IBEW Local 636

Many years ago, there were a number of affiliated Locals of the I.B.E.W. that represented Utility workers in Ontario. However, since each was operating independently, they lacked common goals and a coordinated direction in negotiations. At that same time, the Association of Municipal Electric Utilities (A.M.E.U.) was formed to represent Utility employers using a coordinated management approach. Soon, the Local Unions realized that they were not achieving the optimal improvements in wages and benefits available through collective bargaining. Realizing that there was a need for greater unity on the part of the Union, the representatives from all I.B.E.W. Utility Locals banded together in the Ontario Utility Council (O.U.C.). This organization met voluntarily on a semi-annual basis. Initially, representatives were excited by the opportunity to discuss mutual problems and form common goals and strategies. However, it soon became evident that the O.U.C. could not implement its many recommendations, nor control contract negotiations as it did not have a direct mandate from the separate memberships it represented. As a result, the Local Unions continued to be divided and defeated by a group of full-time management professionals with access to a well-established communications network and reams of statistical information. At that time, there was only one (1) full time Utility Local Business Manager in the Province and networking with other part-time Locals was slow and ineffective. Recognizing that this situation had to be addressed, a motion calling for the compulsory merger of all Utility Local Unions was passed at the 1975 fall O.U.C. meeting. While many agreed that this motherhood proposal was a good idea, they realized that in reality it was unattainable on a compulsory basis. This meant that the problem remained as to how these Locals would effectively deal with separate Utility Commissions across the Province who shared common goals and were working collectively through an Association. Although they too recognized the need for more focused efforts, our separate Local Unions were, in many cases, reluctant to give up their individual autonomy. In addition, despite the obvious benefits, the thought of increasing Union dues to provide full time representation was staunchly opposed by many. However, Local 636 knew that in order to protect and promote the rights of Utility workers, there was no alternative but to attempt amalgamation on a voluntary basis. With this thought in mind, our Local began meeting with other individual Locals to discuss the concept. The proposal to form a Local with provincial jurisdiction and representation rights was presented, discussed and debated by interested individual Locals. In the final analysis, the majority of Locals began to understand that their livelihood and survival required reorganization and unity. Over the next few years, the idea became a reality and many mergers followed; resulting in the expansion of Local 636 to its present size and structure. The realization of our goal was a difficult one, but today we proudly represent over 85% of the I.B.E.W. Utility workers in the Province - perhaps we will some day represent all organized workers in this industry. Respecting the right of all workers to organize, we will continue in our efforts to increase our membership and provide support to those seeking representation.