Tapping in: With Greg Hoath: Business Manager for the Hamilton Ontario Water Employees Association (HOWEA) and the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 772

In light of the ongoing strike regarding water services, we checked in with Business Manager for the Hamilton Ontario Water Employees Association (HOWEA) and the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 772 in Hamilton, Ontario. Here is our Q/A with Greg:

You had indicated to the city that they are fully aware of what it would take to end thes strike. Can you share with Hamiltonians what you think it would take to end it. What is the impasse and why is it important to your members that the city meet your requirements in that regard?

The City was made aware of the issues in 2004 when deciding whether to renew the Public Private Partnership with American Water or to take back in house. We met with each councillor and the Mayor. The two issues were raised 8 years ago without any resolution. Finally 4 years ago at bargaining, we notified the City the two issues would be the union’s only proposals - 1. Internal Parity with trades and operators, with our members requiring much higher certification but much lower paid; 2. A certification system that never worked under private operator and at best requires about 10 years to achieve a top rate that is below market. We cannot retain or attract certified operators or trades and are under manned. The cost would be about $300000 to settle, represents less than 0.01% of the City budget. City staff blame their mandate and have stated “what do we tell the large CUPE Local 5167, why we gave you more”

2. Is there any truth that striking workers have been somewhat disruptive. If so, is it in the sense that typically happens when strikes are enacted (in terms of mild forms of protest resistance), or, are you concerned that things may be reaching a boiling point. What instructions do your members get with respect to strike protocols?

Prior to the strike the IUOE held strike protocol meetings and provided information like Picket Captain Duties, FAQ’s and Do’s & Dont’s. We have legally picketed various City properties - 700 Woodward Water & Wastewater Facilities, 330 Wentworth Water Distribution Hub, City Hall and held an information picket at HSR Upper James where we held no buses contrary to the stories reported. Police have been called numerous times by a strike breaking security company, hired by the City at an astronomical cost to taxpayers, without any issues. 

We have conducted ourselves within the law and professionally. In fact, we informed residents of odour problems, brown water and no water in Stoney Creek. We are not having an issue other than some cars hitting picketers. Unfortunately, some anger is expected. However, the support has been overwhelming as most citizens tell us they have little faith in the City administration

The members are committed to finally reaching fairness in their agreement and their resolve is stronger than ever.We would rather be working than on strike and remain concerned with the operation and maintenance of such a critical service to all Hamiltonians

 Thanks Greg. We wish you and your members all the best and hope that a deal with be made soon.  

 Photo by Deborah L Carlson on Unsplash