Doug Walden (below), a highly experienced excavator operator working on the Small Modular Reactor (SMR) project at the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station, recently had an encounter with two LiUNA representatives. “The reps come walking straight into our work zone and started talking to the guys,” he said. “One asked if we’re going to sign (with LiUNA) and I just told them to stay out of our seats, that I’m not signing with them and never will. “I told them ‘Why would I go work with you guys and lose everything I have? You can’t run shovels, so how you going to run machines?’” The LiUNA representative then threatened Brother Walden, claiming the Labourers would cross the picket line and act as scabs if the Operating Engineers were forced to strike for a better contract. “I said that would only happen over my dead body, and then I closed the door on them.” Brother Walden also witnessed the LiUNA reps approach other trades on site, including plumbers. “Why would we give up everything we’ve worked so hard to build?” he asked. “We have training centres to train people to be good operators and we’re not going to let that go backwards. I can’t understand why anyone would want to leave our union when we’ve got damn good benefits and a pension.” “Over my dead body!”
Ricky Uncao (above), a Union steward working for GIP, said he was shocked by the way he and other members had been approached by a LiUNA rep. He said, “He was pushing petty hard, telling us LiUNA were going to take us over. I was pretty stunned and I didn’t like how they were laughing around about it.” He added, “Local 793 has helped me progress, making me a shop steward for one thing. I love being part of it. I have kids and the benefits are great. It’s a strong union and I love being an Operator.” Brother Ian Talbot, a foreman with Trisan in Lindsay, hasn’t been approached directly by any LiUNA representatives, but says if they did, they’d be wasting their time. “What’s the benefit for me? As far as I’m concerned, there is none.” “I love being an Operator”
Labourers “not safe” at controls
Union steward Jim White (right) was on site for Conelco when members were targeted by LiUNA early in the open period. He said, “They talked to one of my young Operators and gave him a business card. When they turned up again, it got a little heated and I told them that I needed them to get away from my guys. “Look, 183 are our brothers. That’s who we work with every day - they’re not our enemies, they’re our friends. I told him that we want to work with them, but we’re not switching.” Brother White likened LiUNA 183 business manager Jack Oliveira to U.S. President Donald Trump, suggesting, “He wants Operators as his 51st state. That’s what it feels like.”
White would also prefer the Labourers to leave the operating of all heavy equipment to the professionals. “Unfortunately, every time (Labourers) hop in a machine, they’re not safe. They’re just too risky in my opinion,” he said.
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