Search Content

Updates two strikes and activities on the picket line: Country Farm Natural Foods Ltd in Richmond, BC; and Jensen Mushroom Farm Ltd in Langley, BC. Also notice on 1981 Union Dues. Double-sided english and punjabi.

Changes voted to the first CFU Constitution by delegates at the First CFU National Convention.

The CFU did not recommend this negotiated first contract to the workers because of the difference between the grower and union of thirteen cents in the hourly rate in the wage package. On March 20, 1981, ten workers at Country Farm Natural Foods reject the employers offer. Nineteen days later on April 8 the first CFU strike begins.

This letter was sent to the CFU on the eve of the workers contract vote. On March 20, 1981 ten workers at Country Farm Natural Foods reject the employers offer. Nineteen days later on April 8 the first picket line of unionized farmworkers in Canadian history is staged for a first contract.

The first CFU election lost and a very close certification vote. Issues for the CFU in the lost vote included the inclusion of non-farmworkers like long distance drivers voting. Also, Dec.1, 1980 letter from CFU staff to CFU members at Forssell announcing a 'cooling-off' period after CFU lost certification vote.

General Farm & Allied Workers Union newsletter.

The mushroom grower's lawyer presents a rejection of the application for certification by claiming that the CFU is not a bona fide union to-date. Also, requests cease and desist of alleged unfair labour practice by CFU during organizing campaign.

A letter of complaint regarding unfair labour practices at Jensen Mushroom Farm Ltd, and requesting expeditious resolution to the application for certification May 30, 1980. Also attached is the affidavit by CFU staff rep Judy Cavanagh outlining the supervisor's threats and intimidation towards new CFU members at the mushroom farm, including a request for back wages for a disciplined worker. Also attached Supervisor's disciplinary letter to the employee.

A 1980 summary of FWOC activities leading up to the CFU's founding convention. Also, staff hiring requirements.

An excerpt from the two-year labour contract: classification and wage rates.

A short memo that the provincial BC LRB decision awarding $40,000 to fired CFU members, who worked at Choi Mushroom Farm, was finally distributed to the workers before Christmas 1987, almost four and a half years after being fired.

A draft plan and review of groundwork laid in 1986-87. Attached projected budget. Circa 1988.

A summary of various government grants including: Canada Council Grant for Vancouver Sath's Fraser Valley theatre tour of 'Picket Line'; Health Promotion Project; Job Development Grant; ESL Crusade; Posion Control.

Provincial BC LRB decision and a brief summary of the history of the conflict between grower and union concerning the payment of $40,000 in back pay to former CFU members at the farm. The LRB ruled that an application to the BC Supreme Court was required to enforce payment.

CFU lawyers respond to Choi Mushroom Farms application, at the provincial BC LRB, to deny paying, previously agreed, back wages due to the recent CFU de-certification at the farm. LRB decision December 17, 1985 in support of the CFU request to enforce the request for $40,000 in back pay at the BC Supreme Court.