WAPSO Members Pleased with Progress at AGM

WAPSO/IFPTE Local 162 held its Annual General Meeting on November 3rd. Held virtually, WAPSO President and Canadian Area VP, Richard Mahe, chaired the successful gathering towards another productive year. The AGM provided the Local with an opportunity to adjust its constitution and bylaws, as well as the election of executive board positions. This was President Mahe’s first attempt at re-election and with no challengers coming forward, he was declared president by acclamation. 

“The old adage that defending the title is more important than winning it in the first place holds true. I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished over the last three years. It’s a great feeling when your friends and colleagues feel the same way, and want you to keep going. Thanks so much to the members of WAPSO/IFPTE Local 162 for having continued faith in the leadership,” said Rich Mahe.         

Also re-elected were Members-At-Large Zeljko Bodiroga and Heather Graham. Andrew Condon is the newest member of the WAPSO/IFPTE Local 162 board as a Member-at-Large as well. 

IFPTE President Matt Biggs was also invited to address the delegates. President Biggs highlighted the impact of WAPSO/IFPTE Local 162’s efforts towards greater Truth and Reconciliation with North America’s Indigenous peoples. Land Acknowledgements, calls to action, and outreach to elected officials are some of the ways WAPSO has helped IFPTE move in this direction. IFPTE Local 162 was the first union in Manitoba to sign onto the City of Winnipeg’s Indigenous Accord and this action is an important example for other unions to follow. With all of the work being done on the file and the faith in the leadership well established, WAPSO looks forward to leading the way.