Good morning WPFFA members,

I have wanted to write an update for some time now, but time has been my enemy.  I think this was something you members liked, I have talked to Angelo and he told me that he got great feedback from this report.  

I am honored to serve and represent the WPFFA at functions that I attend or seminars with other Associations.  I am proud to tell stroies of the men and women in this organization, like donating $15000.00 to fight like Mason Foundation or filling days in 10 mins for a co-worker in need.  

The last 4 months have flown by and the board has accomplished a lot in that time.  The road is like a treadmill and we hit it running.  The Banquet in November was a success, John and Jack did a great job organizing and hosting.  They have already started planning on making next year's even better.  Three of us went to Toronto for the Legislative Conference in November to meet with the local MPP's.  We got to talk about our issues, fire medic, firefighter certification and getting some of the Section 21 guidlines into Regulations.  

A tough decision but the right decision had to be made about this years Chiliefest.  In support of another Union the Benefit Fund decided the right thing to do was postpone the event for this year.  The Executive Board supported the decision 100%.  

Sparky's Toy drive started in November and was a great success.  Thanks to Sean C, Rob K and Bob B for their leadership with this event.  Also thank you to the members who stepped up and helped when they were needed.  Like  fill the boot at the Spitfires game, unloading of the toys at Hotel Dieu and the Parade. 

The board had 2 days of negotiations in November.  They went well, this is the first time negotiating freely with the City in 12 years.  Both sides want to negotiate a new Collective Agreement.  We have 5 more dates scheduled for February and March.  

Jan 1/18 new legislation Bill 148 came into effect.  There have been many questions on how this is being implimented.  The City has its view on how things should work like Personal Emergency Leave, sick notes and sick time calculation.  We have a meeting with HR in the next week to discuss this new legislation and how it affects us because we still follow our Collective Agreement.  You can see the City's write up by going to dashboard and searching HR information on Personal Emergency Leave.  It is a document to explain how the City is interpreting this Bill.  Once we get some information it will be posted and you will be notified.  

I would like to thank the membership for helping the Board, by asking questions or giving advice.  Collectively we are more knowledgable.  I apprieciate your feedback and comments, so don't be shy.  Send them all to Matton.  

Thank you, Tracker