26 November 2004

Local's 4 incumbent executive officers acclaimed

Report improvements in labour relations with Gazette management

Montreal Newspaper Guild | TNG Canada Local 30111

The four incumbent executive officers of the Montreal Newspaper Guild were acclaimed to new three-year terms yesterday at a general membership meeting.

Jan Ravensbergen was acclaimed to position of President.

President Jan Ravensbergen, First Vice-President Michele Carle, Second Vice-President Charles Shannon and Secretary-Treasurer Muriel Lemenu all expressed their appreciation for the members’ renewed vote of confidence. Their new terms begin Jan. 1.

The membership heard that management at the Montreal Gazette has been sending some positive signals that the publisher wants improved labour relations. The Guild has, in turn, expressed its desire to move in the same direction.

One obstacle to such improved relations appears to have been removed with the announcement that the long-anticipated transfer of work – and jobs – out of Reader Sales and Service to Winnipeg has been shelved indefinitely.

In his report on grievances, Ravensbergen said the total number of cases in process, which had been 44 last December, was reduced to 27 by April, and to 20 by the end of August. Unfortunately, new grievances have since been added, bringing the total back up to 31.

In a positive recent development, four expressions of dissatisfaction against members of the Advertising bargaining unit have been rescinded.

Lemenu delivered the Financial Report for the latest fiscal year. The Local’s auditors attended and answered a number of questions.