Category: Union News

Ontario’s latest budget, unveiled by Doug Ford’s government at Queen’s Park on May 15, is titled “A Plan to Protect Ontario” and focuses on shielding families and businesses from economic pressures, including the impact of U.S. tariffs. The plan increases the province’s deficit by $8.6 billion, bringing it to $14.6 billion. Still, the government maintains it is on track to eliminate the deficit and balance the budget by the 2027–28 fiscal year. Much of the increased spending is directed toward infrastructure projects, such as housing, hospitals, schools, and transit, that […]

Ontario’s latest budget, unveiled by Doug Ford’s government at Queen’s Park on May 15, is titled “A Plan to Protect Ontario” and focuses on shielding families and businesses from economic pressures, including the impact of U.S. tariffs. The plan increases the province’s deficit by $8.6 billion, bringing it to $14.6 billion. Still, the government maintains it is on track to eliminate the deficit and balance the budget by the 2027–28 fiscal year.

Much of the increased spending is directed toward infrastructure projects, such as housing, hospitals, schools, and transit, that will be welcomed by members of Local 793 and others in the construction and trades sectors.

There is also a clear commitment to Ontario-generated nuclear energy and to tapping the province’s vast reserves of critical minerals, especially in the Ring of Fire. As in previous budgets, the government remains focused on making improvements to the highway network.

“Gridlock costs Ontario $56 billion every year, which is why we are building major new highways like Highway 413 and the Bradford Bypass, as well as expanding existing highways, including a tunnelled expressway under Highway 401,” Ontario’s Minister of Finance Peter Bethlenfalvy said.

“We will continue to invest in and build out the largest expansion of public transit in North America, including expanding subway service by more than 50 per cent.”

Key elements of the 2025 Budget, of interest to Local 793 members:

• Investing an additional $1 billion over the next three years in the Skills Development Fund Capital and Training Streams, bringing the total funding commitment to $2.5 billion
• $33 billion in capital spending in 2024-25. This is part of a planned investment of more than $200 billion over the next 10 years, including nearly $30 billion for highway expansion and rehabilitation projects, $61 billion for public transit, $56 billion in health infrastructure and $30 billion to build more schools and childcare spaces
• A proposed further $5 billion for the Building Ontario Fund aimed at investing in priority area projects that contribute to the province’s growth
• $400 million for the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program and Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund to help build the local infrastructure needed for new homes
• Advancing planning and feasibility studies for GO 2.0, a proposal to deliver the next generation of passenger rail service for the Greater Golden Horseshoe

“This year’s Ontario Budget delivers the kind of infrastructure spending that this province desperately needs, investments in hospitals, highways, factories, bridges, tunnels, and renewable energy projects,” Business Manager Mike Gallagher said. “These are not just numbers on a page; they represent good union jobs, stronger communities, and a long-term commitment to building a more resilient Ontario.”

To read the 2025 budget in full, click here.

OETIO mobile crane apprentices showcased their exceptional skills and knowledge at the 2025 Skills Ontario Competition. Steve Donahue won the first-place medal among the eight competitors, while Nilton Garcia and Johnny Jones followed closely, securing the second and third positions, respectively. Their remarkable performances distinguished them as leaders among their peers. Throughout the competition, apprentices were assessed on various practical tasks, including pre-operational inspections, control operations, post-operation procedures, and overall efficiency. They also took a written test to further demonstrate their understanding of the trade. Along with Donahue, Garcia, and […]

OETIO mobile crane apprentices showcased their exceptional skills and knowledge at the 2025 Skills Ontario Competition.

Steve Donahue won the first-place medal among the eight competitors, while Nilton Garcia and Johnny Jones followed closely, securing the second and third positions, respectively. Their remarkable performances distinguished them as leaders among their peers.

Throughout the competition, apprentices were assessed on various practical tasks, including pre-operational inspections, control operations, post-operation procedures, and overall efficiency. They also took a written test to further demonstrate their understanding of the trade.

Along with Donahue, Garcia, and Jones, the Mobile Crane Level 4 apprentices competing were Michael McGregor, Tara Nerad, Jesse Dylan Carew, Dylan Sherman, and Graham Klammer. 

Local 793 retirees Vince Prout and Dan Davey judged the event, and they brought their valuable experience to the evaluation process.

Over two inspiring days, the event drew thousands of eager attendees, many of whom were thrilled to experience the hands-on operation of our dozer and excavator simulators, igniting a passion for the trade.

President Dave Turple, Toronto Area Supervisor Justin O’Neill, and OETIO Director of Training and Apprenticeship Jeff Hewitt visited the site in Oro-Medonte, where the construction of IUOE Local 793’s new regional office and training centre continues. During their visit, Local 793 members completed the first concrete pour for the footings, a significant milestone in building a facility that will serve generations to come. “It was great to visit the job site and see our members hard at work building the new office and state-of-the-art training centre,” President Turple said. “This […]

President Dave Turple, Toronto Area Supervisor Justin O’Neill, and OETIO Director of Training and Apprenticeship Jeff Hewitt visited the site in Oro-Medonte, where the construction of IUOE Local 793’s new regional office and training centre continues.

During their visit, Local 793 members completed the first concrete pour for the footings, a significant milestone in building a facility that will serve generations to come.

“It was great to visit the job site and see our members hard at work building the new office and state-of-the-art training centre,” President Turple said. “This new facility will create opportunities for apprentices to start meaningful careers and grow into the next generation of skilled operating engineers.”

Members on-site on the day included Bird Construction employee Stephen Pyke, JB Enterprise’s Sam Gregoire, Shaun Shea and Jordan LeCroix, Anthony Gibson from CM Drain, as well as Doug Woodhouse and Eric Else of Lafarge.

The new facility will deliver cutting-edge training programs designed to equip members with the latest skills, tools, and technologies needed in today’s evolving trades landscape.

“It’s encouraging to see the development taking shape, knowing it will strengthen our ability to train skilled, job-ready workers for years to come,” Hewitt said.

The centre will also serve as a local meeting and resource space, helping to reduce travel times for many of our members in surrounding communities.

“Members in the area are just as excited as we are to finally have a new office and training centre to call home,” O’Neill said. “It’s going to be a place where we can hold our meetings, support our members, and offer accessible training opportunities.”

Dear Members, We are pleased to inform you that the Provincial Collective Agreement has been ratified. Thank you to everyone who participated in the process and supported this important step forward. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your business representative. In solidarity, Mike Gallagher, Business Manager

Dear Members,

We are pleased to inform you that the Provincial Collective Agreement has been ratified. Thank you to everyone who participated in the process and supported this important step forward.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your business representative.

In solidarity,

Mike Gallagher, Business Manager

Keep your Union experience at your fingertips with the IUOE Local 793 Members Mobile App. It’s your all-in-one tool to stay connected, informed, and in control, anytime, anywhere. With just a few taps, you can: Stay up to date on the latest union news and events Contact your business or site representative Download your tax forms, certificates, and collective agreement Access and share your qualification card with contractors via a secure QR code Pay your dues quickly and securely Add important dates to your personal calendar Everything you need – […]

Keep your Union experience at your fingertips with the IUOE Local 793 Members Mobile App. It’s your all-in-one tool to stay connected, informed, and in control, anytime, anywhere.

With just a few taps, you can:

• Stay up to date on the latest union news and events
• Contact your business or site representative
• Download your tax forms, certificates, and collective agreement
• Access and share your qualification card with contractors via a secure QR code
• Pay your dues quickly and securely
• Add important dates to your personal calendar

Everything you need – faster, safer, and easier than ever before!

Ready to simplify your Union experience?

Log into the Union website here to access the download link or QR code for the app. You’ll also find a step-by-step guide to help you download and start using the app with ease.

Each year on May 1st, people around the world observe International Workers’ Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the hard work, commitment, and rights of workers everywhere. Local 793 proudly stands with its more than 20,000 members, who are the backbone of our communities. From safely operating heavy equipment or cranes to ensuring every project is built precisely, our members shape the future. As we celebrate this day, we reaffirm our commitment to advocating for better wages, safer work environments, and equal opportunities for all workers. Together, we continue to […]

Each year on May 1st, people around the world observe International Workers’ Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the hard work, commitment, and rights of workers everywhere.

Local 793 proudly stands with its more than 20,000 members, who are the backbone of our communities. From safely operating heavy equipment or cranes to ensuring every project is built precisely, our members shape the future.

As we celebrate this day, we reaffirm our commitment to advocating for better wages, safer work environments, and equal opportunities for all workers. Together, we continue to push for progress because when we stand united, we all rise.

I would like to congratulate Mark Carney and the Liberal Party on securing a fourth term in office. This victory reflects the confidence Canadians have in their leadership, and I believe it will bring positive outcomes for operating engineers across the country. As we reflect on the political landscape, we find ourselves looking at two quick elections in succession – first, the provincial re-election of Doug Ford and his Progressive Conservative Party, and now, the federal election results, which saw votes still being counted into the early hours and even […]

I would like to congratulate Mark Carney and the Liberal Party on securing a fourth term in office. This victory reflects the confidence Canadians have in their leadership, and I believe it will bring positive outcomes for operating engineers across the country.

As we reflect on the political landscape, we find ourselves looking at two quick elections in succession – first, the provincial re-election of Doug Ford and his Progressive Conservative Party, and now, the federal election results, which saw votes still being counted into the early hours and even continued today. However, none of the recounts will affect the overall outcome, which is a clear victory for Carney and the Liberals.

At the time of writing, the final numbers show the Liberals holding or leading in 168 seats, just shy of the 172 needed for a majority. The Conservatives have secured 144 seats, while the Bloc Québécois has picked up 23. Unfortunately, the NDP fell to just seven seats, losing party status. The Greens have secured one seat.

As I watched Carney’s victory speech, following speeches by Jagmeet Singh, who has now stepped down, and Pierre Poilievre, who lost his riding of Carleton to Liberal candidate Bruce Fanjoy, I was reminded of how rare it is in Canadian politics for any political party to win a fourth term. Political scientists will likely study this election for years to come, analyzing the dynamics that led to this result.

One of the highlights of Carney’s victory speech that stood out to me was his commitment to “build, baby, build.” This was music to my ears. His ambitious infrastructure and housing programs and his focus on skills and apprenticeship training were some of the key reasons why Local 793’s executive board chose to endorse the Liberals.

Other building trades unions, such as LiUNA and the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, took a different stance. Still, for us, Carney was simply the most qualified candidate, and it wasn’t even close. When you look at his resume – his PhD in economics and his experience at the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England – he stands out as the best choice to lead Canada through the challenging times ahead, especially given the global trade instability created by U.S. President Donald Trump.

The tariffs on Canada’s auto industry, in particular, have had a devastating impact, especially when we were beginning to see the positive results of investments in the auto sector and battery plants, where many of our members in southwest Ontario are employed. The current threats to our manufacturing sectors – aluminum in Quebec, potash in Saskatchewan, or oil and gas in the West – are a significant concern for our economy and jobs. We needed leadership that could meet these challenges head-on, and Carney’s background in finance and public service makes him uniquely qualified to do so.

This victory should give us optimism as we look toward the upcoming trade talks, which are set to begin in early May. We need a strong team at the table to represent Canada’s interests, and I believe we have that with Carney and his team. We also need to continue to foster national unity, not just as a political goal, but as a shared Canadian value, where the Canadian flag stands for unity, community safety, and justice, not for division.

I know not every member of Local 793 agreed with our endorsement. Some members supported other parties, and I respect those differences. But I see a clear path forward when I look at what’s best for the entire membership and their families. Whether we endorse a party or not, we always have a choice – do we sit on the sidelines or do we lead? We’ve chosen to lead, and by doing so, we multiply our ability to advocate for investments in the things that matter most to our members – things like jobs, training, infrastructure, and the protection of our industries.

At Local 793, we’ve always prioritized the growth and well-being of our members, and we’ll continue to work closely with the government to ensure that our voice is heard on the issues that matter most.

I’m proud to say that when Carney visited the OETIO training centre in Oakville on April 5, we had a productive discussion with the Prime Minister and other business managers from across the country. We spoke about important projects like pipelines, infrastructure investments, and the need to enhance our training programs.

One project that stands out is the Baffinland Steensby Railway, a $5.7 billion initiative to construct a 149-kilometre railway line from the Mary River Mine on northern Baffin Island to a port on Steensby Inlet. As we’ve discussed, it’s crucial that we use Canadian steel for these projects, especially given the tariffs and trade restrictions on our steel industry.

And, of course, we need to continue to build pipelines that will carry Canadian resources to market, all while ensuring union workers – operating engineers, build those projects.

Lastly, we cannot forget the housing crisis facing Canadians. Home prices have soared to levels that are simply out of reach for many first-time buyers and newcomers to Canada. That’s why the Liberal Party’s Build Canada Homes (BCH) initiative is so important. It’s not just a hope – it’s an achievable goal if we stay committed, work together with our partners, and tap into the skills of our members to build the homes we need.

So, as we move forward, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get to work. Together, we will continue to build our country, our communities, and our union.

In solidarity,

Mike Gallagher
Business Manager, Local 793

The National Day of Mourning is a time to honour those who have lost their lives, been injured, or fallen ill due to their work. It’s also an opportunity to reaffirm our collective responsibility to improve workplace safety and prevent future tragedies. Sadly, hundreds of Canadians die each year from workplace incidents, and many more work-related fatalities go unreported. In 2023, the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC) recorded 1,057 workplace fatalities nationwide, with an additional 274,022 workers taking time off due to work-related injuries or illnesses. These […]

The National Day of Mourning is a time to honour those who have lost their lives, been injured, or fallen ill due to their work. It’s also an opportunity to reaffirm our collective responsibility to improve workplace safety and prevent future tragedies.

Sadly, hundreds of Canadians die each year from workplace incidents, and many more work-related fatalities go unreported. In 2023, the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC) recorded 1,057 workplace fatalities nationwide, with an additional 274,022 workers taking time off due to work-related injuries or illnesses. These numbers reflect only the incidents that were officially reported and accepted by compensation boards. The actual toll is likely much higher.

Yet, the statistics are just part of the story. Every workplace tragedy touches more than just the affected worker. It deeply impacts their families, friends, and coworkers, whose lives are changed forever.

Local 793 member Fredrick Slomke of Cochrane is one of three individuals recently added to the IUOE Local 793 Memorial Garden and Monument. Brother Fredrick, who had been a member for 18 years, tragically lost his life on October 8, 2023, due to occupational diseases.

On August 20, 2024, 54-year-old Local 793 member Nicholas D’Amato tragically lost his life in a workplace accident in King City. He was struck by a speeding pedestrian truck that collided with his ramps. Although the area was marked with cones to warn drivers, the driver’s reckless behaviour led to this devastating loss.

Brother Quinn Martyn was struck and killed in a job site accident on January 24, 2025. He was just 20 years old. The Local 793 apprentice was struck while attempting to help a worker who had been injured while using a skid steer at a job site in Tiverton.

The heartbreaking loss of these men again underscores the importance of Local 793’s long fight to make job sites safer for its members – and all workers.

“In the construction industry, we face inherent risks every day. It’s part of the environment we work in,” Business Manager Mike Gallagher said. “But the simple truth is, most incidents that lead to workers being killed or injured are preventable. It’s not enough to mourn; we must commit to real, lasting change. Safety should never be an afterthought; it should be the foundation of everything we do. We owe it to every worker to ensure they come home safe.”

IUOE Local 793 President Dave Turple added “I call on all our employers to join with us in a shared commitment to ensuring that every worker who steps onto a jobsite has the highest level of training and qualifications possible. There should never be a shortcut taken that puts a single worker at risk.”

Local 793 proudly represents the safety of thousands of workers and the fight for their right to a safe workplace environment, continuously lobbying for improved training, licensing, and standardization in the construction industry so we can work in a safer, healthier environment and eliminate workplace accidents and fatalities.

The Local 793 Memorial Garden and Monument at head office in Oakville was built to honour members who died as a result of construction site accidents or due to occupational illnesses. Their names – 50 of them – are etched on the columns of this monument. Let us all do everything possible to ensure no more names are added.

LOCAL 793 MEMBERS WHO DIED AS A RESULT OF CONSTRUCTION SITE ACCIDENTS OR DUE TO OCCUPATIONAL ILLNESSES:

William Henry Munroe – November 4, 1970
Lambros Kordas – March 21, 1977
Joe Petrik – March 21, 1977
John W. Jr. Hunt – September 2, 1980
Bruce Norman Higgs – February 6, 1981
Roger Michael Sokoloski – November 2, 1984
Gerard Drapeau – August 5, 1987
Robert Jr. Baxter – September 25, 1987
Lynda Baker – September 14, 1989
Marc Roy – July 23, 1992
Elzear Dignard – August 4, 1992
Wallace Culp – November 16, 1993
Charles Barton – December 20, 1994
Robert Gerritsen – September 17, 1995
Donald Crawley – October 6, 1995
Earl Anness – January 17, 1996
Ronald Girard – May 17, 1996
Patrick Kelly – October 20, 1997
Edward Cox – June 14, 2001
Scott Mason – August 8, 2001
James Clement – October 26, 2001
Ryan Clement – October 26, 2001
Kenneth Gardiner – January 11, 2002
John Aarts – February 8, 2002
Allen Manchester – November 3, 2003
Michael Hipson – January 23, 2006
Kent Walker – May 15, 2006
Donald Duncan – October 13, 2007
Major Singh Dhadda – October 29, 2007
Giovanni De Francesco – January 1, 2009
Keith Gudmundson – January 19, 2010
Vince De Paepe – July 3, 2011
Patrick Gartlan – July 15, 2011
Kyle Knox – October 11, 2011
Maurice La Chapelle – March 9, 2012
Lee Antoniak – April 9, 2012
Renato Marchione – July 12, 2012
Jamie Drew Davis – July 12, 2015
Marc Normand – November 2, 2015
Claude Joly – December 15, 2016
Wayne H. McPhail – April 6, 2017
Eric Wheeler – May 6, 2019
Sylvio Paquette – July 10, 2019
Cody Proulx – February 24, 2021
James DiMarco – June 3, 2021
Ernesto Campoli – June 1, 2022
Fredrick Slomke – October 8, 2023
Mike Murphy – November 17, 2023
Nicholas D’Amato – August 20, 2024
Quinn Martyn – January 24, 2025

In Canada, struck-by incidents remain one of the leading causes of injury and fatality on construction sites. A significant number of these incidents are linked to distractions, particularly those caused by mobile device usage. Do not use mobile devices on the job site! They are a serious source of distraction that can lead to injury or death. To raise awareness and improve workplace safety, IHSA is leading Struck-By Awareness Week from April 21 to 25, 2025. IUOE Local 793 proudly supports this initiative and remains committed to protecting every worker […]

In Canada, struck-by incidents remain one of the leading causes of injury and fatality on construction sites. A significant number of these incidents are linked to distractions, particularly those caused by mobile device usage. Do not use mobile devices on the job site! They are a serious source of distraction that can lead to injury or death.

To raise awareness and improve workplace safety, IHSA is leading Struck-By Awareness Week from April 21 to 25, 2025. IUOE Local 793 proudly supports this initiative and remains committed to protecting every worker building and maintaining Ontario.

When working on a jobsite with cranes or heavy equipment, it’s crucial to stay aware of your surroundings. Never walk beneath a suspended load or bucket. Simple measures can make all the difference. To raise awareness and improve workplace safety, IHSA is leading Struck-By Awareness Week from April 21 to 25, 2025. IUOE Local 793 proudly supports this initiative and remains committed to protecting every worker building and maintaining Ontario.

When working on a jobsite with cranes or heavy equipment, it’s crucial to stay aware of your surroundings. Never walk beneath a suspended load or bucket. Simple measures can make all the difference.

To raise awareness and improve workplace safety, IHSA is leading Struck-By Awareness Week from April 21 to 25, 2025. IUOE Local 793 proudly supports this initiative and remains committed to protecting every worker building and maintaining Ontario.