Leo Gerard visits striking Vale Inco workers

Leo Gerard, United Steelworkers Union (USW) International President, joined striking local 6500 Vale Inco workers on the picket line at the Copper Cliff Smelter to show support. France Gélinas, MPP for Nickel Belt and Glenn Thibeault MP for Sudbury supported the striking members on day five of the strike. Photo by Marg Seregelyi.

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Jul 17, 2009- 9:04 AM

By: Sudbury Northern Life

United Steelworkers International president Leo Gerard visited striking Vale Inco workers on the picket line at the Copper Cliff Smelter this morning (July 17).

He was joined by Nickel Belt MPP France Gelinas.

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79 Comments

viking04ca 7/22/2009 6:34:07 PM - Report Abuse

I saw the video you have on Pope Gerard's visit. Absolutely disgusting! He will soon be joined by Taliban Jack Layton and the whiner France Gelinas. All we need now is the idiot Tony Clement. Oops one more, the idiot AngryAaron. MAD you are right about him....you said it all...bye bye Aaron...get a life
AngryAaron 7/22/2009 1:20:32 PM - Report Abuse

RobertHood, you obviously didn't go to the same school I did...
...........
One kid says "Ya, my dad can beat your dad up"
Me: "Ya, I'm going to beat you up... now!" *smack*
That kid's dad: "I'm goign to beat you and your dad up!"
Me: *kick* "Nope, I'm gonna keep hitting you, and if you touch me that'll be 2 charges laid against you, sucker."
Principal: "Let's just pretend this never happnened."
RobertHood 7/22/2009 11:30:04 AM - Report Abuse

Think of it this way.
.................................
We (strikers) are like a couple of kids in the schoolyard.
The kids are arguing.
One kids says "Ya, well my dad can beat up your dad".
The other says "No way, my dad is bigger and can beat up yours".
Then a dad shows up. Oh, oh!
.....................................
Just incase: The dad is Leo.
jonny_boy 7/22/2009 7:30:44 AM - Report Abuse

think i missed a few pages of this fight somewhere AngryAaron...
AngryAaron 7/21/2009 11:03:29 PM - Report Abuse

Jonny_boy, check out this NL link to the story about my grandfather being murdered: http://www.northernlife.ca/displayArticle.aspx?id=4737

That same grandfather that Man About Town claims probably doesn't exist / was a John.

This is quite personal. He knows who I am, and appears to believe that grants him the upper hand. I merely seek to prove him wrong and correct his naive view of the judicial system.

Angry AARON, Paul KUCHMA... not hard to figure out who I am.
magoo52 7/21/2009 8:29:52 PM - Report Abuse

AngryAaron: you need to watch Dr. Phil! Maybe after a few of his programs you can change your attitude and your name to HappyAaron! Your behavior is questionable! You might be on the border of behaving as a righteous hypocrite!
jonny_boy 7/21/2009 6:37:17 PM - Report Abuse

AngryAaron:
Not sure where you got the impression that I was claiming Vale had the Sudbury economy by the short an curlies... For one I couldn't disagree more. I happen to work in mining and I am just as busy as I was 2 years ago before the boom, and none of my work is coming from Vale. believe it or not we have a pretty global way of doing business now.
Flin Flon you ask? Doesn't mean much to me right now. Hud-Bay one horse town... LOL. a pot reference (link).

why would you file a lawsuit for something that is going to continue to happen? you wouldn't put duct tape over a leaking pipe would you?

as for the "prisoners" in copper cliff, or sudbury... in all honesty unless you've been living there for longer than the stack has been there, then sorry but you shouldn't have moved there in the first place. (kind of a poor attitude on my end, but hey, you wouldn't move to a desert and then expect it to not be hot and dry)

Maybe your hate for Vale has clouded your vision about Xstrata... I wouldn't put them far off of Vale. In fact, they are said to be more cut-throat when it comes to business.

Libel suits... bah. Why do you need to know who some jackass that doesn't agree with most people and has an internet connection is? It would be nice if people would say publicly what their opinions were, I do agree with you on that one.

How quickly the arguments here have changed. We've gone from arguing about the strike to arguing about libel suits, prisoners in copper cliff, and much much more.
AngryAaron 7/21/2009 5:38:31 PM - Report Abuse

Jonny_boy, you seem to overestimate the importance of Vale to Sudbury's economy. What does "Flin Flon Manitoba" mean to you?

http://www.northernlife.ca/displayArticle.aspx?id=4482

Furthermore, you don't "fight the government" over it, you file a lawsuit against Vale then force the judge to apply the similarly situated test.

... and what about the "prisoners" of copper cliff who are told they can't leave their homes because ice is falling off the stack or deadly gasses are leaking?

Vale doesn't want to sell? Good for them, give the people of Sudbury the cash and we'll invest in Xstrata.

Without libel suits, how can I discover who Man About Town is and why he beleives he is above the law?
AngryAaron 7/21/2009 5:31:10 PM - Report Abuse

... right ... I'll be sent to the Algoma for insisting a criminal be arrested.

I even know what cases to cite as precedents.
jonny_boy 7/21/2009 5:29:19 PM - Report Abuse

AngryAaron:
1) I don't know what you think mining technology is, but it hasn't changed in 100 years, and was not invented in Sudbury. We still drill, we still blast, we still muck and tram. Where is the new made in Sudbury technology there? Do you not think the foreigners know how to use a jackleg and stoper? Oh wait I forgot, what are those archaic pieces of equipment that are still used in every u/g mining camp aside from the Inco/Falco ideals.
2)I think you under estimate the aptitude of the miners outside of Sudbury, and even Canada. Nobody is irreplaceable. pull your head out of Sudbury for a few minutes and visit some other operations across the province/country/globe... you might be surprised.
3) work visa costs about 100 bucks a head.
4) again do you honestly think they would let foreigners wander around town on their own? no they would stay on site and then out of the country. (I think we are just arguing semantics here... Vale has shown no intention of bringing in scabs)
5) just for reference, no the helicopters are not scabs, they are staff who are technically locked out by the picket lines. they deserve to work considering they didn't have a voice in this strike.
6) it is a little absurd to think of class action suit(s) against vale for emissions the government has deemed "acceptable" (i know, bad... bad...) but suing vale isnt the way to do this, its better to fight the government for tougher legislation on this one.
7) there is no foreseeable way to force vale to sell inco to some Canadian firm.
8) some of us are taking these blogs a little too seriously... libel suits? come on now, we should all be able to be civilized and have a decent debate.
Man About Town_513 7/21/2009 4:47:36 PM - Report Abuse

Better hope the cops don't take you to the Algoma when you go in to complain.:

"An anonymous poster hurt my feelings. - Oh, and I'm under a pseudo-name too."

Now THAT is funny!

Almost as funny as "JELOUSE" (What is that? A gelatin dessert of some kind?)
AngryAaron 7/21/2009 2:54:27 PM - Report Abuse

Man About Town, on Thursday at 2 PM I will be meeting with Seargent Rob of the Sudbury Regional Police (extention 6606).

After that meeting, we'll see if you still find my comments laughable.

I hope that the knowledge our legal system really DOES punish those who operate outside the letter of the law (Criminal Code of Canada) will help you sleep at night.

"Again, I have insulated myself from the downturns"... let's hope the insulation you talk of is an army of lawyers.

Have a good day, sir.
Man About Town_513 7/21/2009 12:46:10 PM - Report Abuse

Arrogant Aaron, your self-righteous position and thin attempt to manufacture some feeling of power is laughable to say the least. Readers comments falling under Libel in the Criminal Code? ROTFL! (Please stop, all our insides are hurting!!!)
Refrain from posting? And stop printing the truth? Pulling back the arrogant and misguided union propaganda and socialist mentality that you certainly personify ain't gonna happen.
You sound like a bitter, new,unionist with an axe to grind. Upset you chose the wrong career and need a place to vent. Vale is your target and anybody that dares challenge you with the facts.

Keep throwing a hissy fit like a child in the schoolyard. Make up false power positions like lawsuits. If that helps you sleep at night.

Face reality. And stop skirting the facts that I and others continue to post. Clouding the issue by making this a foreign fight. Fact is that anyone that owned Inco at this point would be asking for concessions. And those on the table are not that outlandish compared to what other large unions have given up.

Poker has nothing to do with this. You are the one that made that stupid reference. Betting with a losing hand? - Right out of the 6500 '09 strike playbook! lol!
Yogi and I pointed out your lack of logic. Now you deflect again?
Grow up.
And yes, the majority of people are fed up with the Steelworkers. Just ask any of your friends (if you have more than 3) Coffee shop talk, and dinner table banter around this city has the average Joe ticked at the miners. They know a good paying job when they see one. You don't.

Again, I have insulated myself from the downturns. Strikes do have a silver lining. And if you are too myopic to see that, then too bad. Vale has played the union, and your type perfectly. Your rant just proves it.
Its Time For A Change 7/21/2009 12:33:29 PM - Report Abuse

ANGRY AARON YOU HAVE MY SUPPORT, I ONLY READ MAT'S POSTS FOR THE COMIC RELIEF. MAT IS JUST SO AGAINST UNIONS AND VALE BECAUSE HE IS JELOUSE OF THEM. POOR MAT ONLY HAS HIS COMPUTER AT HOME, TO COMFORT HIM, AND FOR THE RECORD MAT DOSE NOT SPEAK FOR ME I SPEAK FOR MYSELF, IM NOT THE MINORITY OR THE MAJORITY I AM A FREE THINKING FREE SPEAKING SUDBURIAN/CANADIAN.
AngryAaron 7/21/2009 11:44:36 AM - Report Abuse

P.S. if someone was to spread knowingly false news, that's also an offense under the Criminal Code of Canada. If the union could prove that the false news damaged their ability to negotiate... well... the individual making libelous statements would probably covet their neighbours coardboard box home after losing everything they owned.
AngryAaron 7/21/2009 11:43:43 AM - Report Abuse

Man About Town, I will have to insist you refrain from commenting until you make good on your poker challenge.

Your unwillingness to face me at a poker table is indicative of the level of truth behind what you write.

Not to mention your reading comprehension is so terrible I'd fail you in 8th grade English. When did I *ever* say the union was the one with the lawsuit?

I encourage all other readers who support my views to remind Man About Town after each of his posts that his opinion isn't being read, and that you will not read any of his posts until he makes good on his poker challenge or makes a public appology for to referring me as "Error Aaron".

I haven't heard something as absurd since Bartolucci coined the term "Ministry of FedNot". Hmmm... Bartolucci is allegedly a man... and he *is* about town...

Keep calling me Error Aaron if it makes you feel better, but be sure to swap the definitions of "error" and "accurate" in your personal dictionary.

Now, to address your imagined 3 causes:

1) When the company uses 100% robotic labour and management systems and gets to keep 100% of the profit, is that STILL fairly reigning in the profits and Canadian natural resources? Domo arigato, Mr. Roboto.

2) How is a unionized employee trying to hold on to "their profits" somehow less acceptable in your books than a faceless corportation doing the same?

3) Unless you have polled the vast majority of people in Sudbury I will have to insist you cease making these comments.

It would be interesting if at the poker game Man About Town doesn't want to have, I discovered he had ulterior motives in posting. If I find it to be the case, I will personally invest the money required to poll the people of Sudbury so that I can go to the Justice of the Peace and have him charged for libel.

P.S. if someone was to spread knowingly false news, that's also an offense under the Criminal Code
Its Time For A Change 7/21/2009 11:26:29 AM - Report Abuse

Im pretty sure i know why Tony "the sell out " Clement dose not want to come to Sudbury, rememeber the whole Jean Chretien Cream Pie in the face incident, Im pretty sure tony dosent want/ need pie in the face, because he already makes himself look silly enough by the way he conducts business / governs . If i were to display such incompetence in my line of work as He dose as industry minister i beilieve that i would have been fired long ago. To keep his job he Must be real good under someones desk or is sharing the kick backs he may recieve. Tony is sliding down the
s%$t rope fast and the harder he trys to cover up the investment canada agreenments the more we will push to expose the truth. Let The show begin Tony , the lies will be the downfall of your career.
AngryAaron 7/21/2009 11:25:44 AM - Report Abuse

1) Who said it was the union suing?

Check out this humourous image: http://aaron-sudbury.deviantart.com/art/Law-128882403

Remember fallout damage? Who ever said the citizens of Sudbury aren't entitled to a new car and whatever else paint job once ever 10 years or so at Vale's expense?

And what about the soil pH? Back in the 80s Inco (not Vale) appearently recommended people send their soil samples to Guelph. http://aaron-sudbury.deviantart.com/art/Law-128882403

I think *EVERY* resident of Sudbury is entitled to both fallout damages and soil pH balancing at Vale's expense.

... then there's the "private information" complaints people can make with the Justice of the Peace for assault. If a police officer can have me arrested for assault because I throw some weak acid on him, then I'm going to insit that the similarly situated test be applied and that Vale's top executives face the music.

2) "They break the law, they get deported"

3) WHEN has no bearing on HOW UNBEARABLY EXPENSIVE the barrier to entry is.

4) A magic thing called research and development. Do the foreign mines have the INVENTED IN SUDBURY mining technology?

5) Again, I wasn't saying not owning a vehicle is a problem, I'm saying Inco providing everyone's transportation makes the unrealistic scenario even more cost prohibitive.

6) If they pay a foreign worker $10/hour for a job a Canadian would do, but for more money... let's just say they'll have a hard time pulling that one off.

P.S. foreigners can unionize too, and I'm a fairly convincing fellow when I need to be xD

7) Flying workers here in large groups would be cheap. That would also mean they are all going to be leaving as a group...

8) Check # 1 and let me know if you STILL think we can't make Vale a SUDBURY owned corportation. If Vale doesn't wanna ship their cash up here from Brazil to pay the people, I'd gladly take share
Man About Town_513 7/21/2009 6:08:27 AM - Report Abuse

Error Arron, your ignorance and selective position proves how out of touch you and the rest of Leyton's sheep are.
First, a class action lawsuit idea is beyond absurd. The workers belong to a union. Civil litigation is not allowed. They've signed their rights away to the bargaining unit. Keep dreaming about fake power, pal.
As for Honda? They've laid off hundreds selectively without notice. - WHERE WERE YOU TO PROTECT THOSE CANADIANS???? -lol!
Again, you jump on the foreign ownership bandwagon because it suits you here. And you still hop into Wal*Mart for Asian made shirts produced in a sweatshop.
The only 3 things responsible for this unneeded strike are 1- The recession and a company that wants to fairly reign in costs.
2- The greed of the union who are striking over concessions that are not big at all.
3- Blind socialist mentality that has people not willing to think for themselves.
Face it, the majority of people in Sudbury aren't behind the union this time. And as this drags on, the anger will turn toward them, not any company.
See you in the want ads.
RobertHood 7/20/2009 11:50:10 PM - Report Abuse

Wow, I thought it was just Leo coming to his home town to show some support of the workers on strike. Ya he's going to say "union propaganda" stuff, he's the Prez of a very big union. Chill out people, it's just our contract with a company. Remember we don't have the economic importance we once had so no threat to our Country or community. We'll all settle this little disagreement and life will go on. The company will cry poor and we'll cry unfair. When everyone wants to get back to making money we will. End of story. Some ride the roller coaster and some wait and see.
.......
Remember 75% of 20% of 100% plus 25% of 20% of 100% all adds up to a great deal for all. Then add in 8% of 100% plus 2% to 6% of 100% matched by 50% to 100% of that 2% to 6% of 100% and voila it's all good. It's in the math!!
Its Time For A Change 7/20/2009 11:39:12 PM - Report Abuse

Sorry MAT I AM NOT TALKING ABOUT HONDA, IM TALKING MINING COMPANIES IN SUDBURY, AND LAST TIME I CHECKED HONDA HAS NOT SCREWED THE PEOPLE OF SUDBURY/CANADA. JACK LAYTON AND THE NDP NEVER CAME TO ME TO SAYING THAT XSTRATA WAS LAYING OFF AND THEY WERE VIOLATING THE INVESTMENT CANADA AGREEMENT. THE UNION DID, SO GET YOUR FACT STRAIGHT. IM JUST GLAD AFTER ALL THIS TIME THAT JACK LAYTON GIVES A DAMN ABOUT SUDBURY AND GRAVEL AND THIBEAULT ARE THERE TO REPRESENT US BECAUSE THE PRESENT GOVERNMENT COULD CARE LESS IF SUDBURY IS ON THE SHORT END OF THE STICK. IF YOU DIDNT KNOW ITS THE RESPONSIBLE PART OF THE GOVERNMENT THAT IS SUPPOSED TO GIVE A S%^t ABOUT THE PEOPLE WHO ARE BEING TREATED UN-FAIRLY. OH AND MAT, I LOST MY JOB IN FEBUARY AT XSTRATA, ( IM NOT LOOKING FOR PITTY) BUT DONT GET YOUR HOPES UP ABOUT A GOOD DEAL ON MY TOYS, THEY ARE PAID FOR AND I TAKE PRIDE IN THE FACT THAT YOU WILL NEVER OWN ANY OF MY SKIDOO'S AND YOU WONT GET A GOOD DEAL ON MY VINYL SHACK, I DONT OWN ONE, MY HOUSE IS BRICK TOP TO BOTTOM AND I KINDA FEEL LIKE KEEPING IT. TO ALL WHO HAVE OR ARE SUFFERING BECAUSE OF IRRESPONSIBLE GOVERNMENT, STAY STRONG AND FIGHT, STAND TOGETHER. DONT LET COMMENTS LIKE MAT POSTS BOG YOU DOWN.
jonny_boy 7/20/2009 9:56:26 PM - Report Abuse

AngryAaron:
1)what could the union possibly have that they could see Vale served with a class action lawsuit?
2)you're fooling yourself if you think that there isn't bunkhouses, showers, and kitchens on site already.
3) if vale were to bring scabs in, and I am in no way saying they would (the news tonight had a quote from them saying that was obscene), do you really that they would wait til the last minute to get them?
4) you take a miner from a foreign company, what makes you think they couldn't mine here.
5) foreigners wouldn't need vehicles. if, again hypothetically, they brought in foreigners, do you honestly think they would just let them wander around town, to say, run into a union member? we've all heard the stories how heated things could get against a unionist and a scab...
6) canadian salary/hourly costs >>>>>>>>> (much much greater than) foreign salary/hourly costs. start thinking about pension and benefits...
7) getting flown here is pretty cheap if you were to charter flights.

so if you can't see how that would be cheaper... maybe need to rethink a couple points there.

the real sticking point, and only point you have with your arguments, is that they wouldn't ever be able to get a visa. I have one for the US and it was not easy to get. I had to show my technical expertise (in nickel mining, as i was headed to a nickel property) and that there was a lack of that expertise where i was headed. Pretty tough for vale to prove that there isn't able bodied and willing miners in Sudbury. so 1.5/5... take that as you want.

if we're arguing about foreign ownership, you have some pretty valid points there, and i am with you on most of those. the real problem is that its kinda late to be making it a Canadian owned firm now. we can, however, have some law/legislation enacted. I, for one, am partial to taxation of ore, and those taxes should go back to the location where they came from (i
AngryAaron 7/20/2009 5:46:57 PM - Report Abuse

Magoo52, have you ever seen the balance sheet for the USW trust? If it has one billion dollars in it, at $600k/week it would take about 32 years to deplete it (actually, longer since the trust is presumably earning interest). Your comment borders on criminal libel.

Man About Town, you say that Vale can bring in foreign workers... how? From where I'm sitting, it looks like your position is based on a desire to bash the union and not on any fact or projected circumstance.

=> They would need passports and work visas (that costs money and takes time to get.)

=> They would have to be flown here, and they'd need lodging (even more money.)

=> They would need on-the-job training, or training before hand (costs EVEN MORE money.)

=>These foreigners don't own vehicles. There therefore exists a transportation problem for them (yet more money still.)

=>These foreign workers cannot become citizens simply to 'steal' jobs that Canadians are willing to do. If it was that easy to do, China and India wouldn't have problems with overpopulation. That means it costs EVEN MORE money when they have to send a second batch of foreing workers.

Now... after investing all this money getting the foreign workers here, they'd still have to be paid by the hour or on salary.

I'm really not seeing how this ends up being cheaper than giving in to the union's quite reasonable demands.
AngryAaron 7/20/2009 5:42:48 PM - Report Abuse

MAT, challenge accepted. Where shall we meet to play poker?

Yogi, if Vale was served with a class action lawsuit and quickly give in to the union's demands, would you STILL claim that this stike is "at the expense of working men and women?" On what do you base your opinion?

Vigil, the BIG problem with foreign ownership is Canada's GDP. Our citizens work to increase a Brazilian company's bank account.

To put this all in poker terms... Vale has a million chips, and I have 1,000. I know that Vale doesn't care what cards they have, they don't think I'll be able to double up 10 times in a row. I can, and will.

Their pile of money created overconfidence, which will be their downfall.

Although Vale can pull some aces out of their sleeves (bring in Brazilian workers), if I catch them it's game over and I'm walking away with all the chips.

P.S. Man About Town, I'll take option 3 which is "take no hit, strike until Vale learns that Canadian courts are here to protect Canadian people, and end up working for a Candian owned Inco."
Man About Town_513 7/20/2009 4:04:36 PM - Report Abuse

So Time Changer are you against foreign companies like Honda employing over 4,000 people directly in Alliston. And the thousands of other spin off jobs?
Corporate deals are all private. No politician has the right to block a lawful deal for any purchase of any company. Exposing the works would tell the world that Canada can't be trusted were confidentiality is concerned. Face it, the X-Files type conspiracy about the sale of Inco,pushed by the socialists, union, and NDP is simply bunk. But, you'll bite and jump on board the bandwagon. Securing Jack Leyton the votes he wants. That mentality is what put the union on strike. Not small concessions that other larger unions would gladly take compared to what they (CAW) have sacrificed.
Take a small hit now. Live to fight tomorrow. OR - Strike for nothing and end up breaking the union and losing your jobs. All while saving Inco millions......baaaaaaaaaa.
Its Time For A Change 7/20/2009 3:30:19 PM - Report Abuse

WHAT I AM SUGGESTING IS THAT IT WOULD BE NICE IF SIGNED AGREEMENTS WERE MADE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC AND NOT HIDDEN AWAY BECAUSE REASONS TONY CLEMENT ONLY DECIDED. IM HOPING THAT SUDBURY NEVER TURNS INTO A SH%T HOLE THAT HAS NO SOLID ECONOMY, IF I NEEDED A HISTORY LESSON I DEFINATELY WOULD NOT BE ASKING SOMEONE WHO IS TWISTING MY POSTS TO TRY TO SUGGEST THINGS OTHER THAN WHAT I AM WRITING. I HAVE LIVED IN SUDBURY MY WHOLE LIFE, AND THERE HAVE BEEN MANY LAYOFFS/ STRIKES. FAIR IS FAIR ESPECIALLY FOR THE WORKERS OF THESE COMPANIES. THAT IS WHAT I AM SUGGESTING, TAKE IT FOR WHAT IT IS.
Vigil_1 7/20/2009 3:12:42 PM - Report Abuse

Its time for a change......are you suggesting that a Canadian company would not have laid people off, closed mines, etc??????
I can take you an a trip through history and provide some examples if you like....

As much as I dislike what has happened, the foreign companies have not done anything worse than many of our Canadian companies.
Yogi_1 7/20/2009 2:50:51 PM - Report Abuse

I stand corrected skndstry a.k.a. skndstry: It wasn't immediately clear to me.
p.s. I see that we agree on someting again.
Yogi_1 7/20/2009 2:43:25 PM - Report Abuse

Magoo52... didn’t Gerard say this fight was for all of Canada? Maybe it’s some principal that he believes in... I don’t know what his motivation is for acting and speaking like he has... they all have! At least we know what Vale’s motivation is... they’re right up front about that. Whatever the secret “master plan” is, it will come at the expense of working men and women.
skndstry 7/20/2009 2:35:00 PM - Report Abuse

Yogi a.k.a Valley Boy: MAT IS a complete blowhard and an idiot, but it seems pretty clear that his comment was directed at Aaron, not you.
magoo52 7/20/2009 2:19:10 PM - Report Abuse

Short medium or long strike? Well it all depends what meeting you were at! At the membership meetings where the 2009 tentavive offer was reviewed, John Fera and Wayne Fraser told all the union members that the strike would be over by the beginning of September of 2009 as the nickel inventories would be low by then and the price of nickel would be up! I was there and that is what came out of their mouths! This my friends influenced the members to reject the offer on July 12 - 2009 as the members figured this was to be a strike that would last maybe about 8 weeks and NOT 8 months! However what's interesting is that 5 days later Mr. Gerard the big Steelworker Union cheese rep from Pittsburg tells the membership at the Copper Cliff picket line that this strike is going to be a very long one! I also heard this from his mouth! Gerard did not specify the time however we kinda assumed or figured by Gerard's tone that the strike is going to be longer than 8 weeks! Had the members known this BEFORE July 12 - 2009 vote day, they voting members likely would of accepted the offer! Unfortunately the sheep were deceived by the Union Shepherds! As a result, the sheep will suffer because the strike is most likely going to last at least 8 months as oppossed to the 8 weeks as proposed earlier by the deceiver's Fera and Fraser! In addition, please keep in mind that the union is writing a check for $600,000.00 per week to all its members as opposed to collecting union dues! It will not take long that the Union will be out of money and will beg on their knees for Vale Inco to renegotiate a new collective agreement which by the way will be inferior to the one that was offered previously! Good Luck to all the innocent and hard working sheep! PS- the days of wasting time at the union hall is over! Vale Inco will put that group to work just like all the other union officials in other sectors do!
Yogi_1 7/20/2009 1:04:26 PM - Report Abuse

Man About Town... about the poker game. I just couldn't play with someone like you... that would be like taking candy from a child!!!
Yogi_1 7/20/2009 1:02:08 PM - Report Abuse

Hey... Man About town... first of all... if you can get someone to explain to you exactly what my position is on the strike, you might understand that I’m doing exactly the opposite of what you think!!! As for my being “emotion driven”, you are the one using words like “stupid” to attack someone who has demonstrated far more intelligence than what you are demonstrating when you spew off all the union propaganda. I see already that someone agrees with me on the "stupid" thing.
Its Time For A Change 7/20/2009 12:09:59 PM - Report Abuse

Real easy to post comments about how stupid others are because their opinions bother you or you dont agree. Its not a game its real life, Mat easy to bash others and hide your face behind a picture of a crazy monkey who just shouts comments and points fingers. Im tired of your opinions like all your expensive vinel shacks or im gonna buy all your quads boats ect for cheap and i dont even work for vale. Rabble rabble rabble is all you do. No action, While some stand in solidarity you will sit in solitude. Making calculations on somenting you Mat have no control over is rediculous, while some will be tring to force the hand of change and actually affecting the outcome. You are the pawn, in a game that goes on in your mind, where Mat always wins and sudbury miners lose. Keep playing.
Man About Town_513 7/20/2009 11:21:38 AM - Report Abuse

Yogi, I'll sit in on a poker game with Error Aaron too!
"Bet where you stand to lose more than when you win" - LOL!
That has gotta be the stupidest comment EVER posted.

Vale is NOT bluffing. They are a multi-national company with billions in holdings. They've secured the smelter in Thompson. They can bring cheap feed from elsewhere to produce. With nickel at $5-$7/lb, they are saving millions not paying the workers here. They'll crank up production elsewhere and reap the benefit with an upcoming artificial spike in nickel from the strike.
If need be, they have thousands of trained foreign workers that'll gladly cross the picket lines for $25 per hour here.
The Steelworkers are playing poker (more like "Go-Fish!" )while Vale is playing a masterful chess game.
They are counting on narrow minded, emotion driven, folks like you to keep believing and promoting the union propaganda.
Like it or not, you've become a pawn and are playing yourself and the miners.
Yogi_1 7/20/2009 8:19:29 AM - Report Abuse

AngryAaron... do you really think that Vale is bluffing??? If you do, then I would love to play poker with you. lol
citizen_1 7/20/2009 7:56:42 AM - Report Abuse

This guy is a bigger joke than Fera! Why wasn't anyone protesting when Vale first purchased Inco? Maybe because nickel was at $25 and everyone was making too much money for little effort! Now things are not so great because nickel is $6 and a company is restructuring to maintain sustainable operations. I guess Canadian companies don't do this, they will increase wages and benefits until they are out of business. Think again!
AngryAaron 7/20/2009 7:29:06 AM - Report Abuse

Yogi, I'll assume you're a terrible poker player.

There are certainly times when making a bet where you stand to lose more than you win is a good plan. Specifically, you want to do so to force another player to tip their hand.

Convinced the other guy is bluffing? Prove it, then take him to the cleaners next time he tries.

Simple.
Yogi_1 7/19/2009 9:47:47 PM - Report Abuse

Even if you could see the writen agreement and it contains what you hope it does... what would you win. Words like "very little change" is pretty ambiguous... different people can take that to mean many things. I don't know, but if what you stand to win is worth less that what you stand to lose... that's a bad bet. I just don't think that a company like Vale, with their high-falutin lawyers would have put anything on paper that might bite them in the ass.
I also live in Sudbury, and it hasn't always been a mining town (actually downtown has always been). While I might agree that community is what will keep Sudbury viable... that has nothing to do with any union.
Its Time For A Change 7/19/2009 9:19:52 PM - Report Abuse

Solidarity towards all working and striking and laid off workers unionized or not is what its about. Think of this When you buy your house you have certain commitments you have to make to the bank, maybe cmhc , including and over and above the mortgage. Say a foreign company is buying the canadian company there are certain commitments that were agreed upon in writing. Now speaking as a Canadian who this pertains to I would believe that this company should be held responsible to the full extent of the agreement especially when the company can and is in a position to finacialy follow thru. Weather it be work stoppage due to shut down/ maintenance /lack of work or layoff is irrelevant in my opinion just as the bank would not care and could care less to take your house regardless of why you cannot adhere to the signed agreement between you and them. So why is it right for an Industry Minister to withold this from the canadian people. Think of a company that Has a mentality of Profitability before our community.
I dont want sudbury to turn into " flint michigan " ( using Flint Michigan is of refrence to a documentary that i saw in which the community had saw financial hardships come about because of industry layoffs and closures of businesses that were the earning potential of the populations in that community. ) We live in sudbury, this is a mining town, beautiful norther town. My kids and grand kids will hopefuly live her for long to come and the union ( and unity of the people) will keep sudbury a player in this industry that supports our municipal economy for a long time to come.
Yogi_1 7/19/2009 9:07:32 PM - Report Abuse

Its Time For a Change... very nice post...almost! Your post did inform me of something that I was unaware of... and it was nicely worded... until you got to the part where I needed to get my facts straight. But I’ve read worse, and I understand that you’re passionate about what you believe, so I’ll forgive that little indiscretion :) You need to understand that I am as passionate as you when it comes to what I believe, I just happen to believe that this strike is only serving to hurt our community... even the union guys.
We even agree on some points... like how we all stand to lose, or rather how we are all losing... it’s a question of, for how long and how bad. I’m an old miner and I’m not anti-union... just anti-strike when we don’t have a chance to win. People sometime cut off their nose to spite their face. In my opinion, unions are no longer controlled by the members. They, like Vale, employ lawyers and P.R. guys, and whatever else, to feed us what THEY think we will swallow. This game was decided long before any miner voted. Only two outfits can benefit from this strike, each for different reasons... USWs & Vale. If one stops to listen at the propaganda from both sides, and just look at the facts as they are presented. But you need to listen to the other side... and be genuinely concerned about everyone in the community. Oh by the way, if you had dispensed with the insinuation that I was a “negative individual” who only has a “stay at home opinion” and is “not concerned” with a need for change, I would say well done.
jonny_boy 7/19/2009 8:34:39 PM - Report Abuse

so let me get this straight. you aren't in the union, but you are supporting them because they want to oust clement because he is refusing to disclose an agreement between the government and the shareholders of a former company. i don't really think that this the best outlet for you to use. while i don't like the idea of laying of workers, i have heard the agreement made in 2006 was to keep 85% of the staff on (i.e. they could only lay off 15% of the 2006 workforce numbers). now in the end of 2006 the nickel prices took a huge spike and caused a hiring boom. so when we hit the recession in 2008, the companies were likely at 130% or more of the number of employees in 2006. so the layoffs would bring them back into balance. I would have to say that part of the reason you were laid off was due to poor planning. when the falco mines opened, they were all planned for an end of mine life all within 6 months of each other. sounds more like falco wanted to pull out than current owners. we all knew years ago TL and craig were nearing their end of life. was there ever a permanent building (aside from headframe/hoist) on the TL site?
either way, you should have been voicing your concern months ago when you were first laid off.
Its Time For A Change 7/19/2009 8:24:31 PM - Report Abuse

For the record, I dont work for Vale, never had ,In Fact I am laid off from xstrata , presently working for a non unionized company that treats me well ( Canadian owned to be correct)
So this is where I am coming from and why I am Voicing my concern and supporting the striking workers at Vale. I am pissed about the investment canada agreement , economic state or not ( the bank will still take my house if i dont live up to the mortgage agreement economic state or not ) so why dose the industry minister have the right to conceal info and not make Company's live up to their agreements. That is what the Rally is about . I also dont want to see Foreign companies hi grade this region and not make sustainable development choices.
jonny_boy 7/19/2009 8:00:21 PM - Report Abuse

where is your proof that vale wants to stop buying locally?
this fight has nothing to do with xstrata, so leave them out of this. are you trying to suggest by mentioning the laid off xstrata workers that you will have the same fate if you were to accept the current contract, and if so where is your proof?
if i had to choose between laying off a couple workers and putting a whole large company out of operation, i'm going to have to take the first option.

you still havent answered my question: if this fight isnt about money, then what is it about? so far in your last reply to me you mentioned bonuses, money in sudburians pockets, etc.

and lastly, you can't, as a union, say this is your member's fight and the contract should never have been released to the public, and then claim you are fighting for the community in the same breath. you being on strike is doing more harm right now to the community than good.

if you took a few steps back and looked at other mining camps in the country, or even just the province, you cant honestly claim you are being screwed...i have worked in the 3 camps (Sudbury, Timmins, Red Lake, to speak generally) for at least a year each, and still maintain regular contact with people in these camps. The word coming from those folk is that they'd be happy to have your contract and the company benefit pension that all you current employees have. the bulk of the rest of world, however, doesn't get 8% from the company. suck it up and get back to work.
Its Time For A Change 7/19/2009 7:46:22 PM - Report Abuse

I have a question for Johnny boy so smart , do you support the 686 laid off xstrata workers that cannot spend in the shops because they were laid off , they did not choose to strike, but were laid off? How about the Laid Off Workers of the mining supply companies like copco, boart , sandvik, that are unemployed by no choice of their own. If your going to say the union is to blame and is hurting the community you are wrong. If vale has their way there will be alot less money coming out of the pockets of the workers when they go into the shops. Would you rather see the bonuses in the hands of the workers who will gladly spend in sudbury or on the balace sheets of the share holders far far away. It's That simple. Yet you can twist it any way you choose to hate the union johnny boy. But Remember the Truth Is Xstrata Nickel, Vale Inco , Profits Before People. And thats worth standing up against, unless you have no Pride/Balls.
Its Time For A Change 7/19/2009 7:39:02 PM - Report Abuse

Actually Yogi, the rally is being organized by the Mine Mill local 598/ Caw, and if you did not know this already Leo Gerard is with the Steel Workers ( different union) . The rally is to express concerns about Industry Minister Tony Clement , the lack of transparency regarding Investment Canada Agreements , As well to show support to striking workers of local 6500. So maybe get the facts straight. This is going to be Local 598 Mine Mill union members, family members , supporters, and concerned citizens , Voicing their opinion as well as supporting the Striking Vale workers. Because We all stand to loose as you have seen. I will be there to support standing in solidarity , along with my wife ,kids and other like minded positive individuals who will be less concerned by others and their stay at home opinions and more concerned about what we can do for change.
jonny_boy 7/19/2009 7:04:54 PM - Report Abuse

i have to agree with yogi. i am going to put it out there that the union placed a burden on the community by going on strike. now those of us still working wont get work Vale until you are back, you aren't spending money in our shops and stores, and you expect us to support your fighting a fight that something that has been claimed "isn't a fight about money"... well i need to ask any one of you union boys, what are you fighting about if it wasn't money?
Yogi_1 7/19/2009 7:00:30 PM - Report Abuse

Its Time For a Change... you obviously are buying the union's propaganda, and that is certainly your prerogative... but don't tug on my heart strings by making statements like " i dont think there is much chance of support for the community coming from this bear". Go back and read my original post. The union is not the community. Just because a person doesn't agree with the strike doesn't make them less caring for the community. Your plea is the same as what we all heard Gerard say, but very few are buying it. Just another question... why won't Leo Gerard be there to show solidarity with Layton and the many union members who should be there? Let me guess... he's got MORE important things to do... they need him in Pitsburgh to prepare his next memorable speach.
Its Time For A Change 7/19/2009 6:21:45 PM - Report Abuse

Hey just trying to get the word out , if you dont like it start an anti union group on facebook or something. Im well aware of the # of posts I make, but thank you for keeping track. Judging from yogi's response i dont think there is much chance of support for the community coming from this bear. but really who wants the support of a cartoon character or a faceless poster named harry.
Harry 7/19/2009 6:11:04 PM - Report Abuse

"timeforachange" ... WOW ..Gerard and Layton at the same time. Let me clear my schedule!! By the way, one post is sufficient.
Yogi_1 7/19/2009 6:08:45 PM - Report Abuse

Hey its time for a change... I think you already told us. Jack Layton... boy, I'll bet the turnout will be almost as big as it was for Leo Gerard. lol
Its Time For A Change 7/19/2009 5:05:44 PM - Report Abuse

THERE WILL BE A RALLY THIS FRIDAY AT MCLELLAND ARENA IN COPPER CLIFF AT 1 PM TO PROTEST AGAINST INDUSTRY MINISTER CLEMENT, TO CALL FOR HIS RESIGNATION AND AGAINST TAKEOVERS BY COMPANY'S THAT DONT HAVE THE BEST INTEREST OF CANADA / SUDBURY IN MIND. FROM WHAT I HEAR JACK LAYTON IS SUPPOSED TO BE THERE . FRIDAY JULY 24 2009 BE THERE. SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR RESPONSIBLE GOVERNMENT AND STAND UP FOR WHATS RIGHT.
Yogi_1 7/19/2009 3:52:23 PM - Report Abuse

Looks like Leo was partying with Mr. Ranger last night... aye BooBoo?
Yogi_1 7/19/2009 3:40:28 PM - Report Abuse

AngryAaron, sounds pretty nasty... I don't think that anyone has taken the name BooBoo yet... you should consider it. lol
Yogi_1 7/19/2009 3:38:05 PM - Report Abuse

AngryAaron... you made my day. lol
Yogi_1 7/19/2009 3:36:09 PM - Report Abuse

AngryAaron...just for YOUR benefit... EVERYONE means every person in the city.
A majority is when there's more than half the people in Sudbury. lol
Please don't get mad now... I'll be happy to explain big words to you anytime you want. Maybe if I have time someday, I could even explain to you how to use a dictionary.
Now... when Man About Town or I say "majority", we're stating our opinion. Maybe you could prove us wrong by doing a survey of EVERYONE in Sudbury, and then get back to us. I think you'll have lot's of time in the foreseeable future. lol
Oh... I almost forgot... the reference that I use for the definition of "everyone" and "majority" is called an English Dictionary. lol
AngryAaron 7/19/2009 2:56:29 PM - Report Abuse

Yogi and Man About Town, please cite your references.

When you state "the vast majority of people in the city", do you actually mean EVERYONE in the city, or just those people who share you views and who you therefore associate with?
Man About Town_513 7/19/2009 2:08:06 PM - Report Abuse

Well said Yogi. You sum up the sentiments of the vast majority of people in the city.
Yogi_1 7/19/2009 11:08:06 AM - Report Abuse

(Continued from previous post)
I find your concluding statement to be the most arrogant of all, and I quote again “I see this as an attack on OUR community and a way of life WE’VE developed over the last thirty years”. I can only conclude that you, and others like you, believe that the rest of us should be grateful for the way of life that the union has provided. We non-union people have contributed nothing to the way of life we all enjoy today.
I have to believe that you were not feeling well when you spoke; looking at the video interview, you certainly are dishevelled and appear to be... let’s just say, under the weather. Your membership had been awaiting your arrival with great anticipation, but if you are the best that Pittsburgh could send, I would guess that many are more than a little disappointed. I know that I certainly am.
Yogi_1 7/19/2009 11:03:42 AM - Report Abuse

The following is intended as a direct reply to Leo Gerard with regard to the comments that he made to the media recently; but any other like-minded individual can hopefully read this and take away a little knowledge.
You state the following: “I care about this community and the Sudbury region, as well as my province and my country”. You seem to imply that you are here to represent us all and speak on our behalf. Well, I have some news for you; you do NOT represent me, as I am certain that you don’t represent the majority of Sudbury residents, let alone all of Canada. At this point in your dispute, I would be surprised that you even represent the majority of your local membership. Please don’t insult everyone by implying such an arrogant conclusion.
You go on to speak about some of the management that Vale has “let go”, and imply that you care about them also. When did you become so concerned about the welfare of senior management at Vale’s Sudbury operations? As for Vale employing corporate lawyers in their negotiations, as I am certain that they do, would you have us all believe the union does not?
Your statement that “they’re probably paying some of their juniors to operate their blog” is one that I have frequently heard in our local blogs. I have even been accused by some of your membership as being one of them. It is funny that when I ask these outspoken members to take me up on a bet, that I can prove them wrong, the reply I get is that they are not betting men. I have even made it clear that I would gladly donate the proceeds from such a bet to a charity, but I still cannot get any takers. If what you claim in based on reality, why don’t you identify these bloggers?
I find your concluding statement to be the most arrogant of all, and I quote again “I see this as an attack on OUR community and a way of life WE’VE developed over the last thirty years”. I can only conclude that you, and others like you, believe that the rest of us should be grate
Lilly 7/19/2009 1:00:20 AM - Report Abuse

Kev N...very good comment!..I would like to know what Tony Clement is hiding when he says that he is not at liberty to divulge the agreement he made with Vale CEO Tito Martin...could it be perhaps that there are brazilians working here at Inco with visas???? hmmmmm....Now, wouldn't that be something...ManAboutTown...why don't you do us all a favor and take a back seat to this cuz surely you also don't care what happens to Sudbury..You have no idea how this brazilian company operates...are you that naive???? or are you that stupid??
Lilly 7/18/2009 11:09:36 PM - Report Abuse

Kev N...very good comment!..I would like to know what Tony Clement is hiding when he says that he is not at liberty to divulge the agreement he made with Vale CEO Tito Martin...could it be perhaps that there are brazilians working here at Inco with visas???? hmmmmm....Now, wouldn't that be something...ManAboutTown...why don't you do us all a favor and take a back seat to this cuz surely you also don't care what happens to Sudbury..You have no idea how this brazilian company operates...are you that naive???? or are you that stupid??
sckts 7/18/2009 8:01:03 PM - Report Abuse

Unions stink! If you don't believe this, how many unions have staff who are unionized? Ask your union staff if they are unionized! Are the Business Reps Unionized, nope! Are most of their staff unionized, nope! And, if the staff who are unionized happen to strike, will they put their own union cards in their pockets to cross their own picket lines, you bet they would!!! They brainwash people into believing in them .... afterall, if it weren't for unions, Business Reps, Directors, Business Managers, Presidents, etc., wouldn't be making the $100,000++ per year that they enjoy!!!! Ask them who pays their gas, who pays for their vehicles, who pays for their travel!!!

While us fools who get on the solidarity bandwagon, give them the ticket to the good life! Oh, did I fail to mention that the people who lead these unions do not even need to have an education!!! That's right, people controlling your present and future, through wages, pensions, etc., might just be someone who is not smarter than a 5th Grader!!!!
AngryAaron 7/18/2009 4:16:06 PM - Report Abuse

Man About Town, how can you call Gearard nothing short of a union politician without calling yourself a wannabe anti-union politician?
Man About Town_513 7/18/2009 4:06:27 PM - Report Abuse

Gerard is nothing short of a union politician. He speaks of foreign companies yet collects a paycheque in American dollars and lives in Pittsburgh. - BOTH FACTS.
He comes here and cries about foreign ownership and wraps himself in the Canadian flag.
Will he walk one nightshift on the picket lines? Will he "lower himself" to taking strike pay until the union created work stoppage ends?
We all know the answers folks.

The strikers that are gullible enough to swallow his propaganda are the same myopic ones that voted for a strike. Union sheep.
What will Gerard say to the Steelworkers this Christmas when the snow is blowing and their mistake to walk out is much clearer? Will he be there to stop people from crossing the lines to work for $30 an hour? Lifetime benefits, full pensions and a host of other goodies that the average joe could only dream of?

Thanks Leo. Solidarity forever - Only when it's convenient for you to fly up here.
Yogi_1 7/18/2009 3:58:32 PM - Report Abuse

Kev N, branding anyone who has a different opinion than your own as “you once again failed to see the message through you thick ignorant views” is not indicative of someone with much intelligence. In addition, implying that everyone who disagrees with your position is somehow less of a Canadian than yourself is truly arrogant and ignorant. We happen to live in a country that permits everyone to have an opinion, whether that opinion is informed or not. Perhaps you and your kind would be more content in a place like Iran or North Korea!!!
When you say things like “in reality they're just excuses to take more money from OUR ORE that WE MINE”, you make it sound like the ore belongs to 6500 members only. If the assertion that Vale is making excessive profits from CANADIAN resources is correct, then why not fight to have them fairly taxed and use that money to help ALL Canadians. Oh no... Instead you think that those excessive profits should go into the pockets of 6500 members only. I anticipate the usual retort that you would spend that money in our community and that the rest of us should be grateful. People like you make me sick.
You certainly don’t represent the majority of Sudburians in my opinion. I would even be curious to see how many of your membership would still vote strike if they were afforded another opportunity. Judging from the frequent online post that I read, I would bet there would be far fewer than 85%.
I would also guess that you agree with your fearless leader when he describes Vale as a “third world” company because they operate out of Brazil. I would suggest you and Mr. Gerard do a little research on Brazil before you go sticking your foot in your mouth!!! Of course I don’t expect that either you or Mr. Gerard are man enough to apologize for your ignorance.
second_account 7/18/2009 3:02:47 PM - Report Abuse

once again, man about town has it all wrong.
of course its acceptable for any business leader or "educated" worker to have a "tower office", but the president of an organization, in this case a very large one that happens to represent organized labour, should be situated in some back alley shack with nothing more than a rotary phone???
So the guy makes a six figure salary...all of a sudden MAT has a problem with people holding crucial positions making
over 100K per annum? Quite the change in your tune sir.
As for not having anything in common with the "everyday workers"...what makes you think you do?
Of course, none of us will get any response as it seems this poster only responds to those who make weak arguments that are easy to quash. Certain posters on this site offer zero value to any conversation.
second_account 7/18/2009 2:57:46 PM - Report Abuse

once again, man about town has it all wrong.
of course its acceptable for any business leader or "educated" worker to have a "tower office", but the president of an organization, in this case a very large one that happens to represent organized labour, should be situated in some back alley shack with nothing more than a rotary phone???
So the guy makes a six figure salary...all of a sudden MAT has a problem with people holding crucial positions making
over 100K per annum? Quite the change in your tune sir.
As for not having anything in common with the "everyday workers"...what makes you think you do?
Of course, none of us will get any response as it seems this poster only responds to those who make weak arguments that are easy to quash. Certain posters on this site offer zero value to any conversation.
Its Time For A Change 7/18/2009 1:31:37 PM - Report Abuse

THERE WILL BE A RALLY AT MCLELLAND ARENA IN COPPER CLIFF AT 1 PM FRIDAY TO PROTEST AGAINST INDUSTRY MINISTER CLEMENT AND AGAINST TAKEOVERS BY COMPANY'S THAT DONT HAVE THE BEST INTEREST OF CANADA / SUDBURY IN MIND. FROM WHAT I HEAR JACK LAYTON IS SUPPOSED TO BE THERE . FRIDAY JULY 24 2009 BE THERE.
whiteswan69_1 7/18/2009 1:05:44 PM - Report Abuse

I can't stand Gelinas.I'm so happy that she's not not my mpp.She's always saying stupid things about our Provincial Government.The Government and Rick Bartolluci have done lots for Sudbury.I would never vote for the ndp.
jonny_boy 7/18/2009 9:29:27 AM - Report Abuse

AnryAaron: no you shouldn't butcher the anthem, its a respect thing. If you did that in the states they would likely fry you on the 6 o'clock news. then they'd tell you "if you don't like it, then you can just get out." sounds like something a union supporter would understand.

gerry: if they aren't pulling their weight then why don't you fire them?

In all reality, the people who are being realistic with this thing have never claimed miners make six figures or are uneducated. we have 3 or more groups of people arguing here...
1)supporters of the union, mostly 6500 members and their families
2)people who don't support the union
3)people who support the company
4)people who are uneducated about the conditions and spread filth and lies about the situation (there are people in this group that could call in either of the first 3 groups).

If this isn't a money issue then what is the issue? What exactly have they tried to take away that has caused ~68% of the membership to vote "No" on the contract?
Math: 80% of your members voted, 85% of which voted "No" to the contract. (85% of 80% is 68%.... 80%x85%=68%)
Stanislaus 7/18/2009 8:41:20 AM - Report Abuse

The people who keep posting that Vale INCO workers are uneducated and are no more then laborers you are wrong ... dead wrong, both Vale INCO and Xstrata Nickel have very skilled workers who are very good at what they do, I know I am one of them and so are all my co workers at Xstrata Nickel, maybe it's time for the rest of you whiners to go back to school so you can get such jobs. My crew which has 20 plus men (and ladies) we may have two workers who do not pull their weight and do not have pride in who they work for (Reason for the Union :) )
AngryAaron 7/18/2009 3:32:33 AM - Report Abuse

So let me get this straight... we SHOULDN'T "Butcher" the national anthem by using phonetically similar and powerful words I believe to be quite appropriate and fitting in this situation?

Gerard, who allegedly sits atop his evil tower in the U.S., might find humour in the song... or might be terribly offended. Either way, I'll be smiling.

- Angry Aaron for... uhhh... what ever he feels like being when he wakes up that day.
viking04ca 7/18/2009 12:53:57 AM - Report Abuse

AngryAaron you do not have to disgrace our National Anthem. Gerard is just here for himself. Talk about Canadian companies....Ford, Chrysler and Government Motors are not Canadian....they are American. But Honda and Toyota are not Canadian either but provide great jobs without raping the Canadian taxpayer. Perhaps you Inco labourers are a little over paid at 150 grand per year with little skills and a poor work ethic. This community has little respect for your whining and your feeling of entitlement.
CCNR@IPC 7/17/2009 9:39:13 PM - Report Abuse

Kev N, WELL SAID...
Kev N_1 7/17/2009 7:47:30 PM - Report Abuse

Man About Town, you once again failed to see the message through you thick ignorant views. Gerard made the exact points that every Canadian should be fighting for. Vale Inco has you convinced that they must make concessions and cut bonuses to be competitive when in reality they're just excuses to take more money from OUR ORE that WE MINE out of our economy to pocket it themselves.

Vale Inco is NOT GM or Chrysler. Vale Inco is not demanding concessions to stay afloat, in fact they're quite well off. The fact that this company is whining over a few extra million they would pay out in bonuses while they would be pocketing BILLIONS clearly shows how little they care for our people in comparison to their bottomless pockets.

Canadians must fight to keep what little profits we already fought for from the few limited resources we have left. This is what Gerard was saying.

Of course, M.A.T. you missed that because you clearly don't know any better and figure the workers should just give everything away without a fight for what's OURS. I'm sure you'd be the first to blame the workers for accepting such a crappy contract once its effects trickle down stream and affect the rest of our local economy.

Lastly, Gerard may not live in Sudbury but his immediate family still does so his heart is still here. He may work in an office but he started at Inco with a shovel.

Please do the educated readers a favour and refrain from commenting on these articles. Your sad failed attempt to discredit Gerard is clearly just a jealous remark about his "6 digit salary". I don't know what town you're about but it certainly isn't Sudbury.
Man About Town_513 7/17/2009 11:47:28 AM - Report Abuse

Ohhh, Leo Gerard will once grace our city with his presence. Coming all the way from his tower office in Pittsburgh. Again, he'll come here, give a speech about solidarity and then promptly leave. Jetting first class, back to his six digit income.
Gerard has nothing in common with the everyday workers. He hasn't lived in Sudbury for over 2 decades.
Thanks for the pep talk Leo. Perhaps you should remind the strikers that every other major union is accepting much harsher concessions to keep their jobs.
jonny_boy 7/17/2009 11:17:11 AM - Report Abuse

aaron i hope that none of you jokers start butchering the national anthem to work for your own purpose. show some respect and leave the anthem out of this fight.
AngryAaron 7/17/2009 10:32:48 AM - Report Abuse

I hope someone entertains the USW president by singing a song. This one seems appropriate given we are fighting with a foreign company:

Oh, Canada
Our home and not your land,

True patriot love,
Not under uncle sam's command.

We see down south
Receding Rights,

The True North, Strong And Free
From far and wide

Oh Canada
We stand on guard for thee.

We keep our land
Glorious and free.

Oh, Canada we stand on guard for thee,
Oh, Canada
we stand on guard for thee.