Skip to content

Elections

The Election Committee runs all elections in our Local. They are responsible for ensuring that nominations and voting are run in a fair and equitable manner, in keeping with the guidelines in our By-Laws and the Unifor National Constitution. They are also responsible for ensuring that candidates are eligible to serve, and follow the rules for campaigning.

General Election – Fall 2024

Below are the results of the Nominations and Election. 

There is one position, Unit 1 Chair, that has to go to a runoff as neither candidate received a majority vote.  Unit 1 member will see the voting link for that runoff next week.  Bios for the two candidates are below the results and will also be available on the ballot next week.

There are still positions that at the conclusion of the nomination period remain vacant. At the conclusion of this election process the Elections Committee will again put out a call for nominations for those positions The positions are:

Trustee (1) on the Executive Board

Unit 1 Workplace Committee (1)

Unit 1 Steward (25)

Unit 4 Chair (1)

Unit 6 Chair(1)

Unit 6 Vice Chair(1)

Questions and concerns can be directed to the Elections Committee at elections@unifor5555.ca. 

Unit 1 Chairperson (1 position, 2 candidates in run off): *note you must be a member of Unit 1 to vote for Unit 1 Chairperson

I have been passionately serving the members for the past 15+ years – as a steward, as the Unit 1 Vice-Chair, and as the Vice-President of the Local. This service has provided me with a unique level of experience to advocate for, support, and serve the Unit 1 members as Chair.

While serving as VP has been an honour, I have missed the interactions with the members on a daily basis that the Vice-Chair position required, and I look forward to returning to this as the Chair.

I have been through multiple rounds of successful bargaining, and I recognize that understanding what you, the members, want at the table requires listening. I will lead the Bargaining Committee with your voice in mind when we negotiate the next collective agreement in Spring 2025.

I know there is more to the job than bargaining and fighting for you. I will create a safe space for all members to seek assistance, guidance, and to raise concerns about their workplace. I will show up for you when and where needed – on and off campus.

I have supported and advocated for the members in difficult situations (layoffs, interpersonal conflicts, harassment concerns etc.) and provided comfort, support and peace of mind for the members involved.

I will hold the University accountable and ensure they are following the Collective Agreement – protecting the members’ rights and entitlements.

I am seeking your vote for Unit 1 Chair, and I will serve the membership with expertise, a strong voice, and transparency.

For more: https://meghanforbes13.wixsite.com/vote-meghan-forbes-1

https://bit.ly/AndrewForChair

ANDREW WHITNEY – Your Voice Can Be Heard – VOTE, VOTE, VOTE

Transparency. Leadership. Advocacy. Change. These are the themes I have heard from members throughout this election. Together, workers are unstoppable, so let me drive this charge for you.

For over 15 years, I have served as a leader in Unit 1, tirelessly advocating for fair treatment and opportunities for all, but I want the chance to do this work full-time so I can do more.

When I lost my mom, it hit me hard, and the Union stood by me. This support inspired me to dedicate my career to ensuring every member feels heard and supported.

As a member of the Workplace/Bargaining Committee, I didn’t just negotiate — I secured the highest wage increases in over a decade, directly boosting your earnings.

I see a future with fair wage increases, robust mental health support, enhanced professional development, and transparent communication — putting your needs first. I am passionate about meeting members’ needs across ALL Hospitals and sites, since this is how I got my start at McMaster.

As a volunteer Trustee and Steward, I ask difficult questions of Management, and even the Union Local Executive, to advocate for what matters to you.

My work on the Pride committee ensures that Unit 1 and the Local continue to cultivate a positive space where everyone belongs.

I will champion thoughtful change, listening to you every step of the way.

Vote me, Andrew Whitney, a dedicated advocate, for Chair of Unit 1.

Role Descriptions

For more details and/or JDs please reach out to the elections committee.

Responsible for overseeing all operations of the Local

Responsible for Job Descriptions, Communications, Bargaining, and assisting the President as needed.

Responsible for overseeing the Finances of the Local

Responsible for minutes, meetings, and as a Table Officer of the Union

Responsible for oversight of the Financial Secretary, reviewing the audit, assisting in general financial policy

Responsible for the New Member Orientation

Responsible for maintaining order and decorum at meetings.

Responsible for Health & Safety issues for the Local

Responsible for representing all members within the Bargaining Unit, ensuring their rights and entitlements under the Collective Agreement are carried out. Chief Steward, and bargaining committee member for their Bargaining Unit

Responsible for assisting the Unit Chairperson as needed.

A member of the bargaining committee for the Bargaining Unit, outside of bargaining, the workplace committee assists the Unit Chairperson as needed. Workplace/Bargaining Committee members are also stewards – if you nominate yourself for this position you are also nominating yourself as a steward.

First point of contact for members in the Bargaining Unit.

Representative dedicated to representing the interests of the skilled trades workers in Unit 5

Delegate to the Constitutional Convention

Delegate to Canadian Council

Delegate to ORC

Delegate to ETOP

Skip to content