Young People Know the Value of the IAM
When it comes to the process of becoming organized, many
workers do not know what is involved, what their rights are, or
even how to get started. These ten steps are not offered as a
final or exhaustive list of how the process works, but as a brief
guide on how to get organized.
Prospective members should be aware that their right to Union
representation is guaranteed under the law, and that it is
illegal for a Company to take action against an employee for
seeking to form a Union or become organized.
The 10 Steps of the Certification Process are as follows:
* Initial contact with the Union results in a meeting between the
employees seeking certification and the Union’s representatives.
* Employees sign Application For Membership cards. Please note
that all Applications for Membership are treated in the strictest
confidence – your employer will never see these cards! Further,
the Union always seeks sufficient membership cards for
certification (minimum 55%), in order for a workplace vote.
* The Machinists Union applies to the Labour board for
certification.
* A hearing is held at the Labour Board, where your Union will
appear on your behalf.
* Assuming no valid objections are raised, the Labour Board will
hold a vote for certification of a Union.
* The Union holds meetings with the employees to get
proposals/demands for collective bargaining.
* Election of your Shop Steward and negotiating committee
representative(s).
* Collective Bargaining sessions are held between the Company and
the Union.
* Settlement of your Collective Agreement is always subject to
ratification by majority vote of the employees in the Bargaining
Unit.
* Only upon ratification of a collective agreement does the
Machinists Union begin collecting dues from its new members.
