From May 30 to June 1, 2025, members of IAM Local 1231 proudly hosted the 61st Ontario Provincial Council of Machinists (OPCM) Convention, in Toronto. The event brought together delegates, staff, and leaders from across the province for three days of education, solidarity, and forward-focused dialogue on the challenges and opportunities facing workers today.
The convention opened with remarks from newly elected OPCM President Dean O’Reilly, who emphasized unity and the continued fight for workers’ rights in an evolving landscape. His message set the tone for a dynamic and collaborative gathering.
IAM Canada General Vice President David Chartrand delivered a compelling address on the importance of cross-border solidarity, protecting Canadian industry from unfair trade practices, and the union’s ongoing advocacy on behalf of its members. The convention was further honoured by the presence of IAM International President Brian Bryant, whose attendance reinforced the strong relationship between Canadian and American IAM members and the union’s collective commitment to international solidarity.
A particularly meaningful moment for Local 1231 came during a tribute to IAM Canada Chief of Staff Ralph Martin. Sisters Marcia Stone, Mery St. Bernard, Heather Johnston, Rootisha Rampat Sukhu, and Linda Stewart presented heartfelt speeches on behalf of our local, recognizing Brother Martin’s exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to the membership. Their words reflected the deep appreciation Local 1231 holds for his contributions and legacy. Ralph Martin, gave a speech highlighting the importance of unions and their work. He also spoke about the importance of fund-raising with an example of the Guide Dogs in Canada and the integral support they provide to the visually impaired.
Throughout the three days, a range of presentations and workshops offered insight into key areas affecting our members:
Laura Walton, President of the Ontario Federation of Labour, delivered an impassioned speech on the need for greater collaboration across sectors to advance the labour movement.
Mental health in the workplace was addressed by Richard Prest of the Canadian Mental Health Association, who outlined strategies for fostering supportive, wellness-oriented environments.
Dani Bartlett, Executive Director of the Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario, spoke to the importance of equity and inclusion in labour, particularly for women and marginalized groups in skilled trades.
Derek Ferguson, IAM International Representative for Political Action, highlighted the union’s efforts to maintain and grow political engagement across all levels of government.
Local 1231’s Sister Rootisha Rampat Sukhu led an engaging and educational union-themed Jeopardy game, blending solidarity-building with member learning.
Additional sessions included financial reporting from Secretary-Treasurer Marc Vaillancourt, a communications strategy overview by Vanessa Breidy, and a report from the Host Committee reflecting on the collective effort that went into organizing the convention.
The final day included the presentation of the OPCM Humanitarian Awards by Sister Heather Johnston, recognizing members for outstanding service to others. In addition, a donation to Feed Ontario was made on behalf of all OPCM delegates, affirming the union’s broader commitment to supporting communities in need.
A highlight of the closing session was the recognition of International Representative Kim Vallière for her tireless support of IAM members throughout Ontario. Her dedication to the success of the convention and to member advocacy was met with enthusiastic applause and appreciation.
Reports were delivered by Area Vice Presidents Paul Hicks (Legislative), Heather Johnston (Communications), and Rick Sansom (Health & Safety), providing important updates. Delegates were also excited to hear from Kim Vallière regarding the upcoming 2028 IAM International Convention.
President Dean O’Reilly closed the convention by announcing that the next OPCM Convention in 2026 will be held in North Bay, marking the beginning of preparations for another successful gathering.
Fun and business was the theme during the three days that the delegates were together. The evening festivities provided members with opportunities to mingle and enjoy the well-planned outing to Medieval Times.
The 2025 OPCM Convention was a resounding success, marked by shared purpose, renewed energy, and a strong sense of collective pride. Local 1231 extends its gratitude to all who contributed to the event, and we look forward to continuing this important work in solidarity with our fellow locals across the province.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 61ST OPCM CONVENTION
These were the experiences of the delegates from Local 1231 : IN THEIR OWN WORDS!!!
Susanna Duncan, Chief Steward, Peel Region : I am truly honoured to be a member of IAM Local 1231, District 78. Attending the Ontario Provincial Council of Machinists (OPCM) this past weekend and as a first time attendee, it was a truly remarkable experience, especially as a healthcare provider where the focus was on Mental Health in the Workplace which was not only timely but incredibly impactful. The practical tips shared on how to approach colleagues, and the guidance on what to say, and what not to say, were insightful.
Sincere thanks to Madam President for the opportunity to attend, and to the host committee for organizing such a well-executed and meaningful event.
Steffania Maratta Chief Steward Nurses : The 3-day convention was more than I expected though we all didn’t know each other, It felt like we were all unified in spirit. From the speakers who educated us and helped to motivate the members, that was universally felt around the room. The experience left me and I would also say for everyone, a sense of empowerment leaving us uplifted and confident I’m our work together into a better future. A wonderful time and a big thank you for all all of those who made this happen. Strength is in our unity and that was surely achieved
Michell Pyne Steward Peel : Thanks for a wonderful weekend. Entertainment was amazing. The experience was very informative. As a first time rep learning new topics and meeting different union representatives was imperative. All the speakers gave different insites about the union and various roles in which you can grow with the organization. I truly appreciate this weekend.
Theresa Bukuroh Chief Steward Toronto : There were many topics discussed at the meeting, all were very important but I will highlight only a few of them.
As a first timer to attend the OPCM this year, which commenced from May 30th, to June 1st, 2025. I can say it was very enjoyable, filled with fun, educational and a great experience. This year’s host committee were no stranger to me than our own local 1231, so it created more fun and cheer for me and to all. The room was also filled with a vibrant atmosphere from the delegates. It was very nice seeing our President, Merry St. Bernard and her team welcome the delegates to the conference.
I found it very interesting and touching to hear our Canadian Grand Vice President, David Chartrand on the opening day, talking about visiting and contacting some members who would otherwise not attend a meeting, to know their needs and wishes. I think that was really nice. He also talked about making training accessible to members, which was great as education is key to knowledge.
Our International President Bryan Bryant was impressed to see diversity in the room as compared to other meetings, which reminds me of our unity and solidarity in this union, it makes everyone belong.
Our own Ralph Martin, Chief-of-Staff Canada, talked about how important it is to fund raise and support the Guide Dogs in Canada or Guide Dogs in general. I was moved to hear how these dogs help the visually challenged successfully live their lives. These people will never live their lives to the full potential without theses dogs. It touched my heart.
On Saturday, May 31st, Dani Bartlett, the Executive Director of the Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario talked about “Cheers for Change”. It is unfortunate how some women or a group of people are looked down upon on their ability and strength in achieving their potential.
Lastly was Richard Prest, from the Canadian Mental Health Association: Workplace Wellness. I loved how he talked about how to appropriately approach mentally challenged individuals, I found it so informative. And how to help and reach out to such individuals was amazing. No judgemental approach to identify such individuals. He said sometimes a person may seems okay outwardly but behind closed doors is a different story, I found it so true as I have experienced it with a young patient I encountered at one point in time.
Lystra Mohammed Secretary Treasurer : This year was very special because our Local host the OPCM 2025 everyone was saying we did a fantastic job with everything from the games to the Medieval times overall we were getting compliments all over.
We started Day one with our own GVP Dave Chartrand he updated us on what the Canadian office is doing, on the tariffs and the impact it has on any kind of commercial goods and groceries. He talks about the importance of organizing and how the IAM organize 1535 new members , he also talked about visiting all the locals and have conversation with them on what changes they need and what kind of support they need , be able to have conversation with them. He said they visited 66 locals and have only 11 lefts .He also emphasise that they discovered a lot of the locals in far out of region areas did not have the proper training and education and how the Canada office is going to make it more acceptable to these members.
The International President Bryan Bryant shout out to all the nurses in the room, he said how impressive the meeting was and there is diversity in the room. Diversity is our strength and unity is our power, how they immediately went to the US Congress to fight the tariffs. That we need a lot of union speaking up especially on the attacks on legal immigrants, he said that Canadians are doing the right things, inflicting pain by boycott and that the steel workers are stepping up and the employers are not stepping up.
Ralph Martin Chief of staff was the recipient of the Norm award our local is very proud to be started by him, he talks about the election process and W3 setting up training for every district and local .The new colour and logo we have, and that the IAM have now one color we are consistent and will look the same. The chief of staff talked about why we are raising money for the guide dogs and how much the guide dogs has help so many visually impaired and autism members here in Canada.
Highlights Laura Walton President of Ontario Federation of labour
Defeat of Bill 128 . The service I believe that we shape the province that we live in. We don’t depend on the Government to do things we force the Government to do things.
Rootisha Rampat incredible Jeopardy game had everyone engage and excited.
Richard Prest Canadian Mental Health How we all contribute to a healthy work place.
Recipient of the Humanitarian award our very own Kim Valliere.
Thank you everyone for giving me this opportunity for going to this auspicious event ,It was truly an amazing learning experience.
Nahiyan Sidiqque Trustee : Ontario Provincial Council of Machinists (OPCM)
61st Annual Convention – Summary Report
Toronto, Ontario | May 30&31, June 1, 2025
The 61st Annual OPCM Convention brought together union members to address key challenges facing workers today, including unaffordable housing, healthcare struggles, rising costs , workplace wellness, mental health support, job insecurity, and the rising cost of living. Ensuring the care and well-being of workers was a central theme, recognizing the critical need for mental health resources and supportive workplace environments. A major concern was the recent U.S. tariff, which has caused grocery price hikes and significant job losses in Canada.
International delegates delivered a strong message encouraging members to stay united and proactive, reminding everyone that: “United we stand, divided we fall.”
On the second day, all members came together for a fun and memorable dinner at Medieval Times, celebrating unity and solidarity.
I am truly honored to have been part of this convention. It was a valuable and inspiring experience that deepened my understanding of the labour movement.
A heartfelt thank you to MadamPresident and the host committee for organizing such a meaningful and well-run event.
Long live IAM family.:
Juliana Aboagye-Kusi Steward Peel : OPCM-experience:l am proud to be a steward in the union. l learned a lot of things, also l saw a lot of delegates it was very interesting. This is 2nd time to attending the OPCM conference. On Saturday all of us went to Medieval times to see the horses and the jeopardy game was very interesting. This is my short report from Juliana thank you.
Rai Sagar Chief Steward York : Hello everyone it was my first time to come to the OPCM.
Thanks to the 1231 organization team who worked so hard to put everything together and it was amazing last 3 days we met all amazing people and learned a lot about how hard our brothers and sisters work to make things better for all of us.
Thank you everyone one for being supportive. Loving and caring for each other.
With solidarity
Rai
In conclusion : Together at this OPCM we have laid strong foundations – not just in strategy, but in solidarity. As we move forward, let’s grow not only as a Union, but as one united family. Growth is not just measured in metrics-but in how we show up for each other. Let’s keep building a culture rooted in trust, unity and forward momentum.
” If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together ” – African Proverb.