Area Amalgamation All But Complete

Area amalgamation was first identified by the OSM’s Long Range Planning Committee in 2006 as a useful initiative.  At the time, the committee pointed out that with 10 union locals and 13 local associations there was substantial crossover of issues, resulting in inconsistencies and sometimes, genuine confusion.  Ontario is unique in that it has ten local unions when most provinces have a maximum of two.  After conducting local discussions, the committee concluded that it would be much more efficient if it were possible to reach a one-to-one parity between locals and associations.  For one, such a change would represent a real cost saving by removing the need for three directors and three labour relations representatives.  Consequently, at the OSM annual meeting in 2007, a motion that Hamilton/Niagara, Toronto/Peterborough and Sudbury/Sault Ste. Marie would amalgamate by December 31, 2009 was introduced and passed.

Progress towards amalgamation has been promising in most quarters.  Productive discussions have been on-going between Hamilton and Niagara and they are currently in the process of writing new joint bylaws. Sudbury and Sault Ste. Marie contractors have a meeting set for this fall with the intent to have their areas amalgamated by December 1, 2008.  To date, while meetings between Toronto and Peterborough are pending, the two areas have yet to meet.  With the overall cost saving and the promise of a more effective cross-provincial organization to spur the process, the 2009 deadline is easily attainable, particularly with only one area left.