With all this work also comes problems. Where are we going to find and recruit enough qualified Boilermakers to satisfy the demands that we will be facing? We will be establishing several initiatives such as increasing apprenticeship intakes, establishing a national probationary member program in the various construction locals and utilizing temporary foreign workers for peak shut down periods primarily in the spring and fall.

We will also be establishing stricter rules on those members who continue to miss time and cause problems on job sites. When you are assigned to a job you are expected to come in every day and give a day's work for a day's pay. When a member decides to take a day off without employer knowledge or approval it places a burden on those members who do come to work; they have to shoulder the load. This can and does bring potential safety issues to light and also of concern is what it can do to the boilermaker reputation with the owner.

As we go through 2012 we ask that you continue to work with pride and respect; respect your fellow worker by recognizing each other's concerns. Also make it a priority to work safe and obey the safety rules wherever you may be employed. Please keep in mind you came to work not to get injured or worse.

Please tell a friend or co-worker to register online at boilermaker.ca and look at all the valuable information you can view to assist you in a variety of topics.

May 2012 be healthy, happy and we wish you safe travels and safe work!