Annual Council a Huge Success: Building Our Future While Celebrating Our Past

This year’s Society Hydro One Local Annual Council was a resounding success, with 170 Delegates, Communication Action Network (CAN) Representatives, and guests in attendance. Themed “Building Our Future While Celebrating Our Past,” the gathering recognized the strength, resilience, and proud history of Hydro One members, marking in particular the 20th anniversary of the landmark 2005 strike. 

This year’s Council was the largest in the Local’s history, with CAN representatives participating for the first time to prepare for bargaining set to begin on June 17. 

Keynote addresses were delivered by Society President Rebecca Caron and IFPTE President Matt Biggs, with Society Executive Vice-President Ralph Chatoor also in attendance. 

President Caron highlighted the Local’s recent achievements in collective bargaining and deepening member engagement, emphasizing the importance of unity and proactive leadership amid rapid change and growth in Ontario’s energy sector. 

President Biggs brought a message of international solidarity, reaffirming IFPTE’s strong support for the Society. He praised Hydro One members as a model of effective organizing and principled union leadership across our union. 

During the break, attendees participated in a solidarity rally in support of striking WSIB workers. Members called on the Ford government and the WSIB to deliver fair wages, end U.S. outsourcing, and improve workplace health and safety for 3,600 striking workers represented by the Ontario Compensation Employees Union (OCEU/CUPE 1750). 

A powerful highlight of the day was a panel discussion commemorating the 20th anniversary of the 2005 Hydro One strike—the first and only strike in the history of the unit, lasting 105 days. Four former leaders—Keith Rattai, John Cameron, Jim Botari, and Michelle Johnston—shared powerful reflections on the challenges and solidarity forged during that historic moment. The panel served as both a tribute and a reminder that collective action remains the foundation of union power. 

The afternoon featured a CAN training session, equipping CAN representatives and Delegates with tools to build workplace solidarity and respond to challenges with unity. 

The Annual Council reaffirmed the Hydro One Local’s role as a vital and visionary force in the broader labour movement—grounded in its proud history and committed to organizing for the future.