April 19, 2006 at 12:00 AM
"Harassment at work is one of the most sensitive issues that can happen. It ruins relationships, makes people feel isolated and can divide the workplace into groups fighting with each other”, stated Cate Moss, National Human Rights Coordinator. “Employees at Jazz Tech in Toronto have experienced an unusual amount of conflict, so I want to give members an update on action items to improve their work location."
Current Harassment Complaints
There have been numerous complaints of workplace harassment at the Toronto Maintenance base. To date, all complaints have been investigated and resolutions have either been finalized or are in the process of being finalized. Asking for our members support, Cate said: “I cannot stress how important it is to have confidentiality on these matters, and I ask all members for their support in not discussing current harassment investigations in the workplace. If you need to speak to someone about a situation at work then speak to me, your local CAW officers or a manager you trust.” The CAW anticipates that investigations of all current harassment complaints in Toronto, and recommendations to successfully resolve them, will be finalized within two weeks.
Training - Building a Respectful Workplace
Most CAW members at the base have been through the one-half day training in Building a Respectful Workplace. For members who have not had this training, the CAW is in the process of scheduling the final groups who missed the initial sessions.
Equity Representatives - Skilled Problem Solvers at Major Bases
Local 2002 will be moving forward to build its Human Rights infrastructure. The Local will be selecting Equity Representatives for each region who will be trained to investigate and resolve harassment complaints, as well as train members in building a respectful workplace. Rather than the Human Rights coordinator doing all the investigations and trainings across the country, the Coordinator will move into a support role for the Equity Representatives. Equity Representatives will give more immediate support to local CAW officers so human rights issues can be resolved quickly and appropriately.
These action items have the potential to make a significant difference in the work environment at Jazz Technical Services in Toronto and across the system. It is hoped this bulletin was helpful to update you on the Human Rights issues at the station, as well as plans Local 2002 has for strengthening the national infrastructure through our new Equity Representatives positions.
For further information:
Cate Moss, National Human Rights Coordiator, CAW Local 2002