Remembering Bobby Pearsall
Dear Members,
I hope this message finds you well, though I must share some deeply saddening news. It is with heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of our esteemed colleague, friend, and dedicated Union Activist, Bobby Pearsall, on Friday, July 21, 2023.
Bobby was not only a colleague but also a mentor and a dear friend to many within our community. His presence, guidance, and unwavering commitment to the cause have left a lasting impact on all of us. We feel the void he leaves behind, and his absence is keenly felt.
I first met Bobby at a membership meeting, and from the moment I saw the fire in his eyes, I was captivated by the union way of life. His passion for the betterment of our members and his determination to create a better life for all were truly inspiring. Under his mentorship, I became a steward, and he imparted invaluable wisdom on how to deal with management and members, emphasizing the importance of a strong collective agreement. Bobby was my true mentor, and his guidance shaped me into the representative I am today.
His knowledge was impeccable, and he was always ready to share his expertise with a generous heart. Bobby cared deeply about other people, and his dedication to the well-being of our union members was unparalleled. The impact of his guidance and the genuine care he showed for each member will forever be cherished.
Bobby was also a big ball-breaker, and when he got mad at me, I was genuinely scared. I’ll never forget the time I was trying to be proactive at the union office, eager to learn anything I could from him. I decided to tidy up and put all the pop cans in the mini fridge. But as soon as I saw his face the very next day, I realized my grave mistake – I had accidentally put all the pop in the freezer! It resulted in a pop explosion of epic proportions, and Bobby gave me a good teasing for that one. But this is not about my misadventures; this is about Bobby.
Moreover, Bobby was the first president of Local 6007, and I am proud to try to follow in his illustrious footsteps. His leadership and ability to bring people together were truly commendable, and he created a strong sense of unity within our workforce.
In this difficult time, our Local extends its deepest condolences to Bobby’s family, friends, and all those who were fortunate to know him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his beloved mother, Lorraine Pearsall. If you wish to share your condolences, you may do so by reaching out to her at the address below:
707 Jane Street,
Toronto, Ontario
M6N 4A6
There will be no funeral or memorial service, as per Bobby’s wishes. Instead, we are finding solace in celebrating his life and the countless memories we shared with him.
In honour of Bobby’s memory, if you feel inclined to do so, you may make a donation in his name to the Canadian Kidney Foundation, an organization that was dear to his heart. The following link provides a way to contribute to this cause:
Kidney Foundation: https://kidney.ca/withyou
Local 6007 will undoubtedly miss Bobby’s presence, but his spirit of unity and camaraderie will forever resonate within our hearts. In this difficult time, let us come together as a community, supporting one another with compassion and understanding.
May Bobby rest in peace, and may his memory continue to inspire us all.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Sonny Malhotra
President Local 6007
Bargaining Update 10 Posted
- August 9, 2023: Bargaining Update 10 is available as a PDF.
Bargaining Update 8: OFFER REJECTED
The results of the July 13 vote have been tabulated:
| FOR | AGAINST |
|---|---|
| 46.7% | 53.3% |
The offer has been rejected.
We understand you may have a lot of questions concerning this results. We want to reassure you no actions will be taken for now, we will regroup, inform the company of the results, and figure out the best course of action in order to reach a satisfactory deal with the employer.
Please be on alert for further information from your bargaining committee in the near future.
Thanks to everyone who took time to be at the ratification meeting last night and taking the time to vote.
Read the full update via Update 8 below, with more information in Update 9.
- July 14, 2023: Bargaining Update 8 is available as a PDF.
- July 18, 2023: Bargaining Update 9 is available as a PDF.
All bargaining updates and news are also posted in the Sales Bargaining 2022 section, found here.
Outsourcing Announcement – Clerical and Associated Employees
February 27, 2023: An announcement is available regarding the new outsource initiative Bell recently revealed. The full announcement is available here (PDF).
Impact of Amendments to Bell Vaccination Policy
Amendments to Bell’s vaccination policy have been evaluated, in particular regarding the filing of grievances over the policy.
Click here for a full update (PDF).
COVID-19 Information and Resources
Impact of Amendments to Bell Vaccination Policy
May 5, 2023: An update on the hearing on the application of the Bell Canada vaccination policy on our members. This hearing is scheduled for June 9th, 2023, with arbitrator Francine Lamy.
Click here for a full update (PDF).
Click here for the previous update (PDF).
Resources
Updated: March 17, 2020
Unifor continues to monitor the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic across the country, as well as the sectors and workplaces of our union. Here are some resources
COVID-19 Web Page: www.unifor.org/covid19
Visit for the most up to date union information, resources, and news on the coronavirus. At this point in the crisis, new information is posted daily, including a growing list of sector-specific backgrounders.
Frequently Asked Questions on COVID-19: Download the PDF
Questions about EI sickness benefits, work absences, in-person meetings, and refusing work? Unifor’s FAQ on COVID-19 has answers.
COVID-19 Checklist for Income Replacement: Download the PDF
This checklist sets out the possible measures that may be available for income replacement events including; sickness cue to COVID-19, isolation or quarantine, family care obligations, and layoff or business closures.
A Fact Sheet from Unifor is available here (updated March 3, 2020).
Stay informed, and stay safe.
- Wash your hands often.
- Maintain social distancing.
- Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth.
Modernization of the Canadian Labour Code (2019)
Many new changes to the Canadian Labour Code came into effect on September 1, 2019. A description and analysis of the changes to Part III of the Code (which deals with labour standards) is available here.
A Word from Unifor
Modernization of the Canadian Labour Code (2019)
Unifor is currently in talks about the new changes to the Canadian Labour Code. A presentation about the changes can be viewed here (PDF file).
More details will be presented as they become available.