CBC Branch by-election to fill the Vice President position

Here are the Candidates’ information:

 

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Michael D’Souza

I am particularly troubled by the federal budget implementation bill (Bill C-60). This legislation will put the government at the bargaining table. While the government says this has to do with money, the CBC-CMG Collective Agreement is much more about how we do our jobs and the freedom to do that work effectively. If this bill passes we need experienced voices at the bargaining table. To that end I have also applied to be on the bargaining committee.

I have extensive experience as an activist in the union and have held positions at the local, national and international levels of the union. Please visit my web site for more details on my candidacy. Here’s the link:

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Elaines Janes

8 Years of Volunteering – Solving real problems

As Chair of the Local Joint Employment Committee where we place employees who have been laid off into new positions.

As Chair of the National Grievance Committee for four years where we resolved members’ problems across the country in News, Production, Technical and Administrative Areas. 9 out of 10 cases were settled favorably for the members.

As a member of the National Temporary Employee Review Committee where we converted dozens of employees with temporary and contract status to full-time permanent employment.  Over 300 individual cases were resolved. 

As a member of the Bargaining Committee during the last round of talks with CBC management.  Those talks led to our current Collective Agreement.

I have 21 years experience with CBC in Transmission, Production, Finance and Administration – from my hometown of St. John’s, to Yellowknife, Halifax and Toronto.

A vote for me is a vote for…

-Resolving outstanding workload issues.
-Keeping the focus on jobs, calling for job creation in understaffed areas and training where jobs are evolving.
-Ensuring SRC employees are well represented by the Union.
-A VP who values your opinion, listens to your concerns and takes action.
-A strong, collaborative and independent Union.

…a Union that is inclusive, transparent  and democratic.

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Harry Mesh

My name is Harry Mesh. I am currently in my sixth year as Atlantic Director, CBC Branch and eighth year as Location President, Gander/Grand Falls-Windsor. I have worked for 25 years as a Senior Remote Area Transmitter Technologist in Newfoundland and Labrador. I ask for your support in the by-election for interim CBC Branch Vice President.

I am concerned about the major challenges we face in the Guild, including:

-Bill C-60, which would allow the Federal government to interfere with bargaining at CBC
-Bill C-461, which reduces journalistic protection from Access to Information requests
-Possible “right to work” legislation which would allow people to opt out of dues payment while still reaping the benefits
-Negative public perception of unions
-Declining membership

Having gained considerable experience over the past number of years, I would now like the opportunity to help address these issues in the position of VP.

I currently serve on the following committees:

-National Joint Employment
-Branch Bylaws/Policy (as Chair)
-National Join-National Advocacy

Previous committees:

-2008/09 Bargaining
-National Transmission Health/Safety
-National PMSD
-Branch Committee Review
-Branch Structure Review
-Financial Review
-Convention Review

I believe I have the energy, interest and experience to make a difference and respectfully ask for your support.  I can be reached at hmesh@nf.sympatico.ca. But, whoever you choose, please make sure you vote. Let’s send the message that we are a strong, engaged union with a strong voter turnout!