December 2006 Executive Council Meeting
The December meeting of the MFL Executive Council, coming just a month after the convention, had a relatively light agenda. One of the topics that did come up a number of times were political issues related to the fact that within the next year, it is likely there will be both federal and provincial elections.
Debbie Jamerson of the Canadian Labour Congress in Winnipeg reported that she is working with the NDP to do some outreach within unions. That includes holding a two-day workshop in January for union members on how campaigns are run with the goal of getting more rank and file members involved in political activities. Changes made recently on the federal level will require reviewing the Elections Financing Legislation to ensure everyone is clear on what unions and their members can or cannot do.
The Executive Council held a general discussion on the anticipated upcoming elections. It was agreed that the MFL would set up a small committee to plan a strategy based on communicating with MFL members on issues.
The Council heard a presentation by Dave Winter on the Prairie Labour Worker's Co-op Council. This council facilitates collaboration between labour and worker co-op activities to improve conditions for workers in the Prairie region by promoting and facilitating worker ownership. Brother Winter explained that the work the council does is helpful to workers and if affiliates are aware of closures they should contact the council to discuss possible options and things that can be done for those workers affected.
A report was given to the Executive Council by Ellen Olfert on the Workers of Tomorrow campaign. She reported to Executive that the number of students reached through presentations by the campaign is approaching 100,000 students. During the past year, over 150 volunteer hours have been used to give presentations on safe work. The Workers of Tomorrow will be having their 10th anniversary celebration and everyone from Executive Council is invited.
The Executive Council approved the dates for council meetings during 2007. The council will meet on February 5 and 6,May 10 and 11, September 10 and 11, and December 3 and 4.