10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
CMG office
311 Adelaide Street East

Attending:  Kat,  Lara, Sarah, Pooja, Sheena, Allie, Dave, and Mathieu starting at 10:05

Jag, Myriam, Arman, attend at 10:15  

Adoption of agenda: moved by Sheena, seconded by Dave and passed unanimously.

 Welcome to the LEC 25/26

• Time: 10:05
• Action: New members—Sheena, Allie, Matthieu, and Pooja—took the Oath of Office.
• Congratulatory Remarks: All members congratulated the new members.

Minutes from the Last Meeting

• *Adoption of past minutes  – Dec 12 Put off until the next meeting

The minutes from the previous meeting are still pending and will be reviewed at the next meeting.

• MOTION to push the approval of the minutes to the next meeting was moved by Sarah, seconded by Allie, and passed unanimously.

Ongoing Business – provide updates

• Welcome from our Branch President and Defend CBC Working group – Naomi (1030)

Welcome and Updates: Naomi welcomed everyone, including the new LEC, and highlighted ongoing challenges, including upcoming elections and the political threat from Pierre Poilievre.

Advocacy for CBC and Campaign Progress: Campaign Messaging: Defend CBC

• The PR campaign to defend CBC will launch in three weeks.
• The campaign will emphasize Canadian pride, local frameworks, and the crucial role of journalism in defending democracy.
• Members are encouraged to contribute to the campaign efforts by adding to a shared Google document for the Defend CBC Working Group.

• Continued focus on CBC’s achievements, including nostalgic and recent content to highlight its value.
• Key topics include CBC Books, sports coverage, the Olympics, and PWHL advocacy.
• Pension surplus sharing remains a major win, providing direct financial benefits to members.
• Other updates included the wildfires in Yellowknife, where $300 was distributed instantly to members, with gratitude expressed to then-VP Nola Keeler for her leadership.

Alliance Building

• Efforts to strengthen alliances and networks in support of CBC are ongoing to amplify the campaign message.
• The Defend CBC-RC Working Group, organized by the CBC Branch Executive Committee, is central to these efforts.
• Members can join the working group and contribute by sharing examples of public service journalism by CBC.
• Members can access the document and add links to showcase CBC’s impactful journalism.

 Convention and Member Engagement: The convention is scheduled for May 27–28 in Toronto at the Sheraton Gateway Hotel.

• Members are encouraged to participate as it is an important democratic function of the union.
• Possible bylaw changes to be communicated to members for discussion.

Member Support and Benefits:

• CCSB Benefit Changes:
  • A subcommittee has been formed to address these changes, and CA language has been revised.
  • A meeting with Marco Dubé is scheduled for February 5 to push back on unfavourable changes.
• Mental Health:
  • The union remains committed to member well-being, extending social work services until June 2025.
  • Collaboration with four unions continues to secure the best deals for members.

HR and IR Staffing Updates:

• Structural changes in HR/IR were discussed:
  • Integration of HR and IR teams after past departmental issues.
  • Monica Parenti now leads HR/IR, with no current head of IR. Sydney Pinto is the new boss of news.
  • Naomi assured members these changes would not impact CBC’s position at the negotiation table.
  • Members are encouraged to partner with HR VPs for resolutions or escalate issues to Monica if needed.

 Addressing Member Concerns:

• Fears and anxiety within the Toronto unit were acknowledged, and LEC members were encouraged to share information to ease members’ worries.
• Members can request paper copies of the French CA when available in February.

 Closing Remarks:

• Naomi emphasized the importance of continued advocacy and transparency, urging members to stay engaged and active.
• Kat displayed the CMG calendar and shared pictures from recent union events.
• CA Education (template for design) – Lara
  Producer’s Authority (PA) Education: 11:11 AM

• Objective:
  

• • • Educate members on the new CA and their rights under the Producer’s Authority (PA).
    • Encourage familiarity with processes and ensure members understand the distinction between management and editorial responsibilities.
  • Definition of PA:
    • The separation between management’s overall vision and the editorial staff’s execution of that vision.
    • Management acts as coaches providing direction, but editorial staff retain the authority to decide how to execute their work.

• Examples of PA in Practice:
  

• • Management may suggest a story idea but cannot mandate that a specific story must be covered.
  • Actions such as “killing a story” or imposing editorial decisions infringe on PA.
  • Members shared examples of scenarios where PA issues arise, such as concerns over management bias affecting team morale.
  • The importance of education and clarity on CA rights emphasized to address these concerns.

Next Steps for PA Education:

• LEC Members are encouraged to suggest the top three PA-related issues they hear from colleagues, which Lara will include in the next meeting agenda.
• Naomi will share a PA FAQ document with Lara for further distribution.
• Plans to create a web post or email to clarify PA for members are in progress.
• Business cards with QR codes are suggested for easy access to PA resources.

 Increasing Union Presence:

• Suggestions to improve the visibility of union information around the building and address top member questions.
• Naomi thanked everyone and left the meeting at 11:37 AM.
• Additional local TVO layoff support – Arman 

• Arman updated the group on TVO layoff support efforts. CWA has set up a GoFundMe for affected staff, which has raised some money.
• Kat suggested exploring mechanisms to support members but emphasized considering budget constraints and ensuring actions are defensible.
• Arman highlighted the importance of gathering specific information about what support is needed before offering assistance.
• The motion passed at the previous meeting to compel the BEC for support has not yet been actioned.

• Next Steps:
  • Arman will reach out to TVO contacts to identify specific needs.
  • Continue monitoring the situation and consider providing targeted support based on identified needs.

 

———— Meeting paused for lunch: Time: 11:45 AM to 12:45 PM.————————–

 

 

• MOTION: Meeting back to order: 12:42 pm
  
• First Stewards meeting and next training date – Sheena/Allie/Jag

Stewards Training and Recruitment:

• Sheena emphasized the need to set up new stewards training as soon as possible, potentially holding two sessions back-to-back.
• Allie noted there are over 12 people interested in training.
• Kat shared tips for organizing training and highlighted the LEC goal of expanding the steward network.
• Last year, 30 stewards were trained, totalling 40 members, which is only one-third of the goal.
• Challenges include mobilizing for impending issues, backfilling staff for training, and improving communication.
• Sheena suggested actively recruiting new stewards with promotional material.
• Arman stressed the importance of making fact-based, educated decisions about steward suitability.
• Kat reinforced the need for stewards to advocate, guide, and empower members to stand up for themselves.

• Actionable Steps:
  • March 20, 2025, was set as the first steward training date, with an option for a second session later in March.
  • Provide multiple date options for attendees.
  • Engage experienced stewards as trainers to enhance sessions.
  • Plan for one trainer and a staff representative for quarterly training sessions.
  • Draft and distribute communication for March training dates.

2. Administrative Updates:

• Ensure the CMG Room is available for training.
• Follow administrative protocols for backfilling participants, requiring 12 business days of lead time.
• Kat granted all members of the LEC Calendar access to facilitate coordination.

• Next steps: Finalize and communicate steward training dates.

 First Stewards Meeting-Discussion Points:

• Attendees had a diverse range of experience and skills.
• Members were encouraged to identify potential candidates who would make good stewards.
• Christyn Stewart volunteered to create posters to promote steward recruitment.
• Discussed involving Andrea from CMG for additional support.

Member’s Issue:

• The chief stewards shared a member concern about managers performing CMG work.
• Kat advised the stewards to provide specific examples, including names, dates, and actions, and start documenting instances.
• Kat emphasized the importance of “papering your case” to build sufficient documentation before any action can be taken.
• Maintain confidentiality while gathering evidence.

• Once documentation is complete, escalate issues to HR per the Collective Agreement (CA) guidelines.
• Reinforce the need for all parties to follow the CA.

Member Protection Against Reprisal:

• Myriam raised concerns about managers finding ways to negatively impact members’ day-to-day lives in retaliation.
• Recommendations:
  • Jag suggested members should monitor their schedules, track their skills usage, and note instances where they are replaced.
  • Lara emphasized the importance of adhering to the legally binding Collective Agreement (CA), which benefits everyone.
  • Sheena proposed contacting a staff representative for guidance and using specific examples from communications as case studies.

 Article 15.4 of the Collective Agreement:

• Jag and Allie read out sections d, e, and f to clarify the protections and processes outlined in the CA.

Monthly Stewards Meetings:

• Regular monthly stewards meetings were proposed to ensure ongoing support and education.
• Zach (CMG Trustee) attended the recent stewards meeting to provide input and support.
• Kat and Chief Stewards will consolidate local issues and escalate them to the Local Joint Committee (LJC) for documentation and action.

Steward Mapping Initiative:

• A plan to map CBC Toronto’s floor to identify departments with CMG members and determine if they have active stewards.
• Stewards will conduct walks to engage with members directly.
• Kat will update the mapping initiative and outcomes from the LJC meeting.

 

• CMG Convention 2025 – Kat

• Dates and Venue: May 27-28, 2025, at Sheraton Gateway Hotel.
• Backfill Requirements: Members attending the convention require 60 days’ notice for backfill arrangements.
• Convention Highlights:
  • A valuable learning and networking opportunity.
  • The first day will focus on branch-specific discussions, resolutions, and by-laws.
  • Training may take place on a Monday or Friday.

Action Items for Preparation:

Review CMG By-Laws:

• Members are to review the CMG By-Laws available online (link) before the next meeting.
• Identify and propose changes or resolutions if needed.

LEC Resolutions:

• Consider resolutions that strongly represent LEC priorities.
• Resolutions must be prepared 60 days before ensuring they can be discussed and voted on.
• Members to speak for or against resolutions at the convention using the established debate format with two microphones.

Efficiency at the Convention:

• Arman emphasized the importance of strategic preparation to make votes count and maximize time during the convention.

Homework:

• Review the CMG and CBC Branch By-Laws for potential changes.
• Propose changes or resolutions before the next meeting. Kat will consolidate and present them to BEC.

Additional Task:

• Consult Matt about rewriting the handbook on Port Credit.
• CWAC delegation 25/26 – Kat

• Delegation Details:

• • • CMG sends a delegation of 5-6 members.
    • Members must sign a card to be in good standing to participate.
    • The office will send out a call for delegation.
  • Encouragement for Participation:
    • LEC members are encouraged to put their names forward.
    • Delegation selection ensures representation across all branches, including APTN, Thomas Reuters, and CP.
    • The number of votes determines CBC representation.
  • Location & Dates:

• Location: Victoria, BC.

• Dates: April 24-26, 2025.

• • Associated with the National Representative Council (NRC).

 

Motion to Go In-Camera- Time: 2:33 PM, Moved By: Myriam.Seconded By: Arman. Outcome: Passed unanimously.

 

MOTION to GO out of CAMERA: 03:17 PM: Lara moves, Dave seconds. All in favour. Passes unanimously.

• Staff Rep AMA – Matt, Ryan, Karren 

None of the LEC members had any queries for Staff Rep Ryan during the session. Members will reach out to him directly if any issues arise.

 

• Charity subcommittee – Myriam/Sarah/Arman [Motion]

• Subcommittee members: Myriam, Sarah, Arman.

Charity Donations

• • Myriam presented a list of 10 selected charities to receive donations of $300 each, totalling $3,000. The donation would be made in the name of the CMG Toronto Location Unit.
  • Link to document: Google Doc Link
  • Motion: Moved by Myriam to donate $300 each for the total of $3000 to the following charities in the name of CMG Toronto Location Unit. to 10 selected charities and seconded by Jag. Outcome: The motion passed unanimously.

• Anishnawbe Health Foundation (Charitable No. 84999 1914 RR0001)

• Eva’s (Charitable No. 80340 7956 RR0001)

• Fred Victor (Charitable Registration Number 118931377RR0001)

• Water First (Charitable Registration No: 83852 5269 RR0001)

• The519 (Charitable Registration No: 119310761–RR0001)

• Women’s Shelters Canada (Charitable Registration No: 84098 9933 RR0001)

• OxFam (Charitable Registration No. 129716866 RR0001)

• United Way Greater Toronto (Charitable Registration Number: 119278216 RR 0001)

• Casey House (Charitable No. 10687 8374 RR0001) 
• Sistering (Charitable No. 10798 3009 RR0001)
• Discussion:
  • Mathieu questioned the decision to donate to 10 charities instead of one with a larger donation.
  • Sarah explained that the goal was to spread donations across multiple charities for broader impact and transparency.
  • Myriam noted that the list of charities was discussed at the previous LEC meeting.
  • The subcommittee considered a broad perspective, aiming to cover charities that represent diverse communities and needs.

New Business

2025 Budget

• Sarah presented the 2025 proposed budget.
• Members reviewed the budget items, comparing the 2024 proposed budget with actual spending.
• LEC members reviewed their portfolios and discussed proposed spending for the fiscal year.

• The Zoom account has been discontinued. It will be reactivated if workforce adjustment issues arise or for Article 46 training, stewards Zoom calls, etc.
• The LEC budget may cover a certain percentage of the phone bill for LEC members.
• $1,000 was allocated for Human Rights last year. Myriam proposed a $2,000 budget for DEI events, including town halls, cultural events, outreach, and education. Saida and Myriam will work on organizing these events, and Pooja offered to collaborate.
• Arman proposed a $2,000 budget for temporary events, with the next event scheduled for February 12.
• Matthieu (SRC) proposed a $1,000 budget for his portfolio.
• Walk the Floor budget of $250 for a meet-and-greet and member engagement.
• Care Committee will send condolence cards or gifts for happy milestones (e.g., marriage, baby, etc.) with a $100 budget. Kat suggested compiling best practices for sending cards and tracking them.
• Communications Committee: The $2,000 proposed budget for the  Communications Committee includes paid time for releases and social media outreach. Ideas for social media include Instagram reels introducing the new LEC and possibly headshots and a newsletter. Pooja to work on the proposal for the next meeting.

Event Budgets

• MayDay and Ice Cream: Same budget as last year.
• Holiday Party: $40,000 (Pint works better logistically than Gould.)
• Holiday Breakfast: $2,000
• Retirement Readiness Workshop: Removed from the budget.
• LEC AGM: $1,500
• Labour Day Parade: $500 (removed from the budget).
• Stewards Social Events + SWAG: $3,000 for guest speakers and swag.

Other Budget Allocations

• Mobilization/Meeting with Members (e.g., workforce adjustment): $2,500
• Health & Safety: $500
• New Members Outreach Expenses: Same as Temp Social budget.
• Swag: Funds allocated for outreach and engagement. Allie suggested getting functional swag.
• LEC Teambuilding (formerly Other LEC): $2,000
• Computer Upgrades/Assets: $2,000
• Office Expenses (6th floor CMG office): $1,000
• Miscellaneous: Removed from the budget.
• Dues to Other Unions: $10,000
• Bank Service Fees: $150
• Transportation: $150

Motion for Approval of Budget

Motion: Jag moves the Motion to approve the 2025 Toronto CBC LEC draft proposed budget that Sarah will present to Nitish for approval. Seconded by: Myriam. Outcome: The motion passed unanimously.

Next Meeting Dates

• Upcoming Meetings:
  • February 13
  • March 13
  • April 9
  • May 15
  • June 12
• Pooja sent out release requests for all LEC members for the upcoming meetings.

Portfolio Goals & Action Items

Arman

• Temp: Plan to hold an event every 90 days.
• Mapping the Floor at CBC:
  • Sub-Committee: Jag, Sheena, Arman.
  • Action: The committee will get together, decide a day, get releases, and map the floors and floor plans for outreach.
  • Talking Points: Kat will share.

Mathieu

• Onboarding & Pizza Lunches: Mathieu already meets with new employees for a 40-minute onboarding session.

Kat M

• Action: Talk to new employees about onboarding within their first 30 days of employment.

Health & Safety

• Responsible: Dave Orian.

Lara

• Education PA: Lara will follow up on the agenda for education-related topics.

Jag, Allie, and Sheena

• Stewards: Focus on steward-related activities.

Committees / Sub-Committees and their actions discussed: 

Communications Committee: Arman, Sheena, and Pooja.

• Action: Update bulletin boards.
• Business cards are needed for LEC members.

Care Committee: Pooja and Allie.

Event Planning: Possible Mobility Event: Planned with Allie and Lara.

Mapping the Floor at CBC: Sub-Committee: Jag, Sheena, Arman.

Event Planning and Ideas

• February Event:
  • CANCELLED.
  • Ideas for February:
    • Distribute chocolates for Black History Month or an event with the message “CMG LOVES YOU.”
    • Walking group: The mapping of the floor committee will be organized this, with Sarah assisting with chocolates.

Other Action Items: Lara will get 10 keys for the bulletin board for LEC members.

Adjournment:

• The meeting was adjourned after all the agenda items had been discussed.

 

MOTION TO CONCLUDE THE MEETING: Arman moves a motion to end the meeting at 6:10 pm, seconded by Sheena. Unanimous.