James Connell, President of Local 199

Jim Connell President of Local 199 (1964-72)

The membership of Local 199 gave their confidence and support to Jim Connell for close to thirty years, Jim in return represented and served the membership very well. Jim was elected President of local 199 for four consecutive terms (1964-76). Being elected President for twelve years makes Jim Connell the longest serving president of Local 199. Gerry Michaud also a past president of local 199 said that twelve years at the top of the house required preparation hard work and commitment; no one was more prepared and committed than Jim Connell.

Jim started working in GM back in 1942 in the foundry's cleaning room, he also worked in the core room, melt and moulding departments. From 1945-48 Jim worked as a maintenance welder before transferring to tool and die welder. In 1949 Jim transferred to the forge shop where he stayed until he was elected president in 1964.

Jim held a variety of elected positions leading up to his election as President. Serving as; Union Steward in the foundry, Committee Person, Shop Committeeman in 1954, Vice Chairman from 1953 - 64, Canadian GM Council in 1955-76, Recording Secretary, Vice Chairman 1953-64, Secretary, and Treasurer of the GM Council. 1958, and in 1964 Jim was elected President 1964- 72.

When Jim came to G.M. in 1942 you may be surprised to know that union membership was voluntary and we had only about 350 paid members. Stewards were required to collect union dues and would give members a small dues button to indicate they had paid their union dues for the month. Over the next three decades our membership grew because workers saw the advantage of union membership, secondly because of union reps like James Connell who were willing and able to stand up to management and represent the workers. However significant gains in membership did not occur until 1946 when a major break through occurred for workers. Following the 1945 Ford strike the Rand Formula was introduced, which included mandatory dues check off’s. The Rand Formula triggered a series of events that were very good for workers. Justice Rand ruled that if you worked in a unionized environment you would benefit from the Union even if you were not a member, therefore workers should pay union dues. Thousands of workers automaticaybecame dues paying union members. This gave the union the financial security they needed to represent the membership. Funding for education, communication and improved representation was now available. As the membership grew bargaining gains and milestones quickly followed.

In 1976 when Jim was defeated by John Washuta by 600 votes it would be safe to say Jim was very disappointed. Jim however took his defeat in his stride with grace and fortitude. He congratulated his successor and pledged his on going support if required.

In Jim's last 199 news article as president printed in June of 1976. Jim thanked the membership for their support, crediting the members for his accomplishments. Jim warned the membership that they needed to support the new executive board so that they could be successful.

A few of the bargaining accomplishments that were made during Jims term included, pensions, fully paid medical and surgical, drug program, vision care, nursing home care, wage parity, extended disability, apprenticeship programs, Jim Credited the membership for making these accomplishments.

Jim's involvement did not stop at the plant gate he was also involved in building the community; developing a Community Health Centre, a Dental Clinic, and building a new union hall was amongst the other significant contributions he made. Jim was recognized for this contribution by having the street that runs parallel to the union hall named Jim Connell Drive.

After his defeat by John Washuta, Jim returned to the plant and worked as a welder until he retired in 1981, during this time he remained active within the community and union.

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