New team announces candidacy for Ontario Federation of Labour

TORONTO, Nov. 5, 2015 /CNW/ - Ontario unions and local union activists have put forward a team of three principled, determined and experienced trade unionists to run for the election at the upcoming convention of the Ontario Federation of Labour. The team is running under the banner of FedForward, with the goal of uniting the labour movement in Ontario and advocating for progressive labour law reform.

The Ontario Federation of Labour Convention will be held November 22-27 at the Sheraton Centre, downtown Toronto.

Chris Buckley is a long-time trade unionist, social justice advocate and former President of Unifor Local 222 in Oshawa, a large amalgamated local union.  During his time as a rank and file leader, Chris was also the chair of the General Motors master bargaining committee and led negotiations with GM in four rounds of talks. Chris is running to be the president of the Ontario Federation of Labour. 

"I believe we owe it to working people, whether they belong to a union or not, to have strong representation at the provincial level," said Chris Buckley. "I know what it is to take on challenges and to win – I will bring this determination to the job."

Patty Coates is an educational assistant, a passionate activist and the President of the Educational Assistant Bargaining Unit of OSSTF District 17 Simcoe, representing educational assistants and early childhood educators. Patty is also the President of the Barrie and District Labour Council. Patty is running for the position of Secretary-Treasurer.

"With Prime Minister Harper now gone, I believe we have tremendous opportunities to make changes that will improve the lives of working people and their families. We can only do this by working together," said Patty Coates.

Ahmad Gaied is a Member Engagement Representative for UFCW Canada Local 1000A.  A tireless community advocate, Ahmad began his activism as a chief steward at his No Frills store in 2003. At 33-years-old, Ahmad is a worker of colour, a proud member of the Muslim community, and an ardent supporter of grassroots and worker-led initiatives. Ahmad is running for the position of Executive Vice-President.

"As a young worker of colour and someone who has worked in retail for a decade, I know the challenges of today's jobs market, dominated by precarious, part-time and temporary work. I have the energy and commitment to make a difference in people's lives," said Ahmad Gaied.

Visit: www.fedforward.ca

For information on the OFL convention, please visit: http://ofl.ca/index.php/convention-2015/

SOURCE Unifor

Shannon Devine: [email protected] 416-302-1699; Derek Johnstone: [email protected], 416-675-1104 x2222; Michael Young: [email protected] 416-751-8300