1006A steward Matthew Cascagnette stepped up to help when he learned an elderly member wasn’t getting properly paid for his breaks.
“The member is on a fixed pension and works part-time to help pay his rent so he was emotionally devastated and upset,” said Matthew, a steward for 10 years at a No Frills store. “He really needed help getting the matter solved.”
Matthew worked with his Union Representative to launch an in-depth investigation, going through the produce, meat, front-end and grocery schedules.
“Working with my union representative, we realized that other members were also not being compensated properly for breaks.”
Together, Matthew and his union rep were able to help eight members receive the retroactive pay they deserved.
“I felt great that I could help, not only that initial member who was struggling, but the seven others as well,” he said. “When we resolved this issue, I felt satisfied and a sense of accomplishment.”
Matthew says he is motivated to make a difference because he has gone through the experience years earlier, when as a member, he wasn’t being treated fairly.
In addition to learning the contract and the Ontario labour laws, Matthew also credits the 1006A Stewards’ Training courses for helping him in his role as a steward.
“All the training I have taken has helped me connect with other stewards, learn about dealing with different issues, and how to be just and fair,” he said. “Having a union in our workplace makes a significant difference because it keeps our members safe and ensures they are treated fairly.”
