of Toronto expired on December 31, 2024. Let’s take a step-by-step look at the process it takes to renegotiate our contracts, also called the ‘collective bargaining process’. Bargaining Process Want to know what stage of the collective bargaining process we’re on? Look for the red arrow below. Pre-bargaining
- [What we do](https://cupelocal79.org/what-we-do-2/) - From the water you drink to the parks you love: if you live in Toronto, chances are that a Local 79 member touches your life every day. We know that's worth it.
- [What we do](https://cupelocal79.org/what-we-do-2/) - From the water you drink to the parks you love: if you live in Toronto, chances are that a Local 79 member touches your life every day. We know that's worth it.
- [Who we are](https://cupelocal79.org/who-we-are/) - CUPE Local 79 is a proud part of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, representing the full-time and part-time workers of the City of Toronto.
- [Who we are](https://cupelocal79.org/who-we-are/) - CUPE Local 79 is a proud part of the Canadian Union of Public Employees, representing the full-time and part-time workers of the City of Toronto.
- [Every neighbour is worth it.](https://cupelocal79.org/our-citys-most-vulnerable-are-worth-it/) - Every neighbour is worth it. With the right support, even the most vulnerable folks can stand on their own. And as more Torontonians lose their jobs and their homes, our members are there to provide that support whatever it may be. From helping neighbours find a new job to helping them find shelter for the
- [A safer, greener city is worth it.](https://cupelocal79.org/a-greener-cleaner-toronto-is-worth-it/) - Our city depends on countless services behind the scenes to keep it running, responding, and delivering for residents. We're there to ensure the work gets done.
- [Healthy communities are worth it.](https://cupelocal79.org/healthy-communities-are-worth-it/) - Healthy communities are worth it. More than 1,700 of our members in Toronto Public Health go to work to keep our city thriving. We address urgent health needs and provide medical and mental health support for our city’s most vulnerable residents every day. We know that’s worth the work. Facing crises on the front lines. During
- [Toronto’s families are worth it.](https://cupelocal79.org/torontos-families-are-worth-it/) - Toronto’s families are worth it. More than 1,200 of us give our littlest neighbours a safe place to grow. We teach. We nourish. We provide world-leading care while Toronto’s parents are at work. And as the cost of living forces people to take on multiple jobs, more families than ever are relying on that care.
- [Job posting: Organizer](https://cupelocal79.org/job-posting-organizer/) - CUPE Local 79 is looking for a short-term organizer to work as part of the Engagement team to help engage, motivate and organize our members ahead of this round of bargaining with the City of Toronto. General information 12-month contract with possibility of extension. Start date: late March- early April. Non bargaining unit. Salary &
- [Instructions on registering for General Membership Meetings virtually](https://cupelocal79.org/instructions-on-registering-for-general-membership-meetings-virtually/) - Every month (except July, August and December), Local 79 holds a General Membership Meeting to update members on workplace issues and union business. To attend these meetings virtually, you'll need to use video-conferencing software Zoom. You must have a Zoom account in order to register for the meeting, which you can obtain at www.zoom.us/signup. Once signed
- [Privacy Policy](https://cupelocal79.org/privacy-policy/) - [vc_section][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”120″][/vc_column][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1574299828222{margin-bottom: 0px !important;}”] Privacy Statement The Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 79 (CUPE Local 79) respects your privacy. This page summarizes the privacy policy for this website, cupelocal79.org. This website does not automatically gather any personal information from you, such as your name, phone number, or e-mail address. This information is only

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://cupelocal79.org/category/uncategorized/)
- [Featured News](https://cupelocal79.org/category/top-news/)
- [Letters](https://cupelocal79.org/category/letters/) - Defending the interests of members is something Local 79 does on a continual basis. Part of that defense comes in the form of advocacy or presenting objections in letters. The letters below are Local 79’s latest responses to the actions of employers and governments.
- [Multimedia](https://cupelocal79.org/category/multimedia/)
- [News](https://cupelocal79.org/category/news/)
- [News Releases](https://cupelocal79.org/category/news-releases/) - When important events take place that the broader public should be made aware, Local 79 issues News Releases to the media.
- [President's Reports](https://cupelocal79.org/category/presidents-reports/) - The President’s Report is released every month (except July, August and December) by Local 79 President Tim Maguire. The reports provide a recap of the latest news, announce future events, and highlight general information that members might find useful.
- [Blog](https://cupelocal79.org/category/blog/) - For quick announcements, anecdotes and commentary from Local 79, visit this blog — updated more frequently than our news section.
- [Latest News](https://cupelocal79.org/category/latest-news/) - The Latest News section features the most recent announcements released from Local 79. If there’s a pressing matter that members should know about, you’ll find it here. .
- [About us](https://cupelocal79.org/category/about-us/)
- [Executive bio](https://cupelocal79.org/category/executive-bio/)

## Tags

- [Events](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/events/)
- [Ann Dembinski](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/ann-dembinski/)
- [bed bugs](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/bed-bugs/)
- [child care](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/child-care/)
- [City of Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/city-of-toronto/)
- [cleaners Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/cleaners-toronto/)
- [Core Services Review](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/core-services-review/)
- [Councillor Anthony Perruzza](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/councillor-anthony-perruzza/)
- [CUPE Local 79](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/cupe-local-79/)
- [CUPE Local 79 bargaining](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/cupe-local-79-bargaining/)
- [custodial police facilities](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/custodial-police-facilities/)
- [Forestry](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/forestry/)
- [KPMG](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/kpmg/)
- [Mayor Rob Ford](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/mayor-rob-ford/)
- [no board CUPE Local 79](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/no-board-cupe-local-79/)
- [Parks](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/parks/)
- [Parks & Environment](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/parks-environment/)
- [public art](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/public-art/)
- [public engagement](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/public-engagement/)
- [public health nurses](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/public-health-nurses/)
- [public realm](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/public-realm/)
- [Toronto](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/toronto/)
- [Toronto Board of Health](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/toronto-board-of-health/)
- [old](https://cupelocal79.org/tag/old/)