The International Union of Operating Engineers held its 40th General Convention in Hollywood, Florida, from April 30-May 3.
In attendance were General President James T. Callahan, General Secretary-Treasurer James Sweeney, International Vice Presidents – including Local 793 Business Manager Mike Gallagher, IUOE Trustees and elected delegates from locals across North America.
Twenty-four elected delegates represented Local 793; the largest group the local has sent to the convention.
Delegates at the convention passed 39 resolutions dealing with skills training, occupational health and safety, economic and labour issues, organizing, and pension and healthcare benefits. Ten amendments to the Constitution were also passed.
Delegates also voted unanimously to elect Brother Callahan to a third full term as General President. General Secretary-Treasurer Sweeney was also elected to lead the union for another five-year term, along with all 14 current International Vice Presidents and five Trustees who represent members from every region of North America.
Business Manager Gallagher was elected second Vice President. Previously, he served as seventh.
“I consider it an honour and privilege to be re-elected as a Vice President on the general executive board of the IUOE and to represent Operating Engineers across the country,” Gallagher said. “I will continue to do everything in my power to raise issues that we face in Canada to the IUOE general executive board.”
Several Local 793 members were appointed to important committees by General President Callahan. Business Manager Gallagher was appointed to the Adjustments Committee, Treasurer Rick Kerr was appointed to the Officers Report Committee, and President Joe Redshaw and Vice-President Dave Turple were appointed to the Law Committee.
The convention theme, “Seize the Moment,” was prevalent throughout the four-day event and delegates left for home energized and united to meet the challenges ahead.
Be sure to read the next digital issue of Making Tracks in June for a complete story and more photos from the 40th General Convention of the International Union of Operating Engineers.
