Thursday, February 25, 2010

February 25, 2010

Our show this week centered around :
  • Discussion about the narrow yes vote for the faculty at 24 Ontario colleges, accepting managements contract offer.  The Union thinks Fear was the motivating factor.
  • MPP Liberal member David Caplan (Don Valley West) introduced private member's legislation Monday that would strip Toronto Transit Commission workers of the right to strike.  We discuss the pros and cons of essential services classifications for certain portions of the working class.
  • We discuss a new study reported in the NY times drawing a parallel between job loss and health effects on workers being affected by this.  After 3 heart attacks by 3 men who all worked at the same steel mill that announced it would be closing.  
  • The Detroit area Progressives are showing signs of life with a gathering of 325 people gathering to answer the Tea Baggers at a “Call for Action” rally on the evening of February 18.  At the end of the article, a very important question is asked.  Is it time for more militant tactics, to demand the change we were promised in the 2008 election? How much longer are we going to wait?  INDEED!
  • The Greeks have what it takes to get change!  February 24, 2010 the two largest Greek Unions got together to stage a general strike!  This came in response to government plans to cut spending and push through tax reform to help the country pull itself out of massive debt.  Way to go!  We discuss how we would like to see this kind of unity in North America amongst our unions.
And here are the stories and links to them that we referenced in our broadcast :

Final count affirms acceptance of College offer
http://www.opseu.org/news/press2010/feb-24-2010.htm

TTC no-strike bill stalls quickly
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/ttc/article/769949--ttc-no-strike-bill-stalls-quickly

Trauma of Job Loss Often Includes Health Problems - NYTimes.com
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/25/us/25stress.html?hp

Detroit-area progressives push back
http://talkingunion.wordpress.com/2010/02/21/detroit-area-progressives-push-back/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Greek workers stage general strike
http://www.cbc.ca/world/story/2010/02/24/wd-greece-strike.html



WOHIS Health and safety Minute: 

Please join us in a worker-friendly environment at the CAW Local 200/444 Hall on
Saturday, February 27th for the 11th Annual RSI Day. 

The "Workplace Design" workshop will run  from 9:30 to 1:30.  This Workers Health and Safety Centre program looks at some of the factors responsible for the development of Repetitive Strain Injury disorders.  Specifically, participants explore poorly designed workstations, tools and equipment, the work environment and work organization. 

Then from 12:30 to 1:30 there will be a Panel Discussion regarding the question "Isn't it time for Regulations?" since the introduction of the 2007 MSD (Musculoskeletal Disorders) guidelines.

The cost for this event is $15!  No charge if attending Panel Discussion only.  Refreshments provided.

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Then on Tuesday March 2nd the Workers Health and Safety Centre is offering Ergonomics: Injuries, Risk Factors & Design Principles training.  Participants will identify and discuss the many workplace risk factors responsible for the development of MSDs including repetition, awkward or fixed postures, forceful movements, vibration and inadequate rest.  Training is one of the best places to start any prevention effort.

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For more information on RSI Day or any health and safety concern, contact WOHIS


Windsor Occupational Health Information SERVICE - at 3129 Marentette Avenue,
directly behind Devonshire Mall, or call us at 519-254-5157.

Visit our website at: www.wohis.org



Remember you have the right to a safe and healthy workplace!


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