District 3 News
What Rachel Notley has done for Steelworkers?
Premier Notley has never forgotten who she is working for. After decades of right-wing, anti-worker governments, Alberta is making progress with a government that is on our side.
Stephen Hunt Statement on USW Member's Death at Elkview Mine
Statement of condolences and support for USW member's family and co-workers following workplace fatality at B.C. mine.
Recalling the Horror Part of Making Improvements
Twenty-six years after telling his story of post-traumatic stress on every anniversary of the disaster, Vern Theriault has written it all down in “Westray, My Journey from Darkness to Light”.
Concession Bargaining
From NAFTA to TPP to CETA, Liberals’ trade deals make things worse for Canadians.
Support Bécancour Steelworkers Locked Out by ABI
Show your solidarity with a donation to the locked-out workers of Local 9700 in Bécancour.
Remove Steel Tariffs Before Signing New Trade Deal: Mark Rowlinson on Power & Politics
The USW says Canada should not sign the USMCA until the U.S. has removed tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum.
Alberta Premier Rachel Notley to Speak to Steelworkers at Conference in Kamloops
Alberta Premier Rachel Notley will address members of the United Steelworkers from across Western Canada at the USW District 3 Conference in Kamloops, B.C., on Wednesday, October 31.
B.C. Labour Code Recommendations a Good First Step: Steelworkers
Greater reforms are needed to modernize labour relations and ensure workers share in B.C.'s prosperity, union says.
I Am With You, Sisters!
“I have had the privilege to be here over the last several days and hear the women of our great union – on both sides of the border – set out your plans and your ideas for how you will continue the struggle for women’s equality."
Answering the Call to Action Through Global Solidarity
Tapping the Power of Authenticity: delegates to the International Women of Steel Conference were inspired by the experiences of women activists and union leaders from around the world.
The Women Speak
We’re the women of the union in the forefront of the fight, we fight for women’s issues; we fight for women’s rights. We’re prepared to fight for freedom; we’re prepared to stand our ground, women make the union strong!
USW President Gerard Calls for Movement, Not Musing at WOS Conference
USW International President Leo Gerard took the mic for the keynote speech on the second morning of the International Women of Steel Conference .
2018 International Women's Conference Delegate Bios - Districts 1 to 6
We asked some of our most stellar sisters who are attending the 2018 International Women's Conference in Toronto, Ontario, some questions about being an activist and more. Check out some of their bios below.
More than 1,200 Women of Steel Answer the Call
The 2018 USW Women of Steel (WOS) Conference in Toronto, Ontario, was called to order on Monday, October 15.
United Steelworkers Endorse Mike Hurley for Burnaby Mayor
The United Steelworkers is proud to announce its support for Mike Hurley and is encouraging all working people in Burnaby to support him as the next Mayor of the city in October 20th election
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Contributes $10,000 to Aid Survivors of Indonesian Tsunami
“This catastrophe left nearly 200,000 people in urgent need of assistance, about a quarter of them children. We felt compelled to demonstrate the Steelworkers' solidarity in the face of a catastrophe of such magnitude."
Battle to Defend Steel and Aluminum Continues
For years, Steelworkers on both sides of the U.S. border have decried and battled the harmful and unfair dumping of steel and aluminum by countries, including China, South Korea and Turkey.
USW Welcomes the Return of Napoleón Gómez to Mexico
USW welcomes the return to Mexico of Napoleón Gómez Urrutia, the President and General Secretary of Los Mineros after more than 12 years of exile.
A New World of Possibilities for Workers: Napoleon Gomez Becomes A Senator in Mexico
Leo Gerard honours labour hero – Los Mineros leader Napoleon Gomez – on his swearing in as a Senator of the Mexican Republic.
Federal Steel Measures a Needed Step: Steelworkers
The USW welcomes the federal government's announcement that it is commencing consultations on the steel safeguards and protection measures our union has been requesting for months,
USW Forestry Workers in Northern B.C. Preparing for Strike
"The employer is unwilling to discuss the most basic proposals. Our workers are demanding changes and we will fight for them. We are bargaining for 23 different worksites and it's time to send them a message."
Canada’s Uranium Industry No Threat to U.S.: Steelworkers
U.S. uranium producers have basically made the case already, that Canada is not the problem.
Trump Tariffs Could Tip Canada into Recession, Trade Committee Told
"If you don't poke the bear, he's going to eat your lunch," USW National Director Ken Neumann told the House of Commons committee on international trade.
Our Unity. Our Strength: 2018 USW District 3 Conference - October 30 to November 1, Kamloops, BC
USW District 3 will be holdings its 2018 District Conference from October 30th to November 1st, at the Coast Kamloops Hotel and Conference Centre.
Story of the Sears Bankruptcy
Watch this Radio-Canada documentary on the Sears bankruptcy, featuring an interview with Steelworker and NDP MP Scott Duvall on the legalized theft of workers' hard-earned pensions in corporate bankruptcies.
Unjustified U.S. Tariffs on Canadian Steel, Aluminum Will Harm Jobs, Economy in Both Countries
“Imposing tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum risks harming the U.S. and Canadian economies and threatens thousands of jobs in both countries.” - Ken Neumann
Day of Mourning 2018
This April 28th, the National Day of Mourning, our union must once again reflect on the continuing tragedy in workplaces.
"Be More Than A Bystander” Training Already Making An Impression
It seems that every time you open a newspaper or turn on the six o’clock news these days, you’re surrounded by bad news.
USW to Hear from Taxi Drivers and Community after Violent Attack
A taxi driver from Regina Cabs is recovering from multiple stab wounds to the throat, chest and stomach after a violent attack on Friday morning, April 13. The driver remains in critical condition
Introducing Atkinson Foundation Podcast: Just Work It
'Just Work It,' is the Atkinson Foundation’s brand new platform for podcasts and events on decent work for and by those of us who are called “millennials.”
Workers Were Sold a Lie
NAFTA must defend good jobs, improve living standards and reverse growing inequality.
Submissions to the Review Panel under Section 3 of the BC Labour Relations Code
The world of work has changed dramatically over the last fifty years and our members have experienced these changes first-hand.
Stepping Up to Stop Harassment
Let’s take this #MeToo #TimesUp moment as an opportunity to revisit and expand our anti-harassment policies.
Canadian Health Care Workers Find Common Ground
Health care workers in western Canada are all members of amalgamated locals, which brings a unique set of challenges.
Canada’s Exclusion from U.S. Aluminum, Steel Tariffs Clearly Warranted
“The evidence is clear that Canadian steel and aluminum imports are not part of the problem that the U.S. administration is trying to address." – USW National Director Ken Neumann
Canadian Aluminum, Steel Must Be Excluded from U.S. Tariffs and Quotas: Steelworkers
“There is no justification to include Canada with countries that systematically violate trade laws.” - Ken Neumann
Steelworkers Arbitration Victory Ends Random Drug and Alcohol Testing At Teck’s Elk Valley Unionized Mines
The significant arbitration decision recognizes the importance of employee privacy rights and imposes a high bar on employers to justify random testing.
USW Calls for Labour Unity in Face of Unifor's Unilateral Actions
The USW will stand with and support CLC-affiliated unions that are under attack, just as we would expect them to support us if Unifor turned on USW members, anywhere in this country.
USW Potash Locals United Like Never Before Following Strategic Meetings
The United Steelworkers Potash Locals have concluded two days of successful and productive meetings in Saskatoon, Sask., where local unions came together to discuss a number of issues important to Steelworkers who work in potash mines in the province.
United Steelworkers Alberta Lobby 2017
For the first time ever, the USW conducted "Lobby Days" at the Alberta Legislature in Edmonton.
Steelworkers Humanity Fund Contributes $196,850 to 106 Food Banks Across Canada
The Steelworkers Humanity Fund is proud to contribute to food banks and community food centres in communities across Canada where our union’s members live and work.
Steelworkers To Rally Outside Saskatoon City Hall In Defence of Taxi Jobs
Steelworkers want to see a modernized taxi industry that will be beneficial to both the public and taxi workers.
USW Cares: Steelworkers donate $10,000 to Kamloops Food Bank
USW Local 1-417 raised $10,000 and collected 280 lbs. of food for the Kamloops Food Bank for the holidays.
Coal Mining Union Positive on Government Transition Announcement
“The best transition for a worker is to continue to have a good, family-supporting job.”
Be More Than a Bystander - Break the Silence on Violence Against Women
“Be More Than a Bystander” is a groundbreaking initiative between the Ending Violence Association of BC (EVA BC) and the BC Lions aimed at substantially increasing awareness and understanding about the impact of men’s violence against women.
USW Taxi Workers Council Responds to Government's Move to Open Door to Uber, Lyft
The United Steelworkers (USW) Taxi Workers Council is expressing serious concerns regarding the Sask Party Government's move to open the door for Uber, Lyft and other ride-hailing alternatives.
United Steelworkers Endorse Trent Wotherspoon for Saskatchewan NDP Leader
The United Steelworkers, with its 16 local unions and two retiree chapters in Saskatchewan, is proud to announce its endorsement of Trent Wotherspoon for Leader of the Saskatchewan New Democratic Party.
Steelworkers' Taxi Workers Council Will Provide Strong Voice for Taxi Workers in Western Canada
The United Steelworkers (USW) commitment to providing a strong voice for taxi workers has taken a significant step forward today with the creation of the District 3 Taxi Workers Council
Brutal Assaults on Saskatoon Taxi Drivers Must Stop
A taxi driver from Comfort Cabs is recovering after a brutal attack by a passenger on Oct. 13. The attack serves as a reminder of the dangers that taxi drivers face every shift.
Regina Cabs Ignoring City Bylaw Change, Taxi Drivers Blocked from Using City-Issued Licences
“This move by Regina Cabs is a slap in the face to the public, taxi drivers and Regina City Council.”
Regina Cabs Ignoring City Bylaw Change, Taxi Drivers Blocked from Using City-Issued Licenses
Taxi drivers are calling out Regina Cabs management for their refusal to recognize drivers with taxi plates issued through a newly amended city distribution system.
USW Congratulates Jagmeet Singh, New Federal NDP Leader
In a letter to Singh on behalf of Steelworkers, USW National Director Ken Neumann expressed excitement about Singh's leadership and the tremendous energy and enthusiasm the new leader brings to our proud and principled party.
Steelworkers at PTI Manitoba Inc. Ratify New Agreement, Company Must Work to Rebuild Trust After Lockout
Members of United Steelworkers Local 4297, employed by PTI Manitoba Inc., have voted in favour of ratifying a new collective agreement with their employer.
NDP Triples Membership During Leadership Race
Congratulations to the leadership campaigns, activists and organizers who have been signing up NDP members to take part in the leadership vote.
Labour Day Message from USW District 3 Director Stephen Hunt
We are a family that looks out for another and fights together to build better communities and better lives for all.
USW Cares: Steelworkers Welcome Back Clinton, B.C. Community
USW Locals 1-417 and 7619 out of Kamloops, B.C. welcomed back Clinton residents after their wild fire evacuation order was lifted.
Steelworkers Contribute $100,000 to B.C. Fire Relief
"This support is possible thanks to contributions by thousands of USW members across Canada and the USW National and District offices." - Ken Neumann said.
Steelworkers Ratify Agreement at Highland Valley, Teck Must Rebuild Trust
“Teck’s attempts to turn the clock back have done tremendous harm to the relationship with their employees as well as the community.” - Stephen Hunt
Union ratifies contract with Teck Trail
Highlights include an eight per cent wage increase over five years and a $14,500 signing bonus.
USW in Mediation Over Impasse in Evraz Negotiations
With a productive, hard-working workforce, Evraz doesn't need to attack benefits and working conditions of Steelworkers.
Stop Log Exports; Invest in B.C.
In the wake of yet another closure of a B.C. sawmill due to lack of logs, the USW is seeking a fresh approach from the new B.C. government.
USW Telephone Town Hall with NDP Leadership Candidates
Listen in to our USW telephone town halls with Steelworkers asking their questions to Niki Ashton, Guy Caron and Jagmeet Singh.
USW Telephone Town Hall with NDP Leadership Candidates
Listen in to our USW Telephone Town Hall with NDP Leadership Candidates.
Imminent Labour Dispute Threatens Teck’s Profits
Teck is courting a potential labour dispute at its Highland Valley Copper mine that would have a significant impact on the company’s bottom line.
USW Cares: Kamloops Steelworkers Act Swiftly to Help B.C. Wildfires Evacuees
USW Applauds Alberta Premier Rachel Notley's NDP Government for Commitment to Fix Workers' Compensation Board
The United Steelworkers is applauding Premier Rachel Notley and her government for creating an opportunity to fix the broken workers' compensation system in Alberta.
Liberals’ Enthusiasm For China Trade Deal Should Raise Alarms
Since the Liberals were elected in 2015, concern has grown across the country over this government's behaviour on investment, trade and other issues regarding China. Opinion piece in the Huffington Post by USW National Director Ken Neumann.
From Awareness to Bargaining
USW Wins Domestic Violence Leave Provisions in Collective Agreements.
B.C. Steelworker Nancy McCurrach Wins Top Jefferson Award for Community Service
Nancy McCurrach of Port Coquitlam, B.C., has won a major North American community service award for her outstanding work in helping refugees.
Calgary Steelworkers Respond To Evraz Attacks With 100% Strike Vote
Calgary – Members of United Steelworkers Local 6673 at Evraz Calgary have voted 100% in favour of strike action in response to the company’s outrageous concessionary demands.
Calgary Steelworkers Respond to Evraz Attacks with 100% Strike Vote
"Despite being an extremely profitable company, Evraz is trying to squeeze out even more money by attacking the long-standing benefits of workers, retirees and surviving spouses." - Stephen Hunt
Canadian Forestry Workers Tell U.S. Officials: A Fair Softwood Agreement Is a Negotiated One
"We have a long history of working together and we are here this week to advocate for a fair deal that will benefit both Americans and Canadians." - Bob Matters, USW Wood Council
Support for Canada’s Forest Industry and Communities the Right Thing to Do – for Now: Steelworkers
“We need long-term commitments to workers and families, alongside a sustainable industry.” - Ken Neumann
NDP Poised to Form Government in B.C.
The BC NDP and the BC Green Party have reached an agreement for the parties to work together and intend to form a minority government. Steelworkers congratulate BC NDP Leader John Horgan and the BC NDP team.
Strong Strike Vote by Steelworkers in Response to Evraz Attacks
Members of USW Local 5890 have voted 99.3% in favour of strike action in response to Evraz’s extreme concessionary demands. Evraz Regina Steelworkers have been without a contact for nearly a year.
Strong Strike Vote by Steelworkers in Response to Evraz Attacks
Evraz's attempt to cut benefits for retirees and surviving spouses “is a sickening and shameful attack on vulnerable people.” - Stephen Hunt
Steelworkers Applaud Alberta Government’s Modernization of Workplace Legislation
Reforms will grow middle class, improve living standards for workers and support families, communities and local businesses.
USW Local 6166 on the Birch Tree Mine Closure Announcement
USW representatives were informed by Mark Scott that Birch Tree Mine would be put on care and maintenance by Oct 1, 2017. Birch Tree Mine is one of three operating mines in the operation.
Steelworker Summer
Steelworker Summer is about uniting students, workers, and community activists to create social justice in workplaces and communities.
Vern Theriault Recalls Westray – CBC's The Current
On the 25th anniversary of Westray, former miner Vern Theriault and District 3 Director Stephen Hunt tell the story of the disaster and the USW's efforts to end workplace deaths.
District 3 Summer School – June 11-16, 2017
District 3 will be holding the week-long Summer School at the Trickle Creek Lodge and Kimberley Alpine Resort on June 11-16, 2017.
Alberta Government signs precedent setting agreement for Westray Enforcement
The Memorandum between the 10 police forces in Alberta and the provincial government defines the protocols for Notification, Investigation and Communication between department when there is a serious workplace incident.
Ministerial Statement on the National Day of Mourning
Statement on the National Day of Mourning by Alberta Government's Minister of Labour, Hon. Christina Gray.
Long-awaited Federal Commitment on Enforcing Workplace Fatality Law a Welcome Move Forward, says Steelworkers
Today’s statement by the federal justice and labour ministers for better enforcement of the “Westray Law” is welcome news on the Day of Mourning for workers killed or injured on the job.
USW’s Leo Gerard on Softwood and Unfair Trade
It’s a “bunch of greedy transnational companies, some of which are Canadian, operating on both sides of the border.”
Open Letter to B.C. Steelworkers from President Gerard
No matter what side of the border I work on, more and more I hear from right-wing politicians who don’t really have any ideas of their own so they just make things up. Apparently this B.C. election is no different.
Steelworkers Launch Hard-Hitting TV Ad on “Sell-Out” Christy Clark
Christy Clark has spent most of this election attacking the United Steelworkers in an attempt to distract voters from her disastrous record as Premier.
Canada Must Be Excluded from U.S. Aluminum Investigation: United Steelworkers
“Canadian aluminum, like Canadian steel, is not a threat to American national security. Quite on the contrary.” - Ken Neumann
BC Liberals: Bad for Workers, Bad for British Columbia
Christy Clark has been launching baseless attacks at our union. Why? Because we aren’t afraid to hold her and the BC Liberals to account.
Leo Gerard Standing Up for Canadian Workers
USW International President Leo W. Gerard speaking to CBC’s Chris Hall on trade, Trump and standing up for Canadian steel and forest workers.
Steelworkers Demand Government Counter Softwood Lumber Tariffs that Will Damage Canadian Industry, Hurt Working Families
“We need decisive action. A fair softwood lumber agreement that provides good paying jobs, supports local communities and produces sustainable forests is possible.” - Ken Neumann
Working Forest: More Jobs and a Stronger Economy
BC Election 2017 Factsheet.
West Kootenay Steelworker Locals Endorse Katrine Conroy
USW Locals 9705, 480 and 1-405 are endorsing Katrine Conroy for re-election as MLA for Kootenay West in the upcoming provincial election, the union announced today.
Steelworkers Launch B.C. Election Campaign
The United Steelworkers (USW) is launching a campaign to raise issues important to working families during the coming British Columbia election.
USW Cares: Langley Steelworkers Participate in Weekend Fuel
USW Local 1944, Unit 60 recently took part in the Weekend Fuel program. The program aims to provide breakfast programs in participating schools in Langley, B.C.
Steelworkers Reach Tentative Agreement with CP Rail
“We will be recommending that our members ratify this tentative agreement. We look forward to presenting it to our members.”
Setting the Record Straight: Christy Clark and the BC Liberals Don’t Support Working People and That’s Why Steelworkers Don’t Support Them
Today The Province newspaper incorrectly reported that the United Steelworkers (USW) endorsed the BC Liberals. While we trust this was an honest error, and will avoid any shouting of fake news, it’s important to set the record straight.
Steelworkers Local 816 Members Locked Out by Lafarge Reach Tentative Agreement
Steelworkers secure new agreement that maintains seniority rights, provides wage and benefit increases and rejects concessions.
Members of USW 816 Locked Out by Lafarge Reach Tentative Agreement
Texada Island - Members of the United Steelworkers Local 816, locked out by Lafarge Canada at the Texada Island limestone mine since October 17, 2016, have reached a tentative agreement with their employer.
Next Generation Workshop
As a commitment to the Next Generation program to educate the young members of the United Steelworkers, we will be hosting two day training sessions in Edmonton and Burnaby. Registration is free and open to Steelworkers who are 35 years old or younger.
Momentum Builds for Domestic Violence Leave in Workplace Contracts
USW Local 1-405 reached a 3-year agreement with Trickle Creek Resort. Deal includes new provisions on domestic and family violence leave.
Steelworkers Win Domestic Violence Leave
Rivercrest Care Centre employees, members of USW Local 1-207 in Fort Saskatchewan, Alta., have ratified a new three-year agreement that for the first time includes contract language for domestic violence leave.
Lafarge Management Offers Insult and Continued Lockout Of Its Employees
USW Local 816 members at the Texada Quarrying limestone mine are calling out Lafarge management for insulting actions over the holidays.