Gerard Raymond workers join the union — UFCW Canada Local 401

Calgary – May 14, 2014 – UFCW Canada Local 401 is proud to announce that Excel Resources Society employees working at the Gerard Raymond Centre (GRC) and John McGee Employment Options Centre (JMEO) in Edmonton have become the newest members of Local 401.

Excel employees voted in favour of joining the union during an Alberta Labour Relations Board secret ballot vote held on Tuesday May 6, 2014. Gerard Raymond Centre and John McGee Employment Options Centre employees join their co-workers at two other certified Excel facilities in Edmonton: Grand Manor and Balwin Villa.

Excel Resources Society (ERS) employees provide support and advocacy for people of all ages who have mental, physical and developmental disabilities. Operating in Edmonton, Calgary, and the surrounding areas, the new ERS members work as Licensed Practical Nurses, Health Care Aides, and Community Support Workers; dedicated to providing specific care to individuals with a variety of health care needs.

“It was amazing to see the show of support at the vote,” said Union Organizer Chloë Carpenter. “The workers at the Gerard Raymond Centre and John McGee Employment Options Centre have been working in a tense environment since the employer found out about the organizing drive about a month ago. It took a lot of courage for them to stand together and demand change by voting for representation through UFCW Local 401.”

Members at GRC and JMEO share many similar workplace concerns with their co-workers at Grand Manor and Balwin Villa, including a need for proactive measures regarding workers’ safety and clarity in terms of the distribution of wages and benefits. While negotiations continue for Grand Manor and Balwin Villa members, GRC and JMEO members look forward to the opportunity to communicate with their employer about the changes needed within their workplace while at the negotiating table.

“We would like to congratulate and welcome our new members to Alberta’s largest private sector union,” said Director of Organizing Chris O’Halloran. “UFCW Canada Local 401 looks forward to negotiating alongside the committed and vocal workers at the Gerard Raymond Centre and John McGee Employment Options Centre, who will be a valuable addition to our membership.”