December 23, 2020

First, some quick housekeeping:

While all our offices are currently closed to the public, the Edmonton, Calgary and Fort McMurray offices are closed for all business from December 24,2020 until we reopen on a limited basis to staff only on January 4, 2021. The offices will remain closed to the public until further notice, as per updated provincial Covid-19 restrictions and guidelines. Local member meetings also remain cancelled until further notice.

Any members who wish to pay dues or conduct any other business can do so via phone or email until 4 p.m. on December 23, 2020.

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Brothers and Sisters,

Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all our members and their families! On behalf of our executive, I would like to express my gratitude for all the help and support you as members have provided us with over the last year.

2020 has clearly been a very challenging year as Covid-19 has impacted all of us in various ways. Many people have been forced to remain home in isolation while others worked under stricter conditions at job sites across the province. Having worked in camp myself, I know it isn’t easy to be so far from home and loved ones. It’s even more difficult to consider during a pandemic.

To those members that have persevered and continued to proudly represent the Alberta Regional Council and the locals we represent, I commend you. Whether you’re working through poor weather and or weathering an economic downturn, your training, skills, experience and commitment highlight the benefits of choosing unionized labour.

This year, our organizers have succeeded in certifying four contractors. We also successfully negotiated a new Provincial Collective Agreement for our members. I would like to thank all members that participated in the process and cast their ballots. Collective Agreement bargaining is always a challenging process. While our new agreement is locked in till 2023, we are always working collaboratively with our members and contractors to enhance the process and ensure it’s as responsive to their respective needs as possible.   

With the Coronavirus vaccine already being distributed in Alberta, I am optimistic about what 2021 will hold for our members and our council. We will be focused on developing even more work opportunities for our members as the economy recovers. We will also explore new ways to enhance the customer service experience for our members, whether you require representation, training or pension and benefits support. Our team is excited for next year and we look forward to sharing details with you soon.

Because of Covid-19, gatherings during the holidays are limited due to government restrictions and guidelines. I hope you can explore ways to gather safely and celebrate the spirit of the season. Once again, Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all.

Derrick Schulte

Executive Secretary Treasurer

Alberta Regional Council of Carpenters and Allied Workers