TCRC 5th Quadrennial Convention – A Week of Leadership, Progress & Unity

Last week, 167 delegates representing divisions from across the country and all carriers gathered in Winnipeg for the 5th Quadrennial Convention of the Teamsters Canada Rail Conference (TCRC).

The convention provided an opportunity for delegates to come together, discuss the future of our organization, and participate in important decisions affecting our membership. A substantial number of proposed bylaw changes were presented for review and debate. Discussions were conducted with professionalism and respect, with many valuable perspectives shared throughout the week.

Guest Speakers & Industry Leadership

Delegates had the opportunity to hear from an impressive group of guest speakers and industry representatives, including:

• François Laporte – President, Teamsters Canada

• Wade Phillips – President, TCRC-MWED

• Mariam Abou-Dib – Executive Director and Government Affairs, Teamsters Canada

• Wab Kinew – Premier of Manitoba

• Denis Ellickson – Partner, Caley Wray LLP

• Ken Deptuck – Teamsters Canada

• Joel Kennedy – President of Unifor and IFT North American Rail Director

• Ruwan Subasinghe – IFT Legal Director

• Jesse Taylor – International President, BRCF

• Doug Finnson – Teamsters Canada

  
  

The knowledge, experience, and information shared by these speakers were invaluable and greatly appreciated by the delegates.

National Executive Board Elections

An important responsibility of the Quadrennial Convention delegates is to nominate members for positions on the National Executive Board, as well as nominate, vote for, and elect the Recording Secretary, three Trustees, and three Alternate Trustees.

National Executive Board

The following officers ran uncontested and were acclaimed to continue serving in their respective positions:

• National President: Paul Boucher

• National Vice President: Ryan Finnson

• National Secretary-Treasurer: Chris Lowe

• National Legislative Director: Don Ashley

  
  

This convention marked the first time in TCRC history that the entire National Executive Board ran uncontested and was acclaimed to serve a second consecutive term.

This unprecedented outcome reflects the confidence delegates placed in the leadership and work of the Executive Board on behalf of TCRC members across the country.

Recording Secretary

Two candidates were nominated for Recording Secretary: Greg Vaughan and Jamie Linn.

Greg Vaughan was elected by the delegates, earning another term on the National Executive Board. Greg has dedicated more than 10 years to representing members of Division 660 and will continue to bring valuable experience and commitment to his national role.

Division 295 would also like to recognize Jamie Linn for putting his name forward. As the current Provincial Legislative Board Chair for British Columbia, Jamie continues to provide strong leadership and support to the members he represents. We thank him for his willingness to serve at the national level.

Trustees

The following members were nominated for the three Trustee positions:

• Jason Hnatiuk

• Nancy Drew

• Wes Geiler

• Mike Anderson

• Veronica Linkletter

• Sheldon Lavalee

  
  

The delegates elected:

• Jason Hnatiuk

• Wes Geiler

• Mike Anderson

  
  

Alternate Trustees

The following members were nominated and acclaimed as Alternate Trustees:

• Dominique Marleau

• JP Molnar

• Brandon Myre

  
  

Division 295 congratulates everyone elected or acclaimed to these positions and recognizes all those who were nominated and willing to put their names forward to represent our membership.

The time, sacrifice, and dedication these individuals give to our organization and its members are valued beyond words.

Resolutions & Organizational Progress

Throughout the convention, several resolutions were introduced, debated, and brought forward for a vote.

The following resolutions received approval with overwhelming support:

• Resolution 107 – CLC Bargaining Challenge

• TCRC Women's Caucus

• Bylaws Overhaul

  
  

These resolutions represent important areas of organizational development and continued work on behalf of our membership.

Looking Ahead

Division 295 would like to extend its sincere appreciation to all 167 delegates for their participation, commitment, and contributions throughout a successful week in Winnipeg.

The Quadrennial Convention is an important reminder of the strength of our organization and the value of having representatives from across the country come together with a shared commitment to our members.

Congratulations to all those elected, acclaimed, and nominated, and thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of this convention.

Cheers to another four years of leadership, progress, and continued dedication to the TCRC membership!

In Solidarity,TCRC Division 295