The New Year finds us in pretty good shape.  There are currently no outstanding grievances with either CUPE or ONA.  We are in the process of finalizing the signing of the new ONA collective agreement, and then we will have the booklets printed.  Senior Management and I have worked closely to determine where the vacancies in the agency are, and we are putting a plan together to start filling those positions.

We are still trying to recruit for the Program Evaluation Specialist.  I interviewed a number of candidates prior to the Holidays but have not found the right person for this very specialized job.  Interviews have been set for next week for the PES, a Graphics Designer position, and a Health Promotion Specialist.  All of these positions are to work with the Daimler Chrysler Wellness Program.

The Health Unit staff is busy completing their Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems training (WHMIS).  This training is required by law to be done annually.  This year we have purchased online training for staff who are finding it very interesting and informative.

The Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee had a number of changes in committee members.  The Essex and Windsor committees meet quarterly to discuss general safety issues for both buildings.  This is scheduled for January 12th in the Essex office.

This is the busiest time of year for our Payroll Department.  We are in the process of completing Year-End for OMERS (our pension plan) and then will be moving on to Income Tax T4’s.

I would like to especially thank those Board Members who are not returning this year.  Their service to our agency was greatly appreciated.  I would also like to welcome the new Board Members and look forward to becoming acquainted with you over the year. I am always at your service if required.

Respectfully Submitted,

Nancy Smith, Human Resources Officer

STAFF CHANGES

(As of December 2006)

Staff Exits/Resignations/Terminations/Retirements

Kristine Nohavicka               Registered Dietitian                         CDIP                           Resignation

David Reeder                       Health Promotion Specialist            CDIP                           Resignation

Sean Hirst                            Graphic Designer                            CDIP                           Resignation

Nathan Pray                         West Nile Virus Assistant               Health Inspection          End of contract

Liz Sementelli                       Public Health Nurse                        Clinical Services           Resignation

Karen Kuprowski                 Public Health Nurse                        Clinical Services           End of contract

Wayne Beecroft                   By-Law Enforcement Officer          CDIP                           Resignation

New Hires

Heather Stiles                       Registered Dietitian                         CDIP

Sherry Bergeron                   Program Evaluation Specialist         CDIP                           Casual Temporary

Heather Harvey                    Registered Dietitian                         CDIP (January 15, 2007)