Union Charter, Waterloo, Ontario; July 1, 1941.
View Image Notes
in New Window
"One consideration comes before anything else,
and that's looking after the general well-being of my members."
Bert Thiel, Former President, DWU Local No. 48.
Union Charter, Waterloo, Ontario; July 1, 1941. View Image Notes in New Window |
On July 1, 1941, workers at the Seagram distillery in Waterloo joined the Distillery Rectifying and Wine Workers' International Union of America and became members of Local No. 48, under the presidency of Oliver Sehl. The security guards later joined the Union on February 1, 1955 as Local No. 155. Membership in the Union was open to all workers who did not have the authority to hire and discharge other employees. Annual dues were collected from members, and officers were elected on a rotating basis. Shop stewards were appointed to represent the interests of each department and union meetings were held monthly to provide officers and the membership of "brothers" and "sisters" an opportunity to discuss issues directly affecting their work. The primary role of the Union was to negotiate a reasonable agreement with Management and to ensure that both sides honoured the approved contract. Job security and the general well being of employees were uppermost on the Union's list of labour concerns.
 Union Float, Labour Day Parade; circa 1962; 96.X1.41. |
The introduction of the Union dramatically changed working conditions at the plant and for the first time wage rates were negotiated and positions were classified according to level of responsibility. The Union was also successful, over the years, in negotiating employee benefits and rights such as a regular work schedule, overtime pay, holiday and vacation time, seniority, uniform and equipment provisions and "strike bound goods". Labour relations between the Union and Management were, overall, amicable, as evident in the fact that employees at the plant never went on strike. Former President of the Union, Bert Thiel, attributed this to the fact that; "we always tried to build a working relationship (with Management) on a friendly basis."
The Union also played an important social role in the life of the plant. Annual picnics and Christmas parties were organized by the Social Committee and members regularly participated in community activities such as holiday parades and City sport leagues. The Union was generous with its funds, supporting local charities and events. It also acknowledged the contributions of Management and fellow union members in the form of small gifts. Locals No. 48 and 155 are remembered for having served their membership well.
Other images related to this topic:
