CLAC Ups the Ante on Union Member Service

Modern, Cooperative Approach to Labour Relations Continues to Attract New Members

TORONTO, Oct. 8, 2014 /CNW/ - CLAC, one of the largest independent labour unions in Canada, which represents workers in the construction, healthcare, retail, service, transportation, and mining sectors, is pleased to report that it is experiencing impressive growth at a time when other unions in Canada are seeing their memberships shrink.

The union saw over 20 percent growth from 2012 to 2014, reaching a membership of almost 63,000, showing that its unique member-centric approach to labour relations is gaining popularity. Much of this growth has been in Alberta, where CLAC represents more workers in the oilsands than any other single union. It represents over 9,000 workers in Ontario's healthcare sector, who primarily work in long-term care, and has a growing presence in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and British Columbia.

"CLAC is a modern union for a modern world," says Dick Heinen, executive director. "We believe there is more to work than just work and that all people in the workplace deserve respect and dignity. We believe that cooperation, not confrontation, creates better workplaces and stronger communities. Our focus remains squarely on our members and bettering their lives through fair wages, great health and retirement benefits, and constantly evolving training and development programs."

Unlike many unions, CLAC believes that not only can labour and management get along, but doing so is essential to the success of its members and their employer.

"People don't want confrontation and conflict at work," says Heinen. "We base our style of representation on a partnership model and promote cooperation to build a positive work experience for our members. Our commitment is to help our members succeed—both at work and in their life outside of work."

As part of its focus on offering more to its members, today CLAC unveiled a new brand platform, including a refreshed visual and verbal identity, a new website, and new theme of "Better Together," all of which better reflects the values of the organization. CLAC's primary values — social justice, respect, dignity, and fairness in the workplace—enables it to provide the most effective union representation for its members. CLAC rejects aggression and antagonism in favour of conciliation and constructive dialogue.

Bringing CLAC's modern approach to the forefront includes updating its web presence to complement the responsive member service that the organization is known for. On October 10, 2014, it will launch a new online system for members.

Called myCLAC, the system provides the union's members with secure 24/7 access to their benefit coverage, retirement savings plan information, vacation pay, training schedules, and their collective agreement. They can also update their contact information, find their representative's contact information, keep up-to-date with union notices and events, and access other union services. In the future, members will be able to sign up for training courses and submit benefit claims online.

About CLAC
Formed in 1952, CLAC is one of Canada's fastest-growing unions. Operating through 15 member centres, it is the country's largest national, independent, multi-sector union representing over 60,000 workers in almost every sector. Based on values of respect, dignity, and fairness, CLAC is committed to building better workplaces, better communities, and better lives.

For More Information
www.clac.ca
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SOURCE: CLAC

Media Contact: Dick Heinen, [email protected]