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A frank and impassioned discussion on last springs job action and resulting imposed contract moderated by CUPE National Secretary-Treasurer Claude Gnreux opened convention yesterday morning.

Claude introduced the session by inviting delegates to voice their views without reservation and to use the opportunity to help turn our minds, hearts, commitment and determination to the future.

Zorica, Fred and Mary began by outlining events leading up to the strike and the decision-making process that followed the passage of Bill 37. In all, 48 delegates stepped up to the microphones to speak to their experiences on the lines, their feelings of shock and confusion when they were told to stand-down, and the hardship theyre enduring since their return to work.

A predominant theme, during the four-hour discussion, was the unions failure to communicate to the rank and file the shifting circumstances leading to the May 2 memorandum.

Delegates called for structural reform, more member participation and a united response to defeat the Liberals. CUPE National President Paul Moist reminded delegates of what they had accomplished and closed the session by urging delegates to leave this convention with unity the hallmark of HEU.

Accord reached in IWA dispute
An agreement hammered out by HEU and CUPE means the IWA Local 1-3567 will withdraw its raid application at Victorias Beacon Hill Villa, limit the signing of voluntary agreements and not target flipped contracts.

HEU 60th Anniversary factoid:
1970: 500 members picket Royal Columbian Hospital in a political protest against Socred cuts. Its the first ever HEU hospital strike.

OFF THE CONVENTION FLOOR TUESDAY
Equity night: Minoru A&B from 7 to 10 p.m.
MTC & Trades Association Hospitality in West 1&2
Silent auction in Rm. 179 5 to 9 p.m.