Washington, D.C. – December 5, 2013 – UFCW Canada National Council President Paul Meinema has been elected Executive Vice President of UFCW International to serve the interests of the membership on the union’s most senior leadership committee.

Consisting of UFCW International President Joe Hansen, Secretary-Treasurer Marc Perrone, and Executive Vice Presidents Bill McDonough, Pat O'Neill and Meinema, the UFCW International Executive Committee is guided by the organization’s most senior elected officers, who provide the union with senior administrative experience and leadership.

As the International Executive Vice President representing Canada, Brother Meinema, in accordance with the UFCW Constitution, also serves the union as UFCW Canada National President.

“Paul’s life-long commitment to union organizing, member engagement, and political action is what the UFCW is all about, and Brother Meinema’s proven experience as a local and national leader is strongly suited to build on the excellent work that UFCW Canada activists have achieved over the years for the membership and all working families.” says International President Joe Hansen. “On behalf of the International Union, we congratulate Paul, and the entire UFCW Canada membership on the start of a new chapter in their illustrious history, and we look forward to working with National President Meinema on the International Executive Board and Executive Committee to continue building the voice of the union and to improve the lives of members and their communities across North America.”

To read National President Meinema’s message to UFCW Canada members and working families across the country, please click here.